Louisiana is crazy! What happens if a major storm or electrical outage happens during my wedding?
Don't worry, we have you covered and your day protected! - At Bayou Haven, weather will never steal your moment.
We’ve invested in a state-of-the-art, fully automated commercial-grade generator system — the most advanced backup available. It restores full power to the entire venue within 60 seconds — effortlessly and without disruption.
If the power goes out, Lights, sound, climate control, kitchen services, and every important detail remain fully operational — exactly as you envisioned.
No portable generators. No partial systems. No compromises.
No other venue can promise you this level of protection — we can, and no other venue in Louisiana offers a system like ours because your day deserves nothing less!
Don't worry, we have you covered and your day protected! - At Bayou Haven, weather will never steal your moment.
We’ve invested in a state-of-the-art, fully automated commercial-grade generator system — the most advanced backup available. It restores full power to the entire venue within 60 seconds — effortlessly and without disruption.
If the power goes out, Lights, sound, climate control, kitchen services, and every important detail remain fully operational — exactly as you envisioned.
No portable generators. No partial systems. No compromises.
No other venue can promise you this level of protection — we can, and no other venue in Louisiana offers a system like ours because your day deserves nothing less!
My contract says I have to have Liability Insurance. What is this for and how do I get it?
At Bayou Haven, we believe in transparency—there are no hidden fees or surprise charges beyond our standard rental fee. The only required additional costs you’ll need to plan for are Security and Liability Insurance.
At Bayou Haven, we believe in transparency—there are no hidden fees or surprise charges beyond our standard rental fee. The only required additional costs you’ll need to plan for are Security and Liability Insurance.
• Liability Insurance – Although the venue has it's own Liability coverage in place, this policy is required by all venues and it covers you personally, as the host of your private event.
This service is 3rd party and not provided by or paid to Bayou Haven, but are necessary to ensure a safe and successful event.
Can I use real candles in the Reception Hall at Bayou Haven?
Yes! Bayou Haven is proud to be one of the few wedding venues in Central Louisiana that allows the use of real candles.
To ensure safety, candles must be stationary and placed on stable surfaces such as tables. They must also be enclosed in nonflammable containers, like glass vases. Please do not place any decorations or materials inside the container with the flame—only water is permitted. All decorative elements should remain outside the candle holder.
For areas with higher foot traffic, we recommend using battery-operated tea lights as a safer alternative.
Yes! Bayou Haven is proud to be one of the few wedding venues in Central Louisiana that allows the use of real candles.
To ensure safety, candles must be stationary and placed on stable surfaces such as tables. They must also be enclosed in nonflammable containers, like glass vases. Please do not place any decorations or materials inside the container with the flame—only water is permitted. All decorative elements should remain outside the candle holder.
For areas with higher foot traffic, we recommend using battery-operated tea lights as a safer alternative.
Can I use real candles in The Chapel at Bayou Haven?
Yes, you can also use real candles in the Chapel. However, there are a few guidelines we ask you to follow:
Yes, you can also use real candles in the Chapel. However, there are a few guidelines we ask you to follow:
- Candles must be stationary and placed on stable surfaces such as tables.
- Candles must also be enclosed in nonflammable containers, like glass vases.
- Do not place any decorations or materials inside the container with the flame—only water is permitted.
- All decorative elements should remain outside the candle holder.
Do I have to hire security for my event at Bayou Haven?
Yes. Security is required for all events held at Bayou Haven under the following conditions:
• Two security officers are required for any event serving alcohol or for non-alcohol events with more than 50 guests.
• Only one officer is required if your guest count is under 50 and there is no alcohol being served.
Security personnel will arrive 30 minutes before your event begins to help organize guests parking, then remain onsite to provide general event oversight. If alcohol is being served, security will stay until the bar is closed and alcohol service has ended. For non-alcohol events, officers remain until your guest count drops below 50 or their minimum of 4 hours..
