The perfect wedding venue awaits in South Carolina – the pristine and luxurious South Carolina Society Hall! With its colonial architecture, charming decor, and attentive staff, it’s no surprise that this venue has become one of the top choices for couples wanting to tie the knot in style.
Photo by Anne Rhett Photography
From the perspective of the top event planners in Charleston, in this blog post, we’ll explore why South Carolina Society Hall is the ideal setting for your special day. From first-class amenities to a picturesque backdrop, you can rest assured that your wedding will be truly unforgettable when celebrated here.
The Roots
In the 1730s, Elisha Poinsett— a French Huguenot— found himself struggling to keep his Charleston tavern afloat. Fortunately, several of his friends offered their assistance in giving him an extra hand or two during certain evenings each week. Driven by their shared mission to make a difference, they committed themselves to donate two bits (sixteen pence) every week into a fund in order to support any of the members who faced difficulties.
The group’s notoriety flourished, and they were eventually known as the “two-bit society.” When Poinsett no longer required their help for his business, the organization solidified its purpose with charity at heart and education being a core part of that.
On May 1, 1751, the Provincial General Assembly granted incorporation to the French Society and King George II placed his official approval of it at St. James on December 20th that same year. Subsequently, its name was altered to South Carolina Society with new membership opening up for those who were not simply from France.
Photo by Anne Rhett Photography
Afterward, they bought a piece of land between George and Wentworth Streets. To make room for the new development, they built Society Street – selling all the plots except one. On this single lot, they constructed an orphanage that would help kids in need. Toward the century’s close, the Society gave the school to the city of Charleston which eventually moved the school to Rutledge Avenue and renamed it the High School of Charleston.
The Society then built the South Carolina Society Hall at 72 Meeting Street as a school for female orphans and indigents, and as a meeting place. The first meeting was held July 24, 1804. The first floor was used to school orphans and indigents, while the second floor was a ballroom for social purposes.
In 1826 the first floor became a secondary school with both a Male Academy and Female Academy, both of which closed in 1841. Since then, the hall has been used for dance school (“Cotillion”), weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, and business meetings—as well as a motion picture location (though it’s most popular with event planners in Charleston, SC).
About The Space
At South Carolina Society Hall, you’ll find an abundance of charm to celebrate your love. The Crystal chandeliers, ornate crown molding and hand carved mantles all contribute to its charm. It has original hardwood floors and high ceilings with lots of natural light. The building offers an elevator with three stops – the ground level, the first floor (with our flexible rooms) and the second floor with the main ballroom. The venue is designed to make sure no detail is forgotten in crafting an unforgettable wedding experience.
Photo by Anne Rhett Photography
The grand second-floor ballroom and ante-room measure 29′ wide x 72′ long, and there’s a first-floor front room at 28′ wide x 24′ long. The first-floor back room is even larger at 28′ wide x 27′ long. Meanwhile, the ornate mantles throughout the hall are 8feet long.
Additionally, there are 15 folding tables measuring 30″ wide by 72″ long and 60 beautiful wood chairs available as well. The hall can accommodate up to 200 people at a stand-up reception and the grand ballroom can accommodate seating of up to 150 guests if there’s no dancing or 120 with dancing.
To enhance your special day, the first floor allows room for 120 guests standing or up to 60 seated, while soaring ceilings and ornate chandeliers create a romantic atmosphere that is hard to match. There’s a reason why this venue is loved so much by wedding coordinators in Charleston, SC!
Photo by Anne Rhett Photography
Final Thoughts
With stunning indoor and outdoor spaces in a lovely area, South Carolina Society Hall offers the opportunity to create an unforgettable experience filled with love and celebration on the most special of days.
Photo by Anne Rhett Photography
As the top event planners in Charleston, SC, the Engaging Events team will help you with any questions you have and create a customized experience that meets your needs.