The Cost of Waiting – Why Now is the Only Time to Book Your New Orleans Elopement
I love love witnessing couples exchange vows in this city. However, I have noticed a recurring pattern in our initial
The New Orleans Elopement,
Designed for You.
Elope to Nola experts blending timeless photography with
all-inclusive planning and authentic New Orleans soul.
Your only job is to fall more in love.
If you love the romance, but not the fanfare...
an authentic New Orleans elopement or vow renewal is calling your name
You don’t need a massive production to have a soulful wedding. We have found the beauty in intentional simplicity. When your day is structured with expertise, the imagery feels more like a private editorial than a traditional wedding. For over 11 years, we have been the sanctuary for couples who prioritize presence over performance.
Our approach isn’t built on a standard checklist; it’s built on over a decade of boots-on-the-ground intuition. As the original all-inclusive elopement team in New Orleans, we act as your personal curators—handling every detail of our elopement packages, from stunning photography and custom florals to seamless timelines. This keeps your day fun, intimate and focused entirely on the person in front of you.
We specialize in the quiet luxury of eloping, letting the city’s historic architecture do the heavy lifting. Imagine the stillness of a French Quarter morning, beignets + café au lait and the absolute relief of knowing every detail is managed with intentional care.
This isn’t just an elopement; it’s your unique story. No production. No noise. Just the two of you and a day that feels larger than life. Simply book your flight, pack your rings and allow us to handle the rest.
Set sail into your forever with our All-Inclusive Boat Wedding Package, which is ideal for couples who want a unique destination wedding on the water.
Take in stunning views of the New Orleans skyline or peaceful coastal waves. We take care of the planning, vendors, and styling. You can simply relax and enjoy.
Celebrate just the two of you or bring along a few close friends. This intimate boat wedding feels personal & incredibly relaxing – like you’re worlds away from the city energy.
Enjoy a relaxed beach wedding without the stress. Our Biloxi Elopement Package gives you a beautiful, carefree ceremony on the Gulf Coast.
We take care of the planning, permits, and every little detail. You simply soak in the moment and the love between you.
Say your vows at sunset, walk barefoot on the sand, and keep it simple, sweet, and serene. Your dream beach elopement starts right here.
Which New Orleans Backdrop Fits Your Story?
Expertly curated locations for your all-inclusive elopement
The French Quarter
The Vibe
Historic, soulful and vibrant. Think cobblestone alleys, wrought-iron balconies and the sound of brass bands in the distance.
Best For
Couples wanting iconic NOLA energy, architecture and a short walk to a world-class celebratory dinner.
All-Inclusive Touch: We know the quietest times for the best light & less crowds in the French Quarter.
City Park
The Vibe
Ethereal, lush and timeless. Acres of manicured gardens, stone bridges and a peaceful escape from the city hustle.
Best For
Couples looking for a "fairytale" feel with greenery & winding lagoons. City Park boasts the largest concentration of stunning oaks in the USA.
All-Inclusive Touch: We handle the park permits and guide you to a truly magical experience.
The Tree of Life
The History
The Etienne de Boré Oak, planted circa 1740. Standing here is joining a story nearly 300 years in the making.
Best For
Couples seeking a ceremony connected to nature and a romantic "strength of the tree represents the strength of your marriage" symbolism.
All-Inclusive Touch: Permit is included in our package + we time your vows so sunlight filters perfectly through the massive branches.
Private Sailboat
The Vibe
Serene, exclusive and breathtaking. A private escape onto Lake Pontchartrain as the skyline glows in the distance.
Best For
Couples trading city streets for the tide. Total privacy with a front-row seat to a New Orleans sunset.
All-Inclusive Touch: We coordinate the charter, the nautical timing and the celebratory toast.
The Experience from Past Couples
"After the first conversation I knew she was the one..."
"Marcia is a great communicator! She took care of pretty much everything and I literally had nothing to worry about. Our photos came out amazing. I am still in awe."
— Dale B. | New Orleans Bride
★★★★★
The "Just Us" Experience - New Orleans Elopement Packages for Two
If you want the truth—the kind of truth you only get from someone who's photographed many couples who eloped—here it is: No couple has ever had a better experience than the ones who chose to elope entirely alone. Bypass the production and reclaim your day.
Pivot to "Just Us" →I’m Marcia!
Your professional NOLA elopement planner, photographer and unofficial ‘Keep it Real’ specialist. I help couples bypass the industry noise and focus on what matters most...the two of you.
