When it comes to planning a wedding in the Twin Cities, we are fortunate to have so many beautiful former estate venues with rich history, stunning architecture, and elegant settings for a wedding day. Over the years, I have had the privilege of photographing weddings at many of these exquisite Twin Cities mansions and estates, including Semple Mansion, Gale Mansion, Bavaria Downs, and the American Swedish Institute. Each of these venues offers something unique, and I am excited to share these incredible options with you.
1. GALE MANSION
MINNEAPOLIS, MN
Built in 1912, the Gale Mansion is a timeless Italian Renaissance Revival style mansion offers a grand ballroom, rooms with elegant woodwork, and an outdoor ceremony area on the lawn. Fun fact, this mansion was originally owned by Edward Chenery Gale and Sarah Belle Pillsbury.
2. SEMPLE MANSION
MINNEAPOLIS, MN
Semple Mansion is another Italian Renaissance Revival-styled mansion from 1899 contains a magical wow-factor. The outside has signature pillars and unique architecture while the inside has an iconic entryway staircase, gorgeous chandeliers, and a beautiful reception ballroom. This home is one of the largest original residential ballrooms in Minnesota, and fun fact for the Swifties, the song “The Last Great American Dynasty” is about Rebekah Harkness (Semple), who was the daughter of the Semple family who owned the mansion.
3. ST. PAUL COLLEGE CLUB
ST. PAUL, MN
The St. Paul College Club is a historic Georgian Revival mansion on Summit Avenue in St. Paul. Built in 1916, this private residence became a clubhouse for the St. Paul College Club, a women’s organization, in 1956 and now serves as a premier wedding and event venue. The landscaping around this venue is beautiful, and the back provides a beautiful garden space for an outdoor ceremony. Inside the mansion are beautiful rooms that couples can utilize for their big day, which is especially fun for portrait opportunities! An indoor ballroom serves as the perfect place for dinner and dancing at the end of the evening.
4. BLAISDELL
MINNEAPOLIS, MN
The Blaisdell was built in 1887 showcasing the ornate architecture of the era. The mansion has been updated with a renovated with a modern all-white ballroom to easily transform the space into your dream ceremony site or reception area. The mansion also offers a parlor area, a billiard room, and a courtyard.
5. VAN DUSEN MANSION
MINNEAPOLIS, MN
The Van Dusen is such a neat venue that is a mix between a mansion and a castle. Built in 1892, this mansion is a mix of Richardsonian Romanesque and French Renaissance styles. This venue has an intimate outdoor ceremony area in the courtyard, as well as a unique ballroom with damask wallpaper. The rooms throughout the mansion are gorgeous and the iconic staircase is a must for wedding portraits.
6. UNIVERSITY CLUB OF SAINT PAUL
ST. PAUL, MN
The University Club of Saint Paul is a very unique gem with vines adorning the exterior of the mansion. Completed in 1913 and designed by Reed and Stem, the architectural firm also responsible for Grand Central Station, modeled the mansion after London’s prestigious city clubs. This venue features ornate architectural details, sweeping staircases, and expansive windows. While they don’t have an outdoor ceremony site, there are some beautiful parks nearby for couples who want to host their reception at the mansion.
STILLWATER, MN
7. WILLIAM SAUNTRY MANSION
The William Sauntry Mansion was originally built in 1881 and features a blend of Victorian styles with notable aspects like the wraparound porch, stained glass windows, and intricate woodwork. The mansion has since been updated with modern comforts to serve as a bed & breakfast. Couples can enjoy an intimate wedding experience with an outdoor garden ceremony and intimate reception. This mansion is the perfect choice for micro weddings.
8. THE HISTORIC CONCORD EXCHANGE
ST. PAUL, MN
The Historic Concord Exchange was built in 1887 by the Union Stock Yards Company of Omaha. The mansion contains beautiful romanesque architecture. This venue has gone through a lot of uses, and some of you may even remember when it used to be the Valentino’s night club. It now serves as a stunning event and wedding venue with a multi-level ballroom, martini lounge, and private hotel rooms. This is truly a unique mansion!
9. BAVARIA DOWNS
CHASKA, MN
Bavaria Downs is a luxurious escape has this estate features three distinct venues: the Edward Anne Estate known for its European flair, the contemporary Equestria West, and the chic Woodland Glasshaus. This venue offers breathtaking landscapes and an unforgettable experience. In addition to beautiful ceremony and reception options, this venue has an amazing bridal suite and separate groom space. Additionally, they offer a number of onsite rental options including chairs, tables, linens, and decor. Fun fact, this venue hosted weddings for the cast of Netflix’s Love is Blind Season 8 (Minneapolis).
10. AMERICAN SWEDISH INSTITUTE
MINNEAPOLIS, MN
The American Swedish Institute (ASI) offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern elegance. Couples can choose between the beautiful Turnblad Mansion, contemporary Nelson Cultural Center, and their gorgeous courtyard with cafe lighting for their nuptials. Plus, the venue provides in-house catering which marks for a memorable culinary experience.
Twin Cities mansions offer charm, history, and stunning spaces that add a touch of wow to your wedding. From elegant estates to castle-like architecture, couples have plenty of options to find a venue that truly reflects their style and personality.