So, you’re thinking about getting married in New Orleans? Excellent choice. This city pulses with a romance all its own, a vibrant energy that becomes a part of every love story celebrated within its parish. But once that question pops (or has popped!), a bigger one often follows: big wedding or something a little more… you?
It’s the kind of decision that can bring up Pinterest boards overflowing with centerpieces and guest lists that seem to grow by the minute. Or maybe you’re dreaming of something completely different: quiet vows whispered in a hidden courtyard, the scent of jasmine in the air and the focus squarely on the two of you.
At Elope to NOLA, we’ve had the honor of witnessing hundreds of love stories unfold in this incredible city. From grand celebrations to the most intimate elopements, each one is unique and unforgettable. Over a decade of capturing these moments has taught us one thing: the best way to get married is the way that feels authentically you.
The Allure of the Big New Orleans Wedding
There’s no denying the magic of a traditional New Orleans wedding. Think second-line parades winding through the French Quarter, a brass band leading your guests to a historic venue, and a night filled with music, dancing and enough delicious food to satisfy everyone. It’s a vibrant spectacle, a true celebration with everyone you love gathered in one place.
For some, this is the ultimate dream. Sharing your joy with a large community, upholding family traditions, and creating memories on a grand scale. New Orleans offers stunning venues for these events, from elegant ballrooms to charming historic homes.
The Whisper of an Intimate New Orleans Elopement
But what if your heart beats to a different rhythm? What if the thought of seating charts and endless planning feels more like a task than a joy? That’s where the beauty of eloping in New Orleans shines.
An elopement is about stripping away the excess and focusing on the core of your love for each other. It’s an intimate experience, often just the two of you or with a select few close witnesses.
Imagine exchanging vows beneath the ancient oaks of City Park with the Spanish moss swaying gently in the breeze. Or perhaps a quiet ceremony in a hidden French Quarter courtyard where the sounds of the city are a soft serenade. How about a private sailboat ceremony on Lake Pontchartrain as the sun dips below the horizon? And hey, you can still have a parade. Go ahead and hire a second line to lead you through the streets. You won’t regret it one bit!
At Elope to NOLA, we specialize in crafting these intimate moments. We believe that saying “I do” should feel effortless, meaningful and deeply personal.
Why Choose an Elopement?
For many couples, the benefits of eloping in New Orleans are clear:
- Less Stress: Skip months (or years!) of stressful planning. We handle the details.
- More Intimacy: Focus solely on each other without the demands of entertaining a large group.
- Greater Flexibility: Choose a date and location that truly speaks to you, often with more spontaneity.
- Cost-Effective: Elopements are typically a fraction of the cost of a traditional wedding.
- Unforgettable Experience: Your ceremony becomes a unique adventure, a personal moment etched in your hearts forever.
Making the Choice: Big Wedding or Elopement?
There’s no right or wrong answer. The best choice depends entirely on your personality, your priorities and your vision for your day.
Consider these questions:
- What truly matters most to us on our wedding day?
- How do we envision feeling during our ceremony and celebration?
- What kind of memories do we want to create?
- What is our budget and how do we want to allocate it?
Talking openly and honestly with your partner about these questions will help you find the path that feels right for both of you.
How Elope to NOLA Can Help You Find Your Way
Whether you decide on a grand New Orleans wedding or the intimacy of an elopement, we’re here to help you get started.
At Elope to NOLA, our true passion lies in crafting seamless and unforgettable New Orleans elopement packages for two. For couples who crave simplicity, intimacy and a focus on their connection, our all-inclusive packages handle every detail. We specialize in making your big day feel personal. If you’re planning a traditional, large-scale wedding, we’re happy to connect you with trusted local planners and photographers who can help bring your vision to life.
For couples ready to elope in New Orleans, we take care of it all:
- Expert local photographers (that’s us!)
- Curated and breathtaking ceremony locations
- A licensed officiant to make it official
- Beautifully styled florals
- Permits and necessary arrangements
- Personalized timeline creation
- And so much more…
We make eloping in New Orleans incredibly easy. You book your flight, pack your rings and secure your marriage license (or just the rings for a vow renewal!). We take care of everything else.
“My wife and I absolutely loved working with Marcia at Ibay photography. Her followup is impeccable, her counterpart Sandy the officiant, was phenomenal! The cake and flowers were exactly as we requested. It was a genuine pleasure throughout the entire process. Definitely recommend this company!” – Adam F.
Your New Orleans Love Story Awaits
New Orleans is a city built on stories, on moments that linger in the air long after they’ve passed. Whether you choose the grand stage of a traditional wedding or the quiet intimacy of an elopement, your love story deserves to be told beautifully and authentically.
At Elope to NOLA, we’re more than just photographers and planners. We’re storytellers, dedicated to capturing the heart and soul of your day. We believe that your experience should be just as magical as the city itself.
Ready to explore the possibilities for your New Orleans wedding or elope in New Orleans? Let’s chat. We’re here to answer your questions, share our expertise and help you craft a day that feels like it was always meant to be.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the benefits of choosing a New Orleans elopement package for two (or a tiny few)?
- Our packages offer a stress-free, all-inclusive experience focused on intimacy and your connection, handling all the details from photography to the officiant.
- Can we customize your elopement packages?
- Yes! We work with you to personalize every aspect of your elope New Orleans experience to reflect your unique style and preferences.
- Do you also photograph traditional New Orleans weddings?
- No, our heart and soul is dedicated to intimate ceremonies. We are happy to offer amazing recommendations of local pros who are eager to assist.
- What are some popular locations to elope in New Orleans?
- We offer elopements at iconic spots like the French Quarter, City Park, Tree of Life and even private sailboat ceremonies on Lake Pontchartrain.
- How far in advance should we book our New Orleans elopement?
- We recommend booking as soon as you have your date in mind, especially for popular times of the year. However, we can sometimes accommodate last-minute requests.
- What’s included in your New Orleans elopement packages?
- Our packages typically include professional photography, a licensed officiant, beautiful florals, location permits, personalized timeline planning and more.
- Do we need a marriage license to elope in New Orleans?
- Yes, you will need a Louisiana marriage license. We provide guidance on the process to make it as easy as possible.
- Why choose Elope to NOLA for our elopement?
- With over a decade of experience as local photographers and elopement experts, we offer a seamless, stress-free, and deeply personal experience, ensuring your day is captured beautifully.
Want Even More Inspiration?
Don’t let your perfect date slip away. New Orleans is a magical place to get married…and we only take on a limited number of couples to ensure every single one gets our full attention. You’ve found the perfect team; now let’s secure the perfect date.
