The Best Places to Elope in Louisiana (Beyond New Orleans!)

Okay, so you’re dreaming of eloping. And you’re probably picturing New Orleans. I totally get it. The charm, the music and the magic. New Orleans is unlike any US city, it’s special for sure! Its iconic status is well deserved. But what if I told you Louisiana has so much more to offer for your intimate elopement wedding? Hidden gems and charming towns that are just begging to be the backdrop for your “I do” or “I do again.”

As a lifelong local and a photographer who lives and breathes Louisiana, I’ve explored these spots. I know the quiet corners, the stunning light and how to capture the unique soul of each place. If you’re looking for incredible places to elope in Louisiana beyond the bustling French Quarter, you’re in the right place. Let’s find your perfect scene.

Eloping in Historic Gretna: A Taste of Yesteryear

Just across the Mississippi River from the vibrant energy of New Orleans lies Gretna. It’s like stepping into a peaceful, historic movie set. Think charming main street, beautiful old buildings and a pace of life that feels refreshingly calm.

Gretna offers a truly authentic, yet quieter, Louisiana experience. Imagine saying your vows in an old courthouse or beneath the shade of ancient oak trees. The light here is incredible. It filters through the leaves and bounces off the historic brick, creating this timeless, cinematic glow that I absolutely love to capture. For couples who want a touch of history without the crowds, Gretna is a perfect choice. It’s accessible, beautiful and full of character.

Expert Insight: Gretna’s historic district provides a fantastic contrast to the classic New Orleans vibe. It’s easy to navigate, making logistics for your New Orleans elopement packages for two seamless, even if you’re just coming over for a few hours.

The Northshore: Coastal Charm & Majestic Oaks (Mandeville & Covington)

Head north across Lake Pontchartrain and you’ll find a completely different side of Louisiana. The Northshore towns of Mandeville and Covington offer a stunning blend of coastal beauty and lush, southern charm.

Mandeville is all about that waterfront magic. The sunsets over Lake Pontchartrain are absolutely breathtaking. We’re talking golden hour dreams, with the water reflecting the sky in a way that’s just pure romance. If you envision a relaxed, breezy elopement with a coastal feel, Mandeville delivers. The boardwalks, the gentle waves, the sense of open space—it’s peaceful and incredibly photogenic. Fontainebleau Park is another incredible option for elopements in Mandeville.

Then there’s Covington. This historic town is draped in majestic oak trees, their branches dripping with Spanish moss. It’s an artist’s dream. The downtown area is filled with quaint art galleries, charming antique shops and beautifully preserved architecture. An elopement here feels classic, elegant, and deeply rooted in Southern tradition. The way the light plays through the oak canopies creates this soft, ethereal glow that makes every photograph feel like a piece of art.

Client Love: “All I can say is WOW! My photos are absolutely stunning! We couldn’t be happier with how they turned out. Marcia and Jen were such a pleasure to work with, and I’m especially grateful for Marcia’s help in planning my elopement from afar. Having a local expert to answer my questions was invaluable! I cannot recommend them highly enough!.” – Jen and Michael

Slidell: A Unique Elopement Destination

Don’t overlook Slidell (still on the Northshore of New Orleans) if you’re looking for something truly unique. This gem offers an authentic taste of natural Louisiana, far from the city bustle. For the adventurous couple, imagine saying your vows with the rustic beauty of the bayou as your backdrop. The Honey Island Swamp is nearby, offering unparalleled scenery with cypress trees, serene waters, and abundant wildlife. It’s a completely different kind of romance—wild, untamed, and deeply connected to nature.

Beyond the swamp, Slidell also boasts a beautiful old towne area perfect for a fun and unique setting. If you want an elope New Orleans experience that celebrates Louisiana’s natural side, Slidell provides a truly unforgettable and photogenic landscape. It’s perfect for couples who crave a sense of peace and a connection to the wild heart of the South.

