Picking the location for your wedding festivities is one, if not the, most important part of planning your Big Day. The venue sets the tone of the entire celebration and New Orleans is full of ideal backdrops for saying, “I Do.”
Each issue of New Orleans Bride Magazine highlights some of the best locales around the city. To make things easier on engaged couples and other readers, we’ve pulled together the locations mentioned by writer Misty Milioto in the last few issues in one handy post.
— Kelly Massicot
The Jerome S. Glazer Audubon Tea Room is the most prestigious of the venues located within Audubon Park. It features gleaming wood floors, soaring ceilings and double doors that lead to the lush Tea Room Garden. Perfectly suited for a New Orleans wedding and reception, the 4,000-square-foot outdoor garden can accommodate up to 300 guests. Get gorgeous photos and florals all in one. audubonnatureinstitute.org
For a luxe-yet-intimate venue for 50 to 200 guests, consider Basin St. Station. This indoor-outdoor event space overlooks the French Quarter and occupies a space that was formerly the Norfolk Southern railway station. The first floor New Orleans Museum is perfect for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, while the fourth-floor, glass-enclosed salon features lavish decor and modern seating. The furnished outdoor terrace, known as The Rooftop on Basin, features gorgeous skyline views, gas-burning lanterns, stone tile flooring and outdoor seating. Rental starts at $1,500. 501 Basin St., 504-293-2600, basinststation.com, brakemanhotel.com
A perfect setting for seated dinners (of up to 50 guests), or cocktail receptions and intimate weddings (of up to 100 guests), Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights sparkles with more than 40 handcrafted, gas-burning, copper lanterns and dimmable festoon lighting. The 1,500-square-foot venue features two entrances (from Royal Street and from Exchange Alley); a romantic, interior courtyard; and a workshop filled with antique fixtures, old work tables and vintage memorabilia. Tip: Arrange for Bevolo coppersmiths to be onsite during the event, so guests can watch lanterns being made. Rental starts at $3,000. 316 Royal St., 504-522-9485, bevolo.com
The Benachi House & Gardens is quintessential New Orleans, thanks to the historic interiors, gardens and patios that provide an idyllic setting for weddings and receptions of up to 200 guests. While outdoor ceremonies can take place on the front gallery or in the pavilion, outdoor receptions can be held on the illuminated rear patio. The venue is scheduled to be sold to two couples (Chris Jones and Jessica Walker, and Chris Short and Jessica Serrano) in December. Both couples are event venue professionals (Jones and Walker manager Felicity Church, and Serrano joined the team at the Elms Mansion three years ago), so the Benachi House & Gardens will be in good hands. benachihouse.com
A popular wedding venue since the 1800s, Bourbon Orleans Hotel offers a few options for intimate weddings. The wrought-iron balcony overlooks the French Quarter and is perfect for elopements and small weddings of up to 12 guests. Meanwhile, the two-story corner balcony loft suites are ideal for wedding ceremonies of up to 15 guests. Finally, St. Ann Cottage is available for weddings and receptions, featuring two adjoining salons with 12-foot ceilings and French doors that open to a private courtyard. Rental starts at $2,850. 717 Orleans St., 504-523-2222, bourbonorleans.com
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
Café Amelie, located in the 150-year-old Princess of Monaco Courtyard and Carriage House in the French Quarter, is known for its enchanting courtyard. Available for weddings and receptions, the venue can accommodate 100 to 150 guests. Choose from various dining options — all spotlighting Café Amelie’s traditional Louisiana cuisine. Rental starts at $4,500. 912 Royal St., 504-412-8965, cafeamelie.com
Originally built in the 1800s, the Capulet has been thoughtfully restored and now features a distinct warehouse interior that provides a romantic setting for up to 250 guests. Details include soaring 30-foot wooden ceilings, exposed brick walls and industrial-chic accents. The warehouse’s main event space features a sleek bar, and the rooftop deck has beautiful views of the city. The Capulet also has a full kitchen for either in-house or preferred caterers. capuletbywater.com
