How to Create a Wedding Planning Timeline for Your Charleston, SC Wedding
A Step-by-Step Guide
Planning a wedding in Charleston, SC is nothing short of magical. From historic cobblestone streets and moss-draped oaks to waterfront views and pastel mansions, Charleston offers a breathtaking backdrop for your big day. But behind the charm and romance, a successful Charleston wedding requires thoughtful planning—especially when it comes to your timeline.
Whether you're working with a 12-month engagement or planning a shorter timeline, organizing your wedding tasks in a step-by-step format can make the process far less overwhelming.
In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know to create the perfect Charleston wedding timeline—from booking your dream venue to mailing thank-you notes after the honeymoon.
Remember to be open minded about the whole process !
Why You Need a Wedding Planning Timeline
Charleston is one of the most popular wedding destinations in the U.S., hosting thousands of weddings each year. That means top venues and vendors book up quickly—sometimes over a year in advance. Having a detailed timeline helps you:
Stay organized and on track
Secure your top-choice vendors early
Reduce last-minute stress
Make decisions with clarity and confidence
Actually enjoy your engagement!
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty: a detailed, month-by-month guide to planning your Charleston wedding.
12+ Months Before Your Wedding
1. Celebrate Your Engagement
Before jumping into planning, take time to enjoy your engagement! Announce the news, take engagement photos (Charleston has stunning photo spots like Rainbow Row, White Point Garden, and The Battery), and celebrate with loved ones.
2. Create a Wedding Vision
Sit down with your partner and define what you want your day to feel like. Consider:
Size (intimate, mid-size, or large celebration)
Formality (casual beachside or black-tie downtown?)
Season (spring azaleas or fall foliage?)
Venue type (historic mansion, waterfront property, garden, or church)
3. Set Your Wedding Budget
Figure out how much you can realistically spend. Factor in contributions from family, savings, and whether you'll hire a planner. In Charleston, expect average budgets to range from $35,000–$65,000+ depending on your guest count and priorities.
4. Draft a Guest List
Create a rough list so you can estimate the size of venue and budget you’ll need. Remember, every guest adds to your catering, seating, and stationery costs.
5. Hire a Wedding Planner (If You Want One)
Charleston is home to some incredible wedding planners who can save you time, money, and stress. Consider hiring a full-service planner if you’re planning a destination wedding or want expert guidance throughout.
6. Choose a Date and Book Your Venue
Your venue sets the tone for the entire wedding and affects all other decisions. Top Charleston venues like Lowndes Grove, Middleton Place, The Gadsden House, and The Cedar Room often book 12–18 months in advance.
10–11 Months Before
7. Book Key Vendors
After securing your venue, start locking in your most in-demand vendors:
Photographer and Videographer (especially if you want a specific style or have a particular pro in mind)
Caterer (if not included with the venue)
Band or DJ
Officiant
Charleston’s vendor scene is top-tier, so you’ll have plenty of options—but don’t delay.
8. Research Accommodations for Guests
Charleston’s hospitality scene is robust, but room blocks go fast—especially during tourist season. Reserve hotel blocks near your venue (Downtown, Mount Pleasant, or West Ashley) to make travel easier for guests.
9. Start a Wedding Website
Create a custom site with your wedding date, venue info, travel tips, and registry. Add Charleston-specific recommendations like restaurant guides, things to do, and local transportation options.
8–9 Months Before
10. Shop for Your Wedding Attire
Whether you’re searching for a classic A-line gown, a Southern-inspired jumpsuit, or a seersucker suit, give yourself plenty of time for shopping and alterations. Charleston has several boutiques like Gown Boutique of Charleston and Verita. A Bridal Boutique that offer a curated, upscale experience.
11. Book Additional Vendors
At this stage, it’s time to lock in:
Florist
Rentals (tables, chairs, linens)
Transportation (especially for downtown weddings with limited parking)
Hair and makeup artists
Ask your planner or venue coordinator for recommendations—they usually have trusted local lists.
12. Design and Order Save-the-Dates
Save-the-dates should go out about 6–8 months before your wedding, especially if you’re planning a destination celebration in Charleston. Include your wedding website and hotel information.
6–7 Months Before
13. Schedule Engagement Photos
If you haven’t done engagement photos yet, now’s the perfect time. Your photographer can suggest beautiful Lowcountry locations like Folly Beach, Hampton Park, or Magnolia Plantation.
14. Finalize Guest List
Now is the time to confirm your guest count and start collecting mailing addresses. Tools like Zola or Minted make this easy.
15. Select Bridesmaids' and Groomsmen’s Attire
Coordinate colors and order dresses or suits. Be sure to consider Charleston’s warm weather, especially for outdoor weddings.
