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SC Wedding Venues | Katie Jaynes Photography

South Carolina Wedding Venues

A Resource by Katie Jaynes Photography

Discover your perfect setting
County

South Carolina's Most Complete Venue Guide

Planning a wedding in South Carolina? This map covers over 340 venues across all 46 counties — from Lowcountry plantations draped in Spanish moss to Blue Ridge mountain barns, historic downtown ballrooms to working farm estates. Click any county to start exploring, or search by name, city, or style. For a curated shortlist, see Katie's picks in the Best Wedding Venues in South Carolina guide.

Browse by County

Click any county on the map or choose one from the dropdown. The venue list opens instantly on the right — filter further by city or search by name.

Search Statewide

Looking for something specific? Type a venue name, city, or keyword into the search bar to filter across all 46 counties at once.

Explore Every Detail

Click any venue card to see photos, a full description, a direct link to their website, and a Google Maps button for directions.

South Carolina's Wedding Regions

Each part of the state brings its own character. Here's what to expect.

The Lowcountry

South Carolina's most iconic wedding landscape. Think live oaks with hanging moss, antebellum plantations, tidal marshes, and beachfront settings with that unmistakable Golden Hour light. This is the region that put SC weddings on the map.

Charleston · Beaufort · Jasper · Colleton · Dorchester · Berkeley

The Grand Strand & Pee Dee

Ocean-front ceremonies, wide sandy beaches, and quiet farm venues tucked inland. The Pee Dee region offers a more rural Southern charm — tobacco barns, long longleaf pine rows, and wide-open skies that make every outdoor portrait sing.

Horry · Georgetown · Marion · Dillon · Marlboro · Darlington · Florence

The Midlands

South Carolina's heartland stretches from the capital city outward into rolling red clay hills, river bluffs, and peach-country farms. Columbia offers urban ballrooms and renovated historic buildings; the surrounding counties offer pastoral privacy.

Richland · Lexington · Kershaw · Fairfield · Newberry · Saluda · Calhoun · Orangeburg

The Upstate

Waterfalls, mountain views, and a year-round temperate climate make Upstate SC a rising star for weddings. Greenville's revitalized downtown anchors a region of barn venues, vineyard estates, and lakeside properties tucked into the Blue Ridge foothills. Anderson and Clemson are especially popular for couples with ties to the university community. See Katie's full guide to planning a wedding in Upstate SC →

Greenville · Spartanburg · Anderson · Pickens · Cherokee · York · Oconee · Laurens

Found a venue you love?
Let's talk photography.

Katie Jaynes is a South Carolina wedding photographer who has shot in venues across the entire state — from intimate backyard ceremonies to grand plantation affairs. Every venue tells a different story. Katie's job is to make sure yours is told beautifully.

Venue Styles

Types of South Carolina Wedding Venues

South Carolina offers an extraordinary range of wedding settings. Whether you're envisioning a barefoot ceremony on the beach or a black-tie reception inside a restored antebellum mansion, the state delivers. Here's a breakdown of what you'll find across the 46 counties.

Plantation & Historic Estates

South Carolina's oldest venue category — grand antebellum mansions, columned porticos, formal gardens, and the kind of atmosphere that can't be designed from scratch. Concentrated in the Lowcountry and Midlands.

Barn & Farm Venues

The most popular venue style statewide. Renovated tobacco barns, cattle farm event centers, and working farmsteads with rolling pasture backdrops and open-air pavilions for outdoor ceremonies.

Beach & Waterfront

Ocean-front ceremonies with Atlantic sunsets, tidal creek receptions, lake venues, and marshside properties along the ACE Basin. The Lowcountry coastline and Grand Strand are the hotspots.

Urban & Industrial

Repurposed warehouses, renovated mill buildings, restored post offices, and rooftop spaces in Charleston, Greenville, Columbia, and a growing number of smaller downtown corridors across the state.

State Parks & Nature

South Carolina's state park system includes several venues open for weddings — from beachside pavilions at Edisto to lakeside lodges in the Upstate. Usually lower cost, always scenic, and sometimes requiring permits.

Vineyard & Winery

Boutique wineries with event spaces have emerged across the Piedmont and Midlands, offering vineyard rows as ceremony backdrops and barrel rooms for intimate receptions with a European-countryside feel.

Golf Course & Club

Country clubs and resort golf courses offer polished ballrooms, manicured grounds, and full-service hospitality. Popular for couples who want a traditional reception experience with built-in catering and coordination.

Chapel & Garden

Intimate dedicated chapels — some historic, some purpose-built — alongside formal garden venues designed specifically for ceremonies. Found throughout the state, from Gaffney to Ridgeland to Georgetown.

Timing

When to Get Married in South Carolina

South Carolina's climate is warm nearly year-round, but timing matters. Venue availability, pricing, and weather all shift dramatically by season. Here's what to expect — and when most couples are booking.

Spring

March · April · May
Temp  62–78°F Golden hour  7:30–8:15pm Rain risk  moderate (March–April)

Spring is South Carolina's most celebrated wedding season — and for good reason. Azaleas peak in mid-March, dogwoods follow in April, and wisteria drapes over every fence line by late April. Gardens and outdoor ceremony spaces look their absolute best, and daytime temperatures are comfortable enough for guests in formal attire without anyone wilting.

From a photography standpoint, spring light in the Lowcountry and Upstate is some of the softest and most flattering of the year. The longer days push golden hour well past 7:30pm, giving couples time to exhale between the ceremony and portraits. Gardens at historic plantations and estate venues frame naturally without any additional florals — the setting does the work.

The tradeoff: March and April are the rainiest months of SC spring. An indoor weather backup isn't optional — it's essential. Late April and early May tend to be the most reliably beautiful window. Humidity is still manageable; it doesn't truly build until late May.

Book ahead: 12–18 months for April and May Saturdays at established venues. Spring dates are claimed the fastest of any season.

Peak Season

Fall

September · October · November
Temp  55–78°F Golden hour  6:30–7:30pm Hurricane risk  September

Fall is South Carolina's other peak wedding season — and in many ways the most coveted. Humidity finally breaks in October, temperatures settle into the 60s and 70s, and the afternoon light turns warm, amber, and long. October is the single most booked wedding month in the state, and it's not close.

September deserves a note of caution: it's still hot (highs in the low 80s), and it falls at the peak of Atlantic hurricane season. September weddings can be stunning but require a more detailed contingency plan than any other month. October and November carry far less weather risk and far more reliable conditions.

