The Derbès Mansion
Your New Orleans Home for the Weekend
A New Orleans Landmark
The Derbès Mansion is an award-winning restoration of a New Orleans Landmark, set amid generous gardens shaded by oaks and sycamores in the centrally located Esplanade Ridge Historic District. The Derbès is centrally located one mile from the French Quarter and a mile and a half from City Park. Our 1858 Greek Revival manor has maintained many original details such as the hand-carved black marble mantles, ornate medallions, brass chandeliers, 14-foot ceilings, heart-of-pine floors, and Belgian Flagstones.
A Space to Call Home
The Derbès boasts 35,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space for your guests to enjoy. Host your ceremony under the gazebo or on the front gallery, a welcome party on the front lawn, cocktail reception on the back patio, a brunch in the double parlor, or a seated dinner along the drive. Our sprawling grounds facilitate endless possibilities, limited only by your imagination.
A Historic Property With a New Name
On December 1, 2021 the property changed hands for the first time in almost forty years. The Benachi House was affectionately renamed in honor of former owner James Derbes who purchased the property in 1982 from Louisiana Landmark Society in order to restore her to her former glory. While working full time as a prominent attorney and raising his family in the home, Jim spent tireless nights and weekends restoring 2257 Bayou Road. Jim’s love of historic preservation and eye for detail, ensured that the house restored its historic charm and details. After being talked into hosting a friend’s wedding, Jim accidentally fell into the event business and the property has been hosting weddings for over twenty years.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I see the property?
We’d love to have you over! We are happy to schedule an appointment Monday-Saturday 10AM-6:30PM.
What is the minimum buyout?
Our minimum buyout is three nights and includes one event. Additional nights and events can be reserved for an extra charge.
How do I book Derbès?
Pick a minimum of three consecutive nights and request a contract. A signed contract and 50% initial payment will secure your dates. The remaining 50% and balance and $1,000 security deposit are due 30 days before your event.
Do I have to use specific vendors?
No! We want your event to be your very own. You are welcome to bring in any vendors as long as they are licensed and insured. We are more than happy to share a list of our recommended vendors.
When can vendors load in and out?
Given the weekend rental, your vendors have a great deal of flexibility with load in and out. We simply ask that, out of consideration for our neighbors, set up begin no earlier than 9am and breakdown be complete by 11PM.
What are event start and end times?
You may pick any four-hour block for your event time as long as it ends at or before 10PM.
Where should we have our ceremony?
Our gallery or our Beaux Arts pavilion, both at the front of the property, are beautiful ceremony settings, particularly for larger events. The garden gazebo on the rear patio and the double parlors inside provide additional, more intimate choices.
Where should my guests park?
While most guests arrive by ride share or privately chartered bus, there is plenty of perimeter parking for those who choose to drive. There is a parking lot one block away that can be rented.
Do I need an event planner or coordinator?
Yes and no. We do require a planner for wedding ceremonies and receptions but do not require (but recommend) a planner for other social functions. A well-orchestrated event always has a conductor.
Are there noise restrictions?
Yes. We are located in a residential area and try to be good neighbors. We strictly follow and enforce all New Orleans sound and noise restrictions.
What is included in the weekend rental?
You have your choice of one event as well as exclusive use of the entire property, which includes the grounds and accommodations on site.
What happens if it rains?
We recommend renting rain plan tents. For smaller events, you are welcome to move inside.
When is check in and check out?
Check in is at 3PM. Check out is at 11AM.
Can I bring my pets?
Yes! Well behaved potty-trained pets are welcome.
What are the house rules?
We will provide you a full list upon booking but the most common ones are:
- All outdoor gatherings must end by 10PM
- No open flames or candles are permitted inside.
- All outside candles must be in glass cylinders.
- No glitter, confetti, or artificial rose petals.
- Sparklers must be 20 inches only and lit 20 feet from the house.
Do you do photo shoot rentals?
Yes! With a variety of indoor and outdoor backdrops, the Derbès Mansion is an idyllic setting for family photos, engagement sessions, bridal portraits, and styled shoots. You are free to take your photos during your weekend rental or schedule an appointment based on availability.
Join Us for a Tour!
You’ve got to see it for yourself. We’d love to have you over.