Between whimsical outdoor gems and hip downtown spaces, this part of South Carolina is perfect for popping the question, saying, “I do,” or reigniting passion
CAPITAL CITY/LAKE MURRAY COUNTRY, SOUTH CAROLINA—SEPTEMBER 2020—Propose forever, tie the knot with a lifetime love or invigorate a deep connection in Capital City/Lake Murray Country. This beautiful region of South Carolina is conveniently located off Interstates I-77, I-20 and I-26 in the central part of the Palmetto State. Make promises between the vineyards at an intimate winery, groove to the beat with exotic animals as part of the guest list or ask the most important question on the steps of a timeless Southern Antebellum home. Wherever love leads, Capital City/Lake Murray Country is the perfect place to begin or enliven a history for two.
Enoree River Vineyards & Winery
Located just 30 minutes northwest of Columbia, Enoree River Winery in Newberry is a relaxing, intimate winery that serves local, hand-crafted wines. Indulge in tastings in the Upper Room or relax outdoors on the covered porch overlooking the vineyard. Sip and savor one another’s company, pop the question on the stunning grounds or commit to each other in front of family and friends. Say vows under the pines and among the vines, then dance the night away in the gorgeous outdoor setting or in a wine tasting room.
Wavering Place
In Eastover, rest, relax and recharge at Wavering Place where the original kitchen house has been fully restored to offer modern conveniences while preserving the original beauty of this plantation bed and breakfast. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, a stay here is an experience in and of itself. Ideal as a bed and breakfast for a weekend getaway–or even as bridal suite or honeymoon cottage, the inn embodies Southern elegance. Make a proposal on the nature trails or over glasses of sweet tea on the idyllic porch. Say, “I do,” on the beautiful grounds and then celebrate in a semi-enclosed pavilion full of twinkling lights and Southern charm, known as the Green Tree House. Wedding guests have full access to the gardens and grounds immediately surrounding the Main House and Green Tree House, providing a variety of sites for capturing beautiful memories.
Southwind Acres
For those ready to jump the broom, skip over to Southwind Acres in Prosperity. This beautiful country setting is trendy in its rustic décor and yet draped in elegance. Bliss awaits in both the indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception sites, which include a barn on the property and all the fixings for a country wedding. The magnificent grounds set the romantic tone and create a perfect backdrop for wedding photos.
The Old Newberry Hotel
Start a lifetime of cherished memories at the Old Newberry Hotel. This renovated property has every modern-day desire while its historic charm remains intact. The Romanesque Revival property was built in 1878 and sits at the corner of Main and Caldwell Streets in downtown Newberry. Propose forever or say, “I do” in the hotel’s gorgeous atrium, covered patio or courtyard. The hotel can even rent rooms for the wedding party, extending the celebration throughout the weekend.
Cobblestone Park Golf Club
For the bride and groom seeking elegance and simplicity, Cobblestone Park Golf Club offers the ease of having the wedding ceremony and reception in one location. Spend a morning of pampering preparation in the bridal suite before hosting the ceremony on a meticulously maintained lawn. Then, seamlessly continue the celebration in an elegant ballroom, all without stepping foot off the property, which features breathtaking ponds and sweeping views of the 18th hole. Coupled with elegance and grace, Cobblestone Park Golf Club presents a classic backdrop for welcoming family and friends to the South Carolina Midlands for a one-of-a-kind celebration. Whether it’s a traditional ceremony, an outdoor micro-wedding with smaller guest counts, a private ceremony and dinner reception with immediate family and then a larger celebration later, Cobblestone Park can accommodate.
The Palmetto Experience
Give guests an experience they won’t forget—The Palmetto Experience. Tube the Congaree River and come back to exchange rings and party the night away riverside. This small, casual venue is ideal for an intimate wedding performed indoors or on the river’s edge. For the reception, boogie down against the picture-perfect backdrop of the rushing river below.
River Road and Jasmine House and Gardens
Book a destination wedding without ever leaving the country. The River Road and Jasmine Houses and Gardens in Irmo transports lovers and guests to a world away with its robust and exotic gardens. An iron gazebo is encircled by lights, mature bamboo and lush landscaping. Candles are used throughout the houses and gardens to give off a romantic glow. Raise a glass inside the River Road or Jasmine House for the reception. Built at the turn of the 20th century, these striking homes have been restored with all the amenities of today, while maintaining the architectural splendor of the early 1900s.
R2i2 Conference Center
The R2i2 Conference Center is a state-of-the-art wedding venue sure to make the bride and groom swoon. Located in Northeast Columbia, the large contemporary ballroom is complete with its modern lines and sleek finishes. This venue is not only beautiful but also convenient. Just minutes away from I-77 and I-20, several lovely hotel options are close by for the happy couple and their guests.
Columbia Museum of Art
Walk hand-in-hand through the Columbia Museum of Art. This hip venue sits on beautiful Main Street in downtown. Peruse 26 galleries containing pieces spanning 5,000 years—telling stories of life, love and history. Make history by asking her the question in between works that inspire. The exquisite art makes for a stylish and unique backdrop for a city wedding. Guests will have instant conversation starters while taking in sculptures and paintings and sipping champagne. This reception site is for parties both quaint and grand.
South Carolina State Museum
Get immersed in the state’s most prized art, treasured relics and promising innovations at the South Carolina State Museum located in Capital City/Lake Murray Country’s Congaree Vista. Snuggle up in the planetarium or get down on one knee while taking in the stars inside the 2,500-square-foot observatory. This historic building is filled with unique features in an updated modern setting making it an ideal wedding venue. The possibilities are endless, with several versatile spaces throughout the museum.
Riverbanks Zoo
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is home to 2,000 magnificent animals and one of the nation’s most inspiring botanical gardens. The lush, 170-acre site features scenic river views, spectacular valley overlooks and significant historic landmarks. Take a trip for two around the world without ever leaving the grounds. Explore Australia’s kangaroos, the Arctic’s penguins and Africa’s gorillas. Take the global tour by sky, zip-lining above the beautiful landscape. This adventurous and gorgeous destination is an ideal spot to get down on one knee or simply enjoy one another while taking in the sights. It is also a great place to make your love for one another official. Wedding ceremonies can be held in gardens throughout the grounds and wedding reception venues within the zoo delight. Raise a glass and toast to the future among exotic animals under the stars.
The Lace House at the Governor’s Mansion Complex
The Lace House is a premier wedding destination located on the South Carolina Governor’s Mansion Complex. With its classic Southern architecture and unparalleled gardens dotted with picturesque fountains, the Lace House offers a rich atmosphere in the heart of the Capital City. For a fall wedding, have cocktails in the gardens and a ceremony under the colorful trees on the Mansion Mall. Or say, “I do,” in the Wedding Garden with a traditional reception inside the Lace House. Whichever location couples choose, it is sure to wow their guest list.
There’s something about the palmetto and pines, the historic charm and modern splendor that pulls lovers closer together here. No matter which relationship stage couples are in, they will find romance in Capital City/Lake Murray Country.