Blog: Wedding Venues Columbia TN | 6 Enchanting Features at Lofton

@thelofton By “here” we mean The Lofton of course!!🙌🏼 #allinclusivevenue #weddingreception #weddinghumor #weddingplanner #weddingvenue #hiddengem #weekendweddingretreat #loveatthelofton #october #weddingarbor ♬ Golden Hour: Piano Version – Andy Morris

Southern Tennessee beckons couples with rolling hills and small-town charm, where barn weddings feel like living fairytales. As an event venue just outside Columbia TN, The Lofton pairs historic touches with modern sophistication. Couples searching for wedding venues Columbia TN are bound to discover authentic Southern hospitality wrapped in mountain views and refined comfort. ♡

Why Columbia, TN Steals Hearts

Columbia shines among wedding venues, where historic architecture meets Southern elegance. As an arts district flourishing with creativity, downtown streets lined with brick buildings create stunning backdrops for wedding photos. From event barns to intimate reception venues, the area offers endless celebration possibilities.

Small boutiques welcome wedding parties searching for finishing touches, while cozy restaurants provide charming settings for rehearsal dinners. First Friday events and gallery walks add cultural flair that makes every wedding weekend memorable. ✨

The Lofton Experience

Escape to The Lofton, where 36 acres of natural beauty await at 701 Lofton Hall Rd in Ardmore, TN, just 50 minutes from Columbia. Our sprawling estate transforms your celebration into a destination experience, offering Thursday-to-Sunday festivities with on-site lodging for your closest friends and family. Morning light streams through ancient trees as deer wander past. Your wedding weekend unfolds at your own pace, surrounded by mountain views and Tennessee charm.

Ceremony Spaces

The Barn Ceremony Site

A spectacular outdoor space centered around our stunning fountain. Up to 200 guests can witness your vows in this magical setting. The western side captures breathtaking sunset photos, making golden hour portraits unforgettable. Chandelier lighting adds romance as day turns to evening, creating the perfect atmosphere for your ceremony!

The Meadow

For couples seeking a natural wedding venue option, The Meadow offers pure magic. This outdoor ceremony type lets Mother Nature design your backdrop, where serene surroundings and frequent wildlife sightings create unforgettable moments. Exchange vows among the peaceful Tennessee landscape, where every breeze and birdsong adds to your celebration’s natural symphony.

Reception Spaces

The Reception Hall

Among Tennessee wedding halls, our grand dining hall creates an unforgettable reception space. Designer drapery transforms walls into elegant backdrops, while a custom bar area keeps the party flowing. A wall of windows showcases your wedding cake, flanked by two classic hearths with mantles. Sparkling chandeliers cast warm light across the room, while our styled photo wall captures memories all night long. Our flexible layout adapts to your vision, comfortably hosting up to 200 guests for dining and dancing!

Outdoor Entertainment Areas

Cocktail Patio

Our versatile patio space welcomes guests for multiple moments throughout your weekend. From five-course rehearsal dinners to cocktail hour mingling, this outdoor gathering spot shines! Many couples choose this space for their first dance under the open sky, while others transform it into a craft drink station between the ceremony and reception. The patio’s natural flow creates easy conversation and connection. ♡

Gaming and Gathering Spaces

Your guests will love our outdoor entertainment areas featuring:

• Yard games spread across the lawn
• A cozy fire pit for evening gatherings
• Open spaces for conversation and photos
• Natural pathways connecting all venue spaces

Overnight Accommodations

Serenity Lodge

Your home base for the weekend sleeps up to 20 guests in pure comfort. The basement game room brings everyone together with pool, ping pong, and poker tables for late-night fun! A full kitchen makes casual meals easy, while the spacious living room invites relaxation. Upstairs, find a master bedroom with a king bed and two additional bedrooms sleeping nine guests each. With 1.5 bathrooms, a relaxing porch, and an outdoor BBQ grill, the lodge keeps everyone comfortable all weekend long.

Getting Ready Spaces

The Bridal Suite

Your luxury preparation space features six professional styling stations giving your entire party room to primp and prep. A refreshment center with a fridge and microwave keeps everyone energized, while a private restroom adds convenience. Our TV with a personal hotspot lets you stream your favorite shows, or play get-ready tunes, as you get ready!

The Groom’s Quarters

Guys find their own relaxation space with amenities tailored to their needs. Sports stream on YouTube TV while the comfortable hangout space invites pre-ceremony bonding. Private preparation areas ensure everyone looks their best!