Chef Dook Chase and his wife, Gretchen, have opened Chapter IV — so named as this is the fourth restaurant under Chase’s operation — in the former site of the historic Warwick Hotel (now Tulane University’s newest residential development, Thirteen15). In addition to serving breakfast, brunch and lunch, Chapter IV is available for private events — such as happy hours, rehearsal dinners and receptions — outside of regular hours. Chapter IV has been designed in a classic midcentury modern style and features art by acclaimed African American artists. 1301 Gravier St., chapterivnola.com
Located in the heart of the French Quarter, Chateau LeMoyne was renovated a few years ago and exudes Southern charm. This historic property offers a boutique feel, but with elegant touches perfect for weddings. The charming and romantic courtyard, for example, is surrounded by exposed brick walls and is a classic New Orleans venue in which to say “I Do.” There’s also a beautiful balcony and a stunning ballroom. Chateau LeMoyne also offers top-notch catering and personalized service. 301 Dauphine St., hi-chateau.com
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
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
Hotelier Jayson Seidman has beautifully reimagined the historic Columns hotel, which dates back to 1883. In addition to preserving many of the building’s original architectural details, Seidman integrated new features like an expansive garden, an intimate second-floor event and dining space, a guest lounge, a rooftop deck and a new bar and restaurant helmed by Executive Chef Paul Terrebonne. Seidman drew inspiration from the massive stained-glass medallion at the top of the original mahogany grand staircase to establish the color palette. He also referenced the original marble fireplace mantels, chandeliers, stained-glass windows and plaster details when choosing new textiles and finishes. The original bar, public bathrooms, ballroom, 20 guest rooms (including 10 standard rooms, four junior suites and six suites) and exterior spaces also feature new touches. Through the renovations, Seidman has reinvigorated the property’s spaces while creating an environment that evokes a sense of being somewhere tropical and timeless. Columns provides six venue options for wedding celebrations, including the Library Room, the Chapel Room, the Front Porch, the Tea Room, the Lounge/Ballroom, and the Balcony and Upstairs Lounge. Each space ranges in size, food and beverage offerings, and atmosphere. 3811 St. Charles Ave., thecolumns.com
Commons Club is a dynamic restaurant, bar and lounge at the Virgin Hotels New Orleans featuring cuisine by the award-winning Executive Chef Chris Borges. Private spaces include The Shag Room (tucked inside Commons Club, accommodates 30 guests) that features colorful furniture, luxe fabrics, custom decoupage wallpaper and local New Orleans art and Dreamboat lounge (adjacent to The Pool Club on the 13th floor, accommodates 100 guests) that evokes a sense of the outdoors with lush greenery, lanterns and locally designed latticework. Meanwhile, The Manor is an intimate space (accommodates 150 guests) with arched colonnades, custom murals and large-scale copper Vertigo pendant lights. Finally, the Lounge pre-function space (accommodates 75 guests) is accessed via a sweeping art-filled staircase, overlooks Commons Club and features an outdoor balcony terrace. 550 Baronne St., virginhotels.com/new-orleans
Brechtel Hospitality is expanding Copper Vine Wine Pub into a bed-and-breakfast concept dubbed Copper Vine Wine Pub & Inn. The property will now feature 11 rooms, plus an expanded dining area that will include four new dining rooms and two new kitchens. The company also is expanding Vintage Rock Club (perfect for bachelor or bachelorette parties) with a second bar, video wall and additional dance floor. The venue will feature new performance lighting with an expanded VIP area, and a new lounge and restroom area. Plans also include a 6,000-square-foot indoor and outdoor rooftop venue that will be customizable with a full kitchen and private elevator entrance on Rampart Street. With the expansion, the properties will be able to host larger events — such as dinners and receptions — in addition to the more intimate bridal showers, and bachelor and bachelorette dinners. Renovations are expected to be completed by the end of this year. 1001 Poydras St., coppervine.com; 1007 Poydras St., vintagerockclub.com
