Imagine saying “I do” with your beloved by your side. Intimate, romantic and no stress. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it doesn’t have to be just a dream. An elopement can be the perfect way to celebrate your love without all the fuss
So, how do you plan the perfect elopement? Let’s break it down step-by-step.
1. Prioritize Your Passions
The first step to planning your dream elopement is to determine what truly matters to you and your partner. What makes your hearts skip a beat? Is it a sailboat ceremony with the gentle lapping of waves, or a majestic vow exchange amidst breathtaking hundred year oaks? Perhaps you envision a romantic French Quarter balcony elopement or a lively second line parade celebrating your love with the entire city.
Whatever your dreams are, let them be the foundation of your elopement. This is your special day, and it should reflect your unique personalities and shared passions.
2. Choose Your Timeline
Once you have a clear vision of your ideal elopement, it’s time to consider the timeline. Do you want a full day of celebrations, complete with a leisurely brunch, a romantic photo session, and a cocktail at a jazz club after? Or do you prefer a quick and intimate ceremony, followed by a private dinner for two?
The length of your elopement will determine how many activities you can fit in. A full-day elopement offers more flexibility, while a micro-elopement allows you to focus on the core elements of your ceremony and celebration.
3. Create Your Masterpiece
Now that you have a general idea of your timeline, it’s time to start planning the details. Begin by choosing your ceremony time. This could be a sunrise ceremony or a sunset vow exchange. Once you have your ceremony time, work backwards to plan the rest of your day.
Consider scheduling meals, activities, and travel time. Remember to leave some wiggle room for unexpected moments,such as traffic delays or spontaneous photo opportunities.
VIEW OUR CURATED NEW ORLEANS PACKAGES HERE
Here are some activities you might want to consider:
- Pre-Ceremony Activities:
- Getting ready at a charming bed and breakfast
- A first look with your partner
- A pre-ceremony photo session
- Ceremony:
- Vows exchanged on a beach, in a stunning park, or on a private sailboat
- A traditional ceremony or a personalized/cultural ritual
- Post-Ceremony Activities:
- A romantic champagne toast
- A private dinner for two
- A sunset photo session
- A ride on a famous streetcar or carriage ride for 2
- A stop in a Jazz Club
When creating your timeline, be sure to factor in transportation and any necessary permits or fees – seek the help of your photographer for this!
4. Add Some Sparkle
To make your elopement truly unforgettable, consider adding some special touches. These could include:
- A first look: This is a private moment where you and your partner can see each other for the first time before the ceremony.
- A sunset photo session: Capture the magic of the golden hour with stunning photos of you and your beloved.
- A second line parade: Celebrate your love with a lively parade through the streets.
- A romantic carriage ride: Enjoy a leisurely ride through historic French Quarter – New Orleans.
- Live music: Add a touch of elegance and romance with live music during your ceremony or reception.
- Personalized details: Incorporate personal touches into your elopement, such as custom vows, a favorite song, or a special keepsake.
5. Embrace the Magic
Remember, life happens! Be prepared for weather changes, unplanned moments, or simply indulging in the joy of the occasion. Communicate with your vendors, relax, and enjoy the day.
Here are a Few Invaluable Tips to Keep in Mind:
- Be prepared: Make sure you have everything you need before your elopement day. This includes your outfits, hair, makeup, accessories and any other props you want to use.
- Feel confident: Wear outfits and choose hairstyles that make you feel your best. Confidence radiates in photos, so it’s important to feel comfortable and beautiful on your special day. I always say, treat your elopement wedding like a special date night. The more comfortable you are in your outfit and makeup, the more confidence will show in your photos. You want to remember your authentic self through your photos 🙂
- Be in the moment: Let your photographer capture the magic of your day and the love between you two. Don’t worry about posing or looking perfect. Just relax, have fun and enjoy the moment. The more you interact with each other casually, the more we can storytell your day!
- Bring a friend (if having guests): Having a loved one with you can provide support and assistance. They can help you with touch ups, dress fix-ups, carrying props and simply being there to celebrate with you. Trust me, they want to help you!
FAQ’s for a perfect Nola Elopement:
What Are Some Unique And Romantic Elopement Venues In New Orleans?
Consider your preferences for natural beauty or urban settings. Most popular locations are City Park, Audubon Park, French Quarter alleys and the Riverfront. Here is an article with our favorites 🙂
What Makes Ibay Photography Unique When Choosing Our Elopement Photographer?
We at Ibay focus on the experience for all of our couples. We are not just photographers, but elopement specialists. Yes…we take timeless, artful & intimate photos but we pride ourselves on your full experience both during consultations and on your special day! One tip we strongly urge is to look at portfolios of photographers you like to find a style that resonates with you. Visit our Gallery HERE
I’m From Out Of Town, Can I Get Help With Obtaining A Marriage License?
Yes, if both parties have an out of state Drivers License, our officiants will walk you through the steps to get your marriage license and what paperwork is required.
What Are Some Creative Elopement Ceremony Ideas For A Meaningful Experience?
Elopement ceremonies can be as simple or elaborate as you like. You can exchange personal vows, have a reading, or incorporate symbolic elements that reflect your love story. Ex: our favorite couple actually played their favorite song “Tina Turner – Simply the Best” and sang to each other during the vows 🙂 Or what if we spent the day together covering your ceremony, then a fun Nola cooking class, then custom desserts to toast your celebration. You can even surprise your guests with your elopement, have them show up to your favorite restaurant or bar and we marry you guys there. Fun, unique, exciting and special!
What Attire Should We Wear For Our Elopement (Dress, Suit, Something More Casual, Colors)?
Elopement attire is entirely up to you! Choose something that makes you feel comfortable and confident, whether it’s a formal wedding dress and suit, or something more relaxed and adventurous. We personally love seeing colors and uniqueness. The beauty of an elopement is you can personalize everything including your attire! Get inspiration HERE
With a little planning and a lot of love, your elopement can be the most magical day of your life. Congratulations!!!
VIEW OUR CURATED NEW ORLEANS PACKAGES HERE
Elopement Checklist
☑️ Airfare
☑️ Hotel Reservations
☑️ Pre or Post Ceremony Meal Reservations
☑️ Photographer 🙂
☑️ Officiant
☑️ Florist/Baker
☑️ Musicians / Jazz Band for Ceremony and Second Line (if desired)
☑️ Hair/Makeup Artists
☑️ Wedding Attires for couple
☑️ Shoes and Accessories
☑️ WEDDING RINGS
☑️ Paperwork required to Apply for Marriage License
☑️ Day of Timeline – coordinated with your photographer or planner
☑️ Excursions/Tours/Jazz Club Reservations
☑️ Prepare for Destination – check weather, water bottles, tissues, comfy shoes for walking, umbrellas
