I recently traveled to Charleston, South Carolina, to attend my husband’s cousin’s wedding. We’ve visited Charleston several times before, though we usually stay with our friend in North Charleston. This was our first time staying downtown, and we made Hotel Bennett our home during our visit.

The hotel overlooks Francis Marion Square and is conveniently located near many popular downtown restaurants, museums and shops on King Street. The square hosts a weekly farmers market, which we visited on the morning of the wedding.

The first full day of our stay, a group of us enjoyed afternoon tea at Camillias. The beautiful space boasts bold interiors and lush pink seating. We all opted to add a glass of rosé to our tea service. My friend and I shared a fruit-forward decaf tea. Among the savory selections, my favorite was chicken salad in a croissant. The sweet choices were just as delicious, and I most enjoyed a scone topped with clotted cream and lemon curd. Later in the day the space transforms into a Champagne bar. We came back to the space that evening for a nightcap.

The lobby bar became an unintentional meeting place for family and friends of the bride and groom. My husband and I agreed that one of our favorite aspects of a destination wedding is the experience of unexpectedly running into family and friends while away from home.

— Katie Skrzek, vice president/digital director