The Alexandria Ballrooms Review
Heirloom Event Company does not receive a commission for reviews or venue referrals.
You've got the Pinterest boards, the vision, and the dream of a wedding that feels like it belongs in a classic Hollywood film. The Alexandria Ballrooms in downtown Los Angeles invite you to step into this world of grandeur.
With a history stretching back to 1906, it has hosted presidents, celebrities, and countless breathtaking events. Today, this venue delivers on elegance and atmosphere in a way few others can. If you're picturing a celebration framed by gilded ceilings, glimmering chandeliers, and dramatic marble staircases, The Alexandria Ballrooms will not disappoint.
However, as with any venue, the story isn't just about the beauty of the space. It's also about the experience of bringing your wedding day to life within its walls. We've done our research to gather details on what it's like to plan an event here, and we're here to share our findings.
Price
For a venue with this pedigree and visual impact, The Alexandria Ballrooms offers a surprising range of options. However, with insight from reviews on websites like The Knot and Wedding Wire, the initial price tag doesn't always tell the whole story. It's important to account for several required add-ons and fees that are not included in the base price.
Here's a general breakdown based on our research:
Palm Court Ballroom: $7,320–$9,982
King Edward Ballroom: $5,324–$7,986
The Mezz Ballroom: $11,979–$15,972
These fees typically include 12-15 hours of venue access, tables, chairs, and cocktail tables. Many couples appreciate the flexibility of choosing their own vendors and creating a tailored experience. However, as you plan, be mindful of costs like security guards, valets, a dance floor rental, cleaning, and on-site representative fees.
Our strong recommendation: ask for a fully itemized quote from the start, so you're empowered to budget with confidence.
Rating: 7/10
The Planning Process
The Alexandria Ballrooms operate as a "blank canvas, though an ornate one at that. You get to bring in your preferred caterers, florists, band or DJ, and design team—something much rarer at this scale of event space.
Their on-site representative keeps the venue running smoothly, but for the actual coordination of your day and all those dreamy details, a dedicated wedding planner (like Heirloom!) is essential. Your planner can help you build a team that perfectly fits your style and budget.
A dedicated wedding planner will be your true advocate, managing everything from vendor coordination and timeline creation to navigating the venue's specific rules.
For example, all vendors must be licensed and insured, and no on-site cooking is allowed. There are also strict load-out times, often requiring a complete clear-out by 3 a.m. the same night, which can incur extra late-night fees from your vendor team.
Having your own planner guarantees there is someone in your corner to manage these intricate logistics, communicate with your entire vendor team, and protect your overall vision. All while you create unforgettable memories.
Rating: 7/10
Day-Of Experience
A wedding at The Alexandria Ballrooms has the potential to be truly spectacular. The three distinct ballrooms offer incredible backdrops for a memorable day:
Palm Court: Known for its high ceilings and stunning Tiffany skylights, this space feels grand and timeless.
King Edward: This room exudes romance with gold leaf ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and a beautiful fireplace.
The Mezz: The largest of the three, it offers an industrial-chic vibe with exposed brick and a grand marble staircase.
With strong vendor partners and a trusted planner by your side, weddings here are often described as seamless, beautiful, and absolutely memorable. Guests repeatedly rave about the ambiance and photo ops, and couples appreciate the space to make it truly their own. Some advise thinking through valet/parking logistics, especially given the downtown location, but say that—with a good plan—it's a non-issue. The payoff is a night that feels iconic and uniquely yours.
Your planner will coordinate the room flip if you're hosting both the ceremony and reception on-site, manage vendor arrivals, and ensure the strict timeline is followed. However, the venue's proximity to Skid Row is a logistical factor to consider for guest arrivals and departures. A well-managed valet or rideshare plan is essential. Ultimately, the success of the day heavily relies on the strength of the external team you assemble.
Rating: 7/10
Value
If you're seeking a venue with jaw-dropping architectural beauty and a rich backstory, The Alexandria Ballrooms is an incredible find. The value lies in its historic character, vast and varied spaces, and the ability to craft a fully personalized celebration. Yes, the "rental-only" structure means more planning pieces, but it also means more creative freedom and control over your vendor list, budget, and wedding design.
With eyes wide open to the required costs and a thoughtful approach to assembling your team, the Alexandria delivers an extraordinary canvas for celebrations that will be talked about for generations—especially in the hands of a great planner.
Rating: 7/10
Is This the Venue for You?
The Alexandria Ballrooms is ready for couples who want their wedding to make a statement and leave a legacy—bold, glamorous, and straight from the movies. It's especially well-suited for creative visionaries who want hands-on input into every detail, supported by a planning team that knows how to bring those dreams to life.
If you dream of photos against a backdrop of soaring ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and rich history, this venue delivers in spades.
With the right team and a clear understanding of the total investment, it's nearly impossible not to be swept up in the magic of it all.
We give it an overall rating of