Charleston Elopement: Samantha & Nathaniel’s Story
Updated: Feb 5
Samantha and Nathaniel originally planned a small, intimate wedding in Asheville, North Carolina, in October. However, Hurricane Helen forced them to change their plans, and they quickly pivoted to a Charleston elopement. Remarkably, they managed to plan everything in just two weeks, and it turned out beautifully.
Their ceremony took place at Johns Island County Park, and afterward, they celebrated with a cozy dinner at a family member’s home, surrounded by loved ones.
Planning a Charleston Elopement? Here’s Some Inspiration!
If you're considering a Charleston elopement, you have plenty of stunning locations to choose from. Here are a few options to help you decide:
1. Beach Elopements
Charleston is home to several breathtaking beaches, including:
Folly Beach
Sullivan’s Island
Kiawah Island
Isle of Palms
A beach elopement offers a romantic, natural backdrop, especially at sunset when the lighting is soft and dreamy.
2. Park & Garden Elopements
Charleston also has numerous parks that provide a picturesque setting for a ceremony. However, it’s essential to check with the park authorities to ensure elopements are permitted.
One unique option is the Angel Oak Tree, a historic landmark known for its massive, centuries-old branches draped in Spanish moss—a magical setting for exchanging vows.
Another stunning location is Cypress Gardens, located just outside Charleston. This scenic spot is perfect for couples who want romantic boat photos surrounded by cypress trees and dreamy reflections in the water. Fun fact: scenes from The Notebook were filmed here!
Where to Take Elopement Portraits in Charleston
After your ceremony, you’ll want to capture beautiful portraits to remember the day. Charleston offers countless picture-perfect spots, including:
Downtown Charleston – Stroll through Rainbow Row or pose against the city’s charming historic buildings.
Local Bars & Hotels – Many boutique hotels and bars in Charleston offer stylish, intimate settings for unique photos.
The Beaches – Sunset is the best time for dreamy, golden-hour wedding portraits by the ocean.
Celebrating After Your Elopement
If you're planning a small post-elopement dinner or celebration, consider renting a unique Airbnb. Charleston has some incredible stays, including:
Treehouses
Marshfront homes
Cozy bungalows
Many of these Airbnbs feature lush backyards filled with towering oak trees and Spanish moss, creating a magical atmosphere for a dinner under the stars.
For Samantha and Nathaniel, a family member’s backyard was the perfect setting for their intimate celebration, making their elopement feel even more special.
Final Thoughts on Planning Your Charleston Elopement
Charleston is an incredible destination for an intimate wedding, offering a mix of beaches, parks, historic landmarks, and charming stays. Whether you envision a beachfront ceremony, a garden elopement, or a romantic downtown photoshoot, this city has something for every couple.
If you'd like to see more of my work before booking me for your elopement, check out my portfolio! Samantha and Nathaniel booked a 4-hour package—reach out to find the perfect package for you.
Scroll down to see more from Samantha and Nathaniel’s special day and get inspired for your Charleston elopement!
Wedding vendors
Florist: https://carolinaflowers.com/
Catering: https://blackorchideventsnc.com/
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