After you’ve picked your wedding date, the next decision you should probably make is WHERE you’re going to get married. Now, that’s a big decision. You have to think about so many factors. The time of year, how many guests you’ll have, what kind of style you’re going for, if you’ll have a DJ or band, and so much more.

The 5 Best Wedding Venues in Columbia, South Carolina for ANY Bride from a Columbia Wedding Photographer

If you’re a couple getting married in Columbia, SC, then you have no shortage of venue options. It seems like the city has more wedding venues than just about anywhere in the country, which is awesome – but it makes it hard to decide. Here is a list of just 5 of our favorites. We tried to pick several spots with different vibes.

701 Whaley

If we had to describe 701 Whaley in two words, it would be STUNNING and SPACIOUS. All you have to do is take a look at their gallery and you’ll see how much space the venue offers and how unique the space is.

They have found a way to blend a rustic older space with a new modern facelift which makes it a great option for just about any bride’s taste. As a photographer, we appreciate the open space of each room and the convenience of the spot. For the bride’s 701 has a comfortable bridal suite for you and your girls to get ready in before the ceremony. It’s the perfect spot to relax on your magical day.

If you want a spot that is close to everything and has plenty of options to meet your needs, then 701 Whaley could be a dream venue for you. They say in best in their special features section,

The property includes a lovely paved courtyard that surrounds the building, a spacious catering area, Grand Staircase, a well appointed Bridal/Green Room, magnificent windows and many original historic features. Impressive entry doors, period style restrooms and original textured walls provide a distinctive backdrop.

Let’s talk about guests sizes. 701 Whaley has plenty of room options you can rent out depending on what you need. They don’t offer specific numbers on guests sizes, but their Grand Hall is over 6000 sq. ft, meaning you probably won’t have a problem with guest sizes.

1208 Washington

1208 Washington will always hold a VERY special place in our hearts. It was one of the first weddings we shot in Columbia and it was my cousin’s wedding, so it’s always going to be one of our favorites.

But we don’t only love it because of the people who have gotten married there. If you’re a fan of city downtown weddings, what’s not to love about Washington place. This venue has more modern, yet classic character than any place you’ll find in the state’s capital.

One of the most unique features of 1208 Washington is the bank vault door (which we are still obsessed with). If you look up pictures of the venue, you’ll see a lot of stunning pictures that incorporate this door.

Unlike a lot of other downtown venues, 1208 Washington offers plenty of space for all your guests. Between the downstairs, upstairs, and outdoor area, you can party all night long without getting crammed in there.

As for guests capacity, the ballroom can fit up to 300 guests, which is more than enough for most couples, especially with COVID restricting most weddings.

Lace House

If you’re looking for southern charm, the Lace House has PLENTY of it. The home is over 150 years old and is beautiful from top to bottom. The home is three stories and over 9,000 sq. ft, meaning your guests won’t be crammed next to each other.

Not only is it a stunning venue all around, but it also has an incredible story for all you history buffs out there. The home was originally built in 1854 and was then bought by the city of Columbia in 1968, which they converted to the guest home for the governor. Just imagine some of the politicians and celebrities who stayed in the home through the years.

You can’t talk about the Lace House without talking about the Gardens. The Lace House gardens are a stunning addition to the home and make the perfect backdrop for any ceremony. The flowers in the spring will make any bride’s dress pop.

The venue offers several options for weddings, with the gardens holding 50 guests, the lower floor can fit 250, and the Mansion Mall seats up to 600.

The Millstone at Adam’s Pond

There is almost nothing more southern than grits, right? Well, how about getting married at an old grit mill? That’s exactly the opportunity you have with The Millstone at Adam’s Pond. The name sounds like something out of a fairy tale, and the venue looks like it as well.

With a building that dates back to the 1700s, you couldn’t ask for a venue with more character. Don’t expect a dilapidated old mill. The Millstone has everything you could want for a unique and classic wedding (and they even have two of the original millstones).

The Millstone in Columbia offers two different packages for couples to choose from. The guest count varies depending on which setting you use. They have two packages on their front porch which can fit 300 – 350. If you’re thinking about a more intimate ceremony, they have a package set in their  Front Bridge that fit 100 guests.

Wavering Place

Wavering Place is a hidden gem in Columbia. If you like antique, charming, and rustic vibes, this is your place. It should be on the top of your list. Wavering Place was built around 1855. Yes, 1855! Wavering Place has a detailed history of the home and the grounds that will make you fall in love with the place.

But, don’t let the idea of an old falling apart venue scare you. They have done everything they can to make it a stunning and comfortable venue for guests.

With this venue, you’re getting a lot more than just a history lesson. You have a gorgeous place for a ceremony and your reception. They’ve added several modern and clean spots to make it any bride’s dream.

Wavering Place has space for up to 170 guests, and they offer plenty of extra to make your special day less stressful. This includes a place for the brides and bridesmaids to get ready, a prep kitchen for the catering staff, and much more.

Columbia, SC Weddings

We hope that our favorite five venues can help you find the PERFECT spot for your magical day. We know how stressful it can be to plan your wedding, but hopefully, this can get you one step closer without going crazy.

If you’ve found your dream venue, but still looking for a photographer to capture your wedding, we would love to chat how we can help over a cup of coffee.