3 minute read
Celebrating 50 Years of Elegance with the Balcony Ballroom
Balcony Ballroom is a testament to five decades of distinctive elegance and familial dedication. Established on July 3, 1974, by visionary couple Johnny and Valerie Van Vrancken, this iconic venue has become one of the cornerstones of the city’s wedding industry.
For over 50 years, the Balcony Ballroom has been at the forefront of the all-inclusive wedding and event industry, hosting more than 15,000 celebrations. Vanessa Van Vrancken, daughter of Johnny and Valerie, reflects on her and her brother Jay taking over the family business. “My parents have put a lifetime into this business and are happy to see it continued in the space they created,” she says. Offering a genuine testament to an enduring familial commitment to excellence. Today. the brother-sister team and manager Mike Borne bring fresh perspectives into the Balcony Ballroom experience.
The Balcony Ballroom oversees every detail, ensuring it is meticulously curated, from linens and floral arrangements to customizable lighting, in-house catering, and a top-shelf bar. The multi-story ballroom, where all events transpire, easily transitions from seated ceremonies to receptions in three minutes. This distinctive all-inclusive wedding package alleviates the stress of coordinating with multiple vendors.
The Balcony Ballroom’s capacity to host up to 300 guests enables it to cater to intimate gatherings or grand celebrations. Flexibility based on the day and time of the event allows couples to experience the same premium package while accommodating their budget.
As the Balcony Ballroom commemorates 50 years of creating memorable moments, the Van Vrancken family reflects on the countless memories within its walls. They share accounts of solving every conceivable problem with humor and humility – from sewing brides into dresses to turning one bouquet into two for the toss.
Over the last 50 years, the Balcony Ballroom has seamlessly orchestrated stunning celebrations, leading to countless times as The Knot’s honorary “Best of Wedding” accolade and a place in its “Hall of Fame.” For Vanessa, the true rewards come closer to home.
“The greatest testament to our business is the number of families who trust us again and again for their celebrations.” Families have made the Balcony Ballroom a cherished tradition, passing down the honor of hosting special days from one generation to the next.
Cheers to 50 years for the Balcony Ballroom, a living testament to the enduring legacy of love, family, and the art of creating moments that last a lifetime.
The Balcony Ballroom is located at 4738 Utica St, Metairie. 504-885-8001 balconyballroom.com