Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

  • A Gathering Place for Mindful Moments, Creative Energy & Southern Serenity

    Nestled beneath moss-draped oaks in Charleston’s vibrant Avondale, The Southern Zen™ is more than a rental — it's a soulful space for retreats, workshops, bridal events, and slow living. Bathed in natural light and surrounded by a handcrafted Zen garden, this thoughtfully restored 1947 cottage invites you to pause, connect, and create unforgettable memories.

    It’s also home to our Baker & Blossom Kitchen, where edible flowers and artisanal goods are crafted just steps from the garden.

    Whether you're hosting an intimate event, preparing for your big day, or simply seeking stillness — this is your space to root, reflect, and create something beautiful.

  • The Southern Zen is located in Charleston, South Carolina, in the charming Avondale neighborhood. While conveniently close to downtown Charleston, the property is tucked away to provide a peaceful, private oasis.

  • The Southern Zen is a versatile space suitable for a wide range of gatherings, including:

    • Private events and celebrations

    • Bridal events such as bridal showers and “getting ready” spaces

    • Corporate meetings, off-sites, and retreats

    • Workshops and one-day retreats

    • Film productions and photoshoots

    • Short-term corporate housing rentals

    If you have a unique vision in mind, we’re happy to explore how The Southern Zen can support it.

  • The Southern Zen is a mixed-use venue offering both indoor and outdoor spaces.

    Inside the cottage, guests can enjoy multiple thoughtfully designed rooms, including comfortable sitting areas, a kitchen space, and private “get ready” areas. Outdoors, the property features a serene Zen garden, patio space, and a grassy area ideal for tables, installations, or custom event setups.

    Tall fencing and mature, willowy trees surround the property, creating a private sanctuary that feels entirely your own.

  • The Southern Zen is not just a place to rent—it’s an experience. Every detail of the space is intentional, designed to leave guests feeling refreshed, inspired, and uplifted.

    Unlike traditional corporate or event venues, The Southern Zen blends tranquility, beauty, and flexibility. Its elevated yet welcoming atmosphere supports a wide variety of uses while maintaining a sense of calm and purpose. Whether you’re gathering to celebrate, create, or simply slow down, The Southern Zen offers an oasis that nourishes both creativity and connection.

Booking & Reservations

  • To begin the booking process, please complete our Inquiry Form, which is linked here and available throughout our website, including the homepage and individual event pages.

    The form allows you to share details about your event, preferred dates, and what you’re envisioning for your time at The Southern Zen. Once submitted, a member of our team will review your request and reach out via email to confirm availability, ensure the space is the right fit, and guide you through the next steps.

  • You can reserve up to 6 months in advance. We’ve found that bookings for productions and workshops typically happen closer to the date, so don’t hesitate to inquire, even if it’s a last-minute need.

  • Yes. A non-refundable deposit of $125 is required to hold your date. the deposit can be applied towards the final booking, or held as a cancellation fee if you cancel without sufficient notice.

  • Cancellations made with sufficient notice may receive a partial refund or credit towards a future date. If your cancellation results in a lost booking opportunity, your deposit may be retained. We’ll do our best to be understanding and fair.

  • Yes! Private tours are available. Depending on scheduling availability, a small fee may apply, which can be applied to your final booking if you move forward.

  • Yes, especially for film and production clients. Please inquire - we evaluate these on case-by-case basis depending on availability and event type.

Capacity & Layout

  • Guest capacity varies depending on the type of event and whether indoor, outdoor, or mixed-use spaces are utilized. Intimate gatherings are especially well-suited to the property, and we’re happy to discuss guest counts during the inquiry process to ensure the space is comfortable and aligned with your vision.

  • Setup and breakdown time must be included within your booked rental window. The time you reserve is the time you’ll have access to the space, so we recommend booking additional hours if you need time before or after your event for setup, styling, or cleanup.

