Saint Elle, located in a former industrial building built in the 1950s, is a private event venue that combines historical charm with modern luxury. Its name was actually inspired by the N, C & St. L Railway that travelled luxury passenger trains through Nashville from Chicago to Atlanta in the 1950s.
“After eight years of owning and operating the Cordelle, our first venue, we gained a lot of experience and knowledge about the industry,” says Leigh Watson, one of the co-owners. “It helped us to create a venue specific to what clients and planners are looking for in a space.”
The building’s original bow truss was kept in place and in the renovation they exposed the iconic arched roof line. “We wanted to highlight the historic space, adding features and modern amenities that celebrate this unique style of architecture,” Leigh says.
The event space encompasses 8,000 square feet all on one level and can comfortably host 650 guests. What makes it really accommodating is the ability to divide the space into smaller areas. The Bow Truss area is by far the largest at 6,000 square feet, with another adjoining 1,000 square feet patio accessible through a roll-up glass door. The Conservatory, located right alongside the Bow Truss, adds an additional 1,870 square feet that can be used with the Bow Truss or separately. Floor-to-ceiling windows make it light and bright, and combined with a view of the treetops and interior foliage, makes that ambience quite nature-like.
While there are many things that make Saint Elle stand out from other venues, its thoughtful design and personalized touches allow for clients and guests to immerse themselves in event experiences. The Green Room is a private suite with a “man-cave” vibe. It can be used on the “BIG DAY” as a grooms’ room, a sweet spot where hosts and VIPs can gather for the pre-party, or as an effortless backdrop for photoshoots.
The Suite is an additional private area at Saint Elle, creating a serene setting to primp before the event. This area is perfect for the guest of honor, celebrity, or keynote speaker to have a personal space just steps away from the action.
There’s even an event office where a party planner and his or her staff can set up and get organized in a private, quiet space. Other amenities include a large professional catering kitchen and parking.
Saint Elle has an open vendor policy so clients can choose their own caterers, rentals and other event professionals, but they do provide the bar service. “That's something we felt really passionately about,” says Leigh. “Our beverage director is a master mixologist and a sommelier. He works with each of our clients to create cocktails and bar offerings that are infused with the personality of the event and host.”
The venue also hosts events such as “Dive into Wine,” a tasting series that changes seasonally and fosters learning about different regions and varietals of wine. It also hosts “Artist Spotlight,” bringing art shows, modern dance and theater to the space.
To book a party or to sign up for an event, go to TheSaintElle.com.
“Saint Elle is an inclusive female-owned business that welcomes and supports all different types of events from weddings and corporate events to photo shoots, art shows and birthday parties.”
