6 charming southern wedding venues you need to see
There's nothing quite like southern hospitality and that welcoming charm is taken to another level when it comes to hosting a wedding. There are countless stunning wedding venues in the southern states, from characterful waterfront properties in the coastal lowlands to modern metropolis hotels with sophisticated style, all offering that reliable warmth and next level service.
So how do you choose the perfect venue to say 'I do'? We asked Georgia wedding photographer and Fine Art Curation member Jasmine Baetzel to share her pick of unique southern wedding venues you need to see. Up first...
The Railroad Museum, Savannah
A one-in-a-million venue, the Railroad Museum offers ample space for a large outdoor ceremony and reception, with an indoor reception option as well. The architectural curvature of the original stations ruins offers exposed brick backdrops that pair perfectly with leafy greens that any seasoned florist will dote over. The evening atmosphere is just as magical and cafe lights are a must for wandering guests with the urge to explore. Although at first impression it may come off quite industrial, a subtle blend of pastels, silks, fabrics, florals and music create a magical ambience for an unforgettable celebration.
Bowen’s Island Restaurant, Charleston
Bowen’s Island Restaurant is the adventurous couple's dream wedding venue. Family owned since it’s opening in 1946, Bowen’s Island Restaurant is a Charleston staple for fresh-off-the-boat oysters and offers an impressive, low country wedding experience. While guests dance the night away in their private boat house along the marsh, the Bowen family serves wedding guests their secret family recipes a la carte with oysters delivered and shucked straight from the boat. The catering experience is a must with this venue and the southern hospitality served with it is an experience that's hard to come by these days.
Ships of the Sea Museum, Savannah
For couples who envision a garden wedding straight out of a storybook, Ships of the Sea offers an ‘Alice in Wonderland’ ceremony area with whimsical manicured hedges that compliment any color palette. Guests can enjoy Savannah’s rich maritime history while sipping champagne during cocktail hour in the museum, while you are your bridal party hop a few blocks over to Forsyth park to capture those must-have fountain photos. If night portraits are on your photography check list, the evening atmosphere of the museum is just as romantic with the subtle glow of Savannah’s world famous gas lit lanterns.
Hotel Forty Five, Macon
Originally built in 1940, Hotel Forty Five is Bon Voys newest boutique hotel featuring stunning views at Hightales Rooftop Bar, ideal for a small outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour. An indoor reception option is also available that boasts large bay windows, cityscape views and ample natural light. With attention to detail around every corner, guests will experience a Victorian atmosphere with a modern twist with food and beverages to pair. This renovated bank is a perfect metropolitan venue option without the hassle of an overcrowded city and it will be hard to decipher this small town secret with your downtown rooftop wedding photos.
Winterbourne Inn, Jacksonville
A true hidden gem, Wintebrourne Inn serves a seaside breeze and gorgeous sunset alongside cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, delivered with true southern hospitality on with its white picket wrap around porch. Built in 1874 and nestled along the St. John’s River, the Inn offers tcouples the entire estate without the hustle and bustle of regular hotel lobbies, for an intimate, private wedding experience. With original hardwood floors, neutral color palette (and the occasional 1950’s wallpapered room) high ceilings, French doors and beautiful crown moulding, the Inn is the perfect canvas for couples to bring their aesthetic and style to life.
Savannah Westin, Marriott
Located directly on the Savannah River, the Westin Savannah Harbor Gold Resort & Spa is close enough to Forsyth Park for classic Savannah portraits and offers the comfort of resort wedding service without the foot traffic of downtown. The private ceremony and reception area offers a stunning backdrop of Hollywood palms and evergreen shrubbery for a cosmopolitan atmosphere, ideal for the minimalist with a vision. The Marriott group are pros when it comes to hosting and coordinating weddings, and the Savannah location is anything but ordinary. This venue is ideal for a large, first class guest list for couples who are seasoned in sophisticated style.
All imagery by Jasmine Baetzel
