Nestled in the heart of Hollywood, South Carolina, Old Wide Awake is a charming historic venue known for its Southern elegance, scenic views, and timeless beauty. Whether you dream of a romantic outdoor ceremony under ancient oak trees or an intimate indoor reception in a classic Southern mansion, Old Wide Awake provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable wedding day.
But how much does it cost to host a wedding at Old Wide Awake? In this article, we will break down the expenses, influencing factors, and budget-friendly tips to help you plan your special day at this stunning venue.
About Old Wide Awake
Old Wide Awake is a historic wedding venue that embodies the charm of the Lowcountry with its picturesque landscapes, lush gardens, and waterfront views. Originally built as a Southern estate, the venue now serves as a highly sought-after location for couples looking to exchange vows in a timeless and elegant setting.
Couples who choose Old Wide Awake for their wedding benefit from its versatile event spaces, including indoor and outdoor areas, a private bridal suite, and a dedicated reception area. With its blend of historic charm and modern amenities, this venue provides everything needed for a memorable and stress-free wedding experience.
Old Wide Awake Wedding Venue Details
Below is an overview of key details about Old Wide Awake to help you plan your wedding budget:
| Venue Name | Old Wide Awake |
|---|---|
| Location | 5149 Trexler Ave, Hollywood, SC 29449, United States |
| Contact | +1 843-814-4980 |
| Starting Price | From $3,800/Event |
| Guest Capacity | Up to 250 guests |
| Awards | Wedding Wire Couples Choice Awards 2025 |
| Website | oldwideawake.com |
| @oldwideawake | |
| – | |
| Facilities | Ceremony Area, Private Bridal Suites, Indoor & Outdoor Ceremony Spaces, Dressing Room, Reception Area, Wireless Internet |
Location and Accessibility
Located just 30 minutes from downtown Charleston, Old Wide Awake offers the perfect blend of Southern charm and coastal beauty. The venue is easily accessible for both local and out-of-town guests, making it a convenient yet secluded retreat for your wedding day.
The majestic oak trees, historic estate, and stunning waterfront views provide an idyllic setting for wedding photography, ensuring that every moment is beautifully captured. Nearby accommodations and Charleston International Airport make travel arrangements smooth for guests attending from different locations.
Factors Influencing Old Wide Awake Weddings Cost
Several factors determine the total cost of hosting a wedding at Old Wide Awake. Understanding these factors will help you effectively plan your budget while ensuring that your big day meets your vision.
1. Wedding Date and Season
The time of year you choose plays a significant role in pricing. Spring and fall are the peak wedding seasons in South Carolina, leading to higher venue fees due to increased demand. These months offer ideal weather conditions, making them the most popular choices for couples.
If you’re looking to save on costs, consider booking during the off-season (summer or winter) or choosing a weekday wedding instead of a Saturday. Many venues, including Old Wide Awake, offer lower rates for weddings held on Fridays or Sundays.
2. Guest Count and Catering Costs
The number of guests directly impacts catering expenses, seating arrangements, and venue space requirements. With a capacity of up to 250 guests, Old Wide Awake can accommodate large-scale celebrations or intimate gatherings.
The catering cost per person will vary depending on your chosen menu, including plated dinners, buffet-style meals, or food stations. Opting for simpler menu options can help you reduce overall costs while still providing a delicious experience for your guests.
3. Venue Space and Setup
Old Wide Awake offers both indoor and outdoor event spaces, each with unique pricing and customization options. Outdoor ceremonies in the gardens or under the oak trees provide a naturally breathtaking setting, reducing the need for extra décor. If you prefer an indoor reception, additional rentals such as lighting, draping, or customized furniture may add to the overall expenses.
4. Décor, Rentals, and Floral Arrangements
Décor elements like custom centerpieces, floral arrangements, specialty linens, and lighting can significantly impact your budget. If you’re looking to save, consider using the venue’s natural beauty to reduce the need for excessive floral decorations.
5. Entertainment and Vendor Services
Hiring a DJ, live band, photographer, videographer, and wedding planner will add to the costs. Some vendors offer discounted package deals if you book multiple services together, so it’s worth exploring these options.
Breakdown of Old Wide Awake Wedding Expenses
Here’s a detailed breakdown of estimated costs for a wedding at Old Wide Awake:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Venue Rental Fee | $3,800 – $7,000 |
| Catering (per guest) | $75 – $150 |
| Bar Service (per guest) | $25 – $50 |
| Floral Arrangements | $2,500 – $6,000 |
| Photography & Videography | $3,000 – $7,000 |
| Entertainment (DJ/Band) | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| Rentals & Décor | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Wedding Planner/Coordinator | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Cake | $500 – $1,500 |
| Miscellaneous Fees | $1,000 – $2,500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $25,000 – $55,000 |
Tips for Budgeting and Saving on Old Wide Awake Weddings
Planning a dream wedding at Old Wide Awake doesn’t mean you have to overspend. With smart strategies, careful planning, and a bit of flexibility, you can maximize your budget while still creating a breathtaking celebration. Below are practical ways to reduce costs without compromising on quality.
1. Choose an Off-Peak Wedding Date
One of the biggest factors affecting wedding costs is the date. The spring and fall seasons are the most popular times to get married at Old Wide Awake, making them the most expensive. However, if you’re flexible with your date, there are ways to cut costs significantly.
- Consider a winter or summer wedding: These seasons are considered “off-peak,” meaning the venue may offer discounted rates for renting the space.
- Opt for a weekday wedding: Saturday is the most sought-after wedding day, which means it’s also the most expensive. Holding your wedding on a Friday, Sunday, or even a weekday can help save thousands of dollars on venue and vendor costs.
