Frequently Asked Questions

Planning a wedding reception, quinceañera, or corporate event in New Orleans comes with questions, and we're here to answer them. From pricing and venue capacity to services included and location details, this page covers what Magnolia Weddings & Events clients ask most. Ready to talk specifics or get pricing? Call us at 504-733-5020.

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Q: What areas of Greater New Orleans are convenient for guests to travel to the venue?
A: Glad you asked! We are literally minutes away from all areas of Jefferson Parish, Orleans Parish and surrounding parishes. Many of our brides appreciate not having their events in the French Quarter in hotels or the city of New Orleans and other venues with pricing that can be almost three times as expensive as holding their event at Magnolia Weddings and Events.

Q: What types of events do you host at Magnolia Weddings and Events?
A: We're so happy you asked! We specialize in weddings, but also absolutely LOVE helping celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, baby showers, corporate gatherings, and pretty much any event worth celebrating. Everyone's welcome at our New Orleans banquet hall!

Q: Can I tour your venue before booking?
A: Absolutely! We'd be thrilled to show you around. Tours can be scheduled at your convenience—just give us a call or send us an email, and we'll set up a time that works perfectly for you.

Q: Do you offer wedding planning services in addition to the venue?
A: Yes, we do! Our friendly coordinators adore helping couples bring their dream day to life. Whether you need full planning or just a little guidance, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Q: Are you able to accommodate different cultural or religious ceremonies?
A: Of course! We believe love comes in all forms and traditions. Our team delights in creating events to reflect your unique culture, customs, and style. Please share your vision with us, and we'll help make it a reality.

Q: How many guests can Magnolia Weddings and Events accommodate?
A: We offer flexible options for intimate ceremonies or big, joyous gatherings! Our space is perfect for events as cozy as 100 guests or as grand as 600. Let's chat about what you have in mind!

Q: Is parking available for guests at your venue?
A: Yes! We offer plenty of free, safe and convenient parking for all your guests. We want everyone to arrive and leave worry-free! Your guests will appreciate the convenience and unnecessary searching for expensive parking. It even increases attendance at our events.

Q: Can we bring in our own caterer or do you have preferred vendors?
A: You don't need to! Our in-house catering is included in our all-inclusive New Orleans Wedding and Event packages that are extremely budget friendly!

Q: Do you offer any outdoor spaces for ceremonies or receptions?
A: We have scenic garden patios available for great photos besides our numerous interior photo backdrops. They make for stunning photos and unforgettable memories! Our ceremonies and receptions are all indoors so weather is not an issue for your event and your guests' comfort. We do not need outdoor tents for inclement and unpredictable weather!

Q: What's included in your standard event package?
A: We strive to make things easy and special! Our packages include exclusive use of our venue, tables, chairs, setup and cleanup, plus our caring on-site coordinator to ensure things run smoothly. Have something special in mind? Let us know! Download our pricing brochure showing all of our features and services we provide.

Q: How far in advance should I book my date with Magnolia Weddings and Events?
A: Great question! We recommend booking as soon as possible to secure your ideal date, especially for popular seasons. But don't worry—reach out anytime and we'll do everything we can to accommodate you. We can't wait to celebrate together!

Q: Why do brides and event hosts consistently rate Magnolia Weddings & Events with 5-star reviews and recommendations?
A: Our 5-star reviews come from very satisfied brides who realize how important it is to have everything perfect on their special wedding day! Our entire staff works hard and is eager to earn those 5-star reviews!!

Q: How does Magnolia Weddings & Events ensure an all-inclusive, stress-free experience for weddings and special events?
A: We don't leave anything to chance! We have well-established processes and procedures that only come about after decades of experience. Proper timing and keeping things on the bride's schedule is critical. We make sure it is a seamless transition from one detail to the next. It is the reason so many of our events come from 5-star recommendations from prior brides and guests! Our brides are there to have fun and not worry about anything but a great memorable time for her family and guests.

Q: What makes Magnolia Weddings & Events the preferred choice for couples seeking a luxurious yet affordable New Orleans wedding venue?
A: After decades of successful weddings we have a well-established network of providers and sources for incredible quality food, preparation and professional staff and training. When comparing prices at other wedding venues brides are astonished to see how affordable our weddings are with absolutely no compromise or reduction in services and staffing! Our all-inclusive pricing covers everything you need (and expect!) for a luxurious and fabulous event. Our wedding and event prices INCLUDE taxes and we do NOT add any service charges or hidden upcharges.

Q: How far in advance should we book our date?
A: We'd love to host you whenever possible, but our calendar fills up quickly—especially during peak seasons. We suggest booking 8-12 months in advance to secure your preferred date. Don't worry if you're working with a shorter timeline; reach out and we'll do our best to accommodate you!

Q: Do you offer wedding planning or day-of coordination services?
A: Yes! Our team provides both planning assistance and day-of coordination, ensuring you can relax and soak up every joyful moment while we handle the logistics. There is no additional charge and is included in our all-inclusive packages.

