8 Epic Homes That Double As New Orleans Wedding Venues

While New Orleans may be best known for its raucous annual carnival (a little festival called Mardi Gras), the city is also an architectural marvel with New Orleans wedding venues that represent a gumbo of influences and equally ornate stylings. For that reason, couples looking for small wedding venues in New Orleans need look no further than the city's impressive smattering of mansions, estates, and restored houses. Whether you always wanted a mansion decked with enough cast iron balconies to satisfy even the most persnickety Southern Belle or Beau, or a more modern—-by Crescent City standards—abode, this unique place offers New Orleans mansions for rent that suit every couples' taste. It helps that these homes' features make them some of the best wedding venues in New Orleans. 

See our favorite New Orleans wedding venues that double as historic homes!

Race & Religious

An artfully restored space comprised of three cottages in the lower Garden District, Race & Religious is one of those a magical New Orleans wedding venues with a brick façade that's full of character. With a capacity of up to 300 guests, weddings of all sizes will find a charming home in this event venue that mixes architectural and décor aspects from both Old World and New World influences. Perhaps because the cottages that make up Race & Religious were once home to working class families, this wedding venue has an inherently homey feel that can be played up or downplayed, depending on the couple’s preference.

Learn more about Race & Religious >>>

Degas House

A French Quarter-style wedding venue located just far enough away from the Quarter’s high-intensity revelry, Degas House is a gem of a historic mansion. Situated near the Mississippi River, the home originally belonged to French Impressionist artist Edgar Degas during his stint in the city. Hardwood floors, stately chandeliers, and period furniture accentuate the indoor rooms, while cobbled stone grounds and antique fixtures add character to the outdoor courtyards of the venue. As a fully operating B&B, Degas House is uniquely positioned to address many wedding weekend needs, including rehearsal dinners, guest accommodations, and post-wedding brunches.

Learn more about Degas House >>>

Beauregard Keyes House

This historic mansion and garden is actually a collection of buildings named for two of its famous residents. Commonly known as “BK House” to the community, this New Orleans wedding venue is located neatly within the French Quarter and perfectly blends the neighborhood’s two cultures—French and American. Between the 19th century-style cottages to the ornate grounds, couples have plenty of options on the property to select spaces for ceremonies and wedding receptions.

Learn more about Beauregard Keyes House >>>

House of Broel

Nestled between the tree-lined streets of New Orleans’ Garden District, House of Broel is a grand, historic mansion which doubles as one of the most epic New Orleans wedding venues,  accommodating up to 350 for your big day. A mansion elevated by a 19th century Victorian makeover, this venue embraces both history and quirk with its dark wood floors, elegant paneling, and vintage furnishings. The venue also boasts a manicured outdoor area with a pond and a pavilion for outdoor ceremonies.

Learn more about House of Broel >>>

Elms Mansion

While not exactly a “homey” environment, Elms Mansion is, technically, a former residence. Built by a New Yorker turned Confederate soldier just after the war, the sprawling Italianite-style mansion for rent is located on the famous Saint Charles Street in New Orleans’ Garden District. Couples may choose from the ornately decorated interior rooms of the mansion, which feature trademark hardwood floors, elaborate crown molding, and Victorian-style furniture. The elegantly landscaped gardens are also available for outdoor ceremonies. This large wedding venue can accommodate up to 400 guests.

Learn more about Elms Mansion >>>

Benachi House & Gardens

Located a stone’s throw from two of New Orleans’ trendiest neighborhoods—Mid-City and Tremé—Benachi House & Gardens is a stunning, expertly restored mansion. Flanked by palm trees and antique bird baths, the outdoor gardens feature a beautiful canopy and brick paving for garden ceremonies. Benachi’s interiors harken back to the mid-century period of its building, retaining the charm with stately furnishings. Many Benachi couples also choose to celebrate their weddings with one of the city’s most enduring traditions—the Second Line—which is perfect for the venue’s location at Esplanade Avenue and Bayou Road. This venue serves up to 275 guests.

Learn more about Benachi House & Gardens >>>

Melrose Mansion

A beautifully restored, California-blonde historic home that sits behind a paradise-like pool, Melrose Mansion earns its name with a vibe that’s straight Southern California meets the Bayou. Located on the historic Esplanade Avenue, just near theFrench Quarter, this chic and trendy New Orleans wedding venue is ideal couples wanting to buy out the hotel's 21 guest suites for their wedding weekend. Crafted in the late 19th century in Victorian Gothic style, Melrose Mansion was restored to resemble and preserve its original splendor.

Learn more about Melrose Mansion >>>

Terrell House

Bright and comfortable, while also maintaining New Orleans’ colonial elegance, Terrell House is a bed-and-breakfast wedding venue that truly makes your guests feel at home. Located in the lower Garden District on the famous Magazine Street, it’s a great location to host everything from a rehearsal dinner to a lively post-wedding Second Line. Intimate weddings will feel just as appropriate as larger celebrations (up to 120 guests) with full use of the home’s expansive, brick-paved courtyard. Built in 1857, the Italianate home is perfect for couples wanting the ultimate New Orleans wedding experience, complete with ornate, wrought iron balconies, and a lush garden decked in antique fountains. The home features many of its original design elements, including 14-foot ceilings, crown molding, and period antique furniture.

Learn more about Terrell House >>>