Creole Gardens consists of a 2,700-square-foot event space, dubbed The Roadhouse, and an outdoor courtyard with lush foliage. There’s a built-in bar, easy access for local vendors (food trucks, anyone?), an in-house speaker system and a Caribbean ambiance that will kickstart your reception with a jovial vibe. 1415 Prytania St., 504-569-8700, creolegardens.com
The Degas House is celebrating 25 years in business and was recently awarded the Maisons des Illustres Award by the French Minister of Culture (of which there are 236 in the world, but only two in the United States. The venue accommodates up to 600 guests (when using both houses and the courtyard), while the courtyard alone accommodates 300 guests. degashouse.com
The Derbès Mansion — previously known as Benachi House & Gardens — is now under new ownership and has been renamed after its previous owner, James Derbès. The new owners, husband-and-wife team Christopher M. Short and Jessica Serrano, have partnered with another husband-and-wife team, Christopher B. Jones and Jessica Walker, to manage the property. The Derbès Mansion will continue to be offered as an event venue with overnight accommodations. Improvements thus far have included new landscaping and the restoration of the cottage and main house. A new pool, refurbished guest accommodations and a renovated kitchen also are in the works. 2257 Bayou Road, derbesmansion.com
The Eliza Jane, a historic hotel in the Central Business District, is perfect for intimate receptions for 20 to 150 guests. The open-air courtyard (spot-on for cocktail hours) features lush greenery, original brick walls, gaslight lanterns, a fountain and an original Venus-inspired sculpture by local artist Brent Barnidge. Meanwhile, The Library (a library-style space with original brick and masonry arches, heritage rugs and a marble fireplace) can accommodate up to 75 guests. The Holbrook, with space for up to 150 guests, features oversized windows, exposed brick walls, decorative moldings and a private courtyard. 315 Magazine St., 504-882-1234, theelizajane.com
The Frenchmen Hotel which was originally built in 1860, has been completely reimagined and redesigned by Denver-based FAM Design and hospitality entrepreneur Robert Thompson (who purchased the hotel in 2021). The redesign takes inspiration from Leonor Fini (a major figure in the French surrealist movement) who is known for her independence and eccentric, flamboyant style. In addition to 23 guest rooms, two loft suites and two two-bedroom suites, the hotel features a first-floor bar called Tiki Tock with space for 300 guests and a rooftop/mezzanine with capacity for 90 guests. Full buyout of the spaces is available, as are custom packages. thefrenchmenhotel.com
Fire House Loft is a gorgeous and unique space in New Orleans that’s perfect for bridal parties, showers and receptions for up to 113 guests. The property, which started off as an Airbnb, now acts as an art gallery featuring 1,700 square feet of entertaining space (including two bedrooms and two full bathrooms). One of the former bedrooms has been converted to a private dressing room. The space also photographs extremely well thanks to the exposed brick walls. Rental of the space includes use of the entire facility, plus all in-house furniture and kitchen equipment. Fire House Loft also provides private security during the evenings. Catering is allowed, as is bringing in alcohol, but guests must use bartenders from a pre-approved list. firehouseloft.com
The Four Seasons New Orleans is the epitome of a luxury wedding venue. With modern design and bespoke service, the hotel boasts indoor and outdoor spaces at street level and high above the skyline with beautiful views of the city. For example, the hotel features two ballrooms with capacity for up to 850 guests, The Garden with capacity for 200 guests and Vue Orleans (a 360-degree observation deck) with capacity for 100 guests. 2 Canal St., 504-434-5100, fourseasons.com/neworleans
Built in 1861, Hotel Peter & Paul previously served as a church in the Faubourg Marigny. Now, after decades of rest, the great hall has been restored with careful attention. In addition to offering 71 hotel rooms across three historic building (group blocks are available), Hotel Peter & Paul offers a number of spaces that are ideal for weddings and receptions. The 4,950 square-foot church hall can accommodate up to 330 guests for wedding ceremonies and up to 160 guests for a seated reception. The piazza, which is nestled between the School House and the Rectory, also is available for a 45-minute cocktail hour between the ceremony and reception. ash.world/hotels/peter-and-paul