Bayou Haven works exclusively with active-duty Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Officers, and we handle all scheduling on your behalf—so there’s nothing you need to coordinate.
• Rate: $40/hour per officer (rate set by Rapides Parish)
• Minimum: 4 hours per officer
• Payment: Cash only, paid directly to the officers on the day of your event
We prioritize the safety of you and your guests, and our trained security team ensures a smooth, secure experience from start to finish.
Yes. Security is required for all events held at Bayou Haven under the following conditions:
• Two security officers are required for any event serving alcohol or for non-alcohol events with more than 50 guests.
• Only one officer is required if your guest count is under 50 and there is no alcohol being served.
Security personnel will arrive 30 minutes before your event begins to help organize guests parking, then remain onsite to provide general event oversight. If alcohol is being served, security will stay until the bar is closed and alcohol service has ended. For non-alcohol events, officers remain until your guest count drops below 50 or their minimum of 4 hours..
Bayou Haven works exclusively with active-duty Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Officers, and we handle all scheduling on your behalf—so there’s nothing you need to coordinate.
• Rate: $40/hour per officer (rate set by Rapides Parish)
• Minimum: 4 hours per officer
• Payment: Cash only, paid directly to the officers on the day of your event
We prioritize the safety of you and your guests, and our trained security team ensures a smooth, secure experience from start to finish.
Are we allowed to bring decorators in to decorate and prepare the venue?
Of course! We want Bayou Haven to reflect the wedding you always dreamed of. The entire venue is yours to decorate as you wish. As you can imagine there are some common sense limitations like no nails in the walls, or fireworks inside the building, but we work with anyone to make sure you get the wedding you always wanted! Refer to your signed wedding contract for a more comprehensive listing of decorating guidance.
Of course! We want Bayou Haven to reflect the wedding you always dreamed of. The entire venue is yours to decorate as you wish. As you can imagine there are some common sense limitations like no nails in the walls, or fireworks inside the building, but we work with anyone to make sure you get the wedding you always wanted! Refer to your signed wedding contract for a more comprehensive listing of decorating guidance.
Can we hang decorations on the walls or from the chandelier?
To protect the craftsmanship and beauty of Bayou Haven, we kindly ask that no nails, screws, or other items that create holes be used on the walls. That said, we’ve designed the venue with several approved areas where you can safely hang or place decorations—feel free to get creative within those spaces!
As for the main chandelier, due to its height and for safety reasons, we do not allow any decorations to be hung from it, including streamers, flowers, or other items. We think you’ll find the chandelier’s natural beauty is already the perfect centerpiece—no extra touches needed!
To protect the craftsmanship and beauty of Bayou Haven, we kindly ask that no nails, screws, or other items that create holes be used on the walls. That said, we’ve designed the venue with several approved areas where you can safely hang or place decorations—feel free to get creative within those spaces!
As for the main chandelier, due to its height and for safety reasons, we do not allow any decorations to be hung from it, including streamers, flowers, or other items. We think you’ll find the chandelier’s natural beauty is already the perfect centerpiece—no extra touches needed!
Can we take photos around the Venue on our wedding day?
Absolutely! Bayou Haven was thoughtfully designed with photo opportunities in mind, offering a variety of beautiful backdrops to capture your special moments. Whether you’re dreaming of romantic outdoor shots by the pond or intimate portraits inside our charming chapel, the possibilities are endless.
Don’t miss some of our most popular photo spots—the iconic Doors in the Woods, our vintage Wedding Carriage, and the many scenic views scattered throughout the property. There’s truly something for everyone at Bayou Haven!
Absolutely! Bayou Haven was thoughtfully designed with photo opportunities in mind, offering a variety of beautiful backdrops to capture your special moments. Whether you’re dreaming of romantic outdoor shots by the pond or intimate portraits inside our charming chapel, the possibilities are endless.
