The Logistics of Love – Your Practical Guide to a New Orleans Elopement

First of all, congratulations. If you are reading this, you have already taken the biggest step toward an intentional, soul-focused elopement wedding day by booking your New Orleans elopement. You have traded the stress of a massive guest list for the atmosphere of the most romantic city in America.

Now, my job as your photographer and local planner is to make sure the execution is as seamless as the vision. This guide contains the current legal requirements, local secrets and logistical steps you need to take before we meet for your big day.

The Essential Legalities: Your Marriage License

In New Orleans, the paperwork is just as important as the ceremony. To make it official, you must visit the Orleans Parish Marriage License Office located in the Benson Tower at 1450 Poydras St, Suite 407.

What You Must Bring

The clerk office is precise. Do not rely on digital copies or phone photos; you need physical, certified documents.

• Identification: A current driver’s license, current state ID, or a valid passport.
• Birth Records: A certified copy of a birth certificate or a certified birth card.
• Social Security: Social Security numbers if born in the United States.
• Previous Marriages: A certified copy of the final divorce decree if previously married, or a certified copy of the death certificate of the former spouse if widowed.

International and Special Requirements

If you were born outside the United States and still reside outside the country, you need a foreign birth certificate and a foreign passport. The birth certificate must be translated into English by a certified professional and must be notarized. For a United States citizen born in another country, you must bring your naturalization documentation along with your United States passport. If you were not born in the US or territories, you must bring a valid passport from your country of birth or a visa with an attached I-94 form.

Refining Your Elopement Timeline

Now that you have booked your New Orleans elopement package, we have a foundation. A successful day is built on these details.

1. Prioritize the Vibe: Are we chasing the morning light in a quiet French Quarter elopement or the golden hour under the moss-draped oaks? Your timeline should work around the ceremony time.

2. The First Look: I highly recommend a first look. This is a private moment away from the ceremony site where you can truly see each other for the first time. It settles the nerves and allows us to capture the most authentic emotional reactions. For this first look, most couples have one partner dress earlier and head to lobby or bar and let the other partner dress alone. I love even more capturing couples getting ready together. Comfortably getting dressed, sharing coffee or mimosas, letters to each other and just soaking in the quiet moments.

Adding the Final Polish

To elevate the day from a ceremony to an experience, consider these local institutions that define the current New Orleans aesthetic.

For the Gown (if buying here in New Orleans): Yvonne LaFleur in the Riverbend is the gold standard for elopement styling. From silk dresses to custom-blocked hats, they specialize in the European aesthetic that defines our city. There are also numerous classic shops on Royal Street with stunning options.

For Grooming: Visit the Hotel Monteleone Barber Shop for a classic experience or Head Quarters in the French Quarter for a luxury straight-shave.

The Quintessential Tradition: The Second Line

Nothing says you are married in New Orleans quite like a Second Line parade. This tradition dates back over a century, rooted in the city diverse cultural history as a celebration of life and community. Today, it is the ultimate way to announce your union to the streets of the French Quarter.

If you want to add this high-energy experience to your day, reach out to me. I work directly with trusted Second Line coordinators who handle the entire logistics chain. They will apply for the necessary city permits, hire the required police escort, map out a custom route, and provide the brass band that will lead your parade. It is a completely hands-off way for you to have a quintessential New Orleans moment without worrying about the red tape.

Elopement Checklist

Before you depart, ensure every logistical piece is in place. Use this checklist to stay organized as we approach your date:

• ☐ Airfare and Hotel Reservations
• ☐ Pre or Post Ceremony Meal Reservations
• ☐ Photographer and Officiant Confirmation
• ☐ Florist and Baker Coordination
• ☐ Musicians or Jazz Band (for Ceremony and Second Line)
• ☐ Hair and Makeup Artists
• ☐ Wedding Attire, Shoes, and Accessories
• ☐ WEDDING RINGS
• ☐ Paperwork required to apply for your Marriage License
• ☐ Day of Timeline (coordinated with your photographer or planner)
• ☐ Excursions, Tours, or Jazz Club Reservations
• ☐ Prepare for Destination (check weather, water bottles, tissues, comfy shoes for walking and clear umbrellas)

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.