Located in the Lower Garden District, inside a landmark 1861 building, the Hotel Saint Vincent features 75 guest rooms and a bevy of event spaces. Designed by Lambert McGuire Design and managed by McGuire Moorman Lambert Hospitality the hotel exudes ‘70s-era Italian charm and unexpected details. (MML Hospitality founders, Larry McGuire, Tom Moorman, and Liz Lambert partnered with real estate developers Zack Kupperman, Christian Strobel and Jayson Seidman to formulate the ownership group. Many know Seidman from his hotels The Drifter and Columns.) Of the various onsite venues, the Evangeline Hall & Courtyard can accommodate 175 guests and feature an open floor plan with full kitchen, a private wood-paneled bar and ample outdoor space. The second-floor veranda overlooks the pool and courtyard and can accommodate receptions of up to 55 guests. The North veranda also is available for open-air receptions of up to 30 guests. The Grotto, between the main hotel and Elizabeth Street Café, can accommodate up to 85 guests. Finally, the Chapel Club features a neon-lit entrance, hot-pink velvet bar siding, and a black-and-white marble-topped bar; it can accommodate up to 60 guests. saintvincentnola.com
Built in 1931, Il Mercato is a European-inspired event space in the Lower Garden District features a beautiful ballroom with herringbone wood floors and Italianate chandeliers, an intimate library and grand arches leading from the indoor event space to a sprawling brick courtyard with outdoor fireplace. The gas lanterns, brass doors and reclaimed brick set the stage for modern, romantic weddings. 1911 Magazine St., 504-827-2400, ilmercatoevents.com
The InterContinental New Orleans is a chic hotel, conveniently located in the Central Business District, that boasts 33,000 square feet of recently renovated, adaptable event space. Bathed in natural light, the spaces also come with state-of-the-art equipment and Louisiana-inspired catering options. For example, the 8,330-square-foot Grand Ballroom features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking historic St. Charles Avenue. 444 St. Charles Ave., 504-525-5566, ihg.com/intercontinental
Located within the Pontchartrain Hotel, Jack Rose is a lively restaurant that can accommodate up to 120 guests, while the restaurant’s private dining room, the Mile High Pie Club, can accommodate up to 36 guests. Meanwhile, larger private dining events can be hosted at The Parlor, a gorgeous space tucked behind the hotel, which can accommodate 110 guests for seated events and 220 guests for a reception-style event. 2031 St. Charles Ave., jackroserestaurant.com
The iconic Jackson Square makes for a quintessential New Orleans wedding with the gorgeous St. Louis Cathedral as the backdrop. As a public park, weddings here require written permission of the Department of Parks and Parkways. As such, the permit allows for only one wedding in the square at a time. While no food, drink or receptions are allowed in the park, a three- to four-piece ensemble is allowed to play three selections during the ceremony. Rental starts at $250. 701 Decatur St., 504-658-3200, nola.gov/parks-and-parkways
Offering options for both indoor and outdoor events for up to 400 guests, Kimpton Hotel Fontenot is a classic yet contemporary hotel with a romantic ambience. The breezy King Rooftop Terrace, with gorgeous views overlooking Tchoupitoulas Street, can accommodate up to 170 guests for alfresco weddings and receptions. Meanwhile, the elegant Canray Ballroom, named after musician Canray Fontenot, can host up to 375 guests for grand wedding receptions. The Peacock Room, with its vibrant jewel-box color scheme, is a vibrant space for bridal luncheons, cocktail hours and rehearsal dinners. Finally, King Brasserie, the hotel’s signature restaurant, is a lovely option for intimate receptions, lavish rehearsal dinners or farewell brunches of up to 50 guests. 501 Tchoupitoulas St., 504-571-1818, hotelfontenot.com
KREWE, the New Orleans-based sunglasses boutique known for its stylish, handcrafted frames, has opened its flagship store that serves as not only a retail space but also a community gathering spot. In addition to hosting customizable shopping events in the main room (for 30 guests), bridal parties can use the courtyard (for 50 to 75 guests) or the private wet bar lounge with direct access to a Royal Street balcony (for 30 guests) for a variety of bridal events, such as private dinners, bachelor or bachelorette parties, pre- or post-celebratory cocktails or even a second line pit stop. 619 Royal St., krewe.com