Additional Amenities

Your dream wedding deserves thoughtful touches in every corner. Our carefully curated amenities make your celebration seamless from start to finish. ✨

• The “She Shed” Decor Warehouse: An extensive collection of decor essentials including table numbers, card boxes, cake cutters, toasting flutes, cake stands, vases, and custom signage. Choose DIY setup or let our styling team handle everything!
• Professional Kitchen: The Lofton’s catering team works their magic in our commercial kitchen space. With double ovens, food warmers, ice machine, and walk-in cooler, we create and serve your perfect menu with ease.
• Furniture and Settings: Complete your perfect layout with beautiful chiavari chairs, multiple table options, bistro tables, bar stools, rustic farmhouse tables, and high chairs. Our team helps design custom layouts bringing your vision to life.

Unlike standard venue space rentals with basic checkmark lists, The Lofton includes these premium amenities in every celebration. We’ve thought of the details other venues forget!

All-Inclusive Wedding Packages

Your dream wedding deserves more than just a day. At The Lofton, we believe in creating full weekend experiences that let you truly savor every moment. Our all-inclusive packages transform your celebration into an unforgettable Thursday-to-Sunday getaway, complete with on-site lodging for 20 of your closest friends and family.

Essential Elegance Package

Our Essential Elegance package brings together all the core elements for a beautiful celebration. Your weekend includes professional coordination, exceptional catering, beautiful floral designs, professional photography, a custom cake, and DJ services that keep the party going. This package creates the perfect foundation for your dream wedding, designed for parties of 100 guests or more.

Elevated Celebration Package

For couples dreaming of an upscale experience, our Elevated Celebration package creates pure magic. Building on all the Essential features, this package adds cinematic videography, enhanced photography coverage, full bar service, and special effects that wow your guests. Every luxurious touch is designed to elevate your celebration, available for parties of 100 guests or more.

Both packages turn your special day into a multi-day celebration. From Thursday afternoon through Sunday morning, the entire property becomes your private wedding estate. Every detail receives our full attention, whether you choose the refined comfort of Essential Elegance or the luxurious touches of Elevated Celebration!

Wedding Planning Tips

Your wedding journey should be exciting and joy-filled. Here are key insights from years of helping couples create their dream celebrations.

• Start your venue search 12-18 months ahead. The Lofton’s spring and fall dates book especially quickly due to our mountain views and natural settings.
• Know your guest count before touring venues. While some venues limit flexibility, The Lofton welcomes 100-200 guests with multiple ceremony options.
• Think about your whole wedding weekend. Unlike traditional single-day rentals, our Thursday-to-Sunday access lets you celebrate without rushing.
• Compare venue packages carefully. The Lofton includes coordination, catering, flowers, and DJ services, saving you from juggling multiple vendors.
• Consider guest accommodations. While many venues require complex hotel blocks, The Lofton’s on-site Serenity Lodge sleeps 20 of your closest friends and family.
• Look for getting-ready spaces. Our Bridal Cottage and Groom’s Quarters give both parties dedicated spaces, unlike venues with single prep rooms.
• Ask about decor options. The Lofton’s “She Shed” Decor Warehouse saves you from buying or renting items that many venues require.
• Plan for weather possibilities. Our indoor backup spaces mean no stress about rain, unlike outdoor-only venues.
• Check included furniture and equipment. The Lofton provides tables, chairs, and even lawn games – details other venues often charge extra for.
• Evaluate catering kitchen facilities. Our professional kitchen with walk-in cooler supports seamless service, while some venues offer minimal prep space.

These essentials help you focus on what matters most, celebrating with those you love!

Wedding Trends at The Lofton

The latest wedding trends blend timeless romance with modern style. Here’s what’s been capturing hearts:

• Earth tones create warm, inviting spaces with rich terracottas, soft sages, and warm browns, complemented by metallic touches for a cozy, timeless feel.
• Wild, organic floral arrangements bring natural beauty indoors, using local blooms and foraged greenery to create unique, Pinterest-worthy statement pieces.
• Simple, elegant bridal gowns are trending, featuring clean lines and subtle details that allow each bride’s personality to shine.
• Modern groomsmen attire in navy and gray offers a sophisticated look, with fresh takes on pattern mixing and contemporary cuts.
• Invitations set the tone with minimalist designs and earthy colors, giving guests a preview of your wedding style. Handmade paper and custom illustrations add a personal touch.
• Semi-naked cakes showcase artisan baking, with natural textures and fresh flowers making these desserts Instagram-ready.
• Asymmetrical ceremony arches beautifully frame moments, with natural flowers and draped fabrics providing stunning backdrops.
• Lounge areas invite guests to relax and mingle, featuring soft seating and styled coffee tables that encourage natural connections.
• Couples are balancing style with budget by embracing timeless trends and adding DIY touches that reflect their personality!