For couples set on fall foliage, the Upstate is your best bet. Oconee, Pickens, and Greenville counties see genuine color change by late October and into November. The Lowcountry stays lushly green but compensates with some of the most dramatic golden-hour light of the year — low sun cutting across the marsh through Spanish moss is hard to beat.

Book ahead: 14–18 months for October Saturdays at full-service plantation and estate venues. Some popular Upstate barn venues go even faster.

Peak Season

Summer

June · July · August
Temp  85–97°F Golden hour  8:00–8:45pm Hurricane season  June 1–Nov 30

South Carolina summer is beautiful and brutal in equal measure. Afternoons regularly reach the 90s with humidity that makes it feel hotter. Any outdoor ceremony held before 5:30pm risks guests in real discomfort — most experienced SC vendors will advise pushing the ceremony to 6pm or later in June through August, and 7pm if the venue allows.

The flip side: summer has the longest golden hour of the year, with sunsets around 8:30pm in July. Evening ceremonies at coastal venues — where sea breezes off the Atlantic genuinely cut the heat — can be magical. Beach ceremonies at dusk, tidal creek receptions as the sun sets over the marsh, and lakeside barn receptions in the Upstate all come into their own in summer evenings. If your venue has serious air conditioning and a beautiful outdoor space you can move into after 6pm, summer can be spectacular.

Hurricane season is real. June 1 through November 30, peak risk in August and September. Get your venue's weather cancellation and rescheduling policy in writing, and purchase short-term wedding insurance — it's inexpensive and covers far more than weather.

Book ahead: Summer weekends have more availability than spring and fall. A 9–12 month lead time is usually sufficient, though popular coastal venues still book quickly.

Plan Ahead

Winter

December · January · February
Temp  48–62°F Golden hour  5:00–5:30pm Snow risk  rare (Upstate: possible)

South Carolina winter is genuinely mild by most of the country's standards. Daytime highs in the 50s and low 60s are the norm in the Midlands and Lowcountry, with occasional dips below freezing overnight but rarely anything that disrupts a wedding. The Upstate — Greenville, Spartanburg, Cherokee counties — can see frost and the occasional light snow, which adds a romantic, unexpected quality to barn and estate venues with fireplaces.

Photographically, winter has a quiet elegance. The stripped-down palettes of gray sky and bare branches suit moody editorial aesthetics. Golden hour arrives early — 5pm in December — which actually works in your favor for evening receptions, creating a naturally warm candlelit atmosphere from the very start of the night. Barn venues with fire pits and string lights reach peak atmosphere in winter.

The practical case for winter: dramatically better availability and pricing. Many SC venues offer off-season discounts from January through February, and vendors who are fully booked through the spring and fall may have open dates. December holiday weekends fill fast and often carry a premium, but the first two months of the year are the most affordable window in the entire calendar — and the least competed for by other couples.

Book ahead: 3–6 months is often sufficient for January and February dates. December holiday dates book more like spring and fall — start earlier.

Best Value

"The most common mistake SC couples make is underestimating how fast fall weekends book up. If you're set on an October date at a popular venue, start your search at least 12 to 14 months out — and lock in your photographer at the same time. The best vendors book in tandem with the venue."

Where to Look

Most Popular Cities for South Carolina Weddings

South Carolina has no shortage of beautiful settings, but certain cities and regions have become synonymous with the wedding industry. Here's a quick guide to the most popular markets — and what makes each one distinctive.

Charleston

Charleston County

The undisputed capital of SC wedding photography. Historic plantations, cobblestone streets, rooftop ballrooms, tidal marshes, and some of the most photogenic architecture in the American South. Heavily booked and heavily priced — but worth it for the setting.

Greenville

Greenville County

The Upstate's fastest-growing wedding market. Falls Park on the Reedy River, renovated mill venues, and proximity to Blue Ridge mountain backdrops make it increasingly popular with couples who want urban convenience and natural beauty in the same weekend.

Katie's favorite Greenville venues  ·  Hidden gems in Greer

Columbia

Richland County

The state capital punches above its weight on venues — historic university buildings, riverfront event spaces, and renovated industrial lofts downtown. More affordable than Charleston, with a loyal local vendor network and easy logistics for statewide guest lists.

Katie's favorite Columbia venues →

Beaufort & Bluffton

Beaufort County

Lowcountry at its most intimate. Beaufort's antebellum waterfront and Bluffton's Old Town district offer a quieter, less commercial alternative to Charleston with the same Spanish moss, tidal creeks, and live oak canopies at a fraction of the price.

Myrtle Beach & Pawleys Island

Horry & Georgetown Counties

The Grand Strand's beach venues draw couples who want Atlantic Ocean ceremony backdrops, warm-weather atmospheres, and resort-style accommodations for out-of-town guests. Pawleys Island skews quieter and more upscale; Myrtle Beach offers more all-inclusive resort options.

Aiken

Aiken County

South Carolina's equestrian capital is an underrated wedding gem. English country estate vibes, polo grounds, historic downtown architecture, and a slightly cooler Midlands climate. Popular with couples who want a Southern estate feel without the Charleston price tag.

Katie Jaynes photographs weddings across South Carolina:

Venue spotlight: Bleckley Station, Anderson SC  ·  Hidden gems in Greer  ·  Best venues statewide

Venue Touring

What to Look for When Touring a SC Wedding Venue

Most couples tour 3–5 venues before booking. It's easy to get swept up in the aesthetics — Spanish moss, a beautiful barn, a stunning ballroom — and overlook the practical details that determine whether your day actually runs smoothly. Check these off every tour.

Catering policy. Does the venue require an in-house caterer, or can you bring your own? Exclusive caterers can significantly increase your food and beverage budget.

Weather backup plan. For outdoor SC weddings, a covered indoor backup isn't optional — it's essential. Ask exactly how the flip plan works and who executes it.

Guest parking & transportation. Rural venues are stunning but can leave guests confused on arrival. Ask about parking capacity, accessibility, and whether shuttles are required.

Sound ordinances & end times. Many SC counties enforce noise ordinances after 10 or 11 PM. Confirm your hard stop time and whether live bands are permitted.

Getting-ready spaces. Separate, well-lit bridal and groom suites make your photographer's job infinitely easier — and your morning far less stressful. Look for good natural window light.

