Why Louisiana Brides Are Choosing Metairie Venues over New Orleans: How to Have the Best of Both Worlds

If you grew up in Louisiana, chances are you’ve imagined your wedding day more than once, the music, the food, and of course, your mama and ‘dem all in one place. Being a Louisiana bride means you want it all: the soulful traditions, the unbeatable food, and the kind of celebration that lasts all weekend long.

But more and more couples are discovering that you don’t have to book an expensive downtown New Orleans venue to get the full wedding experience. Hosting your ceremony in New Orleans and your reception in Metairie especially at The Alexander Room & Terrace gives you the best of both worlds.

The Perfect Combination: Ceremony in the City, Reception in Metairie

New Orleans has no shortage of stunning ceremony locations steeped in history and romance. Many of our brides choose to say “I do” in the heart of the city, then celebrate in Metairie for a seamless (and stress-free) wedding day.

Popular ceremony locations our couples love:

• St. Francis Xavier Church: Just minutes from The Alexander Room, this Metairie favorite combines timeless architecture with convenience.

• St. Louis Cathedral: A classic New Orleans choice for those wanting the full French Quarter grandeur.

• The Tree of Life at Audubon Park: For couples dreaming of a natural, outdoor ceremony under ancient oaks.

• The Pharmacy Museum Courtyard: Intimate and iconic, ideal for smaller ceremonies.

  
  

After the ceremony, guests can make a quick 15-minute drive to The Alexander Room & Terrace, where free parking, spacious interiors, and customizable layouts await. It’s the perfect way to blend city charm with Metairie convenience.

Where to Stay: The Best Hotels for a Wedding Weekend

Many of our brides love starting their day in a stylish New Orleans hotel to incorporate New Orleans charm in their getting ready and first look photos. Staying at a classic New Orleans hotel elevates the day and add a little something special. Doing this also offers an opportunity for an after party near your hotel at an iconic New Orleans location. 

Top New Orleans hotels for bridal prep and first-look photos:

• The Eliza Jane: Historic elegance and romantic lighting, perfect for portraits.

• The Virgin Hotel: Modern, bold, and full of character.

• The Kimpton Fontenot: Sophisticated décor and great natural light for photos.

• The Hotel Monteleone: A true New Orleans icon, complete with the Carousel Bar for a post-rehearsal toast.

• The Pontchartrain Hotel: Classic Southern charm with stunning views from Hot Tin rooftop bar.

  
  

Prefer to stay closer to the venue? Metairie has several excellent options within minutes of The Alexander Room:

• Sheraton Metairie

• Courtyard by Marriott Metairie

• Homewood Suites by Hilton Metairie

  
  

All are convenient, comfortable, and ideal for hosting out-of-town guests who want to stay near the reception. 

Wedding Weekend Ideas: Celebrate All Weekend Long

When your reception is in Metairie, you have the flexibility to plan a weekend that flows easily between New Orleans charm and local convenience.

Ideas for a memorable Louisiana wedding weekend:

• Welcome Dinner in New Orleans: Host your kickoff celebration at spots like Arnaud’s, The Columns, or Commander’s Palace.

• Bridal Party Brunch: Treat your crew to mimosas at The Ruby Slipper Café or Bearcat.

• After Party: Keep the party going with karaoke at Gennaros, cocktails at Hot Tin, or dancing at The Gold Mine Saloon.

• Farewell Brunch: End the weekend with beignets at Cafe du Monde, donuts at District Donuts or host a laid-back brunch at a local AirBnB.

Why Metairie Just Makes Sense

Hosting your reception in Metairie, at The Alexander Room, gives you all the luxury and celebration of a New Orleans wedding — without the stress. Here’s why more Louisiana brides are making the switch:

1. Cost Savings Without Compromise Downtown venues often charge premium rates for parking, staffing, and city logistics. At The Alexander Room, you get more space, flexibility, and value without sacrificing beauty or experience.

2. Convenience for You and Your Guests The Alexander Room & Terrace offers free on-site parking, easy rideshare access, is 10 minutes from the airport and 10 minutes from downtown New Orleans.

3. More Room to Celebrate Metairie venues typically offer larger layouts, allowing for more seating, bigger dance floors, and creative setups. At The Alexander Room, you can enjoy both a grand indoor ballroom and an open-air terrace, perfect for cocktails, photos, or a fun send-off.

4. Less Stress, More Time to Enjoy No need to navigate downtown traffic or limited loading zones. Vendors can set up with ease, and you can relax knowing everything is running smoothly.

The Best of Both Worlds

At The Alexander Room & Terrace, you don’t have to choose between the energy of New Orleans and the comfort of Metairie.

Start your wedding day surrounded by the historic charm of the city, and end the night dancing under terrace lights with your favorite people. With thoughtful planning, your celebration can capture everything that makes Louisiana weddings so special: heart, flavor, music, and joie de vivre..

Book a tour today and let us help you plan something extra special.