A Not So Basic Bachelorette Weekend

Goodbye to nuptial traditions & hello to modern couples eager to travel!

The uptrend in both domestic and international destination weddings means saying goodbye to nuptial traditions, hello to modern couples eager to travel, and welcoming the bridal party to do the same. We can part with the days when throwing a bachelorette party meant a one night affair filled with bar hopping, tacky matching attire, and far too many shots! The bachelorette party is all about the bride making special memories with her closest friends, and a one night rendezvous just isn’t going to cut it. Bachelorette Weekend it is – and even better – make it a destination…maybe even to Charleston, SC! Organizing activities and getting a group somewhere for a destination weekend can be a tough task! Here are some of our favorite tips + ideas to make your weekend away (or stay) as smooth as possible, and fun for the whole group!

Land Your Lodging: Try an Airbnb instead of a traditional hotel

There is no better way to bond with the entire group than sharing a common space such as a home in the destination you are visiting. Everyone is able to get ready together, encouraged to hangout and chat in lounge areas, and eliminate any left out feelings within the group. Not to mention, splitting the cost of an Airbnb property can be substantially less expensive than buying individual rooms in a hotel or resort. ProTip: Buy communal snacks and drinks to keep in the kitchen for your clan, to satisfy any munching or quick bite needs.

Value in a Venue: If your lodging can’t accommodate all your activities, rent a swanky venue to host the weekend’s festivities! Check out venues that offer special packages specifically for bachelorette weekends or popup events for small groups. Check out one of our favorites here!

ProTip: Here are some unique private event ideas to host during your bachelorette weekend

Sweat It Out – Jumpstart your day and spend the morning breaking a sweat to getting those endorphins flowing and burn some wedding planning stress. A cardio, pilates and/or dance class at The Rutledge House is the perfect start to the weekend for you and your girls. After, reward your hard work, by indulging in a yummy brunch. Get more info about their yoga & brunch special here!
Belt It Out – Let’s be honest…We all love karaoke, but hate doing it for the whole bar to see. Host your own karaoke night and let loose with your ladies. I promise, Insta-worthy stories and videos will commence, especially with a group of ladies who feel no shame in belting their favorite 90s pop melodies.
Paint & Prosecco – Give your gals an opportunity to tap into their imaginative side and pour their creativity onto a canvas! Pop some bottles, sip on some bubbly, and paint away! Not only does this create lasting memories, it leaves you with a piece of artwork to cherish after the weekend is through.

Private Affair:

It can be tough establishing reservations for meal times that accommodate larger groups, especially when seeking a dining experience. Host a private dinner with an entirely chef selected menu. Set up a wine or beer tasting with appropriate food pairings. Showcase a chef demo with interactive elements. These intimate experiences will cater to everyone’s needs, and make the most out of your use of a venue. The Rutledge House Wine Cellar is the perfect backdrop for wine tastings and private dinners, and we offer a variety of options for you and your group. Check more info here!

Caffeine Crawl:

Get that pep back in your step after the weekend and try an unconventional approach to Sunday Brunch. Go on a caffeine crawl! Research local Coffee Shops, Tea Artisans, and Bakeries to try a little bit from everywhere. The fresh air and cups of joe might just be your bridal party’s saving grace.

Hire a Photographer/Videographer:

Quick, add this to your list of bachelorette weekend must-haves! Gone are the days of alternating between which girls take what photos, and the stress of posting photos in the moment. Why not hire a killer photographer/videographer to capture you and all your best gals during the celebration? Any photographer & videographer would be happy to capture these moments for you! ProTip: Plus..it’s the perfect surprise gift for the bride!

How to Choose a Perfect First Dance Song

The beloved tradition of having a first dance is a wonderful moment that signifies the beginning of a newlywed’s exciting journey together. Whether you choose to choreograph a routine or simply sway back and forth, this once in a lifetime moment is by no means supposed to be stressful. That being said, your song selection is a key component in making this moment magical and memorable.

We have created some tips below on how to choose a perfect wedding song that will create an unforgettable experience with your new spouse, allow for friends and family to gather around and admire your love, and kick start celebrating the wonderful night ahead of you!

1. Pick a song that has meaningful/sentimental lyrics to you as a couple; maybe it reminds you of the time you first fell in love, your journey together so far, or a special moment you have shared.

2. Choose something you can dance to. You want to be comfortable with how slow/fast the beat is so you hit those right steps you practiced. And if you miss one, don’t worry! Enjoy the moment and laugh about it together.

3. Find a song that resembles who you are as one. Every couple is unique and so are the endless amounts of songs to choose from! Decide whether you want to go for that romantic, classic, modern, or sheer fun tune.

4. Take into consideration your wedding venue. If you’re hosting a southern wedding, maybe choose an acoustic/country song or if you’re tying the knot at a destination, choose a song that originated from that location!

5. Utilize all the music services offered today. From Apple Music to Spotify and everything in between, there are sure to be tons of pre-made wedding playlists. While browsing, if you fall in love with a song, go for it!

6. Select a song from an artist/band that you both love. When you both relate to the song on a personal level, it makes your dance so much more extraordinary.

Chasing After Charleston’s Adventures

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THE GEMS OF THE LOWCOUNTRY

With the ever-growing popularity of the charming city of Charleston, South Carolina, visitors are certainly greeted by boundless opportunities to explore during their time in the Lowcountry. From the enchanting Oak tree lined driveways to the historical cobble stone streets, the city’s remarkable ambience is sure to leave its guests dreaming of their next visit. To ensure that your trip, regardless of the occasion, exceeds all your expectations, read about some of our favorite activities and locations below!

