You’ve dreamt of this day, perhaps for years, and now it’s time to make that dream a reality. But, the flood of decisions that come with planning a wedding can be overwhelming. From photographers to catering to entertainment and more, there’s so much to consider.
But above all, choosing the right church is the foundation of such a grand occasion. If you’re looking for a setting that’s not only stunning but also steeped in history and spiritual significance, then the First Baptist Church in Charleston is your ideal match.
And with the help of a luxury wedding planner like Engaging Events Charleston, this could be the wedding you’ve always imagined—elegant, meaningful, and, most of all, uniquely you.
Photos by Jolie Connor
First Impressions: The First Baptist Church in Charleston
Tucked away in the heart of Charleston, this historic church has been a cornerstone of the community since its foundation. Its graceful architecture is a display of timeless beauty, making it a sought-after location for couples seeking a blend of tradition and magnificence.
Booking and What You Need to Know
Booking the First Baptist Church is an experience that the church strives to make as smooth as possible. The church has policies in place to protect the church’s historical integrity and to ensure your wedding is both meaningful and memorable.
Key Inclusions:
- One-hour rehearsal
- Access to the sanctuary 1.5 hours before the ceremony
- Various candelabras and dripless candles
- Organist or pianist
- A ceremony coordinator
- Parking lot access
Remember, the church does not include additional instrumentalists, vocalists, or officiant honorarium in this fee, but look to Engaging Events planners to find the perfect fit for your ceremony!
Photos by Jolie Connor
Officiant and Counseling: Crafting a Meaningful Ceremony
A Venue with a Covenant
First Baptist Church isn’t simply a wedding venue; it’s a place that views marriage as a sacred, life-long commitment. The church urges couples to consider this commitment carefully and reverently. This ethos might resonate with you if you’re seeking spiritual significance on your wedding day.
Choose Your Officiant
The church gives you the flexibility to invite an officiant of your choice, as long as this person aligns with the church’s values. If you’d rather have the church’s pastor officiate, that’s also an option. In either case, discussions and planning around this need to begin as early as the booking process.
Customization and Counsel
The church allows for a customized ceremony that can incorporate various readings and elements such as the unity candle. Premarital counseling is also strongly recommended by the church to ensure that couples are mentally and spiritually prepared for this new chapter in their lives.
It’s a thorough, holistic approach to weddings, allowing for personalization within a sacred context. Having a wedding planner by your side can help you navigate these details, ensuring that your personal touch is evident in every aspect of the day.
Photos by Jolie Connor
Designated Florists
Using a designated florist is a requirement at First Baptist. Look no further than Engaging Event’s in-house floral design team for this special day.
Photography and Videography Guidelines
- Flash is allowed only during the processional and recessional.
- Videography should be done from the back doors or balcony.
Logistics
- The sanctuary opens 1.5 hours before the wedding.
- There is no dedicated dressing room, but a space is available in the balcony foyer.
General Policies
- No smoking, alcohol, or drugs are allowed.
- Throwing rice, birdseed, or using bubbles and sparklers is not permitted.
Capacity and Parking
- The sanctuary can seat around 250-300 people on the lower level and 150-200 on the upper level.
- There is parking for approximately 100 cars.
Photos by Jolie Connor
The Beauty and Simplicity of Your First Baptist Wedding
There’s something profoundly special about exchanging your vows in the historic and sacred atmosphere of First Baptist Church. The elegance of the sanctuary, the timeless rituals, and the sense of divine presence create an experience that stays etched in memory for a lifetime.
While planning a wedding here comes with its own unique set of guidelines and requirements, it doesn’t have to be a stressful journey. Engaging Events, the top luxury wedding planner in Charleston, is here to make the planning process easy and fun.
We’re adept at turning complexities into simple decisions, allowing you to focus on the emotional and spiritual aspects of your marriage.
Our expertise in coordinating weddings specifically at this venue means we can help guide you through every detail, from floral arrangements to music selection and beyond. Let us take care of the logistics so you can concentrate on beginning this beautiful new chapter in your life with grace and love.
Photos by Jolie Connor