If you’re dreaming of a wedding that blends rich history, breathtaking architecture, and romantic Southwest style, you’re going to love the Inn and Spa at Loretto. Tucked into the heart of downtown Santa Fe, just steps from the historic Plaza, this iconic venue offers a one-of-a-kind backdrop for unforgettable celebrations.
As wedding planners based right here in New Mexico, we’ve worked in some truly incredible places, but there’s something extra special about this one. The Inn and Spa at Loretto brings together old-world charm, luxury accommodations, and bold Pueblo-style design, all in one spot. It’s no surprise it’s a favorite for couples planning stylish, heartfelt weddings in Santa Fe.
But first, hi—we’re Lace and Bow Bridal! We’re a full-service wedding planning and design studio based in Albuquerque, and we plan weddings across the Land of Enchantment. If you’re considering the Inn and Spa at Loretto for your special day, we’ve put together this guide to help you envision what’s possible, and what you’ll want to know ahead of time. From venue details to planning tips and design ideas, we’re sharing everything we’ve learned from working with couples at this picturesque location. Learn more about our planning services, browse our portfolio, or contact us to get started!
Photo Credit: Stephany Taylor Photography
About the Inn & Why Couples Love It
The Inn and Spa at Loretto is one of Santa Fe’s most desired wedding venues, and it’s easy to see why. Just steps from the Plaza, the architecture alone is a showstopper with stacked adobe walls, and curved lines. Between the historic Loretto Chapel next door and the cozy-yet-luxe accommodations on-site, this place brings all the destination wedding charm without the stress of leaving town. Here’s why couples are obsessed with it:
- It’s walkable to everything downtown (no shuttles or stress)
- The Loretto Chapel is a dream ceremony setting
- The entire space has that rich New Mexico aesthetic, built in
- You’ve got multiple layout options for guest count and vibe
- The guest rooms are perfect for wedding weekend accommodations
- The on-site spa? Yes, please—book the massages early
- You get incredible Santa Fe views without leaving your venue
- It’s romantic, cozy, and effortlessly stylish (just like your day should be!)
Whether you’re hosting a big celebration or something more intimate, the Inn and Spa at Loretto makes it feel personal, special, and full of heart as soon as you step on the property. Planning a full weekend around your wedding? Don’t miss our guide to planning the perfect wedding weekend in Santa Fe. It’s packed with tips your guests will love!
Photo Credit: Stephany Taylor Photography
Making the Most of Downtown Santa Fe
Being in the heart of downtown Santa Fe is one of the best parts of getting married at the Inn and Spa at Loretto. That means your guests get more than a seat at your ceremony, they get an entire weekend of culture, charm, and curated experiences. From museums and margaritas to art walks and historic sites, downtown is packed with personality. Plus, it’s easy to explore on foot! Here are a few favorite ways to soak it all in:
- First, stroll through the Plaza – It’s the cultural and historical heart of the city
- Then, pop into the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum – A must for art lovers
- Afterward, have a cocktail at La Casa Sena or Club Legato – Both just steps away
- Next, shop local along Burro Alley or Sena Plaza – Check out the turquoise, leather, and one-of-a-kind gifts
- Later on, take a stroll through Cathedral Park – Don’t miss the street vendors and beautiful views
- Finally, wander the Palace of the Governors – Perfect for history buffs
Whether you build in time for guests to explore or plan a full weekend itinerary, this walkable, art-filled neighborhood offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Want to turn your celebration into a full wedding weekend experience? Start here with our favorite tips for building an unforgettable destination itinerary.
Wedding Setup Options
The Inn and Spa at Loretto offers several unique event spaces, each with its own personality and charm. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large celebration, there’s a setting here that fits beautifully.
Photo Credit: Stephany Taylor Photography
Loretto Chapel
A dream for couples who want history, elegance, and a little magic. This 1870s Gothic-style chapel is known for its stained-glass windows and miraculous staircase. In short, it’s the perfect place to start your day with a sacred, romantic ceremony. Best for: Ceremonies with rich historical or spiritual meaning
Photo Credit: Stephany Taylor Photography | Blue Rose Photography
Zuni Ballroom
The largest indoor space, with Navajo-inspired designs, custom skylights, and French doors that open into the sculpture garden. It’s polished, warm, and versatile, making it ideal for a reception with a modern-meets-Southwest vibe. Best for: Receptions up to 200 guests
Tesuque Ballroom
This mid-sized ballroom has cozy elegance and a distinctly Southwestern feel. With original artwork and natural tones, it feels intimate yet elevated. Best for: Receptions of up to 150 guests.
