People often describe the enchanting city of Charleston, South Carolina as a place where history and romance meet. The second you see its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and picturesque waterfront, you’ll understand why couples choose the city for a dreamy wedding backdrop. Lowndes Grove is a spectacular historic estate in the heart of Charleston that offers some of the best views, food, and service in the South. One of the 5 Best Wedding Venues in Charleston is the Lowndes Grove wedding venue, a spectacular option for a romantic celebration.
About The Lowndes Grove Wedding Venue
The Lowndes Grove estate is steeped in American history. The house has been standing on the banks of the Ashley River in Charleston since 1786. It’s seen a Revolutionary War invasion, the origins of Charleston World’s Fair, and even a visit from President Theodore Roosevelt. While its past hasn’t always been pretty (after all, it is a Southern plantation), today, it stands as a beacon of Southern history and a home for lavish events. It’s even been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1978.
Located in the Wagener Terrace neighborhood, the property boasts gorgeous sandy beaches along the Ashley River with picturesque docks. Blooming azaleas surround the estate, and ancient oak trees with twisting branches. In 2007, the Patrick family purchased the home with Patrick Properties, and they converted it into another spectacular event venue for their collection.
If the spectacular Lowndes Grove estate looks familiar, you may recognize it from the popular Netflix series Outer Banks, which uses the mansion and property as a set. It’s just that gorgeous.
Details of the Grounds
The Lowndes Grove estate is an incredible, picturesque venue that combines the best of many worlds. It offers peaceful waterfront views, 14 acres of lush romantic gardens and landscaping, and a historic home. Moreover, it’s an idyllic setting with Southern charm and elegance for a dramatic wedding.
Additionally, the mansion is home to a spacious Bridal Suite with beautiful natural light. Decorated with vintage touches and furniture, it has plenty of space for large wedding parties to do hair and makeup. It’s an ideal portrait space, including first looks with parents and parties.
It’s hard to resist the allure of an outdoor ceremony at Lowndes Grove. Say “I do” in front of a stately oak tree that has weathered centuries with the river sparkling in the background. Or you can exchange vows on the banks of the river with sweeping waterfront views. It’s also an option to make an unforgettable and dramatic entrance (or exit) to your ceremony on a chartered boat.
Cocktail Hour & Reception
Your guests (up to 300 of them) can enjoy a signature cocktail or glass of Champagne on one of their beautiful terraces or piazzas or at cocktail tables near the banks of the river. Smaller groups can mingle in the formal parlors and dining rooms on the first and second floors of the mansion. Guests will love taking in the beautiful, historic mansion and its grounds as they celebrate the new chapter of your love story.
Lowndes Grove has a spacious outdoor event space beneath a permanent transparent tent structure perfect for stunning receptions, with views of the property, Ashley River, and more. Bring in dramatic draperies for even more elegance, and take advantage of the chandeliers hanging from the tent by wrapping them in playful florals and greenery. With the space’s sweeping views and an otherwise neutral design, you’ll have the perfect canvas to incorporate your color palette and décor.
Twinkling bistro lights will set a romantic mood as your guests dance the night away beneath the stars (and a clear-ceilinged tent). It’s a spectacular way to end an evening of love and celebration, fit for a couple as in love as you and your partner.
Photography Opportunities
I may be biased, but one of the biggest draws of a wedding at Lowndes Grove is the endless locations for spectacular photos. Inside the main house, vintage furniture, bright natural light, and unique artwork are perfect for timeless formal portraits reminiscent of another era. The double portico at the front of the house has a beautiful black-and-white checkered floor and beautiful lighting, perfect for intimate photos. There’s also an incredible multi-story spiral staircase ideal for artistic shots, particularly those that capture the flow of a wedding gown.
The grounds feature picturesque photo sites; on your wedding day, we’ll take advantage of as many as possible. Furthermore, we can use the main house’s exterior for pictures that exude Southern charm, featuring architecture from the 1780s. Expansive porches, stunning arched windows, and elegant columns are perfect for breathtaking photos.
The 14 acres of surrounding property have majestic oak trees and iconic sabal palmettos. Bushes of fragrant white azaleas line the gardens, adding a touch of Southern whimsy and romance. The Ashley River waterfront is another priceless backdrop for portraits, especially those with family and wedding parties.
During Golden Hour, when the sun begins to set and casts a romantic glow over everything the eye can see, we’ll escape to the docks. You and your partner can stroll along the wooden dock, pausing to take pictures of the marshland in the Charleston sunset. These will be portraits you’ll treasure forever, true time capsules of the best day of the rest of your lives.
Wedding Details
When you host your wedding at Lowndes Grove, you’ll have the opportunity to work with their experienced events team to organize the wedding of your dreams. With indoor and outdoor spaces, you can customize your unique event to fulfill your wedding vision.
In addition to the stunning grounds and scenic views, the other major perk of hosting your wedding at Lowndes Grove is their exceptional catering. The Patrick Properties Hospitality Group’s culinary team exclusively services its venues. Their chefs will work with you and your partner to design a thoughtful menu representing your tastes and preferences. They’ll then provide flawless service to your guests for an unforgettable night of delicious food and exciting celebration.
Lowndes Grove Wedding
Above all, a Lowndes Grove wedding has a rich history, stunning waterfront views, and versatile event spaces. It’s the epitome of a Southern wedding venue. As one of the premiere event spaces in Charleston, it offers everything you need for a memorable and romantic celebration.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that combines timeless elegance and the beauty of Charleston, Lowndes Grove may just be the venue of your dreams.
CONTACT
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