When it comes to wedding entertainment most couples opt for live bands or DJs. But, if you can’t tell, this couple likes to do things a little differently and more than that, they wanted to show their guests a real good [New Orleans] time. From acrobats and dancers to tarot card readers and multiple live musicians, these two pulled out all the stops for their big day with the help of Blue Gardenia Events. Andrew Alwert Studios⁠ was there to capture every moment so keep scrolling to see a wedding that would make even Gatsby jealous. 

you may also like

Pretty Pastels Meet Hard Rock in this Funky NOLA Wedding

Best Spots in NOLA for your Welcome Party and Rehearsal Dinner

Why New Orleans is the Perfect Wedding Destination

the vision: a modern take on 1920s decadence

the fashion

the second line

the night’s entertainment

a late-night snack

As the night came to a close, the energy didn’t fade. Guests were treated to late-night cafe au lait and beignets from a food truck, a nod to New Orleans’ culinary traditions. It was a fitting end to a weekend filled with revelry, flavor, and unforgettable moments, complete with show-stopping live entertainment and the electric party atmosphere for which New Orleans is known.

The post Roaring 20s-inspired wedding in NOLA with tarot card readings appeared first on Weddingchicks.

^{Photo: @arnaudsnola}

Whether you’re looking for the charm of a Southern mansion, a vibey jazz club, or a cool cocktail bar, New Orleans has a venue for every type of style, and each one of them is uniquely NOLA. We’ve rounded up our favorite venues for Welcome Parties and Rehearsal Dinners in New Orleans, now, let’s find the right place for your celebration…

New Orleans is so excited to host your big day that they want to help as much as they can. Click here to get FREE planning help for your welcome party, rehearsal dinner, or even your wedding!

welcome party Venues

When you’re looking for a venue for your welcome party, you want to find a place that really speaks to your destination and also a place that says, “Let’s party!” Think clubs and bars–even quirky dive restaurants can make for a fun welcome party. Here are our favorite places for a welcome party in New Orleans.

1. fulton alley

^{Photo: @fultonalley}

We love a welcome party with a built-in activity. Weddings are a unique, potentially awkward, situation with friend groups mixing and new intros. Because you’ll be making your rounds, it always helps if your guests have something to do other than stand around and talk. Fulton Ally is a cool scene with neon-hued bowling lanes and elevated bar food and cocktails that will help your guests unwind after the flight.

^{Photo: @fultonalley}

2. jazz playhouse at the royal sonesta

^{Photo: @jazzplayhouse}

Nothing says NOLA like jazz. You and your guests can catch up over the smooth jams of some of the great local bands while you sip on some lovely craft cocktails. From the mood lighting to the vintage interior, this is also a fun Instagrammable spot for your guests to snap some great pics.

^{Photo: @jazzplayhouse}

3. jolie

^{Photo: @rainalvallot}

This trendy bar has a speak-easy style vibe with a sexy circus twist. With great cocktails, contortionists, and burlesque performances, this cool spot will keep your guests buzzed and entertained.

^{Photo: @jolie.neworleans}

4. bamboula’s

^{Photo: @bamboulas_nola}

If you’re looking for something more low-key for your welcome party, this chill spot is the perfect fit. Mixed drinks and beers on tap keep the vibe super casual so your guests can come straight from the airport, no hotel trips or glow-ups required. They also have live music which is always a plus, especially in New Orleans.

^{Photo: @bamboulas_nola}

5. audubon zoo

Pinterest

If a sit-down dinner is more your style, the Audubon Zoo has a bunch of really unique venues including the Cajun Ballroom at the Swamp Exhibit. Guests can gather and dine in the warm wood ballroom or take in some fresh air on the swamp deck for those Bayou vibes.

With a historic city like NOLA, there are so many cool venues to choose from, those were just a few of our faves, but here are some other places that would make for a really cool welcome party:

• Pat O’Brien’s

• Dat Dog Frenchmen Street

• Lula Distillery

• Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant

• Vintage Rock Club

• House of Blues

• Local Breweries

Rehearsal dinner venues

Rehearsal dinners can range from formal to laid-back, there’s no right or wrong way to celebrate the night before your wedding. The goals for a rehearsal dinner should always be connecting with all of your loved ones who have come so far to support you on your big day and to introduce them to all of your other favorite people. When it comes to choosing the right place, food should come first. You want a place that showcases the local cuisine so that everyone can truly experience the destination. Once you decide on what type of food you’re looking for, just find a venue that fits your vision for the night.

1. arnaud’s

^{Photo: @arnaudsnola}

This upscale bistro is perfect for the vintage-loving couple. They even have a dress code on their website, so be prepared to come dressed for the occasion and be sure to give your guests a heads-up. With the occasional live band and some dishes that are prepared right at your table, you and your guests will be immersed in the tradition.

^{Photo: @arnaudsnola}

2. saint john

^{Photo: @saintjohnnola}

With rich Mid-Century decor, this restaurant serves modern interpretations of your favorite Creole dishes.

^{Photo: @saintjohnnola}

3. san lorenzo

If you are more into Southern comfort, then San Lorenzo is the place for you. Located inside the Michilin Key holding hotel, St. Vincent, the decor is on-point and all dress codes are welcome at this NOLA establishment. With Creole-Italian fusion cuisine, there’s something for everyone on this menu, and you seriously can’t beat these vibes.

4. broussard’s

^{Photo: @broussards}

Serving elevated interpretations of your favorite Creole fare, this place is as delish as it is Instagrammable. If you’re into bright colors and eclectic wallpaper, this hidden gem will not disappoint.

