Museum and Gallery Wedding Venues in Aiken, SC

The Hartley House (also known as the Bond-Bates-Hartley House) located in Batesburg-Leesville, South Carolina was built circa 1790 for John Pearson Bond. The house later came into possession of John Bates, husband of John Pearson Bond’s great niece and a member of the family that the town of Batesburg was named for. There are many local legends surrounding this house and it’s friendly visitors. According to local tradition, the Bond-Bates-Hartley House served as a stagecoach stop and post office, prior to the founding of the town of Batesburg. Architecturally the house is a typical upcountry farmhouse, with a portico adapted from the Greek Revival style.

A group of professional caterers and hospitality employees envisioned an event space like no other. A space vast enough to hold large events without compromising the ambiance and charm of a quaint family gathering. A place rich in history with significant ties to our communities. We were lead to an aging, almost forgotten piece of our past. The old Cotton Depot in Clinton SC quietly sat on the edge of downtown. The building spoke to us, 17,000 square feet of handmade brick each telling a story, 11ft ceilings with exposed beams, arched windows and wide planked floors. We immediately began designing the space. Through our catering experience we knew the need for easy access, a good flow and having conveniently located facilities. We also knew the importance of having multifunctioning spaces that can be dressed up or down to make each event uniquely yours. From the most elegant affair to down home country charm, Cotton Loft is merely a canvas. The picture we paint is yours.