Tour the Timeless Plantations

Step back into the past and uncover the plantation’s operations and elite family histories created on these historical grounds. Discover where the scenes captured in the famous romance movie The Notebook were held at the picturesque Boone Hall Plantation, wander throughout the mystical gardens (best in the springtime) at Magnolia Plantation, or pose for a photo in front of the breathtaking 1,000-year-old Oak tree at Middleton Plantation.

Learn more…

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Stroll Down Legare Street

Lined with exquisite wrought iron gates and majestic private gardens, there is no wonder why locals consider this to be one of the most beautiful streets in Charleston. The Preservation Society has displayed informational plaques outside these grand houses that chronicles the events and people that once filled these homes with life. Reminisce in the rich history of this noteworthy street.

Adventure Awaits

Revel Over Rainbow Row

Located on East Bay Street, this bold line of vibrantly hued, stucco houses captivate the artistic essence of the city to perfection. From spiraling shrubbery to colorful hanging flower baskets, the abundance of character each house displays will certainly make for an ideal photo opportunity.

Adventure Awaits

Watch a Sunset at Sullivan’s Beach

Known for its spacious white sands and beautiful dune grasses, this beach displays a remarkable sunset show every night. Station 11 offers a direct view of downtown and the Ravenel Bridge, allowing for the city lights to compliment the soft, sweeping colors in the night sky. Lay out a blanket or walk the beach, we are sure you’ll be mesmerized by Charleston’s natural beauty.

Adventure Awaits

Craft Your Own Candle Creation

Offering both BYOB workshops and unique shopping, Candlefish allows you to explore your creativity through concocting your own candle scents. The serene atmosphere and modern decor makes for the perfect place to unwind and be innovative. Stop by and create custom gifts for family and friends that will fill their homes with the fragrances of Charleston.

Learn more…

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Dine on a Sunset River Cruise

There is no better way to combine waterfront dining, the Charleston sunsets, and live entertainment than climbing aboard the Spirit of Carolina. The staff of Spiritline Cruises bestows upon the guests’ exceptional hospitality while serving a traditional, southern inspired meal sure to satisfy any food connoisseur. Indulge in a romantic and tranquil evening you’ll never forget.

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Venture Out into Shem Creek

A quaint and scenic area, Shem Creek is home to incredible seafood restaurants, shrimping boats, and winding boardwalks extending out to the Charleston Harbor. Get up close and personal with the spectacular wildlife Shem Creek shelters with one of Coastal Expedition’s thrilling adventures. With a wide range of kayak tours, SUP rentals, and boat tours, it is likely that a dolphin may swim by to say hello during your outdoor experience.

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Run Over the Renowned Ravenel

This remarkable structure acts as the most stunning artery that links downtown to some of Charleston’s surrounding islands. Runners, bikers, and walkers alike can traverse along this scenic 2.7-mile-long overpass at their leisure. Capture panoramic views of downtown, the USS Yorktown, Fort Sumter, and even dolphins frolicking in the astonishing Charleston Harbor.

Witness Strand Feeding

Charleston is one of the few locations in the world in which Bottlenose dolphins utilize their echolocation and group work techniques to perform this astounding feat of strand feeding. Take a trip out to the pristine and lively beaches of Seabrook and Kiawah Island to see this spectacular event unfold before you.

Adventure Awaits

Charleston Wedding Favor Ideas: Unique Sweet Treats

There is no better thank you than receiving a taste of Charleston’s local flare. Wedding favors are the perfect opportunity to share something about yourself and to highlight your wedding’s location. With these memorable Charleston treats you can leave your guests with a little way to savor your big day!

Creatively Clean: Spun With Love!

Spun sugar treats aren’t just for kids!
Pure Fluff Co. is a clean cotton candy cart company located in Charleston. They provide seasonally inspired flavors made with natural ingredients! Bring a unique experience to your wedding day through these whimsical puffs.

Where Mason Jars Meet Mouthwatering Dessert!

Sweet Lulu’s Bakery & Cocktail Caravan is Charleston’s cutest kitchen on wheels. As mentioned in our look at Charleston food trucks for events, Sweet Lulu’s offers delivery services to any occasion directly from their customer built vintage inspired cavern. With personally-tailored labels and birch wood tasting spoons, your guests will fall head-over-wheels with this fun take on cake!

Made By Hand in Charleston! ‘Morning, Noon & Night’

Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit keeps Southern traditions alive. With a variety of locally inspired sweet and savory flavors, Callie’s biscuits are the perfect morning-after breakfast for your guests. Package these puppies in a cute box for guests to enjoy the next day before heading home.

Taste the Original! ‘The New Donut’

Sweet Belgium, Charleston’s own Belgian waffle bakery, is where traditional methods meet exceptional creations. Send your nearest and dearest home with these incredibly fun and versatile bites!

Mix Things Up! ‘One of a Kind Small Batch Beverages’

Crafted and carbonated in Charleston, Cannonborough Beverage Company’s sodas are a playful combination of fresh pressed juices, hand picked herbs, and fruits at the peak of ripeness. Sipping surprises everyone can enjoy are always welcome. Provide a colorful straw and encourage guests to crack their favor during your toast!