^{Photo: @broussards}

5. cane & table

^{Photo: @caneandtable}

This cool NOLA bar/restaurant is as much about the food as it is the craft cocktails. It’s perfect for an intimate celebration with your nearest and dearest.

^{Photo: @caneandtable}

In New Orleans there are so many great choices for good food and good vibes, here are a few more places that would be PERFECT for a rehearsal dinner:

• Commander’s Palace
• Galerie de Galatoire
• Cornet
• Ralph’s on the Park
• Brennan’s
• Mr. B’s
• Effervescence
• Brasa
• Copper Vine
• Superior Seafood
• Calcasieu
• Rooftop at The Taylor

Click here for even more help with wedding planning and hotel block booking!

Follow @visitneworleans for more wedding inspo and hot tips on the best locations and experiences.

Instagram Post

We partnered with New Orleans and Co to bring you these hot NOLA venues. As always thanks for supporting our sponsors!

The post Best spots in NOLA for your welcome party and rehearsal dinner appeared first on Weddingchicks.

Francisco and Sydney met in Los Angeles in September 2016 when they were interns for the LA Clippers. Sydney had just moved to California from Texas, and Francisco was a returning veteran. Throughout that NBA season, Francisco and Sydney got to know each other and a friendship slowly developed into love. The next summer they began dating, and after five and half years of adventures, Francisco planned an intimate proposal in December 2022 at one of their favorite spots. A year and a half later they tied the knot during their seventh anniversary weekend in front of family and friends at Il Mercato in New Orleans, all captured on camera by Laura Shepherd Images and planned with the help of Vine & Branch Events Co..

Ready To Plan Your Wedding in New Orleans?

If you’re planning a wedding in New Orleans, the city will offer you complimentary wedding planning assistance–like FREE! This especially comes in handy if you’re planning a destination wedding there from out of state. They’ll help you with everything from wedding vendor and hotel searches to wedding date availability.

Do you have any idea how much time that will save?! They have access to 1,100 member organizations including hotels, venues, caterers, florists, and photographers–all vetted and the best of what New Orleans has to offer. And take it from us, finding the right vendors is probably the hardest part of wedding planning, so just fill out their contact form here, and you can check that off from your to-do list!

Bridal style: The epitome of elegance

Bride Sydney wore a stunning fitted, off-the-shoulder lace gown complete with delicate long lace sleeves by Netta BenShabu. Simple pearl jewelry accented her look that was finished with a natural Hollywood glam look courtesy of Chrisitina Michelle and Shay M Makeup.

Classic groomsmen style

The groom and his groomsmen donned classic black suits with the groom having a white bow tie instead of a matching black one.

Champagne bridesmaids and clear straps

Sydney’s bridesmaids wore elegant champagne halter-neck dresses from Show Me Your Mumu Weddings completed by sandals with clear straps so as not to take away from the overall look.

The ceremony: A family tradition

The couple’s ceremony was held in the same church that Sydney’s parents had gotten married in (St. Joseph Catholic Church) and was even officiated by the same priest. Sydney’s mom was escorted by her grandpa again, and their flower girl and ring bearer (now all grown up!) walked down with their own children as Sydney and Francisco’s flower girl and ring bearer. There was not a dry eye in that church!

You may also like

5 of our favorite celeb weddings in New Orleans + their vendor lists

New Orleans is the perfect wedding destination

The band played on at this classic New Orleans Ritz Carlton wedding

Incorporating cultural traditions

As a multicultural couple, there were four unique cultural aspects for this wedding between Francisco and Sydney: The lasso, the money dance, the second line, and the cake pull. The lasso is a unity ceremony in which a Catholic couple has a large rosary placed over them before a blessing. This was done by the groom’s Godfather and his wife.

New Orleans tradition: A second line

A second line is defined as, “A parade tradition in New Orleans, Louisiana, that involves a brass band, participants, and a grand marshal or parade leader.” Lead by Kinfolk Brass Band, the guests followed the bride and groom down Magazine Street as locals came into the streets from shops and restaurants to celebrate with the newlyweds.

A cake pull with pearls

Another tradition that the bride incorporated was a cake pull. In this tradition, the bride adds charms to the bottom of the cake and has her bridesmaids (or anyone else she chooses) pull them before the cake cutting. Each charm represents something different and is normally associated with good luck. At Francisco and Sydney’s wedding, these charms were on pearl bracelets so the girls could wear and keep them.

Kicking off the party with a money dance

The money dance is when guests will line up in front of the bride and groom and pin money on them as they dance with the couple. It wasn’t long after this that the bride and groom changed into their reception party outfits and danced the night away

The post From the LA Clippers to a New Orleans wedding full of traditions appeared first on Weddingchicks.

It’s not a proper New Orleans wedding without candlelight, but Elyse Jennings Weddings took it to another level for this monochromatic wedding design. Delicate glass hurricane pillars sheltered tower upon tower of thin tapered candles with baby’s breath clouds woven throughout the installations. Keep scrolling to see more…from the bride’s two custom ensembles to the spirited second line, you won’t want to miss a single detail captured in these bold photos by Love is Rad.

Ready To Plan Your Wedding in New Orleans?

If you’re planning a wedding in New Orleans, the city will offer you complimentary wedding planning assistance–like FREE! This especially comes in handy if you’re planning a destination wedding there from out of state. They’ll help you with everything from wedding vendor and hotel searches to wedding date availability.

