What It’s Like to Get Married at Dunes West (From a Charleston Wedding Photographer Who Knows It Best)
There’s something about a Dunes West wedding that just hits differently. Maybe it’s the way golden hour pours over the marsh. Maybe it’s the quiet beauty just outside the chaos of downtown Charleston. Or maybe it’s the way the entire day runs like a well-oiled machine—thanks to the incredible team behind the scenes.
As a longtime Charleston wedding photographer who loves documenting real, emotional, and occasionally offbeat celebrations, I can confidently say: Dunes West is one of the city’s most underrated venues. And I’m pulling back the curtain to show you what it’s really like to get married here—from a photographer’s point of view.
The Venue Vibe: Think Kiawah Meets Lowndes Grove (With Parking!)
I don’t say this lightly: Dunes West is slept on. It’s as if Kiawah and Lowndes Grove had a baby. You’ve got Lowcountry elegance, waterfront views, a sprawling golf course, and best of all? Everything you need is right there—including ample parking. (If you’ve ever tried to park 100+ guests downtown, you know this is a rare luxury.)
The girls’ getting-ready space recently got a glow-up and now offers floor-to-ceiling natural light. It’s the perfect backdrop for candid, emotional wedding moments—especially if you’re dreaming of soft, true-to-life getting ready photos that don’t feel forced.
This venue is ideal for couples planning a Charleston wedding who want something slightly off the beaten path. You still get the scenery, but without the chaos of King Street in July.
A Real Wedding Timeline at Dunes West
Most of my weddings at Dunes West start around 1:30 PM. I start the day capturing wedding details, bridal prep, and first look moments (if you’re doing one). From there, we knock out wedding party photos, sneak into the reception space for details, and prep for the ceremony.
Once the vows are said and the cocktail hour begins, I float between family portraits and behind-the-scenes candids (telephoto lens = ninja mode). Then comes one of my favorite parts of the day: golden hour wedding photos. There’s something about that warm Lowcountry light that just makes couples glow.
The night typically wraps between 9:30–10:30 PM thanks to a neighborhood noise ordinance. But trust me, that’s the perfect amount of time to hit every milestone without ending the night in a puddle of sweat and exhaustion.
My Approach: Part Fly-on-the-Wall, Part Photo Whisperer
As a candid wedding photographer in Charleston, I live for the unscripted moments—but I’m not afraid to guide you when needed. My vibe is about 50/50: hands-on when it helps, hands-off when it matters.
During portraits, I’ll gently direct or hype you up. On the dance floor, I’m in it with you (Pink Pony Club, anyone?). But for the emotional moments—like a quiet tear during vows or a sideways glance between you and your sister—I’ll be in the background, silently capturing it all.
If you're into documentary-style wedding photography, this is the sweet spot where guided and genuine meet.
cocktail hour on the lawn, with corn hole, what could be better?
Why Dunes West Couples Are My Kind of People
Most of the couples who choose Dunes West as their Charleston wedding venue have one thing in common: they care deeply about the experience, not just the aesthetic.
They’re sentimental. They want their wedding to feel sacred, joyful, and true to them. That’s why I adore photographing here—it naturally attracts the kind of humans who make my job meaningful.
If you're dreaming of emotional, editorial-style wedding photography with a laid-back vibe, this venue (and let’s be real, this photographer) might be a match made in marshy heaven.
The Magic of Golden Hour at Dunes West
Every wedding here has its moment. But when that low sun hits the water and we sneak away for those quiet golden hour portraits? That’s when everything slows down.
Your shoulders drop. The noise fades. The “we actually just got married” moment sinks in.
And I get to document the magic—no forced smiles, no stiff posing, just light, love, and whatever weirdness makes you feel like you.
Golden hour on the water=perfection
Planning a Dunes West Wedding? Let’s Make It Personal.
If you’re looking for a Charleston wedding photographer who gets the humor, sentimentality, and unfiltered emotion of your day—without taking themselves too seriously—I’m your girl.
This is your reminder that weddings don’t have to feel like a photoshoot. They can feel like you.
Let’s chat about your Dunes West wedding.