Every wedding should demonstrate personal touches that express the style of the couple. In this way, the big day becomes an extension of the couple’s union. No matter what your preference, these local venues offer something for every taste.
ROMANTIC
The Chicory, which was built in 1852 and firsts began as a simple coffee warehouse, is now one of the most sought-after venues in New Orleans. The venue features pressed-tin ceilings, gas lanterns, exposed brick and original beams — all perfect for setting a romantic atmosphere. The event space, which totals 20,000 square feet, can accommodate 400 guests. Onsite catering can include vegetarian, vegan, Kosher and gluten-free options. The wedding reception package includes tables with gold Chiavari chairs and ivory linens; china, glassware and stainless flatware; a private room and attendants for the couple; and more. 610 S. Peters St., 504-521-8055, chicoryvenue.com
MODERN
The Burgundy House offers a modern take on old New Orleans charm. The 19th century, 2,700-square-foot space is located just steps from Frenchmen Street and boasts a renovated interior of exposed brick, stunning chandeliers and authentic New Orleans architectural details. Expect a team of on-staff professional coordinators to create the event of your dreams with a seated ceremony and dinner for up to 150 guests. Wedding packages include total customization with reputable local vendors to remove the stress of planning. 2000 Burgundy St., 504-717-3441, neworleansburgundyhouse.com
VINTAGE
With luxurious amenities, a unique atmosphere and a rich New Orleans history, Race & Religious is perfect for vintage weddings and receptions. Located in the Lower Garden District, the event space features a collection of three buildings built in the 1830’s and offers 6,500 square feet of indoor and outdoor space for up to 275 guests. The brick courtyard is lined with lush palms and a fountain-flanked swimming pool lit by flickering gas lamps. Unvarnished staircases, French tiles, Buenos Aires wrought-iron gates and stained-glass doors further provide a perfect backdrop. 510 Race St., 504-523-0890, raceandreligious.com
RUSTIC
The NOCCA Institute is home to Press Street Station, featuring architectural details from its long history as a railway facility and warehouse. This airy dining room features a gleaming white bar, an area for a band or DJ, glass garage doors that can be opened and a professional kitchen—all perfect for standing receptions (for 200 guests) and seated dinners (for 98 guests). Meanwhile, Press Street Gardens is a half-acre urban farm totaling 18,000 square feet with a large courtyard lined with picnic tables and a wooden shade structure. 2800 Chartres St., 504-940-2900, noccainstitute.com
ALTERNATIVE/EDGY
Marigny Opera House, a repurposed Romanesque-style church constructed in 1853, was closed in 1997 and repurposed as a non-profit center for local performing artists. With cityscape views, theatrical lighting, and indoor and outdoor spaces with a capacity for 200 guests, the event space is ideal for alternative weddings and receptions—including LGBT nuptials. Enjoy the onion-shaped dome towers, arched openings and the overall elegant lightness of the interior. 725 St. Ferdinand St., 504-948-9998, marignyoperahouse.org
DRAMATIC
With a style that’s both classic and cutting-edge, Civic Theatre New Orleans offers a dramatic backdrop for wedding receptions. Originally built in 1906, it has played host to vaudeville and burlesque.shows, musicals and discos. Renovated in 2011, the state-of-the-art facility features AV technology and a modular flooring system that allows for multiple configurations for 150 to 350 guests. Be sure to use the theater curtains for a dramatic reveal of Mr and Mrs. 510 O’Keefe Ave., 504-272-0865, civicnola.com
FORMAL/TRADITIONAL
NOPSI Hotel New Orleans offers a number of venues in which to hold a wedding and reception. Dryades Ballroom features exposed brick, large arched windows and a soaring 30-foot ceiling for up to 600 guests; Public Service is a loft-like space with floor-to-ceiling windows that can accommodate up to 180 guests; and Henry’s Gin Yard is an outdoor space perfect for intimate ceremonies. 317 Baronne St., 844-439-1463, nopsihotel.com
GARDEN PARTY/CASUASL
Founded by Jimmy Seely and Joel Hitchcock Tilton, Paradigm Gardens initially was a community garden that has grown into a larger operation to supply restaurants on Rampart Street. The lush gardens provide a lush escape from the city for intimate and casual weddings and receptions—with space for 30 guests (plated dinners) to 125 guests (for larger receptions). The best part? The private events chef can customize your menu using seasonal ingredients, while a customized bar package can include a full bar or limited bar with a specialty cocktails using the garden’s ingredients. 1131 S. Rampart St., 504-344-9474, paradigmgardensnola.com
SOUTHERN-INSPIRED
Southern Oaks Plantation is the quintessential Southern venue. Over the last three decades, the Antebellum-style mansion and meticulously landscaped grounds have been the go-to for couples seeking an all-inclusive space with the legendary hospitality of the South. The picturesque live oaks provide a stunning backdrop, while the delicious cuisine, exceptional service and distinctive Southern ambiance provide an unforgettable experience. 7816 Hayne Blvd., 504-245-8221, southernoaksplantation.com
CONTEMPORARY
The Westin New Orleans Canal Place recently completed a $30 million renovation that transformed all public areas, event space and guest accommodations. The newly unveiled Guest Reception on the 11th floor features a brass-clad circular bar and two-story windows, while the Riverbend Ballroom (also on the 11th floor) is ideal for up to 250 guests with floor-to-ceiling windows and an outdoor terrace. Meanwhile, the Grand Ballroom on the 12th floor can accommodate up to 350 guests with custom textured Italian glass-rod chandeliers and floor-to-ceiling windows. 100 Iberville St., 504-566-7006, marriott.com