Q: What types of events can Magnolia Weddings and Events host?
A: We're delighted to share that Magnolia Weddings and Events is perfect for a variety of special occasions! From New Orleans classic weddings and beautiful receptions to milestone birthday parties, anniversaries, corporate gatherings, Quinceañeras and more—we love being a part of your big moments.

Q: How long is a typical wedding reception?
A: A typical wedding reception in the US generally lasts 4-5 hours. This timeframe allows for a variety of activities like cocktail hour, dinner, toasts, dancing, and other reception traditions. Some receptions may be shorter, around 3 hours, while others can extend to 5 or even 6 hours, depending on the couple's preferences and the venue's schedule.

Q: What happens during a wedding reception?
A: A wedding reception is a celebration following the wedding ceremony, typically involving food, drinks, dancing, and other entertainment. It's a time for the couple and their guests to relax, socialize, and celebrate the newly married couple. Common activities include a grand entrance, speeches, toasts, a meal or buffet, cake cutting, and dancing. Some receptions also include traditions like bouquet and garter tosses, or other forms of entertainment like live bands or DJs.

Q: What is the etiquette for a wedding reception?
A: Wedding reception etiquette generally involves being respectful of the couple and their wishes, arriving on time, dressing appropriately, being mindful of alcohol consumption, and generally being a positive and engaged guest. It's also important to follow any specific instructions from the couple or venue, like seating arrangements or gift presentation.

Q: What dress code should I have for my wedding reception?
A: For your wedding reception, you should choose a dress code that reflects the formality of your event, your personal style, and the overall mood you want to create. Common options include semi-formal/cocktail attire, formal/black tie optional, or even a more casual dress code if your venue and theme call for it.

Q: What involves a wedding reception?
A: A wedding reception typically involves a cocktail hour followed by dinner, speeches, dancing, and other celebratory activities. Common elements include a grand entrance, first dance, cake cutting, bouquet toss, and a grand exit. The reception is a chance for the couple to celebrate with family and friends, often including a meal, drinks, and music.

Q: Is a coordinator or attendant included?
A: Yes! A professional Bridal/Event Coordinator, along with an Event Manager is included. A personal attendant is also included for the parents of the Bride & Groom.

Q: Do you have a separate Bridal Suite?
A: The bridal suite at Magnolia Weddings & Events serves as a "holding room" for the bride and bridesmaids before the ceremony, allowing them to arrive 30 minutes prior for lineup. This private suite can be used for the "first look," smaller family pictures, and for private dining for the bride and groom after the ceremony.

Q: Can the venue host both ceremony and reception?
A: Absolutely! It has been the trend for quite a while to avoid traffic between the ceremony location and the reception venue. Having the ceremony in a special area of our enormous 15,000 sq foot wedding venue allows for more time having fun at your reception. Our wedding ceremonies are stylishly designed for maximum comfort and are perfect for photo shoots by your photographer. Your guests will appreciate it! Especially when you think about the convenience for your guests finding free, safe and onsite parking at one venue instead of two!!

Q: Do you have outdoor spaces for photos?
A: Yes! We have two specially landscaped outdoor patios for beautiful photo backdrops.

Q: I am comparing wedding venues in Greater New Orleans and not New Orleans proper due to the higher costs and parking issues. How much cheaper are you for 150 guest weddings?
A: You will be delighted to find that we are one of the most affordable Greater New Orleans wedding venues, if not THE most affordable. Download our up-to-date pricing from our website and then compare everything we offer. You will be amazed and relieved to know you will have more money for that fabulous honeymoon!

Q: Does Magnolia support cultural traditions, like a New Orleans second line or specific ceremony rituals?
A: Absolutely. We have the largest dance floor in the region! Bring your umbrellas and handkerchiefs!

Q: Is your venue handicap accessible?
A: Absolutely! Our entire venue is on the ground floor with no obstructions and wide access doors. We also have large handicap bathroom areas for men and women.

Q: How far are you from the French Quarter?
A: We are about 18-20 minutes from the heart of Bourbon Street (It IS Bourbon Street!) and minutes away from most areas of New Orleans, Metairie and Kenner. Traffic is pretty light on Saturday afternoons and evenings when many of our events are typically held.

Q: Are there hotels and motels nearby for guests?
A: Absolutely! There are two within 3 blocks of our venue and many more in the surrounding area. A quick search on Google maps or any other online maps can direct you.

Q: How many guests can you accommodate?
A: Our spacious event center accommodates events of 100 to 600 guests with comfortable seating for up to 300. The ballroom features an expansive dance floor and attractive décor to set the scene for beautiful memories.

Q: What is the pricing for an all-inclusive wedding?
A: We keep our transparent pricing up to date and readily available on our website which you can download here: https://magnolia-weddings.com/wedding-pricing/

Q: Is parking free and nearby?
A: Yes there is plenty of FREE and safe parking in our parking lot. We have many handicap spaces as well. We can handle weddings up to 600 people so parking is NEVER a problem!

Q: Hello! So I'm turning 15 next year, and I've been looking for an event hall for my quinceañera and your hall caught my attention with the big space. My only concern is can we remove the food from your venue and add our food?
A: Call us at 504-733-5020 and we can see what you have in mind.