Venue Recap: The Belvedere
After years of photographing some of the most amazing weddings in the DMV, our team has decided to look back at some of our favorite images from our favorite venues. Next up in this series is one of the most versatile venues in Baltimore: The Belvedere.
Built in 1903 as Baltimore's first luxury hotel, this incredible building has been preserved for over 100 years and is steeped in history. It now features 6 unique venue spaces, each with its own look and feel, ranging from ornate ballrooms to an intimate and contemporary rooftop lounge. All of these options make it the perfect venue for weddings of all sizes, from 40-400, and a dream location for Baltimore wedding photographers!
Other benefits to hosting your wedding at the Belvedere include:
Personal Event Specialists who will aide you in every step of your wedding planning
On-site catering with fabulous customization options for a personalized menu
A dedicated bridal attendant and banquet manager on the day-of to assure everything runs on schedule
Get ready on site before the wedding in their exclusive Bridal Parlor
The Owl Bar
This fun bar located on the lobby level of the Belvedere is part of the original building and features the original tile floors, bar and stained glass. A popular speakeasy during prohibition, the bar reopened in the 1970's and was renamed the Owl Bar- a nod to the wooden owls that would wink when whiskey was available at the bar back in the day, which are now placed around the bar to keep watch over its patrons. This spot is a great stop for photos with a funky backdrop and can be a great place to host your wedding afterparty, although it is open to the public as well, unless rented for an exclusive event.
13th Floor
Atop the Belvedere, you'll find the recently renovated 13th Floor. A luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, this venue space accommodates 60-80 seated guests or up to 100 guests for a cocktail style reception. It's the perfect spot for an intimate wedding reception that features amazing views of the city and all the best amenities.
The Belvedere is home to 5 historic ballrooms that feature gorgeous chandeliers, gilded architecture and soaring ceilings that can accommodate 40-400 depending on which room and layout you choose, offering many options for all types of weddings.
The Palm Ballroom
Originally a reading room, this first floor ballroom boasts rich velvet curtains and floor-to-ceiling mirrors. It's a great spot for an intimate ceremony, and can be used in conjunction with the Charles or Howard Ballrooms. For receptions, the Palm can accommodate 50-80 guests depending on if you chose a seated or cocktail style affair.
The Charles Ballroom
On the first floor of the Belvedere, the Charles Ballroom was originally the main dining room of the hotel and now boasts crystal chandeliers, classic architecture and an inlaid wood dance floor. This room can be used as a ceremony or cocktail hour space when paired with the Palm or Howard Ballrooms. It's also a beautiful space for wedding receptions, holding from 150 to 370 guests, depending on your style of reception.
The John Eager Howard Ballroom
The last ballroom on the lobby level is the John Eager Howard Ballroom. Named after a Revolutionary War General and former Governor of Maryland, this space also features the original crystal chandeliers and original fireplace, along with a hardwood dance floor. This space is great for more intimate ceremonies and receptions, but can be used with the Palm or Charles rooms too.
The Grand and Platinum Ballrooms
These opulent ballrooms with arched ceilings and original architectural details are on the 12th floor of the Belvedere. They can be combined together for large parties, or for a separate ceremony or cocktail area, but you will never have to worry about another party occupying the other room. Accommodates 190-450 guests, depending on the style of your reception and if you choose to use both rooms for dinner service.
A couple not-to-miss photo ops:
The Lobby Elevator
The beaux-arts style of the Belvedere continues in the interior, and we love the detailing of the elevator in the lobby, with it's ornamental doors and gold-gilded details. It's definitely a fun and unique spot to take a bridal portrait!
The Belvedere marquee sign
We highly suggest taking a moment to step outside, away from the hustle-and-bustle of the wedding day to take a photo with the iconic Belvedere sign in the background. Whether you sneak away from your reception for a night time shot, or head out before your ceremony, you'll always leave with a bold and timeless portrait.
