About Us
A Newport landmark on the corner of 6th and Monroe, kept by one family since 2006.
Our Story
A building worth keeping
Mansion Hill Sanctuary began as a church, on the corner of 6th and Monroe in Newport’s historic Mansion Hill district. Since 2006 the Shepherd family has been turning it into a multi-purpose event space — without stripping out what made it worth saving.
The soaring ceilings are still there, so are the original hardwood floors, and so is the stained glass that gives the room its light. What’s been added is everything a modern event needs: a stage and dancefloor, a full bar, two kitchens, sound and projection, and a suite to get ready in.
It’s run by Annette Shepherd, a local jazz musician who has managed the Sanctuary for more than a decade. If you book with us, she’s who you’ll be working with — which is why so many of our reviews mention her by name.
- 2006
- Cared for by the Shepherd family since
- 46 × 40ft
- The main Sanctuary floor
- 2kitchens
- Annex kitchen & commercial kitchen
- 10+years
- Annette Shepherd at the helm
Newport, Kentucky
Find us
417 East Sixth StreetNewport, KY 41071
Questions
Frequently asked
Booking & Payment
How do I reserve a date?
A signed rental agreement and a 50% deposit hold your date. Start with a showing or a quote request and we'll walk you through it.
How long do we get the venue for?
Ceremonies are three hours, receptions and parties four hours, and a combined ceremony and reception five hours. On top of that you get full-day access for setup, decorating, and photographs.
What does it cost?
Rental runs from $650 for a shower to $3,500 for a full wedding, depending on the day of the week, the season, and the length of hire. Full ranges are on the Services page.
Catering & Bar
Can we bring our own caterer?
Yes — there are no restrictions on catering. We're glad to refer caterers we've worked with, and there are two kitchens: an upstairs kitchen in the Annex and a fully equipped commercial kitchen downstairs.
Can we bring our own alcohol?
No. We're licensed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky to provide and serve alcohol at our events, and state law prohibits outside alcohol being brought in. We offer fixed-price, consumption, cash, and hybrid bar packages.
Decorating
What are the decorating rules?
Candles must be contained in glass. Nothing may be hung from the ceilings or the windows, and no nails or screws anywhere. The original woodwork and stained glass are irreplaceable, so we ask everyone to treat them gently.
Can we rehearse beforehand?
A rehearsal on your wedding day is included at no cost. If you'd rather rehearse on another weekday, that's $150 per hour.
Who handles cleanup?
You or your caterer clear the food and take rubbish out to the bins. We handle the rest.
The Building
How big is the Sanctuary?
The main Sanctuary is roughly 46 by 40 feet. With the adjoining Annex, the two rooms come to about 3,400 square feet.
Is there parking?
There's no lot on the property, but there are two nearby lots a short walk away. See the Services page for what's included with your booking.
Is the building air-conditioned?
Yes, air-conditioning is available.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
No. The building is historic and wheelchair access is not currently available. Please call us on (859) 982-9887 before booking if anyone in your party has mobility needs, so we can be straight with you about what the space involves.
Still unsure? Ask us directly on the booking page — or see full pricing under rates & services.
Come see it for yourself.
Photographs only go so far. Tell us your date and the occasion, and we’ll show you both rooms.