Hey there! So, you’re planning to tie the knot, and you’ve got the style, the spirit, and the travel bug. Maybe you’re foodies who can’t resist a great meal or music lovers who can’t wait to dance the night away. If you’re eyeing an intimate wedding venue that’s dripping with character and charm, let me introduce you to the Napoleon House in New Orleans—a place where your wedding dreams can turn into a reality.
A Little History: The Charm of Napoleon House
Before we dive into the how-tos, let’s take a moment to appreciate the history of this stunning venue. Built in 1798, the Napoleon House was originally intended to be a residence for Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile (spoiler alert: he never made it). Instead, it became a bar and restaurant, exuding an old-world charm that pairs beautifully with the vibrancy of New Orleans. With a unique courtyard, vintage ambiance, and an air of romance, it’s the perfect backdrop for a cool, intimate wedding.
Why Choose Napoleon House for Your Big Day?
You probably have a solid sense of what you want for your wedding: something that reflects who you are as a couple. Here’s why the Napoleon House is a fantastic fit:
- Intimacy: With several private spaces available, you can host a cozy elopement ceremony for your nearest and dearest without losing that vibrant New Orleans vibe.
- Location, Location, Location: Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, you’re just a hop, skip, and a jump away from fantastic food, music, and culture—perfect for your guests to explore before or after your wedding. Everything is walking distance from the Napoleon House!
- Culinary Excellence: Speaking of food, the Napoleon House is famous for its delicious Creole cuisine. Think po’boys, muffulettas, and refreshing Pimm’s Cups. You and your guests will enjoy a culinary journey that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
- Musical Vibes: New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and if you’re music lovers, you can easily incorporate live music into your wedding. Imagine dancing to a local jazz band in the courtyard—pure magic.
- Stunning Photography Opportunities: As a professional wedding photographer, I can’t stress enough how gorgeous the venue is. The vintage décor, historic accents, and old world charm make for stunning backdrops that will elevate your wedding album.
The Planning Process: How to Do It Right
So, how do you pull off a wedding that’s cool, intimate, and unforgettable at the Napoleon House? Let’s break it down.
1. Set the Date
The first step in your wedding planning journey is to choose a date. Consider the weather and events happening in New Orleans—spring and fall are ideal for pleasant weather. Keep in mind any local festivals (like Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest and Halloween!) as they can influence hotel availability and pricing for your guests.
2. Budget Wisely
By choosing an elopement or intimate ceremony over a traditional wedding with 100+ guests, you have the flexibility to create an incredible experience. Allocate funds for venue rental, food & drinks, photography, and entertainment. Don’t forget only-in-New-Orleans experiences like a 2nd line parade!
3. Curate Your Guest List
Since you want an intimate celebration, keep your guest list tight. Think about inviting your closest friends and family who truly support you. A smaller wedding can lead to deeper connections, more meaningful conversations, and a more relaxed atmosphere. Or just the two of you is even more romantic 😍
4. Choose Your Style and Decor
With the Napoleon House’s rustic charm as your backdrop, you can play with a variety of styles—think vintage elegance with greenery, candlelight, and warm tones. Use locally sourced flowers and décor that reflect the vibrant culture of New Orleans. And don’t forget about unique additions like sketch artists or tarot readings!
5. Food, Glorious Food
Work with the Napoleon House’s team to create a menu that tantalizes taste buds. Think of signature dishes, and consider adding fun items like custom cocktails. Don’t forget dessert! A personalized wedding cake that embraces the NOLA vibe sounds good, think fleur de lis accents.
6. Hire the Right Vendors
When it comes to vendors, choose those who understand your vision. Look for a photographer who specializes in elopement weddings (ahem, like yours truly!). You want someone who can capture those candid, heartfelt moments in a stylish way. Also, consider hiring a local jazz band who can bring the party to life with music that resonates with you both.
7. Capture the Moments
As a wedding photographer, I live for those raw, intimate moments. To make sure we capture everything perfectly, here are a few tips:
- Schedule a First Look: This is a great opportunity to capture beautiful, emotional moments before the ceremony.
- Plan for Golden Hour: Time your couple portraits for that magical hour before sunset. The light in New Orleans can be dreamy, and you’ll want to take advantage of it.
- Embrace Candid Shots: Allow for some time during your reception/dinner where I can wander and capture the spontaneous joy and laughter that unfold. The best moments are often the unplanned ones!
8. Personal Touches
To make your wedding truly yours, infuse personal elements that reflect your journey as a couple. Whether it’s a special song that’s meaningful to you both or a photo display of your adventures, these details will make your day unique and memorable.
Planning Your Honeymoon: Extend the Celebration
Since you love to travel, why not consider a mini-moon right after the wedding? Think of heading to a nearby coastal town or a quaint bed and breakfast for a few days of relaxation. You can plan a bigger honeymoon later, perhaps a trip to Europe to savor incredible food and music in cities like Paris or Barcelona.
Wrapping It Up
Planning a wedding at the Napoleon House is about celebrating your love story in a place that reflects your style, passions, and personalities. Embrace the charm of New Orleans, enjoy the food, revel in the music, and make lasting memories with your loved ones.
So, here’s to love, laughter, and happily ever after in one of the most enchanting cities in the world! Cheers to planning a wedding that’s not just cool and intimate, but uniquely you.
If you need any tips, guidance, or just want to chat about photography, reach out! I’d love to help you make your dream wedding a reality. Happy planning, you cool cats!
