Are you dreaming of a beautiful Charleston wedding without the big price tag? Whether you’re picturing a romantic garden ceremony at Magnolia Plantation or a waterfront reception aboard a wedding yacht rental, it’s possible to create a stunning, unforgettable day—without exceeding your budget.
At CHEERS Event Rentals, we believe your wedding should be both magical and manageable. So, let’s talk numbers: What does a realistic budget for a small Charleston wedding actually look like, and how can you make the most of it?
How Much Should You Spend on a Small Wedding in Charleston?
A small wedding typically includes 30 to 100 guests. That means fewer glassware rentals, fewer meals to serve, and more room in your budget for those dreamy extras, like a sunset-filled honeymoon stay in a beach rental on the Isle of Palms or a vintage wedding car rental in Charleston, SC—yes, we’re talking about The REEF.
This baby blue, vintage Land Rover D90 is a head-turner with mahogany wood floors and cracked leather seating. Whether you use it for bridal portraits, a stylish getaway car, or a grand arrival at the reception—it’s guaranteed to turn heads. Trust us—your guests will be talking about it.
According to The Knot, the average U.S. wedding in South Carolina costs between $35,000 and $39,000. For a smaller wedding in Charleston, SC, you can typically expect to spend around $15,000 for an average of 89 guests, but this number is only a guesstimate.
As Desireé Dent, Chicago-based wedding planner and owner of Dejanae Events, puts it:
“The concept of an average wedding cost can be misleading since every wedding is deeply personal. What couples spend depends greatly on their location, guest count, and priorities. While an average can offer a helpful starting point, each couple’s budget should reflect their unique vision and needs.”
Budget Breakdown: Where Does the Money Go?
Here’s a general idea of how couples spend their budget on a small wedding for 89 guests:
| Category | Estimated % of Budget | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Venue | 25% | $3,750 |
| Catering ($27 per guest buffet) | 16% | $2,400 |
| Rentals (tables, chairs, linens, etc.) | 13% | $1,950 |
| Photography | 10% | $1,500 |
| Décor and flowers | 8% | $1,200 |
| Entertainment (DJ) | 7% | $1,000 |
| Transportation and extras (car, honeymoon, etc.) | 7% | $1,000 |
| Cake, hair, makeup, misc. | 7% | $1,000 |
| Officiant and ceremony music | 4% | $600 |
| Total | 100% | $15,000 |
Notes based on WeddingWire data:
- Catering. $27 per guest × 89 guests = $2,400 (buffet-style)
- Photography: Avg. range $1,500 to $3,000, so $1,500 is a modest choice
- DJ. Avg. $1,000, matches their national pricing
- Flowers. $160 bridal bouquet, plus small arrangements (budgeted at $1,200 total)
- Venue. Mid-range Charleston venues start around $2,000 to $6,000
Wedding Rentals That Maximize Your Budget
One of the best ways to stretch your budget? Rent strategically.
At CHEERS, we offer wedding rentals in Charleston, SC, that bring maximum style for a fraction of the cost of buying:
- Glassware rentals. Classic or custom to match your theme.
- Tablecloth rentals. Luxe linens elevate any look.
- Charger plate + dinnerware sets. Available in a variety of elegant styles.
- Wedding tables and chairs. From rustic to modern, perfect for venues like The Gadsden House or an outdoor Lowcountry garden party.
Smart Ways to Save on Your Charleston Wedding
- Book a weekday or off-season date. Venues and vendors often offer discounts.
- Bundle your rentals. Book your tablecloth rentals, glassware, chairs, through CHEERS to save money.
- DIY select elements. Create your own centerpieces or custom signage to add a personal touch.
- Lean on the pros. The CHEERS team can help you design a cohesive, stylish wedding that fits your vision and budget.
Let CHEERS Help You Plan the Perfect Small Wedding
At CHEERS, we believe every couple deserves a beautiful wedding—regardless of size. From high-end lounge furniture to retro wedding car rentals and gorgeous dinner settings, we offer stylish rentals that elevate your day without stretching your budget.
Need help with ideas or a custom quote?
Contact us or visit our showroom to explore our latest rental inventory. Let’s make your Charleston wedding unforgettable.