Do you have any idea how much time that will save?! They have access to 1,100 member organizations including hotels, venues, caterers, florists, and photographers–all vetted and the best of what New Orleans has to offer. And take it from us, finding the right vendors is probably the hardest part of wedding planning, so just fill out their contact form here, and you can check that off from your to-do list!

you may also like

A Storybook Wedding in Black and White at the Philadelphia Library

A Baltimore Wedding that Put a Modern Spin on Black and White

Timeless Black and White Wedding at Alderbrook Resort and Spa

a chic custom gown

In plush custom monogrammed robes, the bride and her bridesmaids lounged in the bridal suite as they got ready for the big day. With help from her chic sequin-clad mom, the bride slipped into a custom long-sleeved gown with a sexy lace back that fit like a glove.

a black-and-white theme

a heartfelt ceremony

Following the flicker of candlelight, guests made their way out to the brick courtyard where the most romantic ceremony set up was waiting. Black chairs, white floral arrangements, and candles lined the aisle. The couple exchanged vows framed by a glowing hearth, surrounded by their closest family and friends.

Pro Tip: Need to motivate your ring bearer or flower girl? Toys usually work as evidenced in the photo below 😂.

a candlelit reception

audio guestbook

These audio guest books are so popular these days and it’s easy to see why. Imagine, years from now getting to listen to the voices of your favorite people–like traveling back in time to one of the best days of your life.

second line

Despite the rain, the couple and their guests took to the streets accompanied by Kinfolk Brass Band for a traditional New Orleans second line.

baby’s breath flowers and champagne towers

After the second line and champagne toasts, the bride changed into a custom white satin jumpsuit with feather accents and long white gloves. Sparks flew as the two shared a kiss under an abstract baby’s breath arch before making their big exit.

The post This NOLA wedding has to be the best use of candlelight we’ve seen appeared first on Weddingchicks.

^{Photo: @irisandoakevents}

Back in the day, bachelor and bachelorette parties were very separate matters. The girl would venture out with her best girlfriends, and guys with their guyfriends, for one last crazy single night. But, that whole idea seems so antiquated now. First, we don’t exclusively socialize with the same gender, and second, many couples have a shared friend group, not just “his” and “hers”. So, instead of making your friends choose which party to go to, why not throw a joint Bachelor/Bachelorette weekend? And, in case you were wondering…we’ve got just the place–New Orleans!

Photo: @ccathell723

Forget Vegas, when it comes to Bach parties, there’s no better destination than NOLA. They’ve got it all–music, nightlife, food. And just think how fun it will be to share all those fun times with your entire group of besties. If you still want to keep some things separate, we recommend booking a few separate suites at the same hotel, that way you have space when you want it and have a place where you can all come together and hang out too. One group can relax at the hotel spa while the other goes on a food tour and then you can all meet up at the end of the night for a classic New Orleans ghost tour before a trip down Bourbon Street. Doesn’t it seriously sound like the best vacation ever?!

Hotel: Chloe

Another reason New Orleans is the perfect Bach party destination is because it’s home to a TON of incredible festivals. Festivals are a great way to ensure a weekend packed full of activities. And the best part? Someone made the itinerary for you. All you have to do is get tickets and show up. Here are a few of our favorite NOLA festivals…

photo: @BryceEllPhoto

MUSIC

new orleans jazz & heritage festival

With jazz, pop, funk, hip-hop, rock, zydeco, indie, and blues, Jazz Fest has live entertainment for everyone. The eight-day music festival is held at the end of April through the beginning of May at the historic Fair Grounds Race Course. If you want to view all the action up-close then the Krewe of Jazz Fest VIP is the package for you. With high-end folding seats along with private, upscale restroom facilities (a HUGE plus) and a dedicated beverage concession area, your squad can enjoy Jazz Fest right in front of the Festival Stage. Everyone can celebrate in style while watching their favorite musical superstars perform just feet away.

ESSENCE festival

Essence Festival is a celebration of contemporary black music and culture. You may recognize some of these past performers–Beyoncé, Charlie Wilson, Jill Scott, Frankie Beverly, and Maze. Spend your days front and center in the Superdome watching your favorites perform with the VIP Weekend Ticket package. You can also enjoy a more intimate performance with artists performing in the four, club-level, super lounges. Can you even imagine?

french quarter festival

Every April, the famous French Quarter comes together to celebrate local music and the festival is open to the public. There are over 20 stages that line the street and performers and performances that represent every genre from traditional and contemporary jazz to R&B, New Orleans funk, brass bands, folk, gospel, Latin, Zydeco, classical, cabaret, and international. We recommend scooping up some 4-Day Weekend VIP passes so you and your crew can enjoy exclusive perks like lounges, shaded elevated viewing areas, private bars, private restrooms, exclusive programming, and even get some free drinks.

FOOD

Photo: @thewhodavidges

N.O. wine & food experience

So you’re here for the food and drinks? Say less. Each spring thousands of food and wine enthusiasts gather in the French Quarter for the New Orleans Wine and Food Experience. The festival showcases hundreds of wineries and restaurants that feature local flavor and innovative new creations. Top chefs from around the city come together for this four-day event to create culinary experiences like no other. Whether you’re a group of foodies or you’re just looking for a tasty time on the town, this festival has packages to please everyone in your party.

