Adams Acres a quality fit for a variety of events
Published 11:50 am Thursday, May 15, 2025
Mike James was born and raised in Milledgeville and graduated from Baldwin High School in 1978. He moved away in 1980 but eventually found his way back home by the 2010s. He did not originally plan to open an event venue. The land at 150 Old River Bridge Road in Milledgeville has been in his family, and James originally considered remodeling the home on the property for student housing.
When Sean Swearingen came out to do an assessment on the house, he and James realized that saving it was not feasible. The duo put their heads together, which led to a lightbulb moment: They could open a wedding venue. With plenty of help along the way, James and Swearingen became business partners and opened Adams Acres Riverside Events.
Adams Acres Riverside Events sprang up from a renovation idea and quickly became a passion project for James and Swearingen. They hosted their first wedding in 2017 for James’ daughter. In terms of what services Adams Acres offers, it is best to let James explain.
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“We host all types of events — large or small, full-day or just a few hours. We offer a limited number of tables and chairs, with more available upon request. Setup and cleanup are always included. We also provide servers on occasion, depending on the event,” he said.
Other than weddings, the venue has also played host to anniversaries, reunions, showers, fraternity and sorority events, proms, fundraisers, egg hunts, memorials, engagement parties, and more. Perhaps the most interesting event they have held so far: a pigeon auction.
Any gathering or event at Adams Acres can accommodate up to 350 guests. Booking the venue is simple. New clients usually tour the venue, then secure a date with a signed contract and deposit. Returning clients often just call Adams Acres at 478-696-2282 to reserve a date or meet at the venue to finalize details.
What makes the venue unique from others in James’ eyes is the location. They are close to town while also overlooking the Oconee River. Additionally, thanks to Swearingen’s mother providing her assistance with the landscaping, there is always something in bloom from early spring to late fall.
Pricing depends on a couple of different factors.
“Full-day rates vary based on the day of the week, while hourly rates depend on guest count,” James said. “We also offer a separate rate for decorating time — some events are quite elaborate.”
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Being able to open Adams Acres Riverside Events is really special to James.
“It’s been incredibly meaningful to build something on family land that brings people together,” he said. “Being part of their special moments — right here in Milledgeville — feels like giving back to the place that raised me.”
For more information, give Adams Acres a call at 478-696-2282 or visit adamsacresriverside.com. They are also on Facebook at https://facebook.com/AdamsAcresRiverside.
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