I may be biased, but Charleston is one of the best cities in the world in which to get married. Its historic charm includes beautifully preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and elegant mansions that create a timelessness perfect for a wedding. Situated along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, it’s also ideal for gorgeous walks along the beach and taking spectacular engagement and wedding photos. Mix in its moderate climate, famed Southern hospitality, and plenty of things to see and do, and you have a one-of-a-kind location for a wedding full of romance and elegance. Of all the venues where you can host a luxurious wedding in Charleston, the William Aiken House is by far one of the most beautiful.
With lavish ballrooms, pristine and lush grounds, and plenty of outdoor space, it is one of Charleston’s most sought-after wedding venues. In fact, Martha Stewart Weddings and Brides Magazine even named it the Premier Wedding Venue in the State of South Carolina! But don’t just take Martha Stewart’s word for it; keep reading to learn more about what makes a William Aiken House wedding venue truly unforgettable.
About The William Aiken House Wedding Venue
The William Aiken House was built in 1807, and multiple generations of a single family owned it for over 100 years. Located on Upper King Street, it has been an icon of old Charleston for over 200 years. Today the property is lovingly maintained by Patrick Hospitality Group, a company known for restoring and preserving old Charleston landmarks and converting them into luxury event spaces where people can gather and celebrate.
The house has two beautiful courtyards, two ballrooms, and second-story porches with spectacular city views. There’s also a gentleman’s study, a sitting room, and a reflecting pool. The house’s interior looks as elegant as in its glory days. Guests will find themselves surrounded by decadent artwork and décor. It’s truly like taking a step back in time, showcasing a seamless blend of 19th-century allure and modern sophistication.
Additionally, the property’s Gothic-style Carriage House Suites reside on the grounds. While originally used as stables, they have recently undergone renovation into two duplex suites complete with kitchenettes, full baths, living and dining areas, and beautiful views of the Bluestone courtyard and ancient magnolia trees. These can serve as getting-ready suites on your wedding day or for a romantic overnight stay.
Photo from Here Comes the Guide
Details of the Grounds
There are many ways to use the spaces at The William Aiken House. You can get a little creative depending on the needs of your unique wedding.
For your ceremony, you can exchange your vows beneath an elegant white pergola in the garden, standing before a beautiful fountain. You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking flowers and landscaping that will make you forget you’re amid downtown Charleston, instead sweeping you away to a romantic garden with your favorite friends and family – up to 400 of them!
Cocktail hours can occur in the courtyards, where guests can mingle with a drink in hand. They will enjoy the beautiful Charleston weather and the spectacular grounds of the estate. (Side note: this is often the perfect time to slip away and take amazing Golden Hour photos. There are plenty of beautiful spots for pictures…more on that soon!)
Inside the William Aiken House, glamor and grandeur abound. The drawing room and formal study make perfect spaces for getting ready and are complete with antique furnishings and décor. The two ballrooms feature elaborate décor with period furnishings, museum-caliber artwork, and antique décor. It’s a stylish venue to host an upscale dinner party reception, perhaps with dancing in another room or out on the patio! Both ballrooms also have expansive outdoor piazzas overlooking the grounds.
This National Historic Landmark is the perfect venue for a wedding that feels as regal as it does Southern. With plenty of space indoors and outdoors to entertain your guests, it truly makes for an unforgettable Charleston wedding.
Photography Opportunities
The opportunities for breathtaking wedding photos at the William Aiken House are absolutely endless. Indoors, we can take dramatic portraits styled with their formal furniture and artwork or vintage pieces that exude charm. The House also possesses natural light, perfect for glowing shots. Outside, we can use their landscaping features like the ornate pergola, blissful fountain, and centuries-old magnolia tree as backdrops for jaw-dropping photos.
Walls of hedges make for beautiful photos with plenty of greenery. Whether it’s the curtains inside or the yellow exterior of the House, we can find a lot of creative ways to incorporate pops of color. If you dream of a venue that will gift you a full album of spectacular photos, then the William Aiken House may be the one for you!!
Wedding Details
Patrick Properties Hospitality Group offers its in-house culinary services as the exclusive food and beverage provider. Their culinary specialists will work with you to curate a thoughtful menu that suits your wedding perfectly. Additionally, they source the freshest seasonal ingredients from local producers. Throughout the planning process, you’ll have menu consultations and private tastings to ensure careful consideration in every dish. Their in-house pastry chef will delight your sweet tooth with a selection of indulgent treats.
There are plenty of unique perks and amenities when hosting a wedding at The William Aiken House. Contact their event team to discuss how your wedding can make every dream come true. Not sure where to begin? Their exclusive in-house coordination and event design, Peninsula Events, is happy to help you start dreaming!
William Aiken House Wedding
The William Aiken House is an exquisite choice for couples looking for a place to host a wedding that exudes historic charm, Southern hospitality, and natural beauty. If you’re looking for the perfect spot, consider a William Aiken House wedding for an event you and your guests will remember forever!
Finding your dream wedding venue in Charleston can be such a challenge! Primarily because there are so many incredibly beautiful and unique locations across the state. So if this one doesn’t check all your boxes, check out more in the blog links below. But before you go, feel free to reach out! I love to chat about venues and what your dream wedding photos look like!
CONTACT
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