We recently had the chance to photograph a stunning wedding weekend at The Dunlin Kiawah River! For couples seeking a wedding venue that combines coastal charm with beautiful natural surroundings, The Dunlin offers a perfect option in the heart of the Lowcountry. Nestled along the gorgeous waterfront of Kiawah River, this new luxury property from Auberge Resorts sets the stage for a wedding weekend that is as unforgettable as it is picturesque.
The Dunlin Kiawah River: A Venue blending Modern Sophistication and Southern Charm
The Dunlin seamlessly blends modern amenities with the historic charm that the Lowcountry of South Carolina is known for. Its thoughtfully designed spaces, scenic views, gorgeous outdoor spaces, and personalized services create an exceptional environment for weddings of all styles and sizes. Located just 21 miles from Charleston, this venue offers the tranquility of a private retreat while remaining accessible for guests.
Here are some Key Venue Features
- Versatile Event Spaces
The Dunlin offers multiple options for ceremonies, receptions, and pre- or post-wedding gatherings. Whether you prefer a waterfront ceremony under the open sky or a sophisticated indoor reception, The Dunlin’s flexible spaces cater to your specific vision. - Luxurious Accommodations
Hosting your wedding at The Dunlin means your guests can enjoy the convenience of on-site accommodations. The property includes 72 guest rooms and cottages, providing a luxurious and comfortable experience for your wedding party and guests. - Scenic Backdrops
With marsh views, riverfront settings, and ancient live oak trees, The Dunlin Kiawah River provides endless opportunities for stunning wedding photography. Every corner of the property captures the essence of Lowcountry beauty. - Exclusive Amenities
The Dunlin, an Auberge Resorts property, offers a full-service experience, including fine dining, a dedicated event team, and curated details to ensure a seamless celebration. On-site amenities like the spa and pool allow you and your guests to relax and enjoy the destination experience.
Why Choose this Kiawah Wedding Venue?
After having the opportunity to photograph one of my couple’s wedding weekends at Kiawah River, I have lots of thoughts to share on why choosing the Dunlin Kiawah River would be a great option for your South Carolina wedding weekend! Here are my top reasons to choose the Dunlin for your wedding weekend:
Customizable Experiences
The Dunlin’s team works closely with couples and their planner partners to bring their wedding vision to life. From intimate elopements to grand celebrations, the venue can accommodate a variety of styles and guest counts.
Proximity to Charleston
Just a short drive from Charleston’s historic district, The Dunlin offers the perfect balance between convenience and seclusion. Your guests can enjoy downtown Charleston before retreating to the tranquility of Kiawah River for your wedding’s festivities. Having easily accessible and fun activities nearby in Charleston makes this a perfect Kiawah wedding venue option!
A Wedding Photographer’s Dream
As a Charleston wedding photographer, I can confidently say that The Dunlin’s stunning landscapes and thoughtfully designed spaces create an incredible backdrop for wedding photos. Whether it’s the golden glow over the marsh or the serene beauty of the riverfront, your wedding day will be beautifully preserved in timeless imagery.
What indoor and outdoor event spaces are available at the Dunlin Kiawah River?
Kiawah River offers a variety of event spaces, both indoors and outdoors, including:
- The Shippon: A large indoor space with openable window-lined walls, connected to an outdoor glade.
- Lime House: A light-filled room with a cozy fireplace, adjacent to The Shippon.
- Riverbank: An outdoor event lawn with marsh views, ideal for ceremonies and social gatherings.
- Yarrow Field: A wildflower ceremony lawn framed by live oak trees.
- River Cottage: A charming cottage suitable for bridal preparations or intimate gatherings.
In case of inclement weather, indoor spaces like The Shippon and Lime House can serve as backup options. As seasoned Lowcountry wedding photographers, I absolutely recommend always choosing a wedding venue that has an indoor option, just in case of coastal rainstorms!
In addition to choosing a venue with an indoor option, I always recommend thinking about alternative portrait locations in the event of rain. The Dunlin Kiawah River has plenty of covered porches and decks to accommodate portraits, while still being beautiful backdrops.
How many guests can the venue accommodate for both the ceremony and reception?
The venue features multiple spaces with varying capacities. For instance, The Shippon can accommodate up to 525 guests, while the Lime House has a capacity of 236 guests. Outdoor spaces like Yarrow Field are suitable for large gatherings, and the River Cottage is ideal for intimate events with a capacity of 15 guests.
What are the best areas on the property for wedding photography?
The venue offers numerous picturesque spots for wedding photography, such as:
- Under the live oaks: Providing a classic Southern backdrop with plenty of shade to keep you and your guests cool under the South Carolina sun.
- Along the marsh front: Offering serene water views that will wow your out-of-state guests and conclude with an epic sunset along the waterfront each evening.
- Wildflower fields: Adding vibrant natural colors to photos.
Is there a bridal suite or preparation space for the wedding party?
Yes, the River Cottage serves as a charmingly furnished space ideal for a bridal suite, offering an indoor lounge and outdoor porch for you and your wedding party to hang out on during the morning of your wedding day.
When choosing a getting ready space for your wedding, I recommend seeking out well-designed spaces with tons of natural light, seating options, and multiple backdrops for variety in your wedding photographs. The River Cottage offers this and more to wedding parties that stay on site. A bonus is its proximity to the rest of the wedding venue spaces on the Dunlin property, which makes your wedding day logistics a breeze!
What Activities can Guests Do While Visiting The Dunlin Kiawah River?
On the Dunlin property, there are plenty of amenities for guests to enjoy! The on-site restaurants, including Linnette’s, the Willet Room, and the Cove, offer guests plenty of dining options to choose from. The property also has an on-site spa, fitness studio, and a gorgeous waterfront pool area.
If guests are seeking activities to do off-property, the Dunlin is well-situated to many of the Charleston area’s finest activities. Guests can enjoy world-class golfing at the Kiawah Resort properties just down the road. There are also many golf clubs in and around Charleston. Historic Charleston is a mere 20-minute drive from the Dunlin, and offers plenty for guests to do for a day’s excursion. From shopping on King Street, to a historic carriage tour of the city, to some of the best restaurants you can find in the Southeast, Charleston offers it all.
Are there hotels nearby the Dunlin Kiawah River for wedding guests?
The Dunlin Kiawah River offers on-site accommodations to visitors, with 72 beautifully decorated guest rooms and suites on the property. The rooms are thoughtfully appointed with everything one of your wedding guests could need, designed by Amanda Lindroth.
If guests are looking to stay off-property, there are several nearby options within a 10-20 minute drive. I would suggest either a local hotel, or seeking out a nearby beachfront Airbnb or VRBO rental property if you have a large family!
Professional Wedding Photography at the Dunlin Kiawah River
Kiawah River’s landscapes are exceptionally conducive to professional photography, with natural lighting, waterfront settings, and distinctive scenery that enhance the quality and uniqueness of wedding images. As a wedding photographer specializing in Charleston venues, I have observed how Kiawah River’s design and natural beauty elevate the photographic narrative of the event.
I would always recommend hiring a wedding photographer who has worked in Charleston and the Lowcountry for your wedding weekend. The expertise, local knowledge, and experience with lighting and various weather situations the Lowcountry offers is important to consider. When looking for a Dunlin wedding photographer, make sure to ask for full galleries to review, their experience in the Southeast and Lowcountry, and that you like their work stylistically.
If You Are Planning A Wedding at The Dunlin Kiawah River, a Wedding In Colorado, The Southeast, Or At A Destination Worldwide, And Looking For A Destination Wedding Photographer, Let’s Get In Touch Today!
