Best Surprise Anniversary Gift Ever!

Imagine surprising your spouse with a romantic trip to Charleston, SC, the perfect destination to celebrate a milestone wedding anniversary. Whether planning a staycation or visiting for a long weekend, Charleston's historic charm and picturesque settings make it an ideal backdrop for love. And what better way to immortalize this special occasion than with a surprise photoshoot?

Why Celebrate your Anniversary in Charleston, SC?

Charleston boasts an array of sophisticated restaurants that will delight any foodie, along with a multitude of romantic hotels offering luxurious accommodations. The city's enchanting atmosphere provides endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories.

Start Planning Your Dream Anniversary Celebration

Here’s your ultimate guide to planning the perfect stay and photoshoot in Charleston, ensuring every moment is as magical as your love story.

Plan Your Perfect Stay

Accommodations

Here are a few of my top hotels known for their sexy romantic ambiance:

• The Grand Bohemian Hotel: This hotel exudes romance with a rooftop bar offering breathtaking views of the Charleston skyline and an art gallery on the first floor. My husband and I have taken the semi-private wine blending classes multiple times, leaving with our own customized blend and labeled wine bottles.
• The Dewberry: This stylish luxury hotel is distinguished by its remarkable interior design and sophistication. Located across from Francis Marion Square in downtown Charleston, it offers a chic and refined atmosphere perfect for a romantic getaway.
• Zero George: A charming boutique hotel that oozes elegant chic vibes. Situated in a quieter part of downtown Charleston, it’s a must-visit for foodies wanting to try the local cuisine in an intimate setting.
• Hotel Bella Grace: Where modern luxury meets historic charm, this centrally located hotel is within walking distance of the best of downtown Charleston’s restaurants, attractions, and activities. An on-site oyster bar adds to its allure.
• Hotel Emeline: Another boutique hotel renowned for its Southern hospitality, Hotel Emeline is located near the famous Charleston market. Each room features a record player and a spacious living room. The lobby’s Clerks Coffee Company serves delicious pastries and coffee creations, while Frannie & the Fox restaurant offers Italian food with a Lowcountry flair. My favorite is the wood-fired sausage pizza drizzled with hot honey. The restaurant extends to an open-air courtyard complete with a grand fireplace and lounge seats for cooler weather.

Each hotel offers unique charm and amenities that enhance the romantic experience, making them perfect choices for an unforgettable anniversary celebration in Charleston.

Restaurants

Discover Charleston's culinary scene with recommendations for the best fine dining, intimate cafes, and local favorites. Remember to book your reservations ASAP, as Charleston restaurants fill up quickly. Two restaurants that I can personally get a reservation at without booking a month in advance are Muse and Frannie & the Fox.

• Sorelle: Offering old-world Italian in a breathtaking space, Sorelle opened in 2023 and quickly became a hot spot for its handmade pasta, including the “pillows of gold” ricotta tortellini. The stunning dining room overlooks Broad Street in a building dating back to 1884. With a lengthy menu, it is sure to satisfy all palates. There is even a separate category celebrating truffles.
• Circa 1886: Fine dining at its best, Circa 1886 is tucked inside The Wentworth Mansion, one of the most stunning hotels and buildings in downtown Charleston. Think Lowcountry modern cuisine.
• Frannie & the Fox: Located at Hotel Emeline, this restaurant offers Italian food with a Lowcountry flair. Highlights include the wood-fired sausage pizza drizzled with hot honey. The restaurant extends to an open-air courtyard, complete with a grand fireplace and lounge seating for cooler weather.
• The Restaurant & Bar at Zero George: This contemporary restaurant is located within the Zero George Hotel in a restored building circa 1804. Food becomes art with the chef’s creative take on seasonal local ingredients with a side of upscale hospitality.
• Muse Restaurant and Wine Bar: Located in an old Charleston house, this local favorite offers a cozy, Mediterranean ambiance. The menu melds the cuisines of Italy, Spain, France, and Greece, featuring fresh seafood, fish, savory meats, homemade pasta and bread. Muse also offers an extensive wine list with 75 selections by the glass. If you are feeling adventurous let Donnie suggest a tasting menu for your delight.

The Unforgettable Anniversary Gift

Consider surprising your spouse with a professional photoshoot to make your anniversary even more special. Capturing new cherished memories amidst Charleston's beautiful scenery is a unique and thoughtful way to celebrate your love.

Choosing the Perfect Charleston Photo Shoot Location

What better way to celebrate your anniversary in Charleston, SC then plan an anniversary photo shoot. The street of downtown are super charming with their historic architecture, cobblestone streets, and waterfront views. I love wandering the streets with my couples to get a variety of Charleston’s beauty in our photos!

My favorite photo shoot locations include:

• Lodge Alley: Cobblestone streets and historic buildings create a timeless atmosphere.
• Rainbow Row: Iconic pastel-colored houses perfect for vibrant and cheerful photos.
• The Battery: Waterfront views and stately mansions offer a classic Charleston backdrop.
• Chalmers Street: Quaint and charming, with its historic architecture and old-world charm.

Transportation

Here are some transportation options for a stylish entrance to enhance your experience and photo session:

• Rent a vintage car such as the Pink Figgy, a rare vintage Figaro. Lowcountry Valet also has a fleet of classic vehicles including Rolls Royce.
• Private Horse & Carriage Ride. Trot through historic streets for a romantic and classic Charleston experience.
• Pedicab Explore the city intimately while enjoying the fresh air and fun personalized tour. There is even one decorated with white flowers.

Styling and Props

Add a personal touch to your photo shoot with these charming props:

• Champagne: Toast to your love with bubbly against Charleston’s scenic backdrop.
• Bouquet: Incorporate romantic florals for a soft and elegant touch.
• Vintage Bicycle: Capture whimsical moments with a classic bicycle against historic streets.
• Picnic Setup: Cozy up with a blanket and gourmet treats for intimate and relaxed photos

Preparing Your Look

Dressing for the Occasion

Coordinate your outfits with the city’s charm. I also like for my clients to bring a change of clothes to capture different moods and settings.

• For Women: Rent elegant dresses from a local place like The Showroom or online with Rent the Runway for a look that blends seamlessly with Charleston’s aesthetic.
• For Men: Rent formal wear at a local store Berlin's or rent online with Black Tux

Hair and Makeup Recommendations

How about pampering your spouse with a professional makeover to help them feel and look their best for your photo session? Local beauty experts can craft stunning looks that endure Charleston's humidity. Another idea to spoil your spouse is to book a manicure. Moreover, natural-looking false eyelashes enhance the eyes in photos. Here are some of my favorite hair and makeup artists.

• LASHES & LACE www.lashesandlacecharleston.com
• CHARLESTON BRIDAL COLLAB www.charlestonbridalcollab.com
• SILHOUETTE ON SITE www.SilhouetteOnSite.com

Making Memories After the Photoshoot:

Finally, continue celebrating your love with these post-photoshoot ideas:

• Dine at one of Charleston’s romantic restaurants
• Consider creating a photo album or framed prints to preserve and cherish your anniversary photo shoot experience.
• Enjoy a sunset cruise or carriage ride

By following these tips and suggestions, you’ll be well-prepared to plan a memorable anniversary in Charleston that celebrates your love and creates cherished memories for years to come. Cheers to love, romance, and the beauty of Charleston!

Ready to celebrate your anniversary in Charleston with a photo shoot? Contact me today to start creating your dream getaway and photo shoot experience in one of America’s most romantic cities.

View a Romantic Anniversary Photoshoot in Charleston

Advice on What to Wear for Your Photoshoot