If you’re dreaming of a wedding full of Southern charm, with towering oak trees, historical architecture, and sprawling landscapes, Old Wide Awake Plantation is one of the most beautiful venues in the Charleston area. As a wedding photographer, I fell completely in love with this venue and I’m here to share insights to help you decide if it’s the perfect location for your big day.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about planning a wedding at Old Wide Awake Plantation, from its enchanting features to logistical considerations. Whether you’re newly engaged or ready to book, this guide will help you envision your wedding day at this charming, historical estate.

Why Choose Old Wide Awake Plantation?

Old Wide Awake Plantation is one of the most picturesque and sought-after wedding venues in the Charleston area, offering the perfect blend of Southern elegance and rustic beauty. Here’s why so many couples fall in love with this venue:

1. Historical Charm: Built in 1840, the plantation’s stunning antebellum architecture and rich history create a one-of-a-kind backdrop for your wedding. The mansion is well-preserved and offers a sense of timelessness and grace that adds depth and significance to your wedding day.
2. Scenic Grounds: The venue is set on 17 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. With majestic live oaks, a long sweeping driveway, and views of the Stono River, you’ll have endless options for stunning photos and unforgettable ceremony spots.
3. Versatile Event Spaces: Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large celebration, Old Wide Awake Plantation offers flexibility with both indoor and outdoor spaces. The main house features a grand staircase and elegant rooms, while the lush gardens and spacious lawns allow for a variety of outdoor settings.
4. Convenient Location: Although it feels like a secluded retreat, Old Wide Awake Plantation is conveniently located just 25 minutes from downtown Charleston. This makes it accessible for your out-of-town guests and provides plenty of options for pre-wedding events and accommodations.

The Perfect Ceremony Spots

One of the highlights of Old Wide Awake Plantation is the variety of ceremony locations to choose from. Here are some of the most popular spots couples love:

1. The Front Lawn

The front lawn, shaded by ancient live oak trees, is a popular choice for couples looking to create a romantic and natural setting for their ceremony. The wide-open space allows for large guest lists and provides a breathtaking backdrop, with the plantation house standing tall in the distance. Draping Spanish moss and sunlit paths offer a truly magical atmosphere, especially during the golden hour.

2. The Riverbank

For a more intimate ceremony, the riverbank offers serene views of the Stono River. The quiet flow of the water, combined with the gentle rustle of the trees, creates a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. This spot is perfect for couples who want a smaller, more secluded ceremony with nature as their primary backdrop.

3. The Grand Staircase

For a more formal and regal ceremony, many couples choose to exchange vows on the plantation’s grand front porch or the sweeping staircase. This classic setup exudes Southern elegance and makes for stunning photos with the symmetrical, white-columned façade of the mansion behind you.

Ideal Reception Areas

Once your ceremony is over, Old Wide Awake Plantation offers several options for a dreamy reception, no matter your vision.

1. The Back Lawn

The back lawn is perfect for an outdoor reception under the stars. I highly recommend setting up a Sperry tent, and allowing your guests to go back and forth between the tent and the open-air–it is simply breathtaking, especially during golden hour. This spacious area is ideal for dining, dancing, and celebrating with your guests late into the night.

2. The Pavilion

For couples looking for a more structured outdoor reception space, the covered pavilion is a great option. It offers shelter while still allowing guests to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the plantation. The pavilion can be customized with drapery, chandeliers, and floral arrangements to match your wedding theme.

3. Indoor Reception in the Mansion

The main house at Old Wide Awake Plantation provides a more intimate indoor reception space. The mansion’s classic Southern charm is the perfect setting for a refined dinner or cocktail hour. With hardwood floors, vintage details, and elegant furnishings, this space is ideal for smaller receptions or as a backup plan for inclement weather.

Photo Opportunities

As a Charleston wedding photographer, I can tell you that Old Wide Awake Plantation is a dream come true when it comes to capturing timeless, beautiful images. Here are a few must-have photo spots at the venue:

• The Oak Trees: The massive oak trees draped in Spanish moss create an iconic Southern backdrop for your wedding photos. Whether you’re walking hand in hand down the oak-lined driveway or posing under the canopy of trees, this spot is pure magic.
• The Grand Staircase: Make sure to get a few shots on the mansion’s staircase, with its classic white columns framing you and your partner. It’s a perfect spot for a first-look photo or a romantic portrait after the ceremony.
• The Riverbank at Sunset: If you time it right, sunset by the river is unbeatable. The light reflecting off the water, combined with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, creates a soft, romantic glow for photos you’ll treasure forever.
• The Sweeping Driveway: The long, tree-lined driveway is a beautiful spot for dramatic entrance and exit shots. Imagine leaving your wedding in a vintage car, with the oak trees and plantation house in the background—it’s a truly cinematic moment.

Planning Tips for Your Old Wide Awake Plantation Wedding

1. Consider the Weather

The Charleston area is known for its warm, humid summers and mild winters. If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, spring and fall are the most popular seasons due to their pleasant temperatures. Be sure to have a backup plan in place (such as a tent or the indoor mansion space) in case of rain.

2. Vendor Flexibility

Old Wide Awake Plantation allows you to choose your own vendors, which gives you flexibility to work with your preferred caterers, florists, and planners. However, they also have a list of preferred vendors who are familiar with the venue and can help bring your wedding vision to life.

3. Accommodation Options

While there isn’t on-site accommodation at Old Wide Awake Plantation, there are plenty of nearby options in Charleston and the surrounding areas. Many couples choose to book blocks of rooms for their guests at local hotels, and some even rent out charming nearby estates or beach houses for a full wedding weekend experience.

4. Transportation

Since the plantation is located a bit outside of downtown Charleston, consider arranging transportation for your guests, especially if you have a lot of out-of-towners. Shuttle services or transportation rentals can ensure everyone gets to and from the venue safely.

Old Wide Awake Plantation is the perfect venue for couples seeking a wedding location that combines Southern elegance, historical charm, and stunning natural beauty. From its versatile ceremony and reception spaces to its breathtaking photo opportunities, this venue provides everything you need for an unforgettable wedding day. As a wedding photographer, I can confidently say that your love story will be beautifully captured at this timeless, romantic venue.

If you’re considering Old Wide Awake Plantation for your wedding, I hope this guide has helped you envision the possibilities, and I would love to connect with you about your wedding day vision!