The Millstone at Adams Pond

Southern Hospitality Meets Historic Charm

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels like an elegant backyard gathering, tucked away from the city, with southern charm and waterfront views… The Millstone at Adams Pond might be exactly what you’re looking for.

Set on a historic estate (dating back to the 1700s) in Columbia, SC, this venue has a rustic, intimate vibe with just the right amount of formality. It’s one of those places where couples instantly feel at home, and the staff makes sure you’re genuinely taken care of from start to finish.

Venue Highlights

Location: Columbia, South Carolina

Type of venue: Historic Grits Mill Estate

Guest capacity: Up to 350

Starting price: $5,500 for a Saturday (12-hour rental)

Indoor/Outdoor: Both, but most couples lean heavily on the outdoor areas

Vibe: Rustic, intimate, private, waterfront, Southern charm

A couple doing a first look on the wrought iron balcony at The Millstone At Adams Pond

Contact Information

Why Couples Love The Millstone at Adams Pond

This wedding venue is a favorite for couples who want something that feels elevated but not over-the-top. It’s ideal for:

  • Laid-back, down-to-earth couples who care more about the feeling than the fuss
  • Couples who want to customize their day without starting from scratch
  • Those drawn to natural outdoor beauty, especially near water
  • People who want a private, all-day experience with their wedding party

Things couples rave about most:

  • The front brick patio overlooking the pond
  • The warm, accommodating venue team (seriously, they go above and beyond)
  • How different the venue can look from one wedding to the next
  • The Spanish Moss (one of the only venues in Columbia where you’ll find it!)

Adams Pond Gallery

*Note: My photos are from 2009-2017. Many updates have been made since then and you should definitely book a tour to see the latest amenities. These should still help get a feel for the venue.

Adams Pond From a Photographer’s Perspective

I’ve shot so many weddings at Adams Pond, and not once have I walked away disappointed. No matter the weather or the timeline, this venue delivers. The light, the layout, the laid-back vibe all just work.

I would say it is pretty rare to have terrible weather in this area, but even when weddings have had rain, there are creative solutions. I remember one time when it was raining during the ceremony and everyone used umbrellas. It turned out to be one of the most unique weddings I ever photographed.

You’ll also notice as you look through the gallery above that there are so many different ways to set up both the ceremony and reception. Even on the front patio, there are several orientations that highlight a different view or facilitate a different number of guests.

One of my most memorable moments? Photographing rings on tiny baby turtles that had just emerged from the pond. You never know what kind of magic you’ll get here.

Quick tip for photographers: Bring external lighting. Speedlights on stands are perfect for the reception space or those darker areas inside or un-tented reception areas outside.

My Favorite Areas for Photos

The Balcony

The balcony incorporates the iconic mill house with the wrought iron details.

You can do couples portraits, an entire wedding party, or solo pictures on the balcony.

It also provides a unique opportunity if couples don’t want to do a first look, but want a photo together. One can stand on the balcony, while the other stands on the ground under the balcony without being able to see each other.

The Driveway

The driveway coming into the house is covered in trees that provide plenty of shade, and features the signature Spanish Moss.

In the spring, you may also have Azaleas blooming!

The other great thing about the driveway is that it is wide enough for large wedding parties, but also looks great for couple’s portraits or a first look.

The Bridge/Spillway

The bridge spans the spillway that once powered the mill.

It offers unique perspectives and can be photographed from multiple angles.

The lighting is great on the bridge in the evening, and the light in the surrounding trees is beautiful.

Real Weddings at The Millstone At Adams Pond

Are you having a wedding at The Millstone At Adams Pond?

We love working at Adams Pond and know the venue like the back of our hands (we’ve photographed dozens of weddings there!). We’d love to talk to you about your Adams Pond wedding!

Inquire Now!