A Message from the Blythewood Owners
Blythewood is a Greek revival style mansion built in 1885 by Daniel Hardy Sanders. The architects were Drake and Anderson of New York. The mansion is approximately 10,000 square feet and sits on 10 acres. The interior is constructed with Mississippi Heart Pine, an extremely durable wood that has a very light color to it. One definition of the word “blythe” is light, and that is why Blythewood Event Center - Bed & Breakfast is so named. The Kennedy family bought Blythewood in 1969, and it took 7 years to restore it before they could move on to the premises. It has been placed on the National Register of Historical Places.
Blythewood hosts an array of events, such as, weddings, family and class reunions, corporate retreats and meetings, celebrations of life, bridal and baby showers, rehearsal and company dinners, birthday, and Christmas parties, as well as serving as an exceptional bed and breakfast accommodation.
We specialize in what we call “WEEKEND WEDDINGS.” This is where the wedding party, family, and close friends would check in the bed and breakfast rooms on Friday and depart on Sunday. They would have the entire mansion to themselves (other than staff) and are allowed to continue to celebrate the couple's union long after the other guests have left. The experience is special, unique, and soooo much fun. Our slogan is “A day you will always remember and a wedding no one will forget“.
You’ll find we are extremely flexible and willing to work with you. All our food is made at the mansion, and we promise you you’ll be having seconds!! However, if you would like to bring in additional foods, we allow this. Additionally, for a reasonable bar fee, you have the option to bring in your own alcohol, which can ultimately save you 1000’s.
Our History
History of Blythewood Event Center - Bed & Breakfast as told by O.M. Roberts Kennedy direct descendant of original owner of Spanish Grant Land.
During the Spanish rule of this part of Louisiana, 3,000 acres of land was granted to Reliegh Self on which the original Blythewood was built, and later became a working cotton estate.
The home was burned and in 1885, Daniel Hardy Sanders rebuilt Blythewood in all its original splendor! Sanders hired architects Drake & Anderson of New York to design Blythewood, and renowned New Orleans contractor John Hames Dalstrom was charged with the construction. The project took three years to complete, and the result was the current 18-room Colonial Revival Style Mansion!
Blythewood is open for tours and hosts Bed and Breakfasts (by appointment), weddings & receptions, luncheons, candlelit dinners, parties, retreats, and more!