Laurel Court

Wow… How have I never heard of this place? Gorgeous grounds, amazing architecture, you’ll feel like you are in Europe or at least anywhere other than Cincinnati. Marble everywhere, gold leaf, gilded pianos, African wood paneled walls…
This place oozes suave and sophistication like the Dos Equis fellow. Every nook and cranny of this place is well maintained and will be perfect for whatever event you attend.
The staff are very easy to work with and I’ve since heard this echoed by others that have used this location formerly owned by the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, Donald «Buddy» Larosa, and most recently the Moyer family who are the current caretakers. Another fun fact, this is the highest point in Hamilton County.
Enough history! According to their website they offer tours, but I am not sure as their calendar did not seem to be current. So give them a call and see what is available

A beautiful 100-​year old home. The outdoor arbor and pergola was lovely for a wedding ceremony with about 75 attendees (although brides with stiletto heels should beware of the brick pathway down the aisle). The reception occupied a handful of rooms in one corner of the 36-​room mansion: the dining, garden, music, garden, billiards and the library (this sounds like a game of Clue!).
My only complaint is mostly due to the Cincinnati summers: the grass was brown with dead leaves piled up. It creates for a less-​than-​impressive entrance, but the stunning interior of Laurel Court more than makes up for it. Everything is luxurious and ornate, from the mahogany walls in the library and the inlaid marble floors right down to the amazing silver flatware and china place settings.
The caretaker, Judy, is a lovely woman who had a busy day of preparation but managed to find the time to go above and beyond her usual tasks. She even pitched in to help the family members (me included) make sure all the centerpieces were finished, napkins folded and place settings arranged. Without her help, we would have certainly run out of time.
All in all, a lovely place to send off my cousin and his new bride!