Thinking about eloping in New Orleans? First of all: I love your taste. Whether you’re dreaming of Spanish moss, jazz in the streets, or a ceremony with zero pressure and all the soul—NOLA brings it.
But before you book that flight or say yes to the dress, let’s get into the real stuff. The beautiful, the spicy, and the occasionally sweaty truth about eloping in New Orleans.
You don’t need to know where you’re eloping yet.
Most of my couples start with a vibe, not a venue. That’s the beauty of eloping in this city—it can happen under an ancient oak, on a French Quarter balcony, on a private sailboat or next to a brass band at golden hour.
Not sure what fits you best? I help you figure that out based on your style, guest count (let’s keep it small please), and how much public attention you’re okay with. (Fair warning: You will get stopped for selfies if we’re in the Quarter.)
The weather has strong opinions.
Let’s be real: summer in New Orleans is spicy HOT. We’re talking humidity that laughs in the face of your flat iron. If you’re eloping between June and August, expect heat, possible storms, and instant-sweaty hugs. Fall and spring? Absolutely dreamy. Cool, glowy light. No regrets.
(If you’re heat-resistant or just love a good deal, summer can work! But I’ll bring the blotting paper — and we will do it early in the morning or right before sunset 🙂
There are festivals. So. Many. Festivals.
Jazz Fest. French Quarter Fest. Essence. Mardi Gras. Halloween. Red Dress Run. Sometimes several in one weekend. This is great if you want a party-packed elopement week… but if you’re craving quiet or affordable lodging? You will want to choose dates carefully.
Yes, it’s legal…and easier than it sounds.
Here’s the short version:
You’ll apply in person for a Louisiana marriage license
There’s a 24-hour wait (we can waive it under certain circumstances)
You need one officiant + two witnesses (we help with that)
Your license is good for 30 days
We file it for you afterward
Need help? Our elopement packages cover officiants, permits, florals, timeline help and more.
👉 Browse all-inclusive elopement packages (opens in a new tab)
How do you tell your family?
You’re not alone in this one. I’ve had couples FaceTime parents right after the ceremony, write letters, host post-elopement dinners/receptions back home, or bring their people along for a front-row seat.
You don’t owe anyone a performance. But you do deserve support. Need help navigating that convo? I’ve heard every version.
Where should you stay?
Central neighborhoods like the French Quarter, Marigny, Bywater, and Garden District give you easy access to ceremony spots and that New Orleans charm. I always suggest a boutique hotel or historic inn over chain hotels — it’s part of the experience.
Where should you eat (a.k.a. celebrate)?
Here’s where we upgrade from “elopement dinner” to “we might cry over this meal.” We can have your cake delivered to the restaurant too!
- 🌙 Muriel’s Jackson Square — classic Creole, candlelight, and maybe a ghost
- 🥂 Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse — cozy, refined, and serious about wine
- 🌿 Bayona — tucked-away romance and James Beard vibes
- 🍷 N7 — hidden Bywater gem with dreamy courtyard seating
- 🎉 Galatoire’s — for couples who want energy and tradition in one
- 🍽 Restaurant August — white tablecloth, refined Southern French, total celebration energy
What no one tells you:
People here are friendly. Like… stop-and-talk-to-you-for-5-minutes friendly.
You will get attention. Especially in wedding attire.
There’s no “right way” to elope here.
It’s not about what you skip — it’s about what you choose.
A bit about me:
I’ve spent over 11 years helping couples skip the big wedding chaos and focus on what really matters — their love, their way.
Before elopements, I shot huge weddings nonstop and burned out hard. Then a couple called me in full panic — 160 guests booked, but they wanted something simple because they were expecting a baby. We planned their New Orleans elopement in four days. No fluff. Just real moments.
That day changed everything for me. Since then, I’ve only done elopements, bringing that same heart and focus to every couple.
Born and raised in New Orleans, I’m a proud Type A who loves a good plan — and I’ll make sure yours actually feels easy.
Things to do before and after your ceremony
New Orleans isn’t just about the “I do” — it’s about soaking in all the magic around your special day. Here are some local faves to fill your elopement weekend:
- Mardi Gras World — Get behind-the-scenes at this colorful parade workshop. It’s like a party prep tour with giant floats and costumes. It’s live art!
- Swamp Tours — Explore the wild bayous and maybe spot an alligator or two or eight. Nature + adventure = instant memories.
- Garden District Tours — Wander in front of historic mansions and perfectly manicured gardens. It’s like stepping into a Southern fairy tale. (Take the streetcar from the French Quarter)
- Haunted History Tours — Ghost stories and voodoo lore abound — spooky and fascinating.
- Algiers Ferry Ride — Take a quick ferry across the Mississippi for skyline views that’ll stop your scroll. Grab a drink, soak up the city lights.
- Frenchmen Street Jazz — End your day with authentic live music at this vibrant, soul-stirring street packed with local talent.
Want help with all the pieces?
We’ve got you. I help couples plan elopements that are easy, stylish, fun, and full of actual joy (not stress). Officiant? Check. Florals? Check. Backup rain plan? Always.
👉 See the packages
📍 Watch a behind-the-scenes YouTube video
📌 Follow our Pinterest board for inspiration
