Venue Spotlight: James Leary Flood Mansion in San Francisco
The James Leary Flood Mansion in San Francisco is one of the most iconic wedding and event venues in the San Francisco Bay Area. With its historic architecture, grand interiors, elegant courtyard, and prime city location, it offers a beautiful canvas for couples seeking timeless sophistication.
As a San Francisco wedding florist, it’s one of my favorite places to work, and I want to share some of my takeaways and recommendations.
Venue Overview
Location: Located in the Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco, with sweeping views of the Bay
History: Built in 1915, the historic mansion was gifted to the Religious of the Sacred Heart in 1939 and now functions as a school
Architecture: A rich mix of Italian Renaissance, Rococo, Tudor, and Georgian influences
Spaces: Indoor & outdoor, including the sweeping Grand Hall, a grand Reception Room, and an enclosed courtyard
Capacity: Flood Mansion can accommodate seated ceremonies or receptions up to ~165–200 guests
Why Flood Mansion is Perfect for Luxury Floral Design
Key reasons I love designing florals for Flood Mansion:
Intricate architecture: The historic details, marble floors, and classic interiors provide a stunning backdrop that pairs beautifully with both lush floral installations or refined, minimalist designs.
Flexibility of spaces: With multiple rooms plus a courtyard, it’s easy to customize the flow of your day all in one estate.
Style Versatility: Because the building’s palette is neutral and rich in character, floral designs from classic-romance to bold-modern can both work really well.
Highly photogenic: Large windows (natural light!!!), high ceilings, and grand interiors create dramatic, photo‑worthy moments everywhere you turn.
Location and views: Atop an iconic hilltop, with sweeping views of the bay and city — it can’t be beat!
Best Spots to Flower at Flood Mansion
To make the most impact with your floral design, I recommend focusing on these locations:
Grand Hall Staircase & Entry: A cascading floral installation along the stairs or around the entry sets a dramatic first impression.
Grand Hall Dinner Tables: The ornate ceilings and rich architectural details call for bold centerpieces, low-and-high floral layering or lush tablescapes to echo the mansion’s grandeur.
Courtyard: A focal ceremony arch makes a big statement here, and acts as the perfect backdrop for cocktail hour.
Marble Fireplaces & Windowsills: Smaller vignettes of florals here add intimacy and detail
Each spot provides a unique opportunity for florals to enhance the beauty of the space while reflecting your personal style.
Vendor Credits
PLANNING: MEAG BREANNE EVENTS
Photographer: CHELSEA GEE
FLORIST: Anastasia Andenmatten
Ready to Bring Your Flood Mansion Wedding to Life?
If you’re planning a Flood Mansion wedding and want modern, luxury floral design that celebrates the estate’s elegant beauty let’s collaborate. My full-service approach ensures every floral detail is thoughtfully designed and executed, providing you and your guests with a floral experience that goes beyond expectations.