Nestled in the Old Village of Mt. Pleasant, SC is a gem of a location for wedding ceremonies and receptions - Alhambra Hall; located at 131 Middle Street.

This space has it all with the lush green lawn, a magnificent view of the Charleston Harbor, and an old oak tree that is perfect for ceremonies.  The main building on premise is two stories but it is the 2nd floor that  hosts the reception.  The space is approximately 3200 sq. feet (40x80) of open hardwood floors and exposed wood beams.  Two fireplaces are centered on both side and there are windows that surround the space so that you are able to enjoy the outdoor views.  Many guests enjoy the wraparound porch that surrounds majority of the ballroom.  If you are worried about space, you can also utilize this porch for bar service, cocktail tables, etc.  

There are many great reasons to take a look at Alhambra Hall:

• Open to outside vendors
• Available for setup throughout the entire day
• Very versatile
• Tables and chairs with the rental 
• Bridal Suite available to get ready (additional fee)
• Indoor space can accommodate groups up to 350 yet not overwhelming for smaller groups

With many of my clients we always try to utilize as much of the property as possible - ceremony outside followed by cocktail hour and then dinner and dancing indoors.  Of course with Charleston, the weather is never predictable and a concern for brides would be what to do in case of inclement weather.  Depending on the guest count, you could always use the indoor space for both OR there is always the option of renting a tent.  

Regardless of your event - rehearsal dinner, wedding ceremony, reception, after wedding brunch - Alhambra Hall is a must see.  

Give us a call if you would like to schedule an appointment.  

Choosing your wedding venue is extremely difficult especially when there are SO MANY wonderful venues in the Charleston locale. 

One of my favorite locations is the South Carolina Aquarium located at 100 Aquarium Wharf.  It could be because I spent 3.5 years as their Special Events Sales Manager but I really believe its because it is UNIQUE.  A favorite saying while showing this venue was "less is more when it comes to decor" because the venue itself has so much life. 

The Carolina Seas, a main focal point in the Great Hall, lends itself beautifully as the backdrop for wedding cakes, sweet heart tables, and food stations.  The Great Ocean Tank room has been used for many wedding ceremonies and dancing.  The deep ocean view of the Great Ocean tank (pictured above) is wonderful for food displays and stealing kisses.  The Riverside Terrace overlooking the Charleston Harbor and the Yorktown is fantastic for an outdoor ceremony or even a cocktail hour.  

Not only do your guests get to enjoy your wedding and reception, they also have the opportunity to view the many exhibits of the South Carolina Aquarium.  This is added entertainment that you can't get at any other location.  

Events are scheduled to begin at 7pm and run til 11pm.  Their current pricing structure is as follows:

• Sunday - Thursday:  $3000
• Friday:  $3500
• Saturday:  $4500

A $500 refundable damage deposit is also required.  

It truly is a magnificent venue that you and your guests will never forget.  

Interested in seeing the space?  Let me know.  

Now ladies, this is something you have to actually discuss with your fiancé since it has to be "our" wedding style.  Some guys will actually leave all of the planning up to you but it is good for the relationship to at least ask.  Hehehe!  

So with the wedding style, what you are trying to do is figure out colors, theme, the vibe, possible location...that sort of thing.  Having an idea of how you want your wedding to actually be will work in your favor when you begin meeting with vendors - caterer, venue, florist, dress designer, etc...

Don't feel that you have to lock yourself into anything at this time.  You may find your inspiration at the time that you secure your venue.  Online tools, such as TheKnot and WeddingWire, offer inspiration boards that can help you build your vision.  Magazines are a great tool as well - rip out the pages of things that strike your fancy and put in your Wedding Binder (you should have one if you followed step one - LOL)  You could always take a quiz - 

I always ask my brides to visit Pinterest.  Yes, it can be overwhelming at times but what I ask brides to do is create a wedding board where they pin everything they like.  Yes - everything!  After enough researching online and pinning left and right, you will find upon review of the board that your actual "style" will show itself.  Maybe you pin a ton of images of couples getting married on the beach or maybe your board is full of bridal bouquets filled with bold colors  What I am saying is that if you pin it, it will come.  Just give it time and don't stress.  

It usually takes 2-3 bottles of wine to get all of the answers you are seeking.  (This does not mean 2-3 bottles in one night...pace yourself!)  Take a few nights to sit down with your fiancé and work together on your dream wedding.  

Happy Planning...I'm off to insure my ring.  (Check out tomorrow's blog)

Ceremony and reception selection for your wedding day is one of the most difficult decisions.  After all of the site visits, checking and double checking availability, anguishing over whether it fits the theme, and wrestling with sleepless nights...you finally breathe a sigh of release and make a decision.  Or have you?
Take a look at your budget and rationalize what you have allocated for rentals, for catering, for florals, and other line items in your budget.  Ask the site manager what is actually included with the venue.  You will find that many of them provide the tables, the chairs, even the linen.  These things will only add to your bottom line.  You might pay a heftier price for the venue but in the end you are making up in savings.  
Catering is something that you should also ask about.  Do they have a required caterer for their property or are outside vendors allowed.  Having a specified caterer can help because the vendor and their staff are familiar with the venue and know what works well.  But before signing a contract with the venue, make certain that you review the caterer's menu and pricing as well.  Does their selection fit your individual tastes, vision, and pricing?  
There are many amazing venues in Charleston for your wedding.  You will find the

We all know that Charleston has many, many, many beautiful settings for weddings.  Why not make the most of what these locations have to offer?  Whether it is the Carolina Seas saltwater tank at the South Carolina Aquarium or the grandeur of the old oak trees at Middleton Place, there is a unique charm that can be added to your wedding day.  
Keep things simple and take advantage of the natural beauty of the venue.  Position chairs, tables, ceremony, dance floor around these areas and keep the focus on what the venue HAS to offer and how it can ENHANCE your event. 
Take a look at our page of other amazing Charleston, SC venues.