For a chic and modern setting, consider La Maison du Lac overlooking Lake Pontchartrain. The venue features an indoor ballroom and an outdoor deck. In addition to the stunning views of the marina, guests will be wowed by the wide-open spaces and nautical atmosphere. Rental starts at $1,000. 7412 Lakeshore Drive, 504-309-0700, lamaisondulacevents.com
Le Pavillon is an award-winning historic hotel that features early 20th-century charm blended with modern amenities. Located in the Central Business District on Poydras Street, Le Pavillon features 9,660 square feet of private event space, a full-service catering staff, audio/visual services, wedding packages and more. One of the prettiest spaces is the Bijoux Room, with its crystal chandeliers suspended from 14-foot ceilings, that can accommodate up to 125 guests. 833 Poydras St., 504-581-3111, lepavillon.com
Located in the heart of the Vieux Carre, the Maison Dupuy is a boutique hotel offering an authentic New Orleans setting for wedding ceremonies and receptions. The newly renovated and secluded courtyard features a pool and a fountain, and it is perfect for intimate weddings of up to 50 guests. In-house Executive Chef Matthew Regan oversees all catering, but menus can be customized to suit the tastes of the couple. Rental starts at $3,200. 1001 Toulouse St., 504-586-8000, maisondupuy.com
Margaret Place — a Greek revival mansion built in 1854 that was painstakingly restored over a five-year period by owner and operator Trenton Gauthier and his mentor the late Wayne Troyer — opened in March 2021. “We’re trying to disrupt some aspects of the wedding industry,” Gauthier says. “We’re an open venue that allows any vendors (except for the bar that we do ourselves, owing to licensing), and we’re committed to flat, fair pricing and transparency.” The hotel provides tours, furniture, light and sound capability and a sumptuous bridal suite. The flexible indoor and outdoor event spaces can accommodate 80 to 230 guests within a semi-tropical courtyard and the luxe interiors. The hotel also opened a cafe and restaurant, dubbed Rising Sun, in September 2022. “[Rising Sun] allows us to deliver a great day-of experience for the couple,” Gauthier adds. 1133 Margaret Place, margaretplacehotel.com
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
Previously known as the Rose Garden, The Moore is a newly renovated, all-inclusive venue that’s perfect for weddings. In addition to a gorgeous ballroom, The Moore features a large brick fireplace, stained concrete floors and sparkling chandeliers. The neutral color palette provides a gorgeous backdrop for an array of décor. The wedding and event coordinators have more than 15 years of experience, and wedding packages include a full-service bar, centerpieces, china, a wedding cake and more. 5616 Citrus Blvd., themoorevenue.com
The charming and historic New Canal Lighthouse is one of the most affordable — not to mention unique — venues in New Orleans. It recently has been restored, and it is now available for weddings. Offering scenic views of Lake Pontchartrain, the lighthouse also features a cocktail-hour balcony. The venue offers more than 250 parking spaces, and the outdoor area can accommodate more than 500 guests. The best part, however, is that events held here benefit the New Orleans-based nonprofit organization, Pontchartrain Conservancy, and its mission of environmental sustainability and stewardship through scientific research, education and advocacy. 8001 Lakeshore Drive, scienceforourcoast.org/lighthouse-museum
A venue previously reserved only for members, the New Orleans Athletic Club has a few onsite spaces that are open for weddings and receptions for 20 to 500 guests. The Bienville Room, with its attached, open-air courtyard (the largest private courtyard in the French Quarter), is ideal for smaller weddings with about 8,000 square feet of space. The courtyard has brick and industrial features and a classic flagstone patio. 222 N. Rampart St., 504-525-2375, neworleansathleticclub.com
Established in 1880, the New Orleans Board of Trade features a plaza constructed in 1968 on the former site of the original St. James Hotel. Designed to mimic a small Parisian park, the open court features a fountain surrounded by several planters and pink flagstone pavers. The venue can accommodate 200 guests for wedding ceremonies, 80 guests for a seated dinner and 150 guests for a reception. neworleansbot.com
