Driving down River Road in the early 1980s, Aimee Rizan-English first spotted Monte Vista Mansión. The property, lined with mature oak trees and chock-full of historic charm, instantly captivated her, but she was in no place to purchase such a residence. So for more than two decades, she held onto it as a dream.

“Every once in a while, I would drive down River Road and check on her,” Rizan-English says. “I wanted to see who was taking care of that beautiful mansion that continued to call my name.”

Her obsession only grew, and Rizan-English began to imagine a place where her family could create lasting memories—holidays, celebrations and traditions for generations to come. In 2008, she officially purchased Monte Vista, and in 2009, she hosted her family’s first celebration in the Greek Revival home: the family Christmas.

Throughout the restoration process, she focused on combining modern amenities with historic charm.

“Almost immediately, friends, neighbors and even people passing by stopped in to ask about the progress,” she says. “Many brought personal stories—childhood memories of growing up on the property, and tales of gatherings held there decades ago, for example.”

“Monte Vista was not just a private residence, but a place woven into the community’s history.”

Since its restoration, the Monte Vista Mansión has hosted christenings, birthdays, engagement parties, weddings and more. Highlights of the property include an elegant baby grand piano, a dedicated bridal party floor overlooking the Levee View Rose Garden and a staircase wall mural that serves as a focal point for photographs.

“Today, my children are grown and gone, and Monte Vista is still my personal home,” Rizan-English remarks. “I continue to share it as a venue every day with the community of West Baton Rouge and beyond.”

Her passion for the site has not changed since the early 1980s. It has only grown. “I am so honored to be the owner and caretaker of Monte Vista Mansión,” she says. “It is one of my life’s many pleasures.”

For those drawn to the allure of an outdoor wedding ceremony, Monte Vista offers a setting well-suited to that experience. Overlooking the Mississippi River and framed by oak trees, the space offers a backdrop that reflects a slower pace of life and southern hospitality.

To learn more about this local venue, click here.