COOLinary

Cuisine is part of the fabric and culture of New Orleans. Each summer, restaurants across the Crescent City participate in a culinary extravaganza known as, “COOLinary New Orleans.” Restaurants offer curated prix-fixe menus at unbeatable prices. Enjoy 2-course lunches for $28 or less, and 3-course dinners and brunches for $58 or less. Save $$$ and eat more–where do we sign up? COOLinary New Orleans runs from August 1 – September 15, make sure to make your reservations in advance, especially if there’s going to be a lot of you.

tales of the cocktail

Shake things up for your co-ed celebration at this week-long festival! Each summer, the Tales of the Cocktail Festival fills the French Quarter with thousands of people and some of the country’s best mixologists and bartenders. You and your crew can also enjoy lectures, book signings, dinner pairings, cooking, and mixing demonstrations. Let the drinks and the good times roll!

CULTURE

Photo: @bryceellphoto

mardi gras season

Probably the most famous celebration in all of the US, Mardi Gras is less of a festival than it is an entire season in New Orleans. Festivities run from January 6-March 4, 2025. That’s 5 weekends to catch a parade and partake in all of the debauchery. If you are planning on celebrating your joint bach party in New Orleans during Mardi Gras season, make sure you book your hotels and flights well in advance because there will be a lot of “krewes” with the same idea. Speaking of your crew, pick a theme and make sure everyone has a costume, just trust us, it’s part of the fun!

red dress run

Held annually on the second Saturday in August, the Red Dress Run brings crowds from near and far to participate in and watch this 2-mile run through the scenic Crescent Park. Whether you are running or not, yes a red dress is required–the photos are always epic! The run is hosted by the New Orleans Hash House Harriers, a local drinking club, so you know there will be plenty of “refreshments” before and after the run to keep the fun going. You’ll need a ticket to participate in the run which you can register for here, and lunch and live music is included.

san fermin/ running of the bulls

If you don’t want to commit to a full weekend of activities, then let us recommend this little gem. Every July in New Orleans, the Annual Running of the Bulls thumps through the streets of downtown New Orleans. It pays homage to Encierro of Pamplona, the original “Running of the Bulls” held in Spain. Though, in this one, there are no actual bulls. Instead, you and your crew can run from the Big Easy Rollergirls 😂! For sporty crews, it’s a fun way to get your blood pumping and of course, there will be wine and spirits to get you in the “spirit” before and after the run.

^{Photo: Trevor Mark Photography}

Ready to plan your joint Bach party? New Orleans & Co. wants to help. Click here to fill out a form for FREE planning assistance.

Follow @visitneworleans to get even more inspo for your upcoming trip!

Instagram Post

We partnered with New Orleans & Company to bring you the ultimate Bachelor/Bachelorette party destination and itinerary. As always, thanks for supporting our sponsors!

The post Why New Orleans is the perfect destination for a joint bach party appeared first on Weddingchicks.

When we say, “New Orleans Wedding”, an image immediately comes to mind, right? Getting married in New Orleans is a vibe all its own and we’ve found that couples that get married in NOLA tend to have some of the best style around. There are the “witchy wedding” couples, the “timeless”, and the “eclectic”. 

What kind of NOLA couple are you? Keep scrolling and see which style speaks to you. Plus, we’ve taken the liberty of listing our fave New Orleans venues for each style–now you just have to check your date and book it! 

If you’re eady to start planning your New Orleans wedding? New Orleans wants to help! Yes, you read that right, New Orleans wants to help you plan your wedding there for FREE! Check out their wedding website here or fill out this form for free hotel quotes and planning assistance.

New Orleans Witchy Weddings

New Orleans is known for its supernatural allure. Steeped in culture and history, it’s no wonder that this magical city gives off some witchy vibes. And while there are other historic cities in the country, none embrace their haunted past quite like New Orleans. From witches and vampires to Voodoo and everything in between, there’s no limit to the mystical inspiration you can find in New Orleans. The moody wedding photos below and above were captured by Dark Roux Photography.

how to pull a witchy wedding off

A vibey venue is key to a witchy wedding. You’ll want something historic and a little, shall we say, creepy. The more vintage bits and bobs, the better! You’ll need candles and a lot of them. Choose a dark color palette that will help set the tone for the day. And finally, dress the part! Don’t be afraid to get creative with your wedding attire. 

New Orleans  witchy wedding venues

• Pharmacy Museum

• Latrobe’s on Royal

• Bloody Mary’s Tours Wedding Packages & Elopements– officiants

• Clesi’s at Bontenelli Place

• Bevolo Lighting Museum

New Orleans Timeless Weddings

It’s no wonder that New Orleans is a wedding destination, the timeless old-world romance of this beautiful city will steal your heart. Because it’s a historic city, there are plenty of old manors and mansions that are PERFECT for weddings. We’re talking beautiful gardens, towering pillars with spacious porches, even ballrooms! Photos by Megan Graham Photo.

how to pull off a timeless New Orleans Wedding

Choose a classic palette with mostly neutrals and only a pop or two of color. Pastels are always a safe bet. Stay away from trends and go with classic decor and fashion choices. In the South, there’s no such thing as too formal, so don’t shy away from a wedding dress code. In NOLA, they love a black-tie affair! Beautiful Photographs by Mo Davis Photography!

We know you love a good backdrop and New Orleans has plenty to offer. One of our favorite backdrops is  Brennan’s, pink fountain a charming Creole restaurant in the French Quarter, is steeped in history. 

This iconic pink building, originally a private French Quarter mansion built in 1795 for Don José Faurie, later became the Banque de la Louisiane, the first bank in Louisiana, from 1841 to 1891. 

After numerous ownership changes, it officially opened as Brennan’s Restaurant in 1956. The owners renovated the building, and the new Brennan’s was unveiled in the fall of 2014, marking the first year the restaurant hosted a wedding in its opulent courtyard.  Are you in love with the marigold display? Beautifully photographed by Mo Davis Photography.

