How to Plan a Beautiful Vow Renewal in New Orleans
When Natalia emailed me about a last-minute vow renewal just three days away, I was already in. Midweek ceremonies are some of my favorites—especially when there’s a good surprise involved.
Natalia and Adam were in New Orleans celebrating their one-year anniversary. But Adam didn’t know Natalia had secretly planned to renew their vows that very day.
He thought it was just another romantic day wandering the French Quarter. Natalia had sent me a photo of them beforehand so I could spot them in the crowd. I waited in Exchange Alley, camera ready.
Then it happened.
She handed him a letter. He started reading. And just as he looked up, their amazing officiant Samantha McGovern stepped into view, ready to guide them through a surprise vow renewal.
The look on his face? Shock, joy, awe—all of it.
In a quiet little nook of the city (yep—Exchange Alley), surrounded by live jazz and cobblestone charm, they said “I do” all over again.
After the ceremony, we wandered through the French Quarter, taking more portraits and soaking in the moment. The energy, the emotion—it was all real.
Adam was still speechless, and honestly? I get it.
Because here’s the best part: Natalia told her husband they’re going to renew their vows every single year, wherever they are in the world. No big performance. Just love, wherever it finds them. I LOVED that energy—and I LOVED them.
Why Renew Your Vows in New Orleans?
If you ask me, there’s no better place to re-celebrate your story than New Orleans.
Whether it’s your 1-year, 10-year, or 25-year mark—this city makes everything feel rich, meaningful, and alive. You don’t need hundreds of guests or a reason bigger than love. You just need the two of you, a little intention, and the right person to photograph it.
Vow renewals here can be simple and spontaneous or stylish and planned down to the second line. You can say your vows in a quiet alley like Natalia and Adam did, or under Spanish moss, toast with beignets instead of champagne, and dance your way down Royal Street like it’s your first wedding all over again.
This city is soulful. Romantic. Full of surprises. And let’s be honest—who wouldn’t want to say “I do” again surrounded by jazz, historic architecture, and the kind of joy that only New Orleans brings?
What to Know Before You Plan Your Vow Renewal
- No permit or paperwork required. A vow renewal isn’t a legal ceremony, so you don’t need to deal with City Hall. (Just good vibes and your partner.)
- You can keep it private or invite guests. Some couples bring their kids or best friends along. Others keep it just between them. There’s no wrong way to do this.
- You don’t need to dress up—but you totally can. Some people go full-out with formalwear. Others show up in sundresses or casual linen. I’ve seen vow renewals with sneakers and sequins. Do you.
- I’ll guide you through everything. From timing and locations to hiring a trusted officiant like Samantha McGovern, I’ll make the whole process seamless and low-stress.
- We can even help you pull it off in just a few days—just like Natalia did. That’s the beauty of a New Orleans vow renewal: it’s full of freedom and feeling, not fuss.
“Marcia is AMAZING! We had the best experience working with her on our Vow Renewal & her pictures turned out better than our wedding. Thank you Marcia!”
– Natalia Lawrence, 5 Stars
Why Couples Trust Elope to NOLA
At Elope to NOLA, vow renewals aren’t an afterthought. They’re a celebration of everything you’ve built—without the pressure of the first time around.
We’ve planned and photographed vow renewals for couples celebrating one year, five years, 30+ years. We help you find the right spot, set the mood, and feel present the entire time. No spreadsheets. No chaos. Just a day that feels like a reset on your love story.
Whether you want a hidden alley, a sunrise sailboat, or a jazz band second line, we make sure it all feels like you. You can explore our elopement and vow renewal packages, or learn more about working with an elopement photographer in New Orleans.
Want even more visual inspo? Here’s what I’ve been pinning lately.
Vow Renewal FAQs
- Is a vow renewal legally binding?
Nope! It’s completely symbolic. No licenses, no paperwork, just love. - Where are the best places to renew vows in New Orleans?
Exchange Alley, City Park, Jackson Square, private courtyards, rooftops—or even a sailboat at sunset. We’ll find the right spot for you. - Do we need an officiant?
Not technically, but having someone lead the moment makes it feel even more meaningful. We love working with local pros from our team who bring heart and presence to the ceremony. - Can we bring our kids or guests?
Absolutely. Bring whoever makes it feel like home. Some couples keep it private, others invite family. Your call. - How far in advance should we plan?
We’ve done vow renewals with just a few days’ notice, but if you want to lock in a specific date or vendor, a couple of weeks is ideal. - What should we wear?
Whatever feels right. Some dress up, some stay casual. The only rule? Be comfortable and be yourselves.
Ready to start planning?
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