Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is one of Charleston's best-preserved homes dating back to the 1600s. It is also one of Charleston's most sought-after wedding venues and engagement session locations.
Wedding ceremonies can be held on the Pavilion, under the stunning ancient oaks dripping in Spanish moss. Wedding dinners are served on the beautiful veranda, in the carriage house, or in the conservatory. The best reception spaces are the latter two as they accommodate more people.
You'll have endless opportunities for beautiful wedding portraits around this lush, spacious property. There's the pathway along the Ashley River, the docks, the many colorful gardens, bridges, and the maze of winding paths with natural delights around every corner.
Magnolia Plantation began with the marriage of Ann, the daughter of an English colonist, and Thomas Drayton in 1676. As a wedding present they were given 402 acres of land. This land is now known as Magnolia Plantation. In 1840, the owner at the time, Reverend John Grimké Drayton, began designing the gardens. This location has been used by hundreds of couples to celebrate their wedding day.
Furthermore, this land was a rice plantation that was kept up daily by enslaved laborers. Magnolia Plantation is active in its constant research to learn the stories and identities of the slaves who lived and worked here. Without these hard-working men, women and children, Magnolia Plantation would not have its picturesque backdrops, lush gardens, rice fields and dikes from the time, and so much more. Magnolia Plantation is very forthright in making sure its visitors acknowledge the contributions of these slaves and honor their legacy. Magnolia would not be here today without them.