The History

The J.C.H. Claussen building, circa 1856. Illustration by Christophe Drumain.

Historic bricks and wood columns provide glimpses into the circa 1856 building’s industrial past. Bespoke, luxurious interiors complement history to culminate a landmark venue. Merchants Hall is palpably exciting, while maintaining and emphasizing Charleston’s unique history and culture. Boasting spectacular views of the City Market, this is the location to experience Charleston's finest.

 

Top Features

Please note that any of this information is subject to change at anytime. Our website always has the latest information.

LOCATION

  • In one of the most sought-after areas of downtown, right in the middle of the Historic District and overlooking the iconic Charleston City Market.

CAPACITY

Square Footage
2,800 square feet (total venue)
2,200 square feet (gathering room)

Weddings
Partial Seating – 175 guests
Served Dinner – 150 guests
Ceremonies – Varies, please contact our team

Social + Corporate Functions
Cocktail Party – 190 guests
Served Dinner – 175 guests

AMENITIES & INCLUSIONS

  • Fully ADA accessible, with elevator

  • Ceilings 12'+

  • 150 gold chiavari chairs, 15 60" round tables, 2 8 ft. buffet tables included in the rental rate (subject to a small setup fee)

  • 2 Custom-built bar carts included

  • Opulently-appointed bridal/hosts' suite provides a private area to relax and enjoy.

  • Powerful WiFi included

  • Roman shades on each window

  • Warming kitchen ensures that caterers will be able to serve the perfect meal.

A BLANK CANVAS

  • Merchants Hall is entirely indoors and has one gathering room.

  • Merchants Hall has historic charm and modern finishes of its own, but the venue takes the background and lends itself wonderfully to the design of your event.

  • Merchants Hall is perfect for many types of events including: wedding rehearsals, ceremonies, receptions, welcome parties, bar and bat mitzvahs, corporate dinners and celebrations, etc. The list is endless... 

USING THE SPACE FOR CEREMONY & RECEPTION

Most commonly, Merchants Hall is used for either a ceremony or reception, but we welcome its use for both. Planners and day-of coordinators are helpful in planning the ideal solution for your event. Here are a few examples:

  1. Set up everything needed for both events (aisle chairs, dining tables, decor, etc), OR

  2. Work with a vendor who specializes in draping, and use this beautiful technique to divide the room to create two spaces, OR

  3. Hire staff to ‘flip’ the space while you and your guests enjoy cocktail hour at a nearby bar or restaurant.

NECESSITY OF AN EVENT PLANNER

  • Merchants Hall and many other events venues require the use of a professional event planner or day-of coordinator for weddings and their related events. Please visit the Charleston Wedding Guide or reach out for recommendations. For events unrelated to weddings, exceptions may be made at the discretion of the Director.

PRICING

Merchants Hall is an excellent value, with:

  • All-day (noon-midnight) rentals

  • Minimal Set-up & Breakdown fee for our included rentals

  • On-Season (March-June, September-December)

    • Weekday lunch: Please inquire

    • Sunday: $3,500

    • Monday - Wednesday: $2,000

    • Thursday: $2,750

    • Friday: $4,500

    • Saturday: $5,000

  • Off-Season (January-February, July-August)

    • Weekday lunch: Please inquire

    • Sunday: $3,000

    • Monday - Wednesday: $1,800

    • Thursday: $2,250

    • Friday: $3,500

    • Saturday: $5,000

  • Photo Shoots

    • Bridal Shoot (2 hours): $150

    • Styled Shoot (4 hours): $300

FEE SCHEDULE

  • 50% deposit due upon booking; final balance due 7 business days prior to event.

  • $500 damage deposit due a week before event (promptly refunded in full as long as the space remains undamaged).

  • Final guest count due ten days prior to event.

OTHER DETAILS

Please send any mail to us here:
2816 Azalea Drive
Charleston, SC 29405

Documents are securely signed on DocuSign.

We gladly accept checks or any of the following cards for a 3% processing fee:

cards.png
 
 

For questions, or to proceed with booking the venue:

We look forward to hearing from you, so please send us a message or reach us by phone at (843) 534-5029.