Hosting a Wedding in New Orleans
Planning a wedding is a monumental task, filled with decisions and considerations. If you're seeking a vibrant, unique, and culturally rich atmosphere for your special day, look no further than New Orleans. With its rich history, captivating music, delicious cuisine, and enchanting venues, the city offers an unforgettable backdrop for hosting a wedding. Let me share why I think that New Orleans is the perfect destination to celebrate your love and offer some tips on how to make your wedding in the Big Easy a truly remarkable experience.
EMBRACE THE SPIRIT OF NEW ORLEANS
New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant spirit, celebrated through its music, festivals, and infectious energy. Infuse this unique ambiance into your wedding celebration by incorporating local traditions and customs. Consider a Second Line parade, a traditional New Orleans brass band leading you and your guests through the streets, complete with handkerchiefs and parasols. Let the music guide your festivities and create an atmosphere filled with joy and spontaneity. I love using color and pattern when designing a New Orleans wedding. It’s a wonderful city to utilize live music, art and vibrant colors to create an unforgettable wedding experience for your guests.
Here’s one way I would design a NOLA event: china from Casa De Perrin by Oscar de la Renta, classic and colourful rentals from Please Be Seated and linens from Nuage Designs. Images by Erin Fox and Mo Davis.
CHOOSING THE PERFECT VENUE
New Orleans offers a plethora of exceptional venues, each with its own distinct charm. Whether you prefer the grandeur of historic mansions, the allure of a courtyard ceremony, or the sophistication of elegant ballrooms or museums, you'll find options to suit every taste. Some of my favorites include:
AMAZING CUISINE
Photo by Eden Ingle
We cannot discuss New Orleans without mentioning its renowned culinary scene. Treat your guests to a true taste of the city by incorporating local cuisine into your wedding menu. From mouthwatering gumbo and jambalaya to savory po' boys and beignets, the flavors of New Orleans are sure to leave a lasting impression. Consider hiring a local caterer who specializes in authentic Creole and Cajun dishes to give your guests an unforgettable culinary experience. I highly recommend oysters on the half shell - barbecued or raw, you can’t go wrong!
JAZZ UP THE NIGHT
New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and no wedding in the city would be complete without its soul-stirring melodies. Hire a live jazz band to serenade your guests during cocktail hour or as the main entertainment for the evening. The enchanting sounds of trumpets, saxophones, and pianos will create an atmosphere of romance and celebration that is uniquely New Orleans.
EXTEND THE CELEBRATION
Why limit the festivities to just one day? New Orleans offers a plethora of venues, activities and attractions to keep you and your guests entertained throughout your wedding weekend. Encourage your guests to explore the historic French Quarter, take a riverboat cruise along the Mississippi River, or indulge in a guided tour of the city's iconic cemeteries. Additionally, don't forget to immerse yourself in the city's famous nightlife by exploring the lively bars and clubs that line Bourbon Street.
Hosting a wedding in New Orleans promises a magical and unforgettable experience for both you and your guests. The city's rich cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, delectable cuisine, and captivating venues create the perfect backdrop for celebrating love and unity. Embrace the spirit of New Orleans, indulge in the local traditions, and let the city's enchanting atmosphere weave its magic into your wedding celebration. A wedding in the Big Easy will undoubtedly be an affair to remember for a lifetime.
All photos by the incredible Erin Fox.
