Planning a Destination Wedding on Hilton Head Island

First things first

The most important task is to decide on a vision for your wedding day. Take a peek at our Hilton Head Island wedding inspiration, or dive into your Pinterest boards to curate your preferred style. Do you want to get married in a stunning Lowcountry setting? Are you picturing a chic, modern reception with a luxe feel? Whatever your dream day entails, Hilton Head Island is the picture-perfect setting to fit your wedding style. 

Next on the list is deciding how many people you will be hosting. Having a vague number in mind will help you narrow your search for ceremony and reception venues. With this in mind, you can choose the perfect location for your nuptials and celebrations.

Ceremony & Reception Venues on Hilton Head Island

For those hoping to host a more intimate event there are many venue options to bring your Lowcountry wedding vision to life. If you’re opting for a stunning natural setting, why not get married among the oldest living oak trees on Hilton Head Island? The Historic Hilton Head Rear Range Lighthouse at Palmetto Dunes can accommodate an intimate ceremony and cocktail reception for up to 25 people, followed by a lagoon-side reception on the enclosed porch at Alexander’s Restaurant & Wine Bar. the Arthur Hills Clubhouse. 

Dreaming of a beautiful beachy setting for your vows? The Dunes at Beach House Hilton Head Island  offers unbeatable ocean views and the perfect setting for you and your loved ones to celebrate your big day. With room to host 50-100 guests, The Dunes is a versatile space that is well suited to host a casual, beachy affair or a glamorous and romantic evening.  

If it’s sheer luxury you’re after, The Shorehouse at Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resorts is the perfect venue for you. With a covered pavilion and uninterrupted ocean views, this space has everything you need for your  lowcountry wedding celebrations. The Shorehouse can accommodate up to 250 guests and offers private beach access for a sandy ceremony. 

For a unique and unforgettable wedding ceremony and reception, host your special day on the 18th Lawn of Harbour Town Golf Links at The Sea Pines Resort. This classic and elegant event space overlooks the Calibogue Sound and is considered one of the most breathtaking settings in the Lowcountry. With capacity to accommodate up to 250 guests, this is the perfect place for your large wedding ceremony and reception. 

Officiants & Legal Requirements for Weddings in South Carolina 

Your officiant is one of the most important details of your day, so you want to ensure that you find the right person to fit your ceremony. In South Carolina, an ordained minister or a South Carolina Notary Public may perform your wedding ceremony. Hilton Head Island has an abundance of certified officiants for both large and small wedding ceremonies. Carl & Charlie of A Wedding by the Sea have officiated countless weddings on America’s Favorite Island® and would be a perfect choice for your big day. 

There are some important additional details to consider when applying for a marriage license in the State of South Carolina. Both applicants must apply in person, and there is a 24-hour waiting period for a marriage license. In addition, if you are getting married on the beach, a Beach Wedding Permit from the Town of Hilton Head is required. More information can be found here. 

Wedding Vendors on Hilton Head Island

Food is one of the most talked about features of any wedding (second only to the bride and groom, of course!), so the caterer you select should be aligned with your day’s vision. If you’re looking for a caterer who will work with you to bring your special day to life, Signature Catering & Events by SERG has you covered. Having been inducted into The Knot’s “Hall of Fame,” they are committed to making your wedding dreams come true. If you're in search of a delightful dessert spread, you can count on Hilton Head Social Bakery for the perfect wedding cake. 

Florals are a romantic and dreamy addition to your wedding ceremony or reception, and the florists of the Lowcountry have the perfect blooms for your nuptials. Design by Lauren or Flowers by Katie Ford both offer custom floral designs to complete your vision for the day. 

Entertainment is another key piece of the puzzle on your wedding day, and there are so many incredible musicians and DJs  to your ceremony and reception. For an elevated and romantic ceremony vibe, consider having a section of the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra perform as you walk down the aisle. If you’re after some exciting and engaging entertainment for your reception, the Fabulous Equinox Orchestra will bring the party to your guests and leave them talking about the performance for months to come. 

Things to Do on Hilton Head Island Before Your Wedding

You have put your heart and soul into planning your wedding, so you deserve a little rest and relaxation before the big day! For the bride, some pre-wedding wellness is in order. Allow the team at Pure Salt Studios to guide you through a private yoga session with the bridal party, followed by a deeply relaxing salt massage. 

Consider a pre or post-wedding couples massage or spa day at Arum Spa at Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. 

“Fore” the groomsmen, a round of pre-wedding golf on one of the first courses on Hilton Head Island is the perfect way to kick off the big day. Book a tee time on the Barony Course at Port Royal for a morning on the green that your wedding party will never forget.

Start Planning Your Hilton Head Island Wedding

Whether you’re hosting a large celebration or an intimate island ceremony, there are a lot of logistics to consider when planning your wedding. Our extensive wedding resources can help make planning your wedding on America’s Favorite Island® easier, so you can be confident that your day will go off without a hitch. Explore our wedding resources and inspiration to start planning today.