New Orleans timeless wedding venues

• Blue Room at the Roosevelt

• Brennan’s Restaurant Wedding

• Il Mercado

• Audubon Tea Room at Audubon Zoo (Ceremony at the Seal Fountain)

• Hotel Monteleone

• Audubon Cottages

• Elm’s Mansion

• The Cabildo- Louisiana State Museum

• The Orpheum Theater

ECLECTIC WEDDING VENUES

Calling all artists, if you were on the fence about where to get married–it’s New Orleans! NOLA is teeming with art in all its many forms. Even the more modern spaces and hotels have cool installations from local artists! New Orleans is a place where you can simply be yourself. So whatever you like, whoever you are as a couple, you do you!

how to pull  off an eclectic wedding

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to your wedding venue. There are museums, record stores, and bars–choose a space that speaks to you. The key to a perfect eclectic wedding is personal touches. From invitations and menus to city maps there’s no such thing as too much custom printing! Lean into the art scene. Hire a live painter to document your big day and you definitely gotta get in on the live music that NOLA has to offer. All these fun photos are captured by Hannah Pickle.

New Orleans eclectic venues

• Side Car Patio & Oyster Bar

• Ace Hotel New Orleans

• Ogden Museum

• CAC

• Dat Dog Frenchmen Street

• Tipitina’s

• Bamboula’s

• Rosy’s Jazz Hall

• Bourbon Vue

let New Orleans help you plan your wedding for FREE!

Ready to start planning your New Orleans wedding? New Orleans wants to help! Yes, you read that right, New Orleans wants to help you plan your wedding there for FREE! Check out their wedding website here or fill out this form for free hotel quotes and planning assistance.

Follow @visitneworleans on Instagram for even more destination inspiration for your big day.

Instagram Post

We partnered with New Orleans & Company to help you find your NOLA wedding style. As always, thanks for supporting our sponsors!

The post Witchy, timeless, eclectic–what kind of NOLA couple are you? appeared first on Weddingchicks.

^{Photo: Storm Santos}

Maybe it’s the city’s effortlessly cool laidback vibes, maybe it’s the art and mystique that lingers in the air, but it’s no secret that New Orleans has always been a favorite hangout for celebs, and for many even their home base. That’s why when it comes time to plan their weddings, NOLA is a very popular celeb destination. Let’s get into the who, what, and where of our 5 favorite celebrity weddings in New Orleans. Who knows, maybe you can score a vendor or two from their list…

solange knowles

^{Photo: Rog Walker}

If Beyonce is the Queen B, then that makes Solange a princess, so it’s fitting that, like all royal weddings, this one took place at a church, Holy Trinity Church to be specific, now the Marigny Opera House. She arrived in style with her soon-to-be hubby, Alan Ferguson, on a white bicycle adorned with cream-colored roses. For her first of many looks, Solange rocked an ivory jumpsuit with a dramatic plunging neckline and cape by Stephané Rolland.

^{Photo: Rog Walker}

The two went their separate ways to prep for their I do’s and to slip into their official ceremony attire. Solange stunned in a regal cape gown by Humberto Leon for Kenzo accessorized with matching gold cuffs on either wrist. Flanked by her ladies (including her sis, Bey) in all white, in these portraits by Rog Walker, she exudes elegance and strength.

^{Photo: Rog Walker}

Ferguson wore a chic double-breasted ivory suit by Lanvin paired with a crisp white shirt and black leather gold-toe shoes. Solange walked down the aisle to a symphonic instrumental of Donny Hathaway’s, “I Love the Lord, He Heard My Cry.”

^{Photo: Rog Walker}

After the ceremony, the festivities began with a screening of Mahogany, starring Diana Ross. Then the real party began celeb-studded musical performances by Kelela, Questlove, and Kindness.

^{Photo: Rog Walker}

Get The Dream Team Here

Venue: Marigny Opera House

Wedding Dress: Humberto Leon for Kenzo

Accessories: Jill for Lady Grey

Shoes: Stuart Weitzman

Groom’s Attire: Lanvin

Jumpsuit: Stephané Rolland

Wedding Photographer: Rog Walker

christina hendricks

^{Photo: Sophie Lin Berard}

Good Girls star, Christina Hendricks found love on set when she met her now-husband George Bianchini. The two originally planned to tie the knot overseas, but fell head over heels for NOLA and never looked back. Their three-day wedding weekend was all about immersing their guests in the glamour and mystery of this truly one-of-a-kind city. And what better way to welcome your guests than with a proper cocktail party at a mini-mansion followed by a ghost tour of The French Quarter? Christina greeted guests in an over-the-top blue and white floral mermaid gown from one of her close friends, Christian Siriano.

Photo: Instagram via @actuallychristinahendricks

For the wedding day, the couple and their wedding party hunkered down at the historic Napolean House. The landmark that was once home to its namesake, Napoleon Bonaparte, during his exile, is now a pillar in the NOLA fine dining scene. Hendricks entrusted florist, Sharime Kayla, with transforming the mansion into a floral wonderland in shades of plum, blush, and chocolate. The courtyard ceremony was officiated by rock icon, Shirley Manson, the lead singer of Garbage.

Photo: Instagram via Hello! Magazine

Their guests were then treated to some must-have New Orleans classics like steak, shrimp and grits, and muffuletta. To spice things up, the couple opted to have Bananas Foster flambéed right at each table instead of a traditional wedding cake.

