So You’re Thinking About Running Away and Eloping in Charleston?
I don’t blame you.
Charleston is the perfect backdrop for romance and just a little bit of thrill. From moss-draped oak trees that seem to twinkle in golden light, to cobblestone streets, pastel buildings, and secret gardens tucked behind historic gates… Charleston was made for lovers.
If you’re dreaming of an intimate, meaningful celebration without the pressure of a big wedding, eloping in Charleston, South Carolina might be exactly what your heart is craving.
Here’s how to do it right.
Step 1: Book Your Hotel
If you’re coming all the way to Charleston to elope, don’t rush in and rush out. Stay a bit. Soak it in. Make it a little getaway.
Charleston is full of historic, chic, and wildly romantic hotels that feel like part of the experience, not just a place to sleep.
Here are three that are perfect for an elopement weekend:
Mid-century charm meets southern elegance. Think soft velvet, moody lighting, and rooftop cocktails overlooking the city. It’s classic, elevated, and incredibly romantic.
Tucked into a collection of historic homes downtown, Zero George feels private and intimate. With its lush courtyard and award-winning restaurant, it’s basically built for elopement magic.
Grand, glamorous, and overlooking Marion Square. If you’re envisioning timeless luxury with a touch of drama, this one delivers.
No sense in coming to Charleston and not staying a while. Turn your elopement into a full experience. One for the books!
Step 2: Book Your Officiant
One important thing to know: The City of Charleston does not offer courthouse weddings.
In my opinion, that’s likely because of the sheer number of marriage licenses filed here every year. Charleston is one of the top wedding destinations in the country, and the demand is real.
That means you’ll need to hire an officiant. This also means you can elevate your ceremony experience. You can customize your vows completely and express so much more than just, “I do”.
I highly recommend working with Nicole:
Nicole brings all the vibes. She is reliable, super kind, and offers flexible, personalized ceremonies — from short and sweet to deeply customized vows. I have personally worked with Nicole and know that she LOVES love as much as I do.
And speaking of wearing multiple hats… I am also ordained and happy to officiate intimate elopements for couples who want a seamless, relaxed experience. Sometimes that means I guide you through your vows, pronounce you married, and then immediately pick up my camera to document the celebration that follows.
My husband Tony is also an officiant and brings a calm, steady presence to ceremonies. He’s loyal, family-oriented, and the kind of person who takes the responsibility of marrying two people very seriously while still keeping the moment relaxed and meaningful.
At this point, weddings are starting to feel like a bit of a family operation over here — and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Whether you choose a dedicated officiant like Nicole or one of us stepping into the role, the goal is always the same: creating a ceremony that feels personal, meaningful, and completely true to you.
Step 3: Pick Your Location
Now for the fun part.
Charleston is filled with breathtaking elopement locations. Whether you want gardens, architecture, oak trees, or ocean views, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you.
Here are some of my favorites for Charleston elopements:
Hampton Park
If you love lush gardens and romantic blooms, this is your spot. In spring especially, it feels like stepping into a painting. The fall & winter months feature camellias and roses, spring brings many blooms including azaleas and wisteria. There is something always blooming in Hampton Park.
The U.S. Custom House
For iconic Charleston architecture and those famous steps overlooking the harbor. Elegant. Dramatic. Timeless.
Charles Towne Landing
Massive oak trees dripping in Spanish moss. Quiet paths. Soft golden light. It’s Lowcountry romance at its best.
Morris Island Lighthouse (Folly Beach)
If you’re dreaming of sunset photos with ocean breeze and glowing skies, this one is magic.
Sunset Sailboat Cruise
Feeling extra? Charter a sailboat and exchange vows on the water as the sun drops behind the marsh. It doesn’t get more cinematic than that. Charleston Yachts has consistently delivered top notch service and experience for my couples.
No matter what you choose, Charleston will show up beautifully.
Step 4: Pick Your Photographer (Hi, It’s Me)
This is where things really come to life.
When you elope in Charleston, you’re not just having a five-minute ceremony. You’re creating a memory that deserves to be fully documented. It’s an elopement & celebration weekend!
I don’t just show up, photograph your vows, and leave.
After you say “I do,” we celebrate. We wander cobblestone streets. We chase golden light. We pop champagne. We take portraits that feel cinematic, romantic, and completely you.
Elopements give us freedom. There’s no tight timeline. No 200 guests waiting. Just space to breathe and create art.
If you’re looking for a Charleston elopement photographer who blends documentary storytelling with guided, film-inspired portraits, I would be honored to capture your day. I offer refined images with zero pretense — romance with a down-to-earth attitude. From celebrating to the quieter, more intimate moments of your day — wherever they naturally unfold.
Couple enjoying their elopement kiss on the balcony of the Ryder Hotel.
Step 5: Make Dinner Reservations
After the vows and portraits, it’s time to celebrate.
Charleston is known for its food, and a romantic dinner is the perfect way to end your elopement day. Please make sure to get dinner reservations way more in advance than you think you need. With such high demand, reservations are a must while in Charleston.
Here are three incredible options:
Intimate, refined, and absolutely delicious. Perfect for a quiet, elevated celebration.
Charming courtyard dining and classic Lowcountry cuisine. Southern romance at its finest.
Seasonal, local, and wildly popular for a reason. Make reservations early.
Toast to forever. Slow down. Let it sink in.
Couple enjoying their celebratory meal at Zero George.
Final Thoughts on Eloping in Charleston
Eloping in Charleston, SC is about intimacy, intention, and experience. It’s about stripping away pressure and focusing on what actually matters — the two of you.
If you’re thinking about running away and eloping in Charleston… I say do it.
Book the hotel. Hire the officiant. Pick the perfect moss-draped oak. And let’s make something beautiful together.
If you’re ready to start planning your Charleston elopement, I’d love to help guide you through it.
Marly Viviana Photography
Charleston Wedding & Elopement Photographer
Film-inspired imagery with heart
Let’s celebrate your love story.