What's included vs. what's extra. Tables, chairs, linens, a day-of coordinator, parking attendants — ask for an itemized list so your venue quote and final invoice don't diverge dramatically.

Nearby accommodation. Where are your guests staying? Venues more than 20 minutes from a hotel cluster often require coordination — or a shuttle — that adds cost and complexity.

Lighting at your ceremony time. If you're getting married at golden hour, visit the ceremony site at that time of day. Backlit spaces, harsh shade, or awkward sun angles can't be fixed in post. Your wedding photographer can advise on the best ceremony position once booked.

Common Questions

South Carolina Wedding Venue FAQ

Answers to the questions we hear most often from couples planning a South Carolina wedding.

  • Venue rental costs in South Carolina vary widely depending on location, size, and what's included. Budget venues and community spaces can rent for as little as $500–$1,500. Mid-range barn and estate venues typically run $3,000–$8,000 for a full-day rental. Premium Lowcountry plantation venues and high-end Charleston properties often start at $10,000 and go well above that for peak-season weekend dates. Remember that the rental fee is just one line item — catering, rentals, staffing, and alcohol service can easily double or triple the venue cost.
  • It depends on where you're getting married. Private property (a farm, a plantation, a rented estate) generally doesn't require a permit beyond a standard venue rental agreement. Public parks, state parks, beaches, and waterfront areas often do require a permit from the managing agency — South Carolina State Parks, county parks departments, or SCDNR for coastal areas. Some municipalities also require special event permits for large gatherings. Always confirm with your venue coordinator and check local regulations well in advance.
  • For popular Lowcountry and Upstate venues during spring and fall, 12–18 months is the standard recommendation — and some of the most sought-after properties book 2 years out for peak-season Saturdays. If you have your heart set on a specific date (say, a fall Saturday in October), start venue shopping as soon as possible. Weekday dates, winter dates, and rural or newer venues have much more flexibility. If you're working with a shorter timeline, focus on recently opened venues or less competitive markets — there are still beautiful options with 6–9 months of lead time.
  • By sheer number of venues and weddings performed, Charleston County is South Carolina's most popular wedding destination by a significant margin, followed by Greenville and Horry (Myrtle Beach) counties. That said, every SC county has at least one venue, and many of the most memorable weddings we've seen have taken place in less-traveled counties — Beaufort, Aiken, Lexington, York — where venues are less booked and the experience feels more private.
  • South Carolina venues that serve alcohol must hold the appropriate license from the SC Department of Revenue. Many established venues already have a licensed bar service or a list of approved licensed bartending vendors. If you're renting a dry venue or a space without a liquor license, you'll need to either work with a licensed caterer who provides bar service, obtain a temporary permit, or host a BYOB event (which has its own rules). Some SC counties also have local option laws around alcohol — confirm with your venue before assuming full bar service is available.
  • Beyond the obvious (a portfolio you love, pricing that fits your budget, availability on your date), look for a photographer who knows South Carolina's specific shooting conditions — humidity haze, harsh midday Southern sun, the golden-hour timing in the Lowcountry versus the Upstate, and how to work with the deep shade of a live oak canopy. Experience at your specific venue is a bonus but not required. More important is someone who communicates clearly, makes you feel comfortable, and delivers consistent work — not just a handful of hero shots from an ideal day. Katie's full FAQ covers what to expect from the booking and delivery process.

Budgeting

How Much Does a South Carolina Wedding Venue Cost?

Venue rental is typically the single largest line item in a wedding budget, but costs vary enormously across the state. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect at three price tiers — and what that money actually gets you.

Budget-Friendly

$500 – $2,500

Accessible venues that require more personal coordination but can absolutely produce beautiful results with the right vendors and styling.

  • Community halls, civic centers, and municipal event spaces
  • State park pavilions and recreation department venues
  • Newer venues building their clientele and reputation
  • Fraternal halls and faith-based fellowship spaces
  • Typically BYOB and BYOC (bring your own caterer)
  • Less built-in coordination — plan to manage more yourself

Mid-Range

$2,500 – $8,000

The sweet spot for most South Carolina couples. Well-appointed spaces with reliable infrastructure and enough flexibility to personalize the experience.

  • Most barn and farm venues across the state
  • Historic downtown buildings and renovated event centers
  • Many plantation properties outside of Charleston
  • Often includes tables, chairs, bridal suite, basic A/V
  • Choice of preferred vendors or an open vendor policy
  • A day-of coordinator or venue manager on site

Premium

$8,000 – $25,000+

Full-service venues where most of the logistics are handled for you. Expect a more curated experience — and a more curated vendor list to go with it.

  • Top Lowcountry plantation and estate venues
  • High-end downtown Charleston ballrooms and rooftops
  • All-inclusive resort venues with lodging on property
  • In-house catering, bar service, and coordination staff
  • Exclusive use of full property for the wedding weekend
  • Often required vendor lists — budget accordingly

"The rental fee is only part of the picture. At many SC venues, catering, alcohol service, linens, staffing, and parking coordination are all separate line items. Always ask for a full itemized breakdown before comparing venue quotes. Katie's wedding photography FAQ covers a similar breakdown for photography pricing — useful context for budgeting your full vendor team."

Before You Book

10 Questions to Ask Every SC Venue Before You Sign

The contract conversation matters as much as the tour. These are the questions most couples wish they'd asked before signing — not after the deposit was down.

  1. 01

    What exactly is included in the rental fee?

    Get a written list of everything — tables, chairs, linens, A/V equipment, parking attendants, a venue coordinator, setup time, and breakdown time. Venues that quote a low rental rate often charge separately for items you'd assume are standard.

  2. 02

    Is there a weather backup plan, and how does the flip work?

    For any outdoor SC ceremony or reception, this is non-negotiable. Ask who makes the call, how much notice you get, what the indoor space looks like, and whether there's an additional cost to flip the layout.

  3. 03

    What are the catering and bar service requirements?

    Some venues require you to use an in-house caterer or a preferred vendor list. Others allow outside catering. Alcohol licensing is a separate question — confirm whether the venue holds a liquor license, or whether you need to hire a licensed bartending service.

  4. 04

    What time does the music need to stop, and what's the hard end time?

    Most South Carolina counties have noise ordinances. Ask for the hard stop time for amplified sound, the venue closure time, and what the consequences are for running late — many charge steep overtime fees per hour.

  5. 05

    How many events do you host on the same day or weekend?