Don’t miss some of our most popular photo spots—the iconic Doors in the Woods, our vintage Wedding Carriage, and the many scenic views scattered throughout the property. There’s truly something for everyone at Bayou Haven!
Can we have fireworks on the property?
For safety reasons, fireworks are not permitted on the property—indoors or outdoors—unless you receive specific, prior approval fro the Fire Marshal and venue owners.
For safety reasons, fireworks are not permitted on the property—indoors or outdoors—unless you receive specific, prior approval fro the Fire Marshal and venue owners.
Can we use wedding sparklers for our exit?
Yes, wedding sparklers are allowed for outdoor use, as long as they meet our safety guidelines. Please be aware that you can only use sparklers at the front exit. Sparklers are not allowed in the back by the artificial turf. The sparks and hot wires melt and damage the tuft.
If you plan to use sparklers, it’s important that you purchase ones specifically designed for weddings. Standard sparklers from fireworks stands are not allowed—they burn much hotter, produce excessive smoke, and pose a higher risk of injury. They also make it difficult to capture clear, beautiful photos.
If you haven’t purchased sparklers yet, we recommend using our preferred vendor, Love Wedding Sparklers, based in Dallas, TX. Use the code “Bayou Haven” at checkout to save 15% and receive free shipping!
They offer both 20” and 36” sparklers, but the 36” option is preferred for safety and best photo results.
Yes, wedding sparklers are allowed for outdoor use, as long as they meet our safety guidelines. Please be aware that you can only use sparklers at the front exit. Sparklers are not allowed in the back by the artificial turf. The sparks and hot wires melt and damage the tuft.
If you plan to use sparklers, it’s important that you purchase ones specifically designed for weddings. Standard sparklers from fireworks stands are not allowed—they burn much hotter, produce excessive smoke, and pose a higher risk of injury. They also make it difficult to capture clear, beautiful photos.
If you haven’t purchased sparklers yet, we recommend using our preferred vendor, Love Wedding Sparklers, based in Dallas, TX. Use the code “Bayou Haven” at checkout to save 15% and receive free shipping!
They offer both 20” and 36” sparklers, but the 36” option is preferred for safety and best photo results.
Can we use confetti for our exit?
We kindly ask that confetti not be used for send-offs, including biodegradable types. While they may seem harmless, they often take days—or even weeks—to break down and leave a visible mess behind.
Out of respect for the couples celebrating after you, and to maintain the beauty of our grounds, we do not permit confetti of any kind. It’s very difficult to clean up and can impact the overall experience for others.
Thank you so much for understanding!
We kindly ask that confetti not be used for send-offs, including biodegradable types. While they may seem harmless, they often take days—or even weeks—to break down and leave a visible mess behind.
Out of respect for the couples celebrating after you, and to maintain the beauty of our grounds, we do not permit confetti of any kind. It’s very difficult to clean up and can impact the overall experience for others.
Thank you so much for understanding!
We want to have fun! How long can my reception last?
We allocate a maximum of 4-5 hours for your reception. About 90% of our weddings have receptions that are 4 hours or less with about 10% going up to 5 hours.
If, for some reason you need to extend your reception beyond 5 hours, there's a $250 charge per hour to cover additional staffing and other facility costs.
We allocate a maximum of 4-5 hours for your reception. About 90% of our weddings have receptions that are 4 hours or less with about 10% going up to 5 hours.
If, for some reason you need to extend your reception beyond 5 hours, there's a $250 charge per hour to cover additional staffing and other facility costs.
What time does the music need to end at my Reception?
To allow enough time for a smooth wrap-up, music must end by the following times:
Fridays & Saturday Weddings – Music must conclude between 10:15 - 10:30 p.m., with all guests, vendors, and belongings fully exited by 11:00 p.m.
Sunday Weddings – Music must conclude between 9:15 - 9:30 p.m., with a full exit required by 10:00 p.m.
This schedule helps ensure a stress-free ending to your celebration while allowing time for a proper cleanup and exit.
