With the city of Richmond as your backdrop and the James River streaming by this is the perfect blend of history, city, and nature. The Historic Tredegar was built on a prime location near water power, working coal mines, and the railroad. Originally the Tredegar was used to make locomotives, sugar mill factory pieces, and canons and guns for the government. When the Civil War erupted, the Tredegar went into full production making canons and guns for the confederate army. The Tredegar also made armor plating for the USS Virginia warship.
With the rise in steel manufacturing and the financial scares of the 1870’s, the Tredegar’s business began to slow. They were able to continue production until 1952 when a fire destroyed most of the building. Some reconstruction was done in the years following, however it wasn’t until 2000 that the National Park Service turned Tredegar into the visitors center for those exploring the Richmond battlefields.
Today the space is used as an event venue. With it’s sprawling acreage you can have your ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception here. Your guests will have no problem parking in the lot and will enjoy the scenic walk over to the ceremony site. The most common location for ceremony is in front of the double doors, with the city skyline in the back ground. This makes for gorgeous photos and immediate access to the James River and Browns Island for after ceremony portraits. While you are taking your very “Richmond” photos, your guests will make their way down to the ruins for cocktail hour.
The centuries-old ruins provide the perfect atmosphere for a great cocktail hour and reception. Your guests will really enjoy being surrounded by such a unique part of history. You can bring in tables and linens to fit the space and your guest count, and the Tredegar provides the tent. If you have ever priced a tent, you know this is a huge win. Your reception and/or your rain plan will take place in the tent. The tent can be strung with bistro lights, chandeliers, or uplighting. There is enough room in this tent for a DJ or a band.
When it is time to make your grand entrance you will walk from the ceremony site around the back of the ruins. There is a grand staircase that frames up the great announcement of the new couple. The stairs are grated so make sure you are wearing appropriate shoes, or have a strong hold on your new husband.