    Some venues run two events in a single day, meaning your setup time is compressed and another wedding is happening steps away. Know whether you have exclusive use of the property, and for how many hours.

  6. 06

    What is the cancellation and rescheduling policy?

    Life happens. Ask specifically what percentage of deposits and payments are refundable and under what conditions, how far in advance you'd need to cancel for any refund, and whether rescheduling for weather or emergencies is possible without financial penalty.

  7. 07

    Is liability insurance required, and do you carry your own?

    Many South Carolina venues now require couples to purchase short-term event liability insurance (typically $150–$300 for a one-day policy). Ask whether the venue itself carries coverage for accidents on the property.

  8. 08

    What are the venue's policies on décor, candles, and confetti?

    Open flames, nails in walls, and biodegradable confetti all have different rules at different venues. If you're planning a specific aesthetic — draping, hanging installations, sparkler exits — confirm the policies before you fall in love with a vision that isn't permitted.

  9. 09

    Where does the wedding party get ready, and what's the natural light situation?

    A bridal suite with one small window and fluorescent overhead lighting is a real thing. Ask to see the getting-ready spaces at your appointment, and note whether there's good window light — your photographer will thank you.

  10. 10

    Can I speak with two or three recent couples who've held their wedding here?

    References matter more than reviews. A good venue will have couples willing to vouch for them. Ask specifically about how the venue handled anything that went wrong — that's where character shows.

Guest Experience

Getting Guests to Your South Carolina Wedding Venue

South Carolina's most beautiful venues are often its most remote. A little planning goes a long way toward keeping your guests happy — from the moment they land or drive in to the moment they leave your reception.

Hotel Room Blocks

Reserve a room block 9–12 months before your date, especially if your venue is near a tourist area (the coast, Greenville, Aiken during polo season). Most hotels hold blocks at a contracted rate without requiring a deposit, releasing unsold rooms 30 days before the event. Choose a hotel within 15 minutes of your venue — anything beyond 20 minutes in an unfamiliar area leads to late arrivals and early departures.

Transportation & Shuttles

For rural venues more than a 15-minute drive from accommodations, a shuttle service transforms the guest experience — and removes the drunk-driving liability concern entirely. Budget $800–$2,000 for a round-trip shuttle loop depending on vehicle size and distance. Include clear pickup/dropoff times on your invitation suite and wedding website. If shuttles aren't feasible, coordinate with a local car service or rideshare option and include that info in your guest communications.

Arriving in SC: Airport Logistics

Most out-of-state guests fly into Charleston International (CHS), Greenville-Spartanburg International (GSP), or Columbia Metropolitan (CAE), with Charlotte Douglas (CLT) serving the Upstate region. Myrtle Beach International (MYR) serves the Grand Strand. If your guest list is spread across the state, a central venue location and a well-organized wedding website with driving directions makes a significant difference — GPS often struggles with rural venue addresses.

Welcome Bags & Itineraries

For destination-style SC weddings with multiple events across a weekend, a printed itinerary or digital guide sent two weeks before the wedding is genuinely appreciated. Include venue addresses with driving notes, a list of nearby restaurants, the shuttle schedule, dress code reminders for each event, and any local-area tips. A small welcome bag in each hotel room with a few SC-made snacks and a handwritten note is an easy touch that guests consistently mention as memorable.

Intimate Weddings

Micro-Weddings & Elopements in South Carolina

One of the most significant shifts in South Carolina wedding culture over the past several years has been the rise of the micro-wedding — typically defined as a ceremony and reception for 30 guests or fewer. Once a workaround for budget constraints, it's now an intentional choice for couples who want a more personal, unhurried experience on their wedding day.

South Carolina is an ideal state for micro-weddings and elopements. The natural scenery is extraordinary, the vendor market is competitive and experienced in small-format events, and many venues — particularly in rural and coastal counties — offer mid-week and off-season packages that bring the total cost of a wedding to a fraction of a peak Saturday event.

Popular micro-wedding settings include the ACE Basin, the Blue Ridge foothills near Oconee and Pickens counties, the historic districts of Beaufort and Camden, state park lodges in the Pee Dee and Midlands, and the quieter stretches of the Grand Strand outside the tourist core. Many of these settings can be booked with two to four months of lead time — a stark contrast to the 12–18 month runway needed for a large Saturday event at a full-service plantation venue.

If you're considering an elopement in South Carolina, you'll need a marriage license from any SC county probate court, which requires no waiting period once issued. An officiant who is ordained or holds a celebrant license in South Carolina is required. Beyond that, the logistics are remarkably simple compared to a full wedding — which is precisely the point. Katie's blog covers the full process in South Carolina Marriage License: Your Complete Timeline.

Building Your Team

Beyond the Venue: Your SC Wedding Vendor Team

Booking your venue is step one. Once you have the date and location locked, these are the vendors to secure next — roughly in priority order, since the best ones book up almost as fast as the venues themselves.

Photographer

Book 9–14 months out for peak-season dates. Your photographer shapes how you remember this day for the rest of your life — it's worth the research. Look for consistent full-gallery work, not just a curated portfolio, and a shooting style that suits your venue's light and aesthetic.

Browse Katie's portfolio  ·  View pricing  ·  Check availability

Caterer

If your venue doesn't have in-house catering, this is your second most time-sensitive booking. Good SC caterers for Saturday weddings book fast, especially in spring and fall. Get at least three tastings before deciding, and be specific about dietary accommodation requirements from the start.

Coordinator or Planner

Even if your venue provides a day-of coordinator, a full or partial wedding planner pays for itself in time saved, vendor relationships, and problem-solving on the day. The distinction matters: a venue coordinator manages the venue; a wedding coordinator manages your entire event.

Florist

SC florists who do large installations book out six to nine months in advance. Budget tip: florals are one area where local, seasonal, and SC-grown make a real difference — both in freshness and in cost. Ask whether your florist sources locally and what's in season on your date.

Band or DJ

Live bands in the Lowcountry and Upstate markets are frequently booked 12+ months out for peak Saturdays. A DJ offers more flexibility and a broader song catalog; a band provides an energy and presence that's hard to replicate. Many couples do both — a DJ for cocktail hour, a band for reception.

Officiant

SC requires an ordained minister, licensed celebrant, or certain civil officials to legally perform a marriage. This is one of the most personal vendor choices — someone who knows your story and can speak authentically about your relationship. Good officiants who write custom ceremonies book 6–12 months out.

