We are Alyse and Ben, passionate wedding photographers based in the vibrant city of New Orleans. Today, we are thrilled to share with you one of the most exquisite wedding venues in the Garden District of New Orleans – the historic Elms Mansion. This stunning venue, with its rich history and captivating charm, offers an unparalleled backdrop for your special day.

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A Historic Mansion in the Garden District

The Van Benthuysen-Elms Mansion, an iconic example of Italianate-style architecture, stands majestically on St. Charles Avenue, adding a touch of grandeur to the Garden District. Built in 1869 for Watson Van Benthuysen II, this mansion has witnessed countless celebrations and continues to be a sought-after venue for weddings and other special events.

The Van Benthuysen Legacy

Watson Van Benthuysen II, a New York native who moved to New Orleans in the 1840s, was a prominent businessman and the President of a Saint Charles streetcar company. He built the mansion in 1869, and it remained his home until his death in 1901. The mansion’s historical significance and timeless beauty have been preserved through the years, making it a cherished landmark in New Orleans.

The Elms Family Era

In 1952, John Elms Sr., owner of the largest coin-operated amusement company in the South, purchased the mansion. Following his death in 1968, the Elms family began using the house for private functions. Today, the mansion is operated by the third generation of the Elms family, who continue to host elegant events and share their Southern hospitality with all who visit.

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The Charm and Elegance of Elms Mansion

Stepping into Elms Mansion is like stepping back in time. The mansion is adorned with period furnishings and features exquisite details such as a hand-carved marble mantel, ornamental cornices, 24-karat gold sconces, and a 48-foot grand ballroom lined with jeweled windows. These elegant touches create a luxurious ambiance that transports guests to a bygone era.

Beautiful Gardens and Patios

One of the highlights of Elms Mansion is its enchanting gardens. The lush greenery, blooming flowers, and charming patios provide a picturesque setting for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. The gazebo, nestled within the gardens, is a popular spot for couples to exchange their vows, offering a romantic backdrop for your special moment.

The Grand Ballroom

The 48-foot grand ballroom is a sight to behold. With its jeweled windows, stage, and full-service bar, this space is perfect for hosting receptions and celebrations. The ballroom’s opulent décor and spacious layout can accommodate a large number of guests, making it an ideal venue for grand celebrations.

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Hosting Your Wedding at Elms Mansion

Elms Mansion offers a range of amenities and services to ensure that your wedding day is nothing short of magical. Here are some key details to consider when planning your wedding at this historic venue:

Capacity and Facilities

• Facility Buyout: Yes
• Maximum Facility Banquet Capacity: 350
• Maximum Facility Reception Capacity: 600
• Number of Private Rooms: 1

Location and Accessibility

Elms Mansion is conveniently located in the Garden District, making it easily accessible from key locations in New Orleans:

• Convention Center: 1.7 miles
• Superdome/Arena: 1.5 miles
• Airport: 10.7 miles
• French Quarter: 2.5 miles

Rental Fees and Packages

The rental fee for hosting an event at Elms Mansion ranges from $3,500 to $10,000, depending on the day of the week and other factors. The ceremony fee starts at $1,200. Wedding packages, which include alcohol, range from $82 to $148 per person. Additionally, a 20% service charge or gratuity is applied.

Inclusions and Services

When you choose Elms Mansion as your wedding venue, you can expect a range of services and amenities designed to make your day unforgettable:

• Reception Duration: 3 hours
• Open Bar: Included
• Champagne for Toast: Provided
• Cake Knife and Toasting Glasses: Provided

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Rave Reviews and Unforgettable Experiences

Elms Mansion continues to receive rave reviews from couples and guests alike. The combination of its historical charm, elegant décor, and exceptional service makes it a standout venue in New Orleans. Whether you are planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, Elms Mansion offers a unique and memorable experience for all.

Testimonials

Here are a few testimonials from couples who have celebrated their weddings at Elms Mansion:

• “Elms Mansion was the perfect venue for our wedding. The gardens were stunning, and the ballroom was absolutely breathtaking. Our guests couldn’t stop raving about the venue and the exceptional service. It truly made our day unforgettable.” – Sarah and James
• “We fell in love with Elms Mansion the moment we saw it. The historic charm and elegance of the venue made it the perfect setting for our wedding. The staff went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.” – Emily and Michael

Choosing the right wedding venue is one of the most important decisions you will make when planning your special day. Elms Mansion, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and exceptional service, offers everything you need for a truly unforgettable wedding. As photographers, we have had the privilege of capturing many beautiful moments at this remarkable venue, and we highly recommend it to couples looking for a venue that exudes elegance and charm.

If you are planning a wedding in New Orleans, we invite you to consider Elms Mansion. From its enchanting gardens to its grand ballroom, every corner of this historic venue is steeped in beauty and history, making it the perfect backdrop for your love story. We look forward to capturing your special moments at Elms Mansion and helping you create memories that will last a lifetime.

Thank you for joining us on this journey through Elms Mansion. We hope you found this blog informative and inspiring. For more information or to schedule a tour of Elms Mansion, please visit their website or contact their event planning team, and let’s connect to discuss your wedding photography!