Stretching from the shores of Lake Maurepas to the Mississippi state line, Tangipahoa parish (affectionately known as “Tangi”) is renowned for its pastoral views, charming towns, and as the official home of the “Strawberry Capital of the World.” Centrally positioned between Mississippi, New Orleans, and Baton Rouge, Tangi also serves as a popular choice for hosting destination weddings and other sorts of celebrations, if the number and variety of locally owned event venues is any indication. Diverse, capable, and highly adaptable, Tangi’s venues deliver the polish of a big-city venue with the extra dose of warmth and hospitality that makes small-town Louisiana famous. For couples searching for a wedding destination that feels intimate, personal and close to the natural environment, Tangi checks lots of boxes. Come see.
Kismet in Kentwood
Up amid the rolling hills of northwestern Tangipahoa near the Mississippi border, mother-daughter duo Callie Richardson and Janet Henderson Cagley have created an oasis on their family’s working quarter horse and cattle farm in Kentwood, Louisiana (aka Britney Spears’ hometown). Their venue, The White Magnolia, got its start as a hilltop barn-style venue by hosting Callie’s own wedding in 2016, and has since evolved into a resort-style escape complete with open-air chapel, overnight lodging, a cabana-style pool, and on-site catering. “We want people to feel a sense of peace,” said Richardson. “Our spaces are warm and inviting - just like Tangiaphoa parish itself.”
1 of 2
K5 Saloon at Flory Farm's scenic outdoor ceremony space
2 of 2
K5 Saloon at Flory Farm
A few miles northeast, Donna and Brennan Kelsey have also built a home for hosting at K5 Saloon at Flory Farm, a western-themed venue on the grounds of the family’s fourth-generation Kentwood farm. Modeled after an old frontier town, the property features a chapel, bridal cottage, and rustic wooden structures accented with vintage signage. “It’s more than just a unique venue,” says Donna. “It’s home.” Set on more than 100 acres of scenic farmland, K5 Saloon offers couples the chance to step back in time. “Our love shines through in every detail,” said Donna, “and we hope guests feel that when they’re here.”
Forever, in Strawberry Fields
For five generations, Liuzza Family Farms in Amite has been a Tangipahoa parish landmark, famous for growing some of the region’s signature strawberries, among other produce. Today, Elizabeth Luizza has expanded the family’s operations to include The Berry Barn and the Greenery at Liuzza Farms—two distinct venues that share the same scenic property. The Berry Barn welcomes guests to a rustic, barn-style venue featuring an outdoor ceremony space overlooking the family’s fields. The Greenery, a greenhouse-inspired venue, provides a more intimate and verdant atmosphere that really makes florals shine.
For couples seeking a picture perfect moment, there’s no such thing as a bad view at Wolf Hill Venue in Loranger. Set amid 30 acres of privately owned pastures, the property was designed to host events that look, and feel, effortless. Wolf Hill’s signature wedding peninsula and over-water bridge provide gasp-worthy moments for brides, while Wolf Hill Chapel offers a seamless indoor alternative should the weather turn.
Both the Berry Barn & The Greenery and Wolf Hill Venue are centrally located in Tangipahoa, just a scenic 30 minute-drive from the many eateries and activities of Hammond and Ponchatoula.
1 of 2
Strawberry Manor
2 of 2
The Oaks
In Ponchatoula, Nature as Centerpiece
Tangipahoa sports a rich and varied history, and Strawberry Manor Events in Ponchatoula preserves decades of memories. The historic estate has been carefully tended and maintained by each of its owners. Formerly operated by a practicing florist, the gardens here were specifically planned to bloom all year-round, showcasing century-old azaleas, cascading wisteria, and towering magnolias. “It’s romantic and timeless,” said Brittany Howes, event director and owner. With options for indoor and outdoor ceremonies, Strawberry Manor delivers a classic backdrop for couples looking to put southern Louisiana front and center at their celebration. “We want couples to feel like this place was made just for them,” said Howes.
For Kevin Gregory, General Manager of The Oaks Wedding and Event Center, the surrounding environment puts guests at ease to be present and celebrate fully. “We’re providing peace of mind,” said Gregory. Located in Ponchatoula, the venue takes its name from the centuries-old live oak trees that shade the property, providing stately Southern elegance to both traditional or modern ceremonies. With two elegant indoor spaces, The Oaks delivers flexibility and smooth transitions for couples. “Our goal is simple,” said Gregory, “enjoy your guests, and we take care of the rest.”
For Gregory, Tangipahoa’s strong sense of community is a vital part of the appeal. “Tangipahoa parish offers couples a rare blend of accessibility and charm,” he said, “making it an ideal destination for an authentic South Louisiana celebration, without the constraints of a city setting.”
Tangipahoa parish is fast becoming a destination of choice for weddings and other significant life celebrations. For a comprehensive list of area amenities and venues, visit tangitourism.com/Tangi/Weddings
.jpg)