South Carolina's Most Complete Venue Guide

Planning a wedding in South Carolina? This map covers over 340 venues across all 46 counties — from Lowcountry plantations draped in Spanish moss to Blue Ridge mountain barns, historic downtown ballrooms to working farm estates. Click any county to start exploring, or search by name, city, or style. For a curated shortlist, see Katie's picks in the Best Wedding Venues in South Carolina guide.

Browse by County

Click any county on the map or choose one from the dropdown. The venue list opens instantly on the right — filter further by city or search by name.

Search Statewide

Looking for something specific? Type a venue name, city, or keyword into the search bar to filter across all 46 counties at once.

Explore Every Detail

Click any venue card to see photos, a full description, a direct link to their website, and a Google Maps button for directions.

South Carolina's Wedding Regions

Each part of the state brings its own character. Here's what to expect.

The Lowcountry

South Carolina's most iconic wedding landscape. Think live oaks with hanging moss, antebellum plantations, tidal marshes, and beachfront settings with that unmistakable Golden Hour light. This is the region that put SC weddings on the map.

Charleston · Beaufort · Jasper · Colleton · Dorchester · Berkeley

The Grand Strand & Pee Dee

Ocean-front ceremonies, wide sandy beaches, and quiet farm venues tucked inland. The Pee Dee region offers a more rural Southern charm — tobacco barns, long longleaf pine rows, and wide-open skies that make every outdoor portrait sing.

Horry · Georgetown · Marion · Dillon · Marlboro · Darlington · Florence

The Midlands

South Carolina's heartland stretches from the capital city outward into rolling red clay hills, river bluffs, and peach-country farms. Columbia offers urban ballrooms and renovated historic buildings; the surrounding counties offer pastoral privacy.

Richland · Lexington · Kershaw · Fairfield · Newberry · Saluda · Calhoun · Orangeburg

The Upstate

Waterfalls, mountain views, and a year-round temperate climate make Upstate SC a rising star for weddings. Greenville's revitalized downtown anchors a region of barn venues, vineyard estates, and lakeside properties tucked into the Blue Ridge foothills. Anderson and Clemson are especially popular for couples with ties to the university community. See Katie's full guide to planning a wedding in Upstate SC →

Greenville · Spartanburg · Anderson · Pickens · Cherokee · York · Oconee · Laurens

Found a venue you love?
Let's talk photography.

Katie Jaynes is a South Carolina wedding photographer who has shot in venues across the entire state — from intimate backyard ceremonies to grand plantation affairs. Every venue tells a different story. Katie's job is to make sure yours is told beautifully.

Venue Styles

Types of South Carolina Wedding Venues

South Carolina offers an extraordinary range of wedding settings. Whether you're envisioning a barefoot ceremony on the beach or a black-tie reception inside a restored antebellum mansion, the state delivers. Here's a breakdown of what you'll find across the 46 counties.

Plantation & Historic Estates

South Carolina's oldest venue category — grand antebellum mansions, columned porticos, formal gardens, and the kind of atmosphere that can't be designed from scratch. Concentrated in the Lowcountry and Midlands.

Barn & Farm Venues

The most popular venue style statewide. Renovated tobacco barns, cattle farm event centers, and working farmsteads with rolling pasture backdrops and open-air pavilions for outdoor ceremonies.

Beach & Waterfront

Ocean-front ceremonies with Atlantic sunsets, tidal creek receptions, lake venues, and marshside properties along the ACE Basin. The Lowcountry coastline and Grand Strand are the hotspots.

Urban & Industrial

Repurposed warehouses, renovated mill buildings, restored post offices, and rooftop spaces in Charleston, Greenville, Columbia, and a growing number of smaller downtown corridors across the state.

State Parks & Nature

South Carolina's state park system includes several venues open for weddings — from beachside pavilions at Edisto to lakeside lodges in the Upstate. Usually lower cost, always scenic, and sometimes requiring permits.

Vineyard & Winery

Boutique wineries with event spaces have emerged across the Piedmont and Midlands, offering vineyard rows as ceremony backdrops and barrel rooms for intimate receptions with a European-countryside feel.

Golf Course & Club

Country clubs and resort golf courses offer polished ballrooms, manicured grounds, and full-service hospitality. Popular for couples who want a traditional reception experience with built-in catering and coordination.

Chapel & Garden

Intimate dedicated chapels — some historic, some purpose-built — alongside formal garden venues designed specifically for ceremonies. Found throughout the state, from Gaffney to Ridgeland to Georgetown.

Timing

When to Get Married in South Carolina

South Carolina's climate is warm nearly year-round, but timing matters. Venue availability, pricing, and weather all shift dramatically by season. Here's what to expect — and when most couples are booking.

Spring

March · April · May
Temp  62–78°F Golden hour  7:30–8:15pm Rain risk  moderate (March–April)

Spring is South Carolina's most celebrated wedding season — and for good reason. Azaleas peak in mid-March, dogwoods follow in April, and wisteria drapes over every fence line by late April. Gardens and outdoor ceremony spaces look their absolute best, and daytime temperatures are comfortable enough for guests in formal attire without anyone wilting.

From a photography standpoint, spring light in the Lowcountry and Upstate is some of the softest and most flattering of the year. The longer days push golden hour well past 7:30pm, giving couples time to exhale between the ceremony and portraits. Gardens at historic plantations and estate venues frame naturally without any additional florals — the setting does the work.

The tradeoff: March and April are the rainiest months of SC spring. An indoor weather backup isn't optional — it's essential. Late April and early May tend to be the most reliably beautiful window. Humidity is still manageable; it doesn't truly build until late May.

Book ahead: 12–18 months for April and May Saturdays at established venues. Spring dates are claimed the fastest of any season.

Peak Season

Fall

September · October · November
Temp  55–78°F Golden hour  6:30–7:30pm Hurricane risk  September

Fall is South Carolina's other peak wedding season — and in many ways the most coveted. Humidity finally breaks in October, temperatures settle into the 60s and 70s, and the afternoon light turns warm, amber, and long. October is the single most booked wedding month in the state, and it's not close.

September deserves a note of caution: it's still hot (highs in the low 80s), and it falls at the peak of Atlantic hurricane season. September weddings can be stunning but require a more detailed contingency plan than any other month. October and November carry far less weather risk and far more reliable conditions.