Located within the New Orleans Botanical Garden at City Park, the Conservatory is distinguished by a spectacular glass dome roof at its center that mimics the nearby Pavilion of the Two Sisters. Perfect for small ceremonies and receptions for up to 40 seated guests, the venue overlooks the garden’s scenic lily pond and also consists of two wings on either side accented with tropical plants. Rental starts at $750. 5 Victory Ave., 504-488-2896, neworleanscitypark.com/botanical-garden
The New Orleans Jazz Market is an artistic events venue that provides a lovely backdrop for weddings and receptions. The Jazz Market Theater features polished floors, comfortable seating, bright lights and a grand stage for a band or DJ. This arena can accommodate up to 370 guests with any desired seating arrangement, from round dinners to standing cocktail parties. The historic facility also contains a lounge area to mingle over appetizers or drinks. The site offers a blend of contemporary chic decor, tall bar chairs and colorful furniture. thenojo.com/the-market
Located in the heart of the French Quarter, the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum features a 19th-century courtyard that comes to life with tropical foliage and twinkly lights. This opulent setting is perfect for small, romantic weddings — all with that perfect touch of New Orleans flair. 514 Chartres St., 504-565-8027, pharmacymuseum.org
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
NOPSI Hotel, New Orleans – constructed during the Roaring Twenties and serving as the former headquarters for New Orleans Public Service, Inc. – features luxe, modern-day design and amenities. Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and a member of Historic Hotels of America, NOPSI Hotel has a bevy of indoor and outdoor spaces for intimate celebrations, chic cocktail gatherings and large wedding receptions. The Dryades Ballroom, with its 30-foot ceilings, exposed brick walls and large arched windows, can accommodate up to 350 guests. Meanwhile, Henry’s Gin Yard is a great choice for bridal showers and luncheons or cocktail hours and intimate ceremonies for up to 200 guests. Or, book PS Reserve – a loft-like venue with floor-to-ceiling windows that can accommodate up to 80 guests. 317 Baronne St., 504-962-6500, nopsihotel.com
Omni Royal Orleans offers an array of romantic spaces for all types of wedding events. The Royal Garden Terrace Complex and Courtyard – featuring space for as little as 50 guests or as many as 250 guests – is fitting for intimate ceremonies. Or, book the stunning Grand Salon, which can accommodate up to 400 guests for larger weddings. The Rib Room, meanwhile, has four private dining rooms for rehearsal dinners or bridal luncheons. 621 St. Louis St., 504-529-5333, omnihotels.com
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
Located at City Park, and modeled after a classic European orangerie, the Pavilion of the Two Sisters offers a scenic backdrop for weddings and receptions. The pavilion features two outdoor terraces with flagstone tile floors, while the Zemurray Azalea/Camellia Garden (located on the eastern grounds of the pavilion) features multiple sculptures and can seat up to 300 guests for ceremonies. neworleanscitypark.com
Located where the Faubourg Marigny meets the Bywater, Press Street Station (managed by the NOCCA Institute) features architectural details from its long history as a railway facility and warehouse. The indoor area has glass garage doors that can be rolled up during nice weather, a marble bar and a professional kitchen. Meanwhile, the garden area (aptly named Press Street Gardens) features a large courtyard that can hold nearly 200 guests and an even larger lawn. The 18,000-square-foot urban farm features picnic tables and a wooden shade structure. pressstreetgardens.com
Built in 1817, the historic Creole mansion known as Preservation Hall has been home to traditional New Orleans jazz for more than 50 years. The perfect ambiance for small weddings and receptions, the venue features historic wrought-iron gates, distressed walls and a sizable courtyard. The best part, however, might just be the second line led by the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Call for pricing. 726 St. Peter St., 504-522-2841, preservationhall.com
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
Occupying a gorgeous historic Beaux Arts building in the French Quarter, The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans offers more than 48,000 square feet of event space. The Grand Ballroom, with its French silk draperies and Czech crystal chandeliers, sets the tone for an opulent reception. Meanwhile, the Mercier Terrace and Courtyard are perfect for cocktail hours and wedding receptions. 921 Canal St., 504-524-1331, ritzcarlton.com