These thoughtful touches create Instagram-worthy moments while keeping the focus on celebration. Check out our Pinterest for more inspiration!

Seasonal Splendor

Tennessee’s changing seasons paint different pictures of wedding day beauty. Each month at The Lofton brings its own magic, helping you choose the backdrop for your dream celebration.

Whether you’re envisioning the vibrant colors of spring weddings, the golden glow of summer sunsets, the rich hues of fall foliage, or the crisp charm of winter wonderlands, our indoor and outdoor spaces adapt beautifully to showcase each season’s unique beauty.

Activities Near The Lofton

Make your wedding weekend unforgettable with exciting activities near The Lofton in Ardmore, TN! Whether your guests are looking to relax or explore, we’ve curated a map of the best local attractions, from scenic outdoor adventures to charming nearby towns. Check out our map to find all the memorable ways your loved ones can enjoy the area around The Lofton!

Exploring Columbia, TN

Make your wedding weekend a mini getaway for your guests! If you’re keen on spending more time in Columbia with your wedding party, here are some charming ways for friends and family to make memories between celebrations.

Downtown Discoveries

• Share rehearsal dinner stories at Puckett’s, where Southern comfort food meets historic charm
• Stroll hand-in-hand through First Fridays, when art galleries stay open late
• Capture wedding party photos against vintage brick facades and original architecture
• Browse boutiques for last-minute wedding touches or thank-you gifts

@allisonlianne 🤍🤍 @Gio #tennessee #columbiatn #nashville #tn ♬ Harvest Moon – Neil Young

Natural Beauty

• Picnic in Riverwalk Park’s peaceful surroundings
• Arrange group kayaking adventures on the Duck River
• Schedule morning yoga sessions in our local parks
• Plan sunrise hiking for early-rising guests

Cultural Connections

• Tour the James K. Polk Home’s manicured gardens – a gorgeous spot for family photos
• Enjoy live music at Vanh Dy’s upscale lounge, ideal for welcome gatherings
• Take a guided walking tour through Columbia’s historic district
• Visit Amber Falls Winery for pre-wedding wine tasting with your wedding party

From casual meetups to organized group activities, Columbia keeps your guests entertained throughout your wedding weekend. Lock in your love story with a wedding day that feels uniquely yours, surrounded by unforgettable moments and lasting memories!

Your Questions Answered

How far in advance should I book?

Prime dates, especially spring and fall weekends, typically book 12-18 months ahead. Our Thursday through Sunday access means holiday weekends book particularly quickly. Winter and mid-week dates offer more flexibility, often booking 8-12 months out.

What time should we start our ceremony?

We tailor timing recommendations to capture the best light in each season:

• Spring/Fall: 4:00-5:30 PM catches golden hour without evening chill
• Summer: 5:30-6:30 PM avoids peak heat and creates stunning sunset portraits
• Winter: 2:00-3:30 PM maximizes natural light and warmth

What happens if it rains?

No weather worries here! Every outdoor ceremony includes a backup indoor location at no extra charge. We make the weather call 24 hours before your ceremony, handling all logistics so you stay stress-free. Our covered areas and indoor spaces mean your celebration stays magical rain or shine.

Can we work with our own vendors?

While our packages include trusted our professionals who know our venue inside and out (I mean, just look at that gorgeous catering spread), we welcome licensed outside vendors. Our team coordinates seamlessly with your chosen professionals, ensuring they understand our spaces and policies.

Love Notes from The Lofton

Our couples’ stories warm our hearts. And that’s a fact. ✨ Here’s what they’re saying about their Lofton celebrations:

“My dream venue. Amanda and her staff are phenomenal. They went above and beyond. They create packages that make wedding planning a walk in the park. They provide many on-site services from the ceremony and reception venue, catering, set up and takedown, bridal party getting ready suites, the magic mirror photo booth, golf cart services and the list goes on and on.” – Alaina, Lofton Bride

Every wedding here unfolds a unique story, rich with moments that turn into cherished memories. Don’t just take our word for it. Check out our pages on The Knot Worldwide and WeddingWire to read more 5-star reviews from couples who celebrated with us!

Begin Your Lofton Story

Ready to turn your wedding dreams into a weekend celebration? From breathtaking mountain views to all-inclusive packages and a team committed to every detail, The Lofton crafts experiences that are both intimate and unforgettable.

If you’re searching for wedding venues near Columbia, TN, let’s talk about how The Lofton can bring your vision to life. For more information, book a tour & come explore our 36-acre venue! Your unforgettable wedding weekend is waiting! ♡