For couples set on fall foliage, the Upstate is your best bet. Oconee, Pickens, and Greenville counties see genuine color change by late October and into November. The Lowcountry stays lushly green but compensates with some of the most dramatic golden-hour light of the year — low sun cutting across the marsh through Spanish moss is hard to beat.

Book ahead: 14–18 months for October Saturdays at full-service plantation and estate venues. Some popular Upstate barn venues go even faster.

Peak Season

Summer

June · July · August
Temp  85–97°F Golden hour  8:00–8:45pm Hurricane season  June 1–Nov 30

South Carolina summer is beautiful and brutal in equal measure. Afternoons regularly reach the 90s with humidity that makes it feel hotter. Any outdoor ceremony held before 5:30pm risks guests in real discomfort — most experienced SC vendors will advise pushing the ceremony to 6pm or later in June through August, and 7pm if the venue allows.

The flip side: summer has the longest golden hour of the year, with sunsets around 8:30pm in July. Evening ceremonies at coastal venues — where sea breezes off the Atlantic genuinely cut the heat — can be magical. Beach ceremonies at dusk, tidal creek receptions as the sun sets over the marsh, and lakeside barn receptions in the Upstate all come into their own in summer evenings. If your venue has serious air conditioning and a beautiful outdoor space you can move into after 6pm, summer can be spectacular.

Hurricane season is real. June 1 through November 30, peak risk in August and September. Get your venue's weather cancellation and rescheduling policy in writing, and purchase short-term wedding insurance — it's inexpensive and covers far more than weather.

Book ahead: Summer weekends have more availability than spring and fall. A 9–12 month lead time is usually sufficient, though popular coastal venues still book quickly.

Plan Ahead

Winter

December · January · February
Temp  48–62°F Golden hour  5:00–5:30pm Snow risk  rare (Upstate: possible)

South Carolina winter is genuinely mild by most of the country's standards. Daytime highs in the 50s and low 60s are the norm in the Midlands and Lowcountry, with occasional dips below freezing overnight but rarely anything that disrupts a wedding. The Upstate — Greenville, Spartanburg, Cherokee counties — can see frost and the occasional light snow, which adds a romantic, unexpected quality to barn and estate venues with fireplaces.

Photographically, winter has a quiet elegance. The stripped-down palettes of gray sky and bare branches suit moody editorial aesthetics. Golden hour arrives early — 5pm in December — which actually works in your favor for evening receptions, creating a naturally warm candlelit atmosphere from the very start of the night. Barn venues with fire pits and string lights reach peak atmosphere in winter.

The practical case for winter: dramatically better availability and pricing. Many SC venues offer off-season discounts from January through February, and vendors who are fully booked through the spring and fall may have open dates. December holiday weekends fill fast and often carry a premium, but the first two months of the year are the most affordable window in the entire calendar — and the least competed for by other couples.

Book ahead: 3–6 months is often sufficient for January and February dates. December holiday dates book more like spring and fall — start earlier.

Best Value

"The most common mistake SC couples make is underestimating how fast fall weekends book up. If you're set on an October date at a popular venue, start your search at least 12 to 14 months out — and lock in your photographer at the same time. The best vendors book in tandem with the venue."

Where to Look

Most Popular Cities for South Carolina Weddings

South Carolina has no shortage of beautiful settings, but certain cities and regions have become synonymous with the wedding industry. Here's a quick guide to the most popular markets — and what makes each one distinctive.

Charleston

Charleston County

The undisputed capital of SC wedding photography. Historic plantations, cobblestone streets, rooftop ballrooms, tidal marshes, and some of the most photogenic architecture in the American South. Heavily booked and heavily priced — but worth it for the setting.

Greenville

Greenville County

The Upstate's fastest-growing wedding market. Falls Park on the Reedy River, renovated mill venues, and proximity to Blue Ridge mountain backdrops make it increasingly popular with couples who want urban convenience and natural beauty in the same weekend.

Katie's favorite Greenville venues  ·  Hidden gems in Greer

Columbia

Richland County

The state capital punches above its weight on venues — historic university buildings, riverfront event spaces, and renovated industrial lofts downtown. More affordable than Charleston, with a loyal local vendor network and easy logistics for statewide guest lists.

Katie's favorite Columbia venues →

Beaufort & Bluffton

Beaufort County

Lowcountry at its most intimate. Beaufort's antebellum waterfront and Bluffton's Old Town district offer a quieter, less commercial alternative to Charleston with the same Spanish moss, tidal creeks, and live oak canopies at a fraction of the price.

Myrtle Beach & Pawleys Island

Horry & Georgetown Counties

The Grand Strand's beach venues draw couples who want Atlantic Ocean ceremony backdrops, warm-weather atmospheres, and resort-style accommodations for out-of-town guests. Pawleys Island skews quieter and more upscale; Myrtle Beach offers more all-inclusive resort options.

Aiken

Aiken County

South Carolina's equestrian capital is an underrated wedding gem. English country estate vibes, polo grounds, historic downtown architecture, and a slightly cooler Midlands climate. Popular with couples who want a Southern estate feel without the Charleston price tag.

Katie Jaynes photographs weddings across South Carolina:

Venue spotlight: Bleckley Station, Anderson SC  ·  Hidden gems in Greer  ·  Best venues statewide

Venue Touring

What to Look for When Touring a SC Wedding Venue

Most couples tour 3–5 venues before booking. It's easy to get swept up in the aesthetics — Spanish moss, a beautiful barn, a stunning ballroom — and overlook the practical details that determine whether your day actually runs smoothly. Check these off every tour.

Catering policy. Does the venue require an in-house caterer, or can you bring your own? Exclusive caterers can significantly increase your food and beverage budget.

Weather backup plan. For outdoor SC weddings, a covered indoor backup isn't optional — it's essential. Ask exactly how the flip plan works and who executes it.

Guest parking & transportation. Rural venues are stunning but can leave guests confused on arrival. Ask about parking capacity, accessibility, and whether shuttles are required.

Sound ordinances & end times. Many SC counties enforce noise ordinances after 10 or 11 PM. Confirm your hard stop time and whether live bands are permitted.

Getting-ready spaces. Separate, well-lit bridal and groom suites make your photographer's job infinitely easier — and your morning far less stressful. Look for good natural window light.

What's included vs. what's extra. Tables, chairs, linens, a day-of coordinator, parking attendants — ask for an itemized list so your venue quote and final invoice don't diverge dramatically.