16. Book a Rehearsal Dinner Venue
Charleston has endless options for rehearsal dinners—from upscale seafood at Hank’s to rooftop cocktails at The Dewberry. Book early, especially during high season (March–May and September–November).
4–5 Months Before
17. Choose Your Cake or Dessert Vendor
Schedule tastings with Charleston’s best, like Swank Desserts, ABCD Cakes, or Sweet Rhi. Don’t forget to sample Southern flavors like caramel, bourbon vanilla, or pecan praline.
18. Plan Your Ceremony
Meet with your officiant to discuss your ceremony structure and vows. Decide whether you’ll include readings, religious traditions, or a personal touch like a wine box or handfasting ceremony.
19. Hire Specialty Vendors
If you want extras like:
A live painter
A cigar bar
A mobile bar cart
Fireworks (check with your venue and the city)
Now’s the time to book them!
20. Reserve Rentals and Décor
Work with your florist or planner to finalize items like:
Arches or arbors
Lounge seating
Candleholders, signage, and custom builds
Charleston rental companies like Snyder Events and EventWorks have stunning inventory.
3 Months Before
21. Send Out Invitations
Mail your formal invitations 8–10 weeks before the big day. Include RSVP cards or a link to RSVP online. For a Charleston wedding, include details like dress code (especially for plantation or beach venues), weather advice, and parking info.
22. Finalize Ceremony Details
Confirm:
Ceremony order
Processional and recessional music
Readings and who’s delivering them
Seating arrangements (especially for older or mobility-limited guests)
23. Create a Wedding Day Timeline
Work with your planner or coordinator to develop a full timeline for your wedding day, including:
Hair and makeup schedule
First look (if doing one)
Ceremony start time
Cocktail hour and reception flow
Sunset photo timing (Charleston golden hour is worth capturing!)
2 Months Before
24. Apply for a Marriage License
Charleston County requires a 24-hour waiting period after applying before the license is issued. You can apply online or in person at the Charleston County Probate Court.
25. Write Your Vows
If you’re writing your own vows, now’s the time to start. Practice reading them aloud and keep a copy handy in case nerves kick in.
26. Final Dress Fitting
Ensure your dress or suit fits perfectly. Bring your shoes and undergarments for the full look.
27. Create a Seating Chart
Once RSVPs start rolling in, plan your table arrangements. Charleston weddings often incorporate long farmhouse tables or mixed seating layouts—just be sure guests have a clear view of toasts and dances.
1 Month Before
28. Confirm All Vendors
Touch base with all your vendors to confirm arrival times, final payments, and responsibilities. Create a master contact list for your planner or point person.
29. Get a Final Headcount
Give your caterer and venue the final guest count, including dietary restrictions and vendor meals.
30. Pack for the Honeymoon
If you're heading out right after the wedding, get your honeymoon gear ready now.
31. Final Beauty Prep
Book services like:
Facials
Waxing
Hair color touch-ups
Nail appointments
1–2 Weeks Before
32. Pick Up Attire
Ensure everything fits perfectly and is cleaned, pressed, and ready to go.
33. Break in Your Shoes
Avoid blisters on the dance floor!
34. Pack a Wedding Day Emergency Kit
Include:
Fashion tape
Stain remover
Safety pins
Tissues
Pain relievers
Snacks and water
35. Organize Tips for Vendors
Put tips in labeled envelopes and assign someone you trust to distribute them.
36. Attend the Rehearsal and Dinner
Practice your ceremony, then enjoy time with your closest people. Give out gifts to your wedding party.
Wedding Day!
37. Relax and Enjoy the Moment
The big day is finally here. Let go of any lingering stress, soak in every detail, and trust your team. If something doesn’t go exactly as planned, remember the most important part: You’re marrying your person in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
After the Wedding
38. Send Thank-You Notes
Within 4–6 weeks, send handwritten thank-you cards to your guests, vendors, and anyone who helped make your day special.
39. Preserve Your Dress
If you plan to preserve your gown, take it to a professional cleaner as soon as possible.
40. Share Your Photos
Charleston wedding photos are stunning—don’t forget to share them! Tag your vendors and consider submitting your wedding to local blogs or publications.
Final Thoughts
Creating a wedding timeline can feel like a daunting task, especially in a city as rich in options as Charleston. But with the right planning and a step-by-step approach, your wedding can be everything you dreamed—and more.
Whether you're exchanging vows under mossy oaks or dancing the night away at a downtown rooftop, this magical Southern city offers the perfect setting. And with a smart, well-organized timeline, you’ll have the freedom to truly enjoythe journey.
Are you planning a wedding in Charleston? Let us know what you're most excited about in the comments—or reach out for local vendor recommendations to help make your vision come to life!
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