For anyone planning awedding, there are dozens of decisions to make including themes, colors, size,location, and style.Some brides mayhave a clear vision of what they want their special day to be like, whileothers might need a little more help and guidance.One option that is particularly popular inthe southern states is a plantation wedding.That is, a wedding that takes place in a beautiful garden with a quaintdinner and reception to follow in a restored farmhouse full of history andtraditional beauty.Depending on thesize of your wedding, there may be bed and breakfast accommodations on site forthe wedding party and other guests who have traveled in for the occasion.
Historic Potential
The plantations sprinkledacross the south have traditions that date back 300-years or more.The large estates are large enough thatbeautiful gardens and river walks have been preserved much better than in themore densely populated city areas.Theelegance and enchantment will take your breath away, which is why theseplantations make the perfect setting for a fairytale wedding.
Not only will brides fallin love with these beautiful properties that cater to receptions and overnightguests, but you can be confident that these historic landmarks will continue toprosper.You can return as a couple tocelebrate your important anniversaries for years to come.Preserve your special memories as you planfor your picture-perfect wedding by using the same plantation for yourengagement photograph shoot, engagement party, or rehearsal dinner – theseestates are multifunctional and the staff will go out of their way to meet andexceed your expectations.
Sample Locations
There are a couple ofgreat locations for plantation weddings in Charleston, South Carolina, thanksto the rich history of the port city.The Lowndes Grove Plantation on St. Margaret Street is located along theAshley River, which is a great setting for a wedding and photographs.The estate spans 14 acres of carefullymanicured lawns and gardens, a clear reflection of southern elegance andhospitality.The plantation house datesback to the 1700s and has been declared a historic landmark.Thanks to a full renovation in 2008, the bedand breakfast accommodates guests in five suites.
Another option isMiddleton Place, just down the road from the Lowndes Grove Plantation.Just a half hour drive from the heart ofCharleston, Middleton Place boasts the oldest gardens in the country.Countless wedding ceremonies and parties havetaken place beneath the Middleton Oak and the nearby butterfly lakes.The Pavilion provides a bit of shade andcover for outdoor receptions, and the Inn has a complete restaurant and modernhotel with more than fifty guest rooms.
Other Details to Consider for Your Plantation Wedding
No maintained andrenovated plantation is a stranger to wedding planning.Talk to the staff to get recommendations forflorists and photographers.Theseemployees who have helped with numerous weddings can give you insiderinformation when it comes to professional conduct, accountability, and pastperformances to help you put together the perfect team to bring your weddingplans to life.
A few details to considerinclude decorations, event staff, and music.Some brides opt to have tour guides in period costumes lead the guestsinto the garden, while others simply line a path with luminaries to directguests toward the ceremony.If you takeadvantage of the catering and dining facilities, your guests can take aleisurely stroll into the reception hall while you and your husband get a fewextra pictures with your photographer after the ceremony.Then join your family and friends on theveranda or in a formal dining room for dinner and dancing.No matter what you have envisioned for yourspecial day, a plantation wedding gives you the perfect setting with all theresources you need to plan the perfect celebration.