Photo: Instagram via Hello! Magazine

Get The Dream Team Here

Ceremony Venue: Napoleon House

Welcome Party Venue: Mini Mansion at the Soniat House

Welcome Party Dress: Custom Christian Siriano

Wedding Dress: Katya Katya

Veil: Claire Pettibone

Florals: Sharime Kayla

Wedding Photographer: Sophie Lin Berard

Ghost Tour: Hottest Hell Tours

Groom’s Attire: Paul Smith Designs

alexandra deddario

^{Photo: Storm Santos}

White Lotus star, Alexandra Deddario married Andrew Form in a celebration that was truly New Orleans. The day started with an intimate ceremony at Preservation Hall. Alexandra wore an effortlessly chic pleated silk wool gown by Danielle Frankel.

^{Photo: Storm Santos}

Andrew was also serving laidback Southern vibes in a cool tan pinstriped suit by Brunello Cucinelli. Led by Preservation Hall’s famed jazz band, their Second Line wove through the French Quarter to their reception at Bar Marilou where guests were treated to cheeseburgers, dancing, and tarot card readings.

^{Photo: Storm Santos}

Get The Dream Team Here

Ceremony Venue: Preservation Hall

Reception Venue: Bar Marilou

Groom’s Attire: Brunello Cucinelli

Wedding Dress: Danielle Frankel

Wedding Photographer: Storm Santos

anya taylor-joy

Photo: Instagram via @malcolmmcrae

To quote Mugatu from “Zoolander”, “That [Anya Taylor-Joy] is so hot right now.” It seems like this doe-eyed beauty is popping up in everything from indie thrillers to sci-fi dramas and, with designers tripping over each other to dress her, she has officially secured her status as a fashion icon. So, it’s no wonder that the photos of her secret New Orleans wedding to Malcolm McRae, that she posted on their anniversary, went viral. With the company of only two of their closest friends, Cara Delevingne and Sebastián Faena, McRae and Taylor-Joy eloped at an intimate ceremony at Hotel Peter and Paul, a historic New Orleans landmark that was once a convent.

Photo: Instagram via @anyataylorjoy

Anya wore a custom gown by Dior in a lovely shade of champagne embroidered with hummingbirds and various other nods to the couple’s love story. Surrounded by candles and white roses, the couple exchanged their vows in the chapel followed by an intimate dinner that culminated in anatomically correct heart-shaped cakes. Due to its secretive nature, the majority of vendors are unknown and it appears that the couple and their besties snapped most of the pics themselves. Nevertheless, here’s what we could gather…

Photo: Instagram via @anyataylorjoy

Wedding Vendor Cheat Sheet

Ceremony Venue: Hotel Peter and Paul

Wedding Dress: Custom Dior

Wedding Cake: We’re assuming that this had to be a bakery in NOLA for the sake of freshness, not to mention that it’s very on-brand for a city known for its vampires. We’re on the lookout for some hot tips if anyone knows which baker crafted these one-of-a-kind creations.

Instagram Post

serena williams

^{Photo: Bob Metelus, Erica Rodriguez, Mel Barlow Photography, Allan Zepeda via Vogue}

Another American Princess, Serena Williams had her fairytale wedding in New Orleans, and this one was far from an intimate affair. So loved is this couple that their guest list couldn’t even begin to fit in a typical venue, they needed the entire Contemporary Arts Center. Because Vogue had an exclusive on this royal wedding, they had not one but a TEAM of four photographers to capture the big day.

^{Photo: Bob Metelus, Erica Rodriguez, Mel Barlow Photography, Allan Zepeda via Vogue}

Guests watched on as Serena and Alexis Ohanian exchanged vows under a modern floral arch in an extravagant space draped in shades of grey and ivory fabric. Serena looked absolutely regal in a beaded chiffon cape and custom Alexander McQueen strapless sweetheart ballgown.

^{Photo: Bob Metelus, Erica Rodriguez, Mel Barlow Photography, Allan Zepeda via Vogue}

After the ceremony, guests were treated to a reception inspired by one of Serena’s favorite fairytales, let’s see if you can guess which one…

^{Photo: Bob Metelus, Erica Rodriguez, Mel Barlow Photography, Allan Zepeda via Vogue}

Get The Dream Team Here

Venue: The Contemporary Arts Center

Groom’s Attire: Custom Armani

Wedding Dress: Custom Alexander McQueen

Reception Dress: Custom Dress by Donatella Versace

Wedding Photographers: Bob Metelus, Erica Rodriguez, Mel Barlow Photography, Allan Zepeda

Hair Stylist: Angela Meadows

Makeup Artist: Natasha Gross

Bridesmaid Dresses: Custom Galia Lahav

Event Planner: Jennifer Zabinski Events

Event Designer: Preston Bailey Entertainment & Set Design, Inc.

Event Entertainment: Elan Artists

DJs: DJ Trauma, DJ Mike Wise

Event Catering: Creative Edge Parties

Event Production: See Hear Productions

Invitations: Alpine Creative Group

Wedding Cake: Lulu Cake Boutique

Welcome Bags: Lady J Creative

Stylist: Kesha McLeod

Jeweler: XIV Karats

Want to get married in New Orleans like one of your favorite celebs? New Orleans loves that for you and wants to help! Yes, you read that right, New Orleans wants to help you plan your wedding there for FREE! Check out their wedding website here or fill out this form for free hotel quotes and planning assistance.

Follow @visitneworleans to see even more of this perfect wedding destination.

Instagram Post

We partnered with New Orleans & Company to bring you the inside scoop on some of our favorite celebrity weddings. As always, thanks for supporting our sponsors!

The post 5 of our favorite celeb weddings in New Orleans + their vendor lists appeared first on Weddingchicks.