To allow enough time for a smooth wrap-up, music must end by the following times:
Fridays & Saturday Weddings – Music must conclude between 10:15 - 10:30 p.m., with all guests, vendors, and belongings fully exited by 11:00 p.m.
Sunday Weddings – Music must conclude between 9:15 - 9:30 p.m., with a full exit required by 10:00 p.m.
This schedule helps ensure a stress-free ending to your celebration while allowing time for a proper cleanup and exit.
Can vehicles be left overnight in the Parking Lot?
Yes, vehicles may be left in the parking lot overnight—no prior permission is needed. If a guest is unable to safely drive at the end of the night, we strongly encourage leaving the vehicle and arranging for pickup the following day.
Overnight vehicles will not be towed or moved, and can be retrieved at your convenience the next morning. Your guests’ safety is far more important than clearing the lot at the end of the evening.
Yes, vehicles may be left in the parking lot overnight—no prior permission is needed. If a guest is unable to safely drive at the end of the night, we strongly encourage leaving the vehicle and arranging for pickup the following day.
Overnight vehicles will not be towed or moved, and can be retrieved at your convenience the next morning. Your guests’ safety is far more important than clearing the lot at the end of the evening.
Can I take Bridal Photos at Bayou Haven?
Yes! If you have selected Bayou Haven as your wedding venue, then you get a FREE Bridal Shoot session at the venue! It's all part of what we provide to our brides!
If you are NOT a Bayou Haven Bride, we offer a paid option with includes access to all VENUE GROUNDS & and inside the Chapel. This package includes:
$195 - 2.5 HOURS: This includes all 8+ acres for photos. Areas on the venue grounds that are popular are In front of the pond, the Pond Fountain, In the front of the Reception Barn, in front of the Chapel, Wedding Carriage, and The Doors in the Woods. In addition, you also get up to 1 hour inside the Chapel for photos. You can bring in photo props if desired.
Yes! If you have selected Bayou Haven as your wedding venue, then you get a FREE Bridal Shoot session at the venue! It's all part of what we provide to our brides!
If you are NOT a Bayou Haven Bride, we offer a paid option with includes access to all VENUE GROUNDS & and inside the Chapel. This package includes:
$195 - 2.5 HOURS: This includes all 8+ acres for photos. Areas on the venue grounds that are popular are In front of the pond, the Pond Fountain, In the front of the Reception Barn, in front of the Chapel, Wedding Carriage, and The Doors in the Woods. In addition, you also get up to 1 hour inside the Chapel for photos. You can bring in photo props if desired.
Can I hang greenery on the Chapel Wall or on the Pews??
Yes! It is very common for couples to want to have greenery on the Chapel wall behind them for their ceremony, or even flowers on the pews. Although we allow this, we do not allow any nails, tape or command strips.
Wall: For greenery on the chapel wall, please use the pre-existing hooks that are in the wall. Use floral string or wire to attach your florals to these hooks that are already in the wall.
Pews: You can carefully hang florals on the ends of the Pew Caps, but you MUST use either ribbon or cotton string to loop over the pew. DO NOT use wire or any attachments that would scratch or damage the pew or the paint.
If you have ANY questions, please reach out to the venue staff for direction.
Yes! It is very common for couples to want to have greenery on the Chapel wall behind them for their ceremony, or even flowers on the pews. Although we allow this, we do not allow any nails, tape or command strips.
Wall: For greenery on the chapel wall, please use the pre-existing hooks that are in the wall. Use floral string or wire to attach your florals to these hooks that are already in the wall.
Pews: You can carefully hang florals on the ends of the Pew Caps, but you MUST use either ribbon or cotton string to loop over the pew. DO NOT use wire or any attachments that would scratch or damage the pew or the paint.
If you have ANY questions, please reach out to the venue staff for direction.
©2017-2025 Bayou Haven Wedding & Events, LLC
6021 Twin Bridges Road • Alexandria, Louisiana. 71303