Nearby accommodation. Where are your guests staying? Venues more than 20 minutes from a hotel cluster often require coordination — or a shuttle — that adds cost and complexity.

Lighting at your ceremony time. If you're getting married at golden hour, visit the ceremony site at that time of day. Backlit spaces, harsh shade, or awkward sun angles can't be fixed in post. Your wedding photographer can advise on the best ceremony position once booked.

Common Questions

South Carolina Wedding Venue FAQ

Answers to the questions we hear most often from couples planning a South Carolina wedding.

  • Venue rental costs in South Carolina vary widely depending on location, size, and what's included. Budget venues and community spaces can rent for as little as $500–$1,500. Mid-range barn and estate venues typically run $3,000–$8,000 for a full-day rental. Premium Lowcountry plantation venues and high-end Charleston properties often start at $10,000 and go well above that for peak-season weekend dates. Remember that the rental fee is just one line item — catering, rentals, staffing, and alcohol service can easily double or triple the venue cost.
  • It depends on where you're getting married. Private property (a farm, a plantation, a rented estate) generally doesn't require a permit beyond a standard venue rental agreement. Public parks, state parks, beaches, and waterfront areas often do require a permit from the managing agency — South Carolina State Parks, county parks departments, or SCDNR for coastal areas. Some municipalities also require special event permits for large gatherings. Always confirm with your venue coordinator and check local regulations well in advance.
  • For popular Lowcountry and Upstate venues during spring and fall, 12–18 months is the standard recommendation — and some of the most sought-after properties book 2 years out for peak-season Saturdays. If you have your heart set on a specific date (say, a fall Saturday in October), start venue shopping as soon as possible. Weekday dates, winter dates, and rural or newer venues have much more flexibility. If you're working with a shorter timeline, focus on recently opened venues or less competitive markets — there are still beautiful options with 6–9 months of lead time.
  • By sheer number of venues and weddings performed, Charleston County is South Carolina's most popular wedding destination by a significant margin, followed by Greenville and Horry (Myrtle Beach) counties. That said, every SC county has at least one venue, and many of the most memorable weddings we've seen have taken place in less-traveled counties — Beaufort, Aiken, Lexington, York — where venues are less booked and the experience feels more private.
  • South Carolina venues that serve alcohol must hold the appropriate license from the SC Department of Revenue. Many established venues already have a licensed bar service or a list of approved licensed bartending vendors. If you're renting a dry venue or a space without a liquor license, you'll need to either work with a licensed caterer who provides bar service, obtain a temporary permit, or host a BYOB event (which has its own rules). Some SC counties also have local option laws around alcohol — confirm with your venue before assuming full bar service is available.
  • Beyond the obvious (a portfolio you love, pricing that fits your budget, availability on your date), look for a photographer who knows South Carolina's specific shooting conditions — humidity haze, harsh midday Southern sun, the golden-hour timing in the Lowcountry versus the Upstate, and how to work with the deep shade of a live oak canopy. Experience at your specific venue is a bonus but not required. More important is someone who communicates clearly, makes you feel comfortable, and delivers consistent work — not just a handful of hero shots from an ideal day. Katie's full FAQ covers what to expect from the booking and delivery process.

Budgeting

How Much Does a South Carolina Wedding Venue Cost?

Venue rental is typically the single largest line item in a wedding budget, but costs vary enormously across the state. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to expect at three price tiers — and what that money actually gets you.

Budget-Friendly

$500 – $2,500

Accessible venues that require more personal coordination but can absolutely produce beautiful results with the right vendors and styling.

  • Community halls, civic centers, and municipal event spaces
  • State park pavilions and recreation department venues
  • Newer venues building their clientele and reputation
  • Fraternal halls and faith-based fellowship spaces
  • Typically BYOB and BYOC (bring your own caterer)
  • Less built-in coordination — plan to manage more yourself

Mid-Range

$2,500 – $8,000

The sweet spot for most South Carolina couples. Well-appointed spaces with reliable infrastructure and enough flexibility to personalize the experience.

  • Most barn and farm venues across the state
  • Historic downtown buildings and renovated event centers
  • Many plantation properties outside of Charleston
  • Often includes tables, chairs, bridal suite, basic A/V
  • Choice of preferred vendors or an open vendor policy
  • A day-of coordinator or venue manager on site

Premium

$8,000 – $25,000+

Full-service venues where most of the logistics are handled for you. Expect a more curated experience — and a more curated vendor list to go with it.

  • Top Lowcountry plantation and estate venues
  • High-end downtown Charleston ballrooms and rooftops
  • All-inclusive resort venues with lodging on property
  • In-house catering, bar service, and coordination staff
  • Exclusive use of full property for the wedding weekend
  • Often required vendor lists — budget accordingly

"The rental fee is only part of the picture. At many SC venues, catering, alcohol service, linens, staffing, and parking coordination are all separate line items. Always ask for a full itemized breakdown before comparing venue quotes. Katie's wedding photography FAQ covers a similar breakdown for photography pricing — useful context for budgeting your full vendor team."

Before You Book

10 Questions to Ask Every SC Venue Before You Sign

The contract conversation matters as much as the tour. These are the questions most couples wish they'd asked before signing — not after the deposit was down.

  1. 01

    What exactly is included in the rental fee?

    Get a written list of everything — tables, chairs, linens, A/V equipment, parking attendants, a venue coordinator, setup time, and breakdown time. Venues that quote a low rental rate often charge separately for items you'd assume are standard.

  2. 02

    Is there a weather backup plan, and how does the flip work?

    For any outdoor SC ceremony or reception, this is non-negotiable. Ask who makes the call, how much notice you get, what the indoor space looks like, and whether there's an additional cost to flip the layout.

  3. 03

    What are the catering and bar service requirements?

    Some venues require you to use an in-house caterer or a preferred vendor list. Others allow outside catering. Alcohol licensing is a separate question — confirm whether the venue holds a liquor license, or whether you need to hire a licensed bartending service.

  4. 04

    What time does the music need to stop, and what's the hard end time?

    Most South Carolina counties have noise ordinances. Ask for the hard stop time for amplified sound, the venue closure time, and what the consequences are for running late — many charge steep overtime fees per hour.

  5. 05

    How many events do you host on the same day or weekend?