Biloxi: Your Perfect Beach Getaway

Okay, so Biloxi isn’t technically in Louisiana, but it’s so close and offers such a perfect experience, I had to include it. Especially since many couples in Louisiana and beyond look to the Mississippi Gulf Coast for that ideal beach elopement. If you’re dreaming of white-sand beaches, calm, turquoise waters, and endless horizons, Biloxi delivers.

It’s an easy drive from New Orleans, making it incredibly accessible for a quick escape. Imagine barefoot vows on the sand, the gentle sound of waves, and a stunning sunset over the Gulf. I’ve captured so many beautiful elope in Biloxi weddings here. The light is soft, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the photos are always incredible. For couples seeking a picturesque beach wedding without the hassle of distant travel, Biloxi is an absolute dream.

Expert Tip: Biloxi offers a great range of dining and accommodation options, making it easy to turn your elopement into a mini-honeymoon. It pairs perfectly with our New Orleans elopement packages for two if you want to explore the city before or after your beach ceremony.

Find Your Perfect Louisiana Elopement Location

Louisiana is more than just New Orleans. It’s a tapestry of diverse landscapes, each offering a unique backdrop for your love story. From the historic charm of Gretna to the beauty of Mandeville and Biloxi, or the wild serenity of Slidell and Covington’s majestic oaks, your perfect elopement spot is waiting.

Choosing your location is a big part of the adventure. And that’s where I come in. As your local expert, I’m here to guide you, from scouting the perfect spot to handling all the details, ensuring your day is seamless, stress-free and authentically you.

Client Love: “Marcia did an amazing job photographing our day in Biloxi, Ms!! She was so knowledgeable of the venue and knew the perfect spots as well as listening to our ideas. She took the time before the day to touch base and it helped to ensure a smooth wedding day. She gave us such great pointers to ensure our photos could be the best they could be. We received the photos so quickly and they were all so flawless. We will appreciate the photos forever. Thank you for everything!” – Jessica & Aaron

Frequently Asked Questions About Eloping in Louisiana

• Q: Do you offer specific elope in Louisiana packages for these towns?
  A: Yes! Our all-inclusive collections are fully customizable to suit your chosen location, whether you’re looking for a New Orleans elopement package for two or an intimate ceremony in Gretna, Mandeville, Covington, Slidell, or Biloxi. We tailor the experience to you.
• Q: How far in advance should we book our elope in Louisiana photographer?
  A: To ensure my availability and to allow ample time for planning, I recommend booking 3-6 months in advance. Popular dates and seasons fill up quickly, especially for unique locations.
• Q: Can you help with permits and location scouting for places to elope in Louisiana?
  A: Absolutely! Navigating permits and finding the perfect, legal spot is part of my expertise. I handle all the logistics so you don’t have to stress. Whether it’s a park in Covington or a specific spot in Gretna, I’ll guide you.
• Q: What if we want to combine a New Orleans experience with a Northshore elopement?
  A: That’s a fantastic idea! Many couples choose to explore New Orleans for a few days and then have their ceremony in a nearby town like Mandeville or Gretna. We can certainly craft a timeline that allows for this unique combination.
• Q: What makes eloping in Slidell or Biloxi special compared to New Orleans?
  A: Slidell offers a deep dive into natural Louisiana beauty with bayous and swamps, providing a wilder, more serene backdrop. Biloxi gives you stunning white-sand beaches and a coastal vibe that’s hard to find directly in Louisiana. Both offer a distinct experience compared to the urban charm of an elopement in New Orleans.

Ready to Begin Your Louisiana Elopement Journey?

Don’t let the secret spots of Louisiana remain a secret for your wedding day. From the quiet history of Gretna to the majestic oaks of Covington, the coastal breezes of Mandeville, the wild beauty of Slidell, or the sunny beaches of Biloxi – your perfect backdrop awaits.

Want Even More Inspiration?

It’s time to stop dreaming and start planning. Let’s connect to talk about your vision. I’m not just your photographer; I’m your local guide, ready to ensure your elope in Louisiana experience is beautiful, effortless and truly unforgettable.