    Most bookings at The Southern Zen are reserved on an hourly basis rather than per event or per day. During the inquiry process, we’re happy to help you determine the appropriate amount of time needed to ensure your event feels relaxed and well-paced.

  • The standard rental includes 2 bedrooms (with a 3rd available upon request), 2 full bathrooms, a chef’s kitchen, family room, front and back yards. Please note: the side yard near the shed is off-limits.

  • Yes. The attic, the side yard near the outdoor shed, and any locked doors or cabinets are private and not accessible to guests.

  • Yes! You’re welcome to rearrange indoor or outdoor furniture - just return everything to its original position before you leave. Please do not‍ move the picnic table in the back garden.

  • Tables, chairs and event furnishings are not included in the rental, but we have trusted vendor partners for:

    • Tent Rentals

    • Tables, Chairs, Linens

    • DJ/Muscians/Audio Equipment

    • Bartending Services

    • Pop-Up Teahouse Experience

    • Balloon Arch Decor

    • Floral Design

    Ask us for our preferred vendor list!

Events & Gatherings

  • The Southern Zen is designed to host intentional, elevated gatherings that align with the peaceful nature of the space. Approved uses include private events, creative workshops, wellness experiences, corporate gatherings, and select celebrations.

    All events are reviewed individually to ensure they are a good fit for the property and its surroundings.

  • Yes, private parties and celebrations are welcome when they align with the calm, respectful atmosphere of The Southern Zen. We specialize in intimate, meaningful gatherings rather than high-volume or late-night parties.

  • Absolutely. The Southern Zen is an ideal setting for workshops, classes, and creative experiences. The indoor and outdoor spaces provide flexibility for a variety of formats, from hands-on learning to discussion-based gatherings.

  • Yes. One-day retreats and wellness-focused events such as yoga, meditation, journaling, and mindfulness experiences are a natural fit for The Southern Zen. The serene garden and thoughtfully designed interior create an environment that supports rest, reflection, and connection.

  • Yes. The Southern Zen warmly welcomes bridal showers, engagement parties, and other wedding-related gatherings. The space is also well-suited for getting-ready moments before the wedding, offering a peaceful and beautiful setting for such a meaningful day.

  • Yes! We simply ask that you respect local noise ordinances. No loud outdoor music after 10PM.

Corporate & Professional Use

  • Yes. The Southern Zen is available for corporate meetings, off-site retreats, and professional gatherings seeking a calm, inspiring environment away from traditional office settings.

  • Yes. The Southern Zen isn’t just for events and creative gatherings—it also serves as a comfortable home away from home for professionals.

    Whether you’re relocating for work, managing a short-term project, or hosting visiting executives, our corporate housing option offers a thoughtful balance of comfort, flexibility, and style in a peaceful setting.

  • Absolutely. The Southern Zen is well-suited for team-building experiences that prioritize connection, creativity, and intentional collaboration. Both indoor and outdoor spaces can be used to support structured activities or more relaxed, organic team engagement.

  • Yes. The space includes high-speed Wi-Fi, multiple seating options, and convenient access to power outlets, making it easy to support meetings, presentations, and focused work sessions.

  • The Southern Zen can accommodate multi-day corporate events and meetings. However, overnight accommodations are not available for group stays as part of event bookings.

Film, Photography & Media

  • Yes. The Southern Zen is available for film productions, photoshoots, and other creative media projects. The property offers a variety of indoor and outdoor settings, natural light, and a serene aesthetic well-suited for visual storytelling.er

  • Media bookings are typically offered on an hourly basis, with extended or full-day options available depending on the scope of the project. Rates and availability are determined during the inquiry process to ensure the space meets your production needs.

  • Yes, commercial shoots are permitted with prior approval. All commercial media use must be disclosed at the time of inquiry so we can ensure proper scheduling, usage terms, and alignment with the property.

