When it comes to Baltimore weddings, there’s really no better spot than the quiet city of Havre de Grace. This Chesapeake Bay destination has a little bit of everything, from picturesque views of the water to historic buildings and a storied lighthouse. Now, the only question is where to host your event! As a Baltimore wedding photographer, I have gotten the chance to explore some of the most amazing venues around this space, and I am here to tell you about some of my favorites! If you are on the search for your ideal Havre de Grace location, I would love to tell you why I think a La Banque de Fleuve wedding might just be the spot for you.
321 St John St, Havre de Grace, Maryland, 21708
The city of Havre de Grace has a rich history extending back to before the Revolutionary War. The name itself comes from a comment made by General Marquis de Layfette after he stated the area reminded him of the French seaport Le Havre. Over the years, the area was at the forefront of American history from an invasion during the War of 1812 to its major role in the Underground Railroad. In 1905, the gorgeous stone First National Bank of Havre de Grace was built to accommodate the bustling town.
While the bank would eventually shutter, it was saved in 2010 after it was bought by La Banque de Fleuve and was restored to its original glory. The venue soon bought the neighboring Seaplane Base to provide couples with an outdoor space for their weddings. The two spaces continue to provide countless couples with the perfect setting for entering the next chapter of their love stories.
La Banque de Fleuve gives you several options for your ceremony, each as beautiful as the last. For those who want an outdoor wedding overlooking the landscape of the Chesapeake, The Seaplane Base is ideal. This area lets you get married on a stretch of land overlooking the water. There are lush flowers that add additional beauty to this already scenic space. There are also bistro lights to light up your event at all hours. For those who would prefer an indoor ceremony, there’s no better spot than the Historic Bank. This area maintains original features such as stained glass, vaulted ceilings, and marble walls. Bring in some fresh flowers and watch as this space is transformed into a spot worthy of a fairytale wedding!
Both The Seaplane Base and The Historic Bank can be transformed for your reception. With The Seaplane Base, you can choose to have your reception out on the paved area, though most couples choose to host this part of their wedding in the open-air pavilion. They also offer an indoor lounge with temperature control.
If you choose to have your reception in The Historic Bank, your guests will have plenty of space to move around as you celebrate. This area also features a balcony that you can use for vendors or your grand entrance.
The patio of the Seaplane Base is a great space for your cocktail hour. This area easily accommodates high-top tables and provides your guests with an exquisite view of the bay. Bistro tables and umbrellas are also available in this space. The Historic Bank has an outdoor courtyard with bistro seating that can similarly be used for this portion of your wedding. The interior of the bank also has an indoor wet bar.
The venue has get-ready rooms at The Seaplane Location you can use before your ceremony. Sip champagne, put on the finishing touches, and chat with your party as you fight off those nerves!
The Seaplane Base will hold 200 seated guests and 350 guests for a cocktail celebration. The Historic Bank is a little more intimate, with space for 90 seated guests and 130 guests for a cocktail celebration.
The Seaplane Base gives your guests plenty of opportunities to get close to the water. Steps lead from the space to the lower beach, where you’ll find a private deck reserved for your day. The Historic Bank is rich with original details, including wrought iron and fireplaces. It is also illuminated by traditional chandeliers that feel natural within the space.
As a photographer, I adore all of the details of La Banque de Fleuve’s wedding venue. You’ll have a balcony for first looks and private walkways butting against the romantic stone building. The large arched doorways are also ideal for couple portraits. The dock at the Seaplane Base is perfect for a couple of portraits that overlook the water. They additionally have a pergola for the background of your group pictures.
With La Banque de Fleuve, you will have the freedom to have the wedding of your dreams. The venue will allow you to bring in the caterers you want for your perfect meal. The Historic Base gives you access to their round tables and mahogany Chiavari chairs. At the Seaplane Base, they do require that you rent their tables and chairs at an additional fee, and you will need to have someone from your party set it up. I promise this venue will make it more than worth it! Both venues are handicap accessible, and each offers complimentary public parking. You will also have private indoor restrooms at both locations. The Seaplane Base is pet-friendly, allowing your four-legged bestie to join in on all the fun!
If you are searching for your perfect Havre de Grace wedding location, look no further than La Banque de Fleuve wedding venue! This venue offers you two exceptional spots where you can have a purely magical Chesapeake Bay wedding!
I would love to connect if you need someone to help you capture all those stunning details! I am a Baltimore wedding photographer and adore working with couples to help them capture their celebrations. So, I would love to talk and tell you about my style so you can decide if I’m the photographer for you. Contact me today so we can chat!