For a luxe-yet-intimate venue for as little as 50 guests, consider The Rooftop on Basin at Basin St. Station. The fourth floor features a kitchen, a stage, banquet space and a furnished outdoor terrace. Overlooking the French Quarter, the event space also offers stunning skyline views of downtown New Orleans, gas-burning lanterns and a magical setting for the Big Day. 501 Basin St., 504-293-2600, basinststation.com
Located in the Central Business District, The Roosevelt New Orleans offers a unique selection of naturally lit, historic spaces that are ideal for intimate gatherings or lavish ceremonies for up to 1,750 guests. The two-level Blue Room, for example, flaunts elegant chandeliers and a 1930s vibe with capacity for up to 250 guests. The hotel also features enough accommodation space for the entire wedding party with 504 guest rooms. 130 Roosevelt Way, 504-648-1200, therooseveltneworleans.com
An award-winning venue for weddings and receptions, Rosy’s Jazz Hall acts as a beautiful backdrop for a New Orleans wedding thanks to its hardwood floors, brick walls and outdoor patio. There’s also an indoor balcony that overlooks a two-story atrium. All events are fully catered in-house, and wedding packages start with pricing for 75 to 99 guests. 500 Valence St., 504-896-7679, rosysjazzhall.com
Situated in the heart of the French Quarter, The Royal Sonesta New Orleans offers a fantastic location, sophisticated style and top-notch hospitality. The hotel features more than 20,000 square feet of event space, with the largest venue – the newly renovated 5,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom, which can be divided into two spaces – sporting magnificent chandeliers. Meanwhile, with its lush subtropical plants, flower beds and central fountain, the courtyard is a gorgeous space for receptions. 300 Bourbon St., 504-586-0300, sonesta.com/royal-sonesta
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
The new Saint John restaurant from beloved local chef Eric Cook of Gris-Gris, has a new third-floor private events space that can be used for wedding events such as receptions, brunches and bridal showers. The space is large enough for a 40-person seated meal or a 50-person reception-style event. The space can be customized (such as the layout and décor) for each event, but all items to be brought in must be approved by the events manager prior to the event. All rentals include dedicated servers and bartenders. Tiered bar options are available as are wine pairings for prix fixe menus (both of which are customizable, given availability and time). Menu choices include items like cheese and charcuterie, crispy oysters with Cajun caviar, Creole beef daube and River Road shrimp étouffée. 1117 Decatur St., saintjohnnola.com
A collaboration between Uznea Bauer, Cory Cartwright and Tyler Robinson, The Tell Me Bar is a new natural wine bar in the Lower Garden District. The owners offer more than 150 small-production wines, and they hope to grow that number as different allocated wines become available. The beautiful, fun and inclusive space features seating for 80 guests indoors and on the outdoor patio area, while the boutique annex room seats 12. The entire space also can be rented (for up to 125 guests) for bridal showers and bachelorette parties. 1235 St. Thomas St., thetellmebar.com
One of the oldest and most famous restaurants in the city, Tujague’s newly renovated three-story restaurant offers six dining rooms and can accommodate events for 10 to 300 guests. From rehearsal dinners to wedding receptions, Tujague’s has all the elements for a quintessential French Quarter event with fantastic food and a gorgeous backdrop thanks to traditional local architectue and interior design, and Tujague’s décor dating to the restaurant’s opening in 1865. Spaces on the first floor include the Parlor Room (40 seats), the Begue Room (30 seats) and the courtyard (50 seats); spaces on the second floor include the Patio Room (48 seats), the Krewe of Iris Room (64 seats), the Balcony Room (16 seats) and the entire second floor buyout (for up to 135 guests); and spaces on the third floor include the Steven Latter Room (60 seats) and the Guichet Room (24 seats). 429 Decatur St., tujaguesrestaurant.com
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
– Misty Milioto