  • To preserve the integrity of the space, restrictions may apply to equipment type, setup, and crew size. All production details should be shared during the inquiry process, and approvals are handled on a case-by-case basis to ensure a smooth and respectful experience for everyone involved.

Amenities & Features

  • The Southern Zen offers a variety of thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor spaces, with amenities tailored to support events, creative projects, and mindful retreats. Highlights include:

    Indoor Spaces

    • Bright, airy design: Expansive windows fill the 1947 cottage with natural light, highlighting serene textures and warm finishes.

    • Remodeled chef’s kitchen: Fully equipped with premium appliances, cookware, and spacious countertops for culinary projects or catering prep.

    • Three versatile bedrooms: Updated rooms with ample natural light, ideal for getting ready or private use.

    • Newly renovated bathroom: Features exposed brick, elegant finishes, and spa-inspired details for a luxurious experience.

    • High-speed Wi-Fi & dedicated workspaces: Reliable internet and tranquil spots for remote work, writing, or small meetings.

    Outdoor Spaces

    • Japanese-inspired Zen garden: Custom water features, handcrafted seating, and a peaceful koi pond create a serene backdrop for reflection and relaxation.

    • Custom footbridge & fire pit: A scenic bridge over the garden path leads to a cozy fire pit area perfect for gathering.

    • “Under the Magnolia Tree” outdoor lounge: A shaded sanctuary for dining, brainstorming, or unwinding amid nature.

    • Flower & herb gardens: Seasonal blooms and culinary herbs fill the air with fragrance and freshness.

    Practical Amenities

    • Private driveway & on-site parking: Convenient access for guests, with additional street parking nearby.

    • Comfort & climate control: Fully heated and air-conditioned indoor spaces to ensure year-round comfort.

    • Additional seating & tables: Flexible setups for gatherings, with extra tables available upon request.

    Whether you’re hosting an event, capturing a photoshoot, or simply enjoying a private retreat, The Southern Zen is designed to provide both beauty and functionality in a calm, inspiring environment.

  • Yes. High-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.

  • Yes. The Southern Zen offers five on-site parking spaces, with additional street parking and nearby parking lot options available within close proximity.

  • Yes. There are two bathrooms located inside the cottage for guest use.

  • Yes. The indoor spaces are fully climate-controlled with both heating and air conditioning to ensure year-round comfort.

  • Yes. A full chef’s kitchen is available for food preparation and storage, making it ideal for catered events, workshops, and culinary-focused gatherings.

Rules & Policies

  • Absolutely - children are welcome.

  • Pets are considered on a case-by-case basis. For productions, pets are permitted. For events like workshops or bridal parties, one well-behaved pet may be allowed with prior approval. All pets must be cleaned up after.

  • Smoking is permitted outdoors only. Please use designated ashtrays and dispose of cigarette butts properly.

  • Yes. Quiet hours are from 10PM to 8AM in compliance with local ordinances.

  • Yes.

  • We strongly encourage guests to carry insurance for all bookings.

Accessibility & Safety

  • The garden can be accessed through the front double gates via a gravel or grass path. Unfortunately the home itself is not fully wheelchair accessible at this time.

  • We’re exploring options for accessibility services and will do our best to accommodate guests. Please reach out to discuss your needs.

  • We have a working fire extinguisher under the kitchen sink and hardwired smoke and carbon monoxide detectors throughout the home. Outdoor hoses are available near the side yard and in the back garden. A fully stocked first aid kit is also available on-site.

  • Ann is available as a Site Manager (for a fee) during workshops, events and film/production bookings. If your event requires bartenders or servers we can connect you with vendors who offer staffing.

After The Event

  • A cleaning fee for a professional service is included in your rental. However, guests are still responsible for discarding all trash in the provided bins and returning any moved furniture to its original position. The property should be left in good condition to avoid additional charges.

  • Yes. All decor and event items must be removed from the home and gardens. Trash must be placed in the provided bins - no need to haul it offsite.