Photo Credit: Blue Rose Photography
Loretto Event Lawn
This newly renovated garden space is serene and private. It offers all the beauty of an outdoor wedding without feeling too exposed. Best for: Outdoor ceremonies and receptions with up to 150 guests
Penthouse Suite
Planning something super intimate? The Penthouse is a hidden gem. With five terraces, a gourmet kitchen, and plenty of seating, it’s perfect for a welcome cocktail party, micro-wedding, or farewell brunch. Best for: Groups of 30 or fewer No matter which space you choose, the Inn and Spa at Loretto offers a foundation that’s already rich with style, history, and character. But, the key is designing your day in a way that enhances that beauty without overwhelming it. Not sure where to begin when it comes to finding the right fit for your celebration? These six essential venue questions will help you feel confident and clear before you book.
Photo Credit: Stephany Taylor Photography
Design Ideas that Fit the Aesthetic
The Inn and Spa at Loretto has a look that’s so Santa Fe. With warm adobe textures, rich desert tones, and a blend of rustic charm and refined elegance, the venue sets the tone effortlessly.
That means your design doesn’t need to compete. Instead, it should simply complement the space, reflect your story, and add a little magic along the way.
Here are a few design ideas that work beautifully in this space:
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Lean into the landscape. Use earthy tones like terracotta, sandstone, and sage to mirror the natural surroundings.
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Play with texture. Woven linens, wood accents, hand-thrown ceramics, and raw-edge paper bring richness and depth.
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Keep it intimate. Candlelight, café lights, and soft florals go a long way in this already romantic setting.
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Mix in modern. Add contrast with contemporary signage, clean-lined tablescapes, or acrylic elements.
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Honor local culture. Turquoise details, papel picado, or local artisan touches make your design feel rooted and personal.
Ultimately, the Inn doesn’t need dramatic styling. Rather, it shines when you layer in thoughtful details that feel both elevated and effortless.
Still defining your wedding aesthetic? Our guide to wedding themes will help you find a style that fits your personality and your venue.
Planning Tips Unique to the Space
Planning a wedding at the Inn and Spa at Loretto is a dream. However, every venue has its quirks, and knowing them ahead of time makes the whole experience smoother. Here are a few pro tips to help you make the most of this iconic Santa Fe space:
- Consider the time of year.Santa Fe weather is stunning, until it isn’t. If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony or reception, always have a weather backup plan. Monsoon season can sneak up, and Spring winds can be chaotic. .
- Map out guest flow.With multiple event spaces and the historic Loretto Chapel nearby, make sure your guests know where to go and when. Clear signage and a planner who knows the venue (that’s us!) makes a big difference.
- Think about lighting.Natural light is beautiful in the early evening, especially in the sculpture garden and on the terraces. Talk to your photographer about timing for the best light and your planner about additional ambient lighting once the sun sets.
- Plan for the penthouse.The Penthouse Suite isn’t just for overnight stays, it’s an unforgettable space for getting ready, portraits, or a small after-party with your closest people.
- Use local vendors who know the layout.Working with florists, rental teams, and planners familiar with Loretto will save you setup stress, and help bring your vision to life more smoothly.
From heartfelt ceremonies to show-stopping receptions, the Inn and Spa at Loretto has played host to some truly unforgettable celebrations, and we’ve had the joy of planning a few of them ourselves.
Want to see how a planner supports you through each stage of the process? Check out our month-by-month breakdown of what wedding planners actually do.
Photo Credit: Stephany Taylor Photography
Real Weddings at Loretto
Weddings at Loretto feel like a natural extension of Santa Fe itself. From the stunning chapel to the adobe-lined plaza and lush garden spaces, couples get both elegance and authenticity. For example, Arlette and Jesus embraced the vibrance of downtown Santa Fe with a mariachi-led parade from their chapel ceremony to cocktail hour, blending cultural celebration with pure joy. Their reception brought all the classic moments to life—dances, speeches, and the shoe game—wrapped in a design that felt polished.
Photo Credit: Stephany Taylor Photography
Meanwhile, Amy and Chris opted for timeless romance with modern touches. Also married in the chapel, they welcomed guests with live mariachi music and designed a reception that was both sophisticated and personal. Every detail, from the florals to the atmosphere, reflected their style while highlighting the venue’s natural charm.
Photo Credit: Blue Rose Photography
Together, these weddings show how Loretto adapts to the couple. Whether your style is bold, traditional, romantic, or somewhere in between, this venue provides the backdrop for a celebration that’s deeply personal and beautifully grounded in place. And while the setting speaks for itself, having the right planning team makes all the difference in bringing that vision to life. That’s where we come in.
Planning Your Wedding with Lace & Bow Bridal
Planning a wedding at a venue as iconic as the Inn and Spa at Loretto deserves a team that knows how to make the most of it, without ever losing sight of you. At Lace & Bow Bridal, we specialize in thoughtful design and seamless coordination that reflects your story and your priorities. From ceremony to send-off, we’re here to make every detail count. Whether you’re drawn to the history, the architecture, or the location, there’s so much to love. We’ll help you craft a celebration that fits beautifully into the space and feels undeniably like yours. Curious what the planning process could look like with us? Learn more about our planning services, take a look at our portfolio, or contact us to get started!