    Some venues run two events in a single day, meaning your setup time is compressed and another wedding is happening steps away. Know whether you have exclusive use of the property, and for how many hours.

  6. 06

    What is the cancellation and rescheduling policy?

    Life happens. Ask specifically what percentage of deposits and payments are refundable and under what conditions, how far in advance you'd need to cancel for any refund, and whether rescheduling for weather or emergencies is possible without financial penalty.

  7. 07

    Is liability insurance required, and do you carry your own?

    Many South Carolina venues now require couples to purchase short-term event liability insurance (typically $150–$300 for a one-day policy). Ask whether the venue itself carries coverage for accidents on the property.

  8. 08

    What are the venue's policies on décor, candles, and confetti?

    Open flames, nails in walls, and biodegradable confetti all have different rules at different venues. If you're planning a specific aesthetic — draping, hanging installations, sparkler exits — confirm the policies before you fall in love with a vision that isn't permitted.

  9. 09

    Where does the wedding party get ready, and what's the natural light situation?

    A bridal suite with one small window and fluorescent overhead lighting is a real thing. Ask to see the getting-ready spaces at your appointment, and note whether there's good window light — your photographer will thank you.

  10. 10

    Can I speak with two or three recent couples who've held their wedding here?

    References matter more than reviews. A good venue will have couples willing to vouch for them. Ask specifically about how the venue handled anything that went wrong — that's where character shows.

Guest Experience

Getting Guests to Your South Carolina Wedding Venue

South Carolina's most beautiful venues are often its most remote. A little planning goes a long way toward keeping your guests happy — from the moment they land or drive in to the moment they leave your reception.

Hotel Room Blocks

Reserve a room block 9–12 months before your date, especially if your venue is near a tourist area (the coast, Greenville, Aiken during polo season). Most hotels hold blocks at a contracted rate without requiring a deposit, releasing unsold rooms 30 days before the event. Choose a hotel within 15 minutes of your venue — anything beyond 20 minutes in an unfamiliar area leads to late arrivals and early departures.

Transportation & Shuttles

For rural venues more than a 15-minute drive from accommodations, a shuttle service transforms the guest experience — and removes the drunk-driving liability concern entirely. Budget $800–$2,000 for a round-trip shuttle loop depending on vehicle size and distance. Include clear pickup/dropoff times on your invitation suite and wedding website. If shuttles aren't feasible, coordinate with a local car service or rideshare option and include that info in your guest communications.

Arriving in SC: Airport Logistics

Most out-of-state guests fly into Charleston International (CHS), Greenville-Spartanburg International (GSP), or Columbia Metropolitan (CAE), with Charlotte Douglas (CLT) serving the Upstate region. Myrtle Beach International (MYR) serves the Grand Strand. If your guest list is spread across the state, a central venue location and a well-organized wedding website with driving directions makes a significant difference — GPS often struggles with rural venue addresses.

Welcome Bags & Itineraries

For destination-style SC weddings with multiple events across a weekend, a printed itinerary or digital guide sent two weeks before the wedding is genuinely appreciated. Include venue addresses with driving notes, a list of nearby restaurants, the shuttle schedule, dress code reminders for each event, and any local-area tips. A small welcome bag in each hotel room with a few SC-made snacks and a handwritten note is an easy touch that guests consistently mention as memorable.

Intimate Weddings

Micro-Weddings & Elopements in South Carolina

One of the most significant shifts in South Carolina wedding culture over the past several years has been the rise of the micro-wedding — typically defined as a ceremony and reception for 30 guests or fewer. Once a workaround for budget constraints, it's now an intentional choice for couples who want a more personal, unhurried experience on their wedding day.

South Carolina is an ideal state for micro-weddings and elopements. The natural scenery is extraordinary, the vendor market is competitive and experienced in small-format events, and many venues — particularly in rural and coastal counties — offer mid-week and off-season packages that bring the total cost of a wedding to a fraction of a peak Saturday event.

Popular micro-wedding settings include the ACE Basin, the Blue Ridge foothills near Oconee and Pickens counties, the historic districts of Beaufort and Camden, state park lodges in the Pee Dee and Midlands, and the quieter stretches of the Grand Strand outside the tourist core. Many of these settings can be booked with two to four months of lead time — a stark contrast to the 12–18 month runway needed for a large Saturday event at a full-service plantation venue.

If you're considering an elopement in South Carolina, you'll need a marriage license from any SC county probate court, which requires no waiting period once issued. An officiant who is ordained or holds a celebrant license in South Carolina is required. Beyond that, the logistics are remarkably simple compared to a full wedding — which is precisely the point. Katie's blog covers the full process in South Carolina Marriage License: Your Complete Timeline.

Building Your Team

Beyond the Venue: Your SC Wedding Vendor Team

Booking your venue is step one. Once you have the date and location locked, these are the vendors to secure next — roughly in priority order, since the best ones book up almost as fast as the venues themselves.

Photographer

Book 9–14 months out for peak-season dates. Your photographer shapes how you remember this day for the rest of your life — it's worth the research. Look for consistent full-gallery work, not just a curated portfolio, and a shooting style that suits your venue's light and aesthetic.

Browse Katie's portfolio  ·  View pricing  ·  Check availability

Caterer

If your venue doesn't have in-house catering, this is your second most time-sensitive booking. Good SC caterers for Saturday weddings book fast, especially in spring and fall. Get at least three tastings before deciding, and be specific about dietary accommodation requirements from the start.

Coordinator or Planner

Even if your venue provides a day-of coordinator, a full or partial wedding planner pays for itself in time saved, vendor relationships, and problem-solving on the day. The distinction matters: a venue coordinator manages the venue; a wedding coordinator manages your entire event.

Florist

SC florists who do large installations book out six to nine months in advance. Budget tip: florals are one area where local, seasonal, and SC-grown make a real difference — both in freshness and in cost. Ask whether your florist sources locally and what's in season on your date.

Band or DJ

Live bands in the Lowcountry and Upstate markets are frequently booked 12+ months out for peak Saturdays. A DJ offers more flexibility and a broader song catalog; a band provides an energy and presence that's hard to replicate. Many couples do both — a DJ for cocktail hour, a band for reception.

Officiant

SC requires an ordained minister, licensed celebrant, or certain civil officials to legally perform a marriage. This is one of the most personal vendor choices — someone who knows your story and can speak authentically about your relationship. Good officiants who write custom ceremonies book 6–12 months out.

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