Elopements and intimate ceremonies are having a big moment this year. Luckily Matt and Lindsay planned their Waterfront Park Pineapple Fountain wedding several months ago. What a perfect outdoor setting it was!
The couple wanted to do something memorable but low key. So they invited 20 of their family members and friends to celebrate with them at Waterfront Park in Downtown, Charleston, SC.
The Pineapple Fountain was the perfect launching point for Downtown Charleston photographs after the ceremony. Congratulations to this beautiful couple!
5 Tips on Planning your Elopement in Charleston, South Carolina
DECIDE WHO YOU ARE TELLING
Most couples let all their friends and family know, but this is up to you. Make sure both of you are on the same page about when and how you’ll tell everyone about the wedding.
Pro Tip: Before you break the exciting news, decide who you will invite. The first thing loved ones will want to know is, “am I invited?” It’s best to be prepared with a well-thought-out answer.
DON’T FORGET TO CHECK THE LEGALITIES
Before you get caught up in researching beautiful venues and things to do, have a full understanding of the entire legal marriage process and timeline. Also, ensure your marriage document will be recognized back home.
Pro Tip: South Carolina requires each person to have two forms of identification, such as a driver's license, original birth certificate (or a certified copy), passport, or military identification. You do not need a witness or blood tests to get married in South Carolina.
You can apply for a license at any South Carolina probate office, and it will be valid throughout the state. If you are getting your marriage license in Charleston you will need to go to the Probate Court at 100 Broad Street, Suite 469, Charleston, SC 29401 Your marriage license will cost you $70.00.
RESERVE YOUR WEDDING LOCATION
Popular locations for elopements in Charleston, SC include the gazebo at White Point Gardens overlooking the Battery, The Pineapple Fountain at Waterfront Park, Hampton Park and Washington Square Park which is lined with towering oaks and runs along a picturesque cobblestone street. To reserve these locations, you need to contact the City of Charleston Recreation Department at 843-724-7327 at least 14 business days prior to the event.
DON’T SKIMP ON PHOTOGRAPHY
Seeing the exchanging of your rings and your first kiss is something you’ll want to have. Photo and video are all you’ll have from your wedding once it's done. Trust me, you don’t want to have wedding-day regrets when it comes to that.
Pro Tip: Make sure you hire a professional photographer who is familiar with your ceremony location. That increases the odds you will get the best shots possible.
KEEP THE GUEST LIST SMALL
Cutting the guest list is often one of the hardest parts of any wedding, especially for couples who have big families and wide circles of friends. Invite the people that have always supported, loved, and helped you - the ones you can’t do life without. Being at your wedding is going to be a milestone in their life, not just a fun event to attend.
