The Cost of Weddings at Larz Anderson House: Discover the ultimate guide to planning your dream wedding at Larz Anderson House in just 1 minute!

The Larz Anderson House in Washington, D.C., is renowned for its opulent interiors, Gilded Age charm, and iconic marble staircase—a dream setting for couples envisioning a sophisticated, historic wedding. When planning a wedding at the Larz Anderson House, understanding the potential costs is crucial for budgeting and decision-making. Let’s break down what you can expect to invest in your big day at this unique venue.

Venue Rental Fees: As of 2024, base rental fees for the Larz Anderson House typically start at around $8,000 to $12,000 for a Saturday evening wedding. This price includes exclusive access to the mansion’s main rooms and garden terrace for up to five hours. Additional time or use of premium spaces may incur extra charges, ranging from $500 to $2,000 per hour depending on time and date.

Guest Capacity and Seasonality: The mansion comfortably accommodates up to 130 seated guests indoors and up to 200 for a cocktail-style reception utilizing the terrace and garden (weather permitting). Peak wedding months (April-June and September-November) often command higher rates, while off-season dates may offer discounts.

What’s Included: The venue fee covers essentials such as tables, chairs, basic event staffing, and on-site coordination. However, it does not include catering, rentals beyond the standard inventory, décor, entertainment, or audio-visual equipment.

Catering Costs: Larz Anderson House maintains a preferred vendor list for catering, with per-person prices typically ranging from $125 to $250, factoring in cocktail hour, dinner, and beverages. Additional fees may apply for premium menu options or outside catering approvals.

Additional Expenses: Don’t forget costs for floral arrangements, lighting, rentals (linens, specialty décor), entertainment, valet or parking, insurance, and photography. Many couples also invest in a professional planner for seamless coordination.

As a designer, I always encourage couples to consider the venue’s stunning architecture and historic ambiance as the starting point for their overall aesthetic. Choosing décor and layouts that highlight the House’s features not only amplifies the guest experience but can also help you maximize your investment. Leveraging modern visualization tools, such as a home designer, can make it easier to plan seating arrangements, lighting, and color palettes that blend seamlessly with the venue’s grandeur—ensuring every detail is in perfect harmony with the space.

Tips 1:

Book well in advance—popular dates can fill quickly, sometimes a year or more ahead. Explore package deals with preferred vendors to streamline bookings and sometimes save on overall costs. Also, ask about available time windows: Friday evenings or Sunday afternoons may be more budget-friendly than prime Saturday slots.

FAQ

Q: Does the Larz Anderson House provide in-house catering?

A: No, but they have a list of preferred caterers familiar with the venue. Outside caterers may be allowed with prior approval and an additional fee.

Q: Is parking available for guests?

A: On-site parking is limited. Many couples arrange for valet service or recommend nearby public parking lots.

Q: Can I bring my own planner or decorator?

A: Yes, outside planners and decorators are welcome but should coordinate with the venue’s on-site team for logistics and compliance.

Q: Are there restrictions on décor or music?

A: Due to the building’s historic status, décor (especially open flames or wall-hung items) and sound amplification have some limitations. Always check with the site coordinator.

Q: Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

A: Yes, Larz Anderson House has accessibility features, but you should discuss specific guest needs in advance to ensure seamless arrangements.