- Look for last-minute deals: If you’re open to shorter planning timelines, some venues offer discounted rates for open dates within a few months.
By choosing a less in-demand date, you can allocate more of your budget to other areas like catering, décor, or entertainment.
2. Keep Your Guest List Intimate
The number of guests you invite directly affects almost every expense related to your wedding, including:
- Catering costs (food, drinks, desserts)
- Seating arrangements (tables, chairs, linens, place settings)
- Rentals and décor (centerpieces, flowers, favors)
While it’s tempting to invite everyone, keeping your guest list intimate (under 100 guests) can significantly reduce overall costs. Here are some ways to trim your list:
- Invite only close family and friends. Prioritize those who are most meaningful to you.
- Skip “plus-ones” or limit them. Offer plus-ones only to engaged or long-term couples.
- Host an adults-only wedding. This reduces headcount and simplifies seating.
A smaller wedding allows you to spend more per guest, meaning better food, drinks, and a more luxurious experience.
3. Opt for All-Inclusive Packages
Old Wide Awake offers various packages that include venue rental, tables, chairs, and other essentials. Choosing an all-inclusive package can be cheaper than booking everything separately.
Benefits of all-inclusive packages:
- Cost savings – Bundling services often comes at a lower price than paying vendors separately.
- Less stress – The venue coordinates most of the logistics, reducing the need for a wedding planner.
- Simplified planning – You don’t have to deal with multiple vendors for each individual element.
Ask the venue coordinator about customizable packages that suit your budget while still covering all the essential aspects of your wedding.
4. Use In-House Services When Possible
Hiring external vendors for services like catering, décor, and rentals can add thousands to your budget. Instead, consider using Old Wide Awake’s in-house options:
- Catering – Many venues provide in-house catering at more affordable rates than external caterers. Plus, it ensures seamless coordination on your big day.
- Bar service – An in-house bar package is often cheaper and more convenient than bringing in your own alcohol.
- Decor rentals – Instead of sourcing tables, chairs, and linens from different vendors, use what the venue provides to cut costs.
By using the venue’s preferred vendors, you might even get exclusive discounts or perks.
5. Prioritize High-Impact Décor
Decorating a venue like Old Wide Awake can quickly become expensive, especially if you opt for elaborate floral installations, custom furniture, and luxury table settings. However, you can still create a stunning ambiance without overspending.
How to save on décor:
- Focus on key areas. Instead of decorating every corner, prioritize high-visibility areas like the ceremony altar, sweetheart table, and entrance.
- Utilize the venue’s natural beauty. The oak trees, historic estate, and gardens already provide a breathtaking backdrop, meaning you don’t need to overdo the decorations.
- Choose seasonal flowers. Out-of-season flowers cost significantly more. Consider greenery-heavy arrangements, which are often more affordable and elegant.
- DIY certain elements. Personalized signage, guest books, and table numbers are easy to make at home.
A well-placed statement piece (such as a floral arch or draped altar) can make a big impact without the need for extravagant décor everywhere.
6. Consider DIY and Personal Touches
Adding DIY elements to your wedding not only saves money but also makes your day feel more personal and unique.
Easy DIY wedding ideas:
- Invitations and signage: Instead of hiring a calligrapher, use online design tools to create elegant invitations and print them affordably.
- Favors: Simple DIY wedding favors, such as handmade candles, mini succulents, or custom cookies, add a personalized touch without the hefty price tag.
- Photo booth: Instead of renting an expensive photo booth, create a DIY photo station with a fun backdrop and a Polaroid camera.
DIY projects can help you stay within budget while making your wedding more meaningful.
7. Book Vendors Early and Negotiate
Booking vendors well in advance can secure lower prices before they increase due to demand. Here are some tips:
- Compare multiple vendors. Request quotes from different photographers, DJs, and florists to find the best deal.
- Ask about discounts. Some vendors offer military discounts, referral discounts, or early booking specials.
- Bundle services. Booking photography and videography from the same company often results in package discounts.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate—many vendors are willing to work within your budget, especially if you’re flexible.
8. Limit the Open Bar
Alcohol costs can quickly add up, but there are ways to control bar expenses:
- Offer a signature cocktail instead of a full bar. Guests still get a fun drink without unlimited alcohol costs.
- Opt for beer and wine only. This is significantly cheaper than an open bar with hard liquor.
- Use a consumption-based bar. Instead of a flat rate per guest, only pay for what is actually consumed.
Being strategic with your bar choices can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
9. Plan for Hidden Costs
Unexpected expenses can sneak up on you. Always set aside an extra 10-15% of your budget for:
- Gratuities for vendors (photographers, servers, bartenders, etc.)
- Marriage license fees
- Overtime charges for the venue or vendors
- Taxes and service fees
Being prepared for hidden costs ensures there are no surprises at the end of your wedding planning.
Budget Estimate Summary
Here’s a simplified estimate for different wedding sizes at Old Wide Awake:
| Guest Count | Estimated Total Cost Range |
|---|---|
| 50 Guests | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| 100 Guests | $25,000 – $45,000 |
| 150 Guests | $35,000 – $55,000 |
| 200 Guests | $45,000 – $65,000 |
Final Thoughts
With its Southern charm, historic elegance, and breathtaking views, Old Wide Awake is a dream venue for couples looking to host a romantic and timeless wedding. While costs can vary based on guest count, décor, catering, and additional services, strategic planning can help you stay within budget while creating a magical wedding experience.
To start planning your wedding, visit oldwideawake.com or call +1 843-814-4980 to schedule a tour today.