In 1860, Albert Mahler, a European immigrant, opened a dance academy in St. Louis at Third and Pine Streets, a little west of where the Gateway Arch now stands. At the age of 11, Albert’s son Jacob Mahler, became an instructor in his father's school, eventually taking over the business.

In 1907, Jacob commissioned William Levy to design a combination ballroom and family home on Washington Boulevard in the city's Central West End. The 16,000 square foot structure cost $55,000, an exorbitant sum at the time. Every other Friday, Mahler's evening dances, called "Fortnightlies’," enlivened the St. Louis scene. After passing away in 1928, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch noted that Jacob Mahler and The Mahler Ballroom occupied a unique and extraordinary place in the St. Louis community. The Mahler Ballroom continued to play host to government dignitaries, state functions, live plays and movie sets.

In 2018, the Mahler Ballroom was acquired by Miss Karen. Restored to its Victorian elegance, St Louis' historic Mahler Ballroom currently hosts events to remember including, wedding ceremonies, receptions, birthday parties, anniversary parties, corporate events, church services, fashion shows, proms, charity benefits and much more. The Mahler Ballroom has been revivified to showcase this architectural landmark. Karen and her team have stayed true to the chic style of the historic Victorian ballroom, while incorporating contemporary amenities, fashioning a premier destination venue and event space.

Featuring modern furnishings, artwork by artists such as Christopher Guy, chandeliers from celebrity-designer Michael Amini and a bar with a cascading waterfall feature. The 3500 sq. ft. ballroom boast’s 24 ft. high ceilings and an overlooking wrap around balcony with rococo style moldings.