I want to take some time to break down what we typically see in terms of budgets for Charleston weddings. These are by no means, hard and fast rules, however it's what my couples typically spend in these categories and what you will see reflected in my work on Instagram. 

Venue Rental Rates: $6,000 - $16,000

Catering & Bar (for 100 people): $12,000 - 25,000 

Photography: $6,000 - $10,000 

Videography: $5,000 - $7,000

Florals: $6,000 - $15,000 (This is a large range but it's all about the couple's specific priorities and vision) 

Transportation: $1,500

Ceremony Musicians: $500+

DJ: $1,500 - $2,500+

Band: $6,000 - $14,000 

Wedding Gown: $2,000+

Tux/Suit Rentals: $300 

Hair and Makeup: For the bride: $600 - $1200 Bridal Party/VIP: $125-$200/person/service

Rentals: $4,000 - $20,000 (This category is largely dependent on what is included in your venue rental rate. Some venues include tables, chairs, glassware, flatware, etc with your venue rental fee. Other venues don’t include anything which causes us to use a large portion of our remaining budget for rentals. Choosing a venue that requires you to bring in all of the rentals can be a fun way to customize your event but it certainly adds up quickly so keep that in mind as you are thinking about which venues to pursue)

Random expenses (paper goods, signage, custom commissions): $1000 - $3000

With a ton of compromises you can plan to spend at minimum ~$55,000 for 100 guests

On average you can plan to spend $90,000 for 100 guests

Obviously it can go up from there based on your priorities and desired scale.

That being said, I typically need a minimum of $55,000 (per 100 guests) and you would need to be willing to make some major compromises if you are considering top venues such as Lowndes Grove, William Aiken, Cannon Green, Gadsden House, etc. The easiest way to take your money further without compromising your vision is by lowering your guest count.

By no means is this meant to discourage you, but rather inform you of the trends we’re seeing locally and what my typical couples experience.