I’ve lived in this city all my life, and I still get goosebumps every time a brass band starts playing in the distance. Having captured elopements here for over a decade, I know that New Orleans isn't just a backdrop, it's a feeling. My goal isn't to just check the boxes off on your wedding day; it's to protect your peace of mind and make sure you truly feel the heartbeat of the city I call home.
My all-inclusive New Orleans elopement packages cover everything from officiant to florals, timelines and full photography coverage. Whether you’re tying the knot beneath the live oaks or wandering the French Quarter, I’ve got your back.
If you want a day that feels relaxed and real; complete with second line parades, world-class food and authentic moments… welcome to the Elope to NOLA family.
Our 5-star reviews aren’t luck! They come from years of experience, preparation and treating every couple’s day like it’s our own. I’d love to hear your story because I know it’s an incredible one!
With love and soul,
Marcia Ibay
Founder & Photographer
Your Path to a Stress-Free Celebration
From "What if?" to "I do" in three effortless steps.
Begin
01. The Vision Session
Let’s turn your ideas into a plan. We’ll check your date availability, explore iconic NOLA ceremony backdrops and make sure we’re the perfect fit to tell your story.
Secure
02. Reserve Your Date
Once your retainer is set and the contract is signed, the weight is off your shoulders. Your date is locked, and our local expertise is officially at your service.
Celebrate
03. Arrive & Enjoy
We curate the timeline, florals, photography and logistics while you focus on each other. Simply show up, breathe deep & soak in your soulful New Orleans moment.
Elopement Questions? We’ve Got Answers.
- Our process is designed for couples who value presence over production. If your vision includes the logistical weight of a bridal party, formal seating, or expansive decor, we may not be the right fit. We specialize in the quiet, intimate moments that belong only to you.
- We specialize in story-first photography rather than a traditional wedding shot list. While we capture all essential family groupings, our process is designed for couples who prioritize authentic connection over an exhaustive list of poses. This allows us to capture genuine moments and pivot quickly if we need to dodge a New Orleans rain shower.
- Our curated New Orleans elopement experiences currently start at $2,900 for Monday–Thursday celebrations. Every connection is unique, so we’ll discuss specific inclusions and custom options for your vision during our discovery call. View more details here.
- Yes, you will need an Orleans Parish marriage license. While there is a standard 24-hour waiting period in Louisiana, we can guide you on securing a Judicial Waiver if your timeline is tight. Read the legal requirements.
- Most intimate ceremonies last 10–15 minutes. This allows for a short, sweet, and deeply heartfelt exchange focused entirely on your story.
- Our all-inclusive elopement model is designed exclusively for intimate groups of 15 guests or fewer. This ensures the day remains focused on the two of you. We will guide you in selecting the perfect location that best accommodates your guest count.
- Our everything-handled approach includes high-end photography, a licensed officiant, custom florals, and a curated timeline. See the full list of inclusions.
- NOLA welcomes everything from high-fashion editorial gowns to chic cocktail attire to themed styles. We recommend comfortable shoes for navigating historic cobblestones during your portrait session.
- Absolutely. We work with experienced local officiants who specialize in personalized ceremonies and handle all legal filing with the State of Louisiana.
- Yes, an elopement is absolutely a real, intentional wedding. By stripping away the production and the pressure of a large crowd, you are left with the only thing that matters: the two of you and the promises you make. Like the classic courthouse marriages of the past, your wedding is defined by the depth of your commitment, not the size of your guest list.
- Yes. Many iconic spots like City Park or Jackson Square require photography and event permits. We guide you through the local parks and parkways logistics.
- Most couples book 2–6 months in advance. However, we have successfully coordinated ceremonies in under 72 hours. Reach out to check current availability.
- We always have a tactical backup plan. We pivot to covered areas or use your clear, stylish umbrellas which are perfect for capturing romantic, moody imagery.
- I’ll reach out personally within 24 hours to schedule a quick call. We’ll walk through your vision and I will answer every question you have. Let’s connect.
- By bundling high-end photography with florals and an officiant, you bypass the stress of navigating New Orleans' unique logistics alone. Learn why we're worth it.
- My inclusive approach means the heavy lifting happens behind the scenes. From securing permits and vetting the city’s top floral designer to hand-editing every image for a timeless finish, I manage the complexities so your only job is to show up and be present.
- We are native to the city’s quirks. We know exactly when the light hits the Tree of Life and how to find the quiet, hidden courtyards away from the crowds.
- We prepare for every variable—from humidity to traffic. With a local expert in your corner, your only job is to show up and be in love.
Bottom line: We are not elopement photographers who also shoot traditional weddings.
We specialize in elopements ❤️
READ OUR INDEPTH GUIDES TO ELOPING
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