The historic BK House & Gardens was built in 1826 and is one of the few examples of a raised cottage in the Crescent City. Today, it is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and is the only architecture of its type now open to the public as a museum and event venue. Formerly known as the Beauregard-Keys House, BK House & Gardens is also the site of numerous events such as immersive plays, concerts, and of course, weddings and private events.

BK House & Gardens Has a History of Nearly 200 Years on Chartres Street

Established by the late resident and prolific author Frances Parkinson Keyes, the story of the BK House & Gardens reflects the history of New Orleans. The home is a neighbor to other historical landmarks, such as the Museum at the Old Ursuline Convent. It is a rare combination of Creole and American architecture, designed by architect Francois Correjolles for wealthy auctioneer Joseph Le Carpentier. Many famous people have inhabited the house over the last century and a half, including World Chess Champion Charles Paul Morphy, Confederate General Pierre Gustave Toutant Beauregard, and Corrado Giacona. The latter is a wholesale liquor distributor famous for murdering three local mobsters in the back gallery in broad daylight in 1904. (wccannabis) (Thedentalspa)

BK House is in and of Itself a Work of Art

BK House & Gardens was lovingly restored from 1945 to 1970 by Frances Parkinson Keyes and architect Richard Koch, who established the Keyes Foundation to maintain it as a museum following her death in 1970. It contains artwork that spans 120 years. With its exquisite features, ornate artwork, and beautiful gardens, there is barely a need for any additional décor for your event.

Today, BK House & Gardens is the Ideal Setting for a Wedding, Corporate Event, Lecture Series, or Other Catered Events

BK House & Garden’s event spaces include the main house, the parterre garden, service quarters, and the courtyard. Guests can get a glimpse of the many uses of the house through seven different owners over two centuries, representing the city’s Creole, French, Italian, and American influences. The back parterre garden has brick paths, lush landscaping, and a central iron fountain installed in 1833 that provides a serene ambiance to any wedding or event. Imagine saying your vows in a flourishing French-style garden with finely manicured topiary, stone fountains, blooming flowers, and charming cobblestone courtyards. This lovely setting also creates a picture-perfect backdrop for wedding photos! Move indoors, and you will be surrounded by a warm and welcoming atmosphere adorned with authentic furniture and artwork from the mid-19th century, where gold detailing, gilded chandeliers, and huge windows set the stage for elegance.

A Spirited Place to Hold a Catered Event

Originally intended to be a weapons arsenal for New Orleans, the house today is famous for another New Orleans-style reason—it’s believed to be one of the most haunted locations in the French Quarter. A star feature on ghost tours, it is said that the paranormal activity is so real that it makes the two-century-old property come alive, but don’t let that scare you!

The most spirited visitors of the BK House & Gardens are those who come to celebrate life. Enjoy a cocktail hour or reception in the house or the courtyard illuminated with bistro lighting, where guests can leisurely enjoy food and drinks while soaking up the whimsical atmosphere and dancing through the night.

Let Us Help You Plan Your Picture-Perfect Catered Event at the Historic BK House & Gardens

Messina’s Catering & Events is proud to be a preferred caterer for BK House & Gardens, a stunning example of New Orleans’ history and intrigue, and the perfect location for your next event. At Messina’s, we can help you plan the ideal catering menu to make your event as memorable as the location you’ll host it. Visit MessinasCatering.com to learn more.