Our Story
Historic legacy, contemporary flair
Rich history, modern design
A modern approach to timeless events.
A scenic escape on historic farmland along the Truckee River at the base of the Sierra’s eastern slope, The Elm Estate offers an elegant and serene space for any event. Our site is conveniently located near downtown Reno and Interstate 80 yet feels worlds away. The venue offers custom event planning, an exclusive guest house with a state-of-the-art kitchen, a wrap-around deck designed for hosting, a 300-person capacity event space, four bars, catering bays, a billiards room, and more.
Elegant design, modern furnishings, and a keen focus on function transformed the 1880’s farmhouse and venue into a spellbinding backdrop that creates an easy sense of belonging. Our acres of exclusive event space feel like an oasis on historic farmland along the Truckee River. We have ample on-site parking and our venue is capable of meeting the needs of custom events of all sizes with a maximum capacity of 500, utilizing both indoor and outdoor spaces. We have multiple settings and backdrops for tailored events and state-of-the-art furnishings to meet the needs of every vendor and event need. You’re invited to experience unexpected elegance and masterful design.
History
This historic property was home to Reno’s most influential families from the city’s early days. The guest house, once known as The Chism House, was built in 1880 by Garner and Alice Chism and stood on a 115-acre dairy farm west of town. At the time, 2nd Street did not extend that far west and the property had to be accessed from 4th Street, across the railroad tracks. In the 1940s, additions were made to the original home including an expansion, a five-car garage, improved landscaping, sweeping driveway, and a large pond.
The estate was first used as a venue in 2007 and changed hands in 2015 when it was sold along with the surrounding five parcels, including the Chism Trailer Park which is now called River West Resort. New owner Kari Galgon purchased the property from the Chism family in 2015 with the promise to maintain the home and restore it to its original glory and help it realize its full potential. Kari is incredibly passionate about the historic site and has since installed state-of-the art kitchens, a reception hall, full bar, catering bays, and renovated the home to include top-of-the-line accents and appliances throughout.
The Elm House
This historic home is one of Reno’s iconic landmarks. Completely renovated in 2017, we retained several original features as we upgraded the entire guest house into a highly functional and beautiful space. Inside, guests gather in the state-of-the-art kitchen. Wrapping around the home is a sweeping porch equipped to host a ceremony, outdoor concert, rehearsal dinner, intimate gathering, or outdoor bar.
Our Pillars
Dedicated Event Guidance
We treat our clients like they’re an extension of our family, guiding them through every step of customizing and celebrating their special day.
A Stunning Urban Enclave
We are Reno’s hidden gem—a downtown oasis with trees, backdrops of the mountains, and access to the river conveniently located in the heart of the city.
A Versatile Venue
We have a customizable and timeless venue that can capture any vision for an event—whether elegant, laid-back, or themed—while offering all-inclusive service and unique amenities like a billiards room, a beauty bar, and premium rentals.
A Versatile Event Venue Combining Rich History, Modern Elegance, And All-Inclusive Hospitality
Meet the owner
Kari Galgon
Kari purchased the historic Chism House in 2015, and has since renovated the home to include top-of-the-line accents and appliances throughout. She is passionate about providing a beautiful setting for unforgettable memories.
Fun Fact: Kari started her first business at 13, which ended up funding her fashion desire. Owning a business has always been in her blood!
Our Team
Lance Galgon
Lance has been working alongside his mom Kari since the purchase of the Chism House.
Following in his parent’s footsteps, he is grateful to be able to carry on the family legacy of providing a one of a kind venue for extraordinary events.
Fun Fact: Before working at the Elm, Lance pursued a career in music and theatre, performing in many shows including Les Misérables, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Evita!
Emma Condon
Emma is a Reno local with a strong background in sales and business development. She has been with The Elm Estate since 2021. Emma has a passion for meeting new clients and helping them envision their dream event here at The Elm Estate. Connect with her to learn more about your next event at The Elm Estate.
Fun Fact: Emma took a three-month solo travel trip in Europe and visited over five different countries.
Tania Jacinto
Tania’s been a part of the Elm Estate since 2020 and has been in the food and beverage industry for the past 14 years. She has provided exceptional beverage services to over 100 weddings and loves nothing more than helping create unforgettable experiences for our guests.
Fun Fact: Tania loves being a mom, cooking, and spending time with her family and fur friends!
Nicole Werdann
Nicole is a Reno local who graduated from UNR and has always had a passion for working in the event industry, especially weddings. Nicole is our lead event coordinator and admin specialist who loves helping clients every bit of the way to create their dream wedding. She oversees events day-of, communicating with vendors, the Elm Estate staff, and clients, to ensure all details run smoothly. Beyond her professional pursuits, she thrives in outdoor adventures, whether skiing, hiking, climbing, or doing anything outdoors!
Brie Reed
Brie is a wife and mom to two little boys! Since she was a young girl, she’s loved design, creativity, organization, and planning. Taking on the role as Design Lead and Event Coordinator at the Elm Estate felt completely natural, and she’s loved every moment! She works with our couples every step of the way to bring their vision to life.
Fun fact: Brie absolutely loves nature and is an aspiring flower gardener! She also enjoys hiking and exploring new places with her family.
Testimonials
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