Stephen and Kaylee were a match made in heaven after they both moved to Los Angeles and joined Hinge. After almost three years of dating and many shared adventures, Stephen proposed at the Manhattan Beach Pier. The couple was engaged and planning their wedding for almost two years before they tied the knot in Stephen’s hometown of New Orleans! Mint Julep Productions was there to assist each step of the way as they executed this wedding captured by Trevor Mark Photography.

Ready To Plan Your Wedding in New Orleans?

If you’re planning a wedding in New Orleans, the city will offer you complimentary wedding planning assistance–like FREE! This especially comes in handy if you’re planning a destination wedding there from out of state. They’ll help you with everything from wedding vendor and hotel searches to wedding date availability.

Do you have any idea how much time that will save?! They have access to 1,100 member organizations including hotels, venues, caterers, florists, and photographers–all vetted and the best of what New Orleans has to offer. And take it from us, finding the right vendors is probably the hardest part of wedding planning, so just fill out their contact form here, and you can check that off from your to-do list!

START PLANNING YOUR NEW ORLEANS WEDDING HERE

You may also like

A modern vintage Patina wedding in New Orleans

This wedding weekend in New Orleans was a non-stop party

French flower market wedding inspiration in New Orleans

Custom graphic sweatshirts

For the day-of, the bridal party received matching zip-up sweatshirts and short sets (perfect for hair and makeup), and the groomsmen and parents received t-shirts with the couple’s custom wedding graphics by Taylor Amy to wear while getting ready.

A muted rainbow of bridesmaids

Kaylee opted for each bridesmaid dress to be a unique style and vibrant color. To come up with a curated theme, Kaylee visited the Jenny Yoo showroom and paired colors and fabrics together. She and Mint Julep Productions came up with a beautiful “muted rainbow” theme which helped shape the overall color scheme of the wedding – eventually incorporating those colors into the florals by Antigua Floral and magnificent balloon installations in the gorgeous restored church at Hotel Peter and Paul, where their ceremony and reception took place.

Vera Wang tuxes

For the wedding, the groomsmen wore Vera Wang tuxedos by Men’s Wearhouse while the flower girls wore matching tulle dresses from Etsy.

A unique pre-ceremony celebration

For the out-of-town guests, the live music and New Orleans wedding traditions really made the weekend unique! At the end of the Friday Welcome Party, the couple had a brass band lead everyone out of the venue and through the streets of New Orleans for a traditional New Orleans second line parade which ended at the front of the church where the wedding would take place the next day.

An intimate reception dinner

For local New Orleans guests, the formal seated dinner by Bacchanal Catering during the reception (which is not traditional for New Orleans) allowed for an intimate moment between friends and family before dancing and revelry began!

A must-see modern balloon installation

Nice Day Co., a boutique experiential design company, created the stunning balloon and fringe installations in the converted church at Hotel Peter and Paul.

After-the-fact advice from the bride

“Throughout the planning process, remember what things are most important to each of you and try to keep perspective when navigating through challenges or making big decisions!”

The post A muted rainbow wedding in NOLA with striking balloon installation appeared first on Weddingchicks.

Sydni and Armad had a sweet meet-cute in line at Target when Sydni forgot her wallet and Armad offered to pay for her items. To thank him, Sydni bought Armad a coffee and the two ended up talking for hours. Before they knew it, they were planning their wedding, hoping for a lush and moody vibe which the Pharmacy Museum fulfilled perfectly. Keep scrolling to see how this NOLA wedding that prioritized a fun guest experience and amazing food came together with the help of Spanish Oak Events, all captured on camera by Ashley Biltz Photography.

Ready To Plan Your Wedding in New Orleans?

If you’re planning a wedding in New Orleans, the city will offer you complimentary wedding planning assistance–like FREE! This especially comes in handy if you’re planning a destination wedding there from out of state. They’ll help you with everything from wedding vendor and hotel searches to wedding date availability.

Do you have any idea how much time that will save?! They have access to 1,100 member organizations including hotels, venues, caterers, florists, and photographers–all vetted and the best of what New Orleans has to offer. And take it from us, finding the right vendors is probably the hardest part of wedding planning, so just fill out their contact form here, and you can check that off from your to-do list!

START PLANNING YOUR NEW ORLEANS WEDDING HERE

A personally grown bouquet detail

When it came to design, Sydni and Armad knew exactly what they liked. They both have a deep love for plants, so much so that the bride included a leaf from her own Anthurium Crystallinum in her bouquet by Cry Baby Floral.

Yellow bridesmaid dresses

Sydni’s bridesmaids wore pale yellow dresses in all different styles while holding spring-inspired bouquets with textured pops of blues and purples.

Classic style with a colorful twist

Groom Armad donned a dark orange suit perfect for either spring or fall, completed with a blue tie and pop of white and yellow boutonniere. Sydni wore a classic A-line wedding dress with v-sides and spaghetti straps.

You may also like

Why New Orleans is the perfect wedding destination

The band played on at this classic New Orleans Ritz Carlton wedding

New Orleans destination wedding with two parades in the French Quarter

DIY reception details

Sydni is beyond talented and created many of the decor pieces herself, including: the hand painted taper candles, table numbers, the seating chart, second line handkerchiefs, and more!

Private cake cutting

The bride and groom opted to have their own personal cake cutting in private, complete with champagne toast. It was a special moment for just the two to remember.

The post Pops of yellow brought charm to this colorful New Orleans wedding appeared first on Weddingchicks.

Planning a micro wedding in NOLA? We’ve curated a list of the best spots. From modern hotels to French Quarter courtyards, we’ve got you covered. See all the New Orleans wedding venues that perfect for your micro wedding here.

From the moment we laid eyes on this lovely pink-haired bride and her silver sequin dress, we wanted to know more. Chelsea, the bride owns her own vintage store, so it’s no wonder that their wedding is full of some one-of-a-kind eclectic vintage finds. In a word, this wedding is FUN. From the discoball decor, whimsical pastel floral arrangements, and quite possibly the best dress code we’ve ever heard of, it’s safe to say we’re obsessed with this wedding. Most of all, we love how the wedding perfectly combines their two personalities, we’ve never met, but after you scroll through their wedding, you’ll feel like you know exactly who they are, as individuals and as a couple. Keep scrolling to see even more of these vibrant photos from Hannah Pickle that look like something straight out of a Wes Anderson romcom, and hear more about how they pulled off this uber-cool wedding from the bride herself.

Ready To Plan Your Wedding in New Orleans?

If you’re planning a wedding in New Orleans, the city will offer you complimentary wedding planning assistance–like FREE! This especially comes in handy if you’re planning a destination wedding there from out of state. They’ll help you with everything from wedding vendor and hotel searches to wedding date availability.

Do you have any idea how much time that will save?! They have access to 1,100 member organizations including hotels, venues, caterers, florists, and photographers–all vetted and the best of what New Orleans has to offer. And take it from us, finding the right vendors is probably the hardest part of wedding planning, so just fill out their contact form here, and you can check that off from your to-do list!

START PLANNING YOUR NEW ORLEANS WEDDING HERE

you may also like

The Pink Disco Wedding Of Your Dreams In Austin Texas

Pink & Purple Wedding With Tropical Disco Vibes In Rhode Island

This Pretty In Pink Wedding Shows That Your Hair Can Be The Ultimate Wedding Accessory

it all started with a swipe in the right direction

Chelsea and Mike are a Tinder success story–yes, they do exist. Both swiped right on April 24, 2017, and after an evening of cocktails, texting, and dancing to Vulfpeck together (but separately in our respective homes) they decided to meet. Their first date was at a local Minneapolis hotspot (dive bar), Mayslack’s, and the rest is history. After lots of relationship evolution, let’s fast forward to 2020. That summer Mike had hinted that he would propose that year, and he waited until the literal last day to do it. They got engaged during the pandemic on New Year’s Eve while dancing to a live show by The Avett Brothers in their basement. When Chelsea said yes, Mike’s response was, “OFF TO NEW ORLEANS!” even though he’d never been. If that’s not love, I don’t know what is.

keeping it 1000

Our wedding was 1000% us. From the vendors we chose to work with and the venue, to the songs we used, the format of the wedding, down to the uneven bridal party. Throughout the process, we trusted our guts and our hearts to only move forward with something if it felt right and authentic and I believe that was showcased to everyone who shared our day with us.

Chelsea and Mike were lucky enough to find Sun Dew Love Party, who totally got their vision and helped bring it to life, starting with the perfect venue. Music Box Village beautifully encompassed all the vibes they were going for.

faith, trust, and disco dust inspo

Our inspiration was us in New Orleans! Mike is into metal and he basically only wears black, while my dream is to be covered in glitter, pastels, and neons. So, we tried our best to combine the two! The color palette was influenced by a wedding I had seen a photo of, but then we “Chelsea and Mike-ified” it and made it quite a bit more extra. We created a billion Pinterest boards for inspiration for each aspect and then trusted our friends/vendors/loved ones to run with it and they all delivered BEAUTIFULLY! Choosing carefully and researching carefully who we worked with was KEY since we trusted them all and knew they understood our vision.

a dress code to remember

Attire for the Babes of Honor was Met Gala meets The Grammy’s and the dudes were instructed to show up looking like the Foo Fighters at an awards show.

pretty pastel florals

There is something so charming about these pastel floral arrangements by Sharime Kayla. They have that effortlessly pretty vibe (that actually requires a lot of effort) like they were freshly picked from a field of wildflowers. Not only did they completely capture every element of the pastel color palette, they also added pops of complementary shades with fresh produce on the tables at the reception.

a disco deck altar

We are both avid record collectors, concertgoers, and general music lovers so we knew we wanted to incorporate as much of that as we could into our wedding. We also have SO MANY artistic and talented friends who SO GENEROUSLY helped us in the whole process. Because our wedding was a destination we were able to enlist some of our friends who still live in New Orleans in the creation of many of the disco balls and the INSANE and perfect seating chart.

the second line

Chelsea runs a vintage shop and loves all things sustainable so the majority of the second-line scarves were sourced second-hand and the Treme Brass Band really brought it. Also, the first walk down the aisle for the Babes of Honor, Groomsmen, and Mike and his family to Black Sabbath was so fun! Everyone grooved and understood the assignment perfectly.

mix-and-match centerpieces for the reception

The chill backyard-esque reception totally fit the vibe of the wedding. There was custom art, supplied by some of their friends and mix-and-match pastel-floral centerpieces. They also opted for a cupcake tower instead of a traditional wedding cake.

words of wisdom from a happy bride

This probably sounds cliche if you’ve been reading wedding blogs for a minute, but don’t listen to anyone else except yourself and your partner! Together you will come up with the perfect wedding that is perfect for you. Figure out what is important to you and showcase who you are as a couple and as individuals as authentically as you can. If you do that, your family and friends will have the best time ever.

The post Pretty pastels meet hard rock in this funky NOLA wedding appeared first on Weddingchicks.