New Orleans Elopement Experts
with an elopement specialist
Frequently Asked Questions On How To Elope:
Can You Modify The Packages?
We have curated our package based on many years of feedback from our past couples that have expressed what they truly desired for their elopement day. If you do not need all the amenities offered, please reach out to us and let’s talk!
What Are Some Unique And Romantic Elopement Venues In New Orleans?
Consider your preferences for natural beauty or urban settings. Most popular locations are City Park, Audubon Park, French Quarter alleys and the Riverfront. Here is an article with our favorites 🙂
Do You Edit All The Digital Images?
YES, all images are professionally edited, enhanced and print ready. Finished in vibrant color and some we select to be converted to b&w.
Do You Provide The RAW Files?
It’s important to me that you receive beautifully-toned and print ready photos. For this reason, I never release my RAW files. Every photo you receive is a finished product ready to send to your favorite lab and display!
What Makes Ibay Photography Unique When Choosing Our Elopement Photographer?
We at Ibay focus on the experience for all of our couples. We are not just photographers, but elopement specialists. Yes…we take timeless, artful & intimate photos but we pride ourselves on your full experience both during consultations and on your special day! One tip we strongly urge is to look at portfolios of photographers you like to find a style that resonates with you. Visit our Gallery HERE
I'm From Out Of Town, Can I Get Help With Obtaining A Marriage License?
Yes, if both parties have an out of state Drivers License, our officiants will walk you thru the steps to get your marriage license and what paperwork is required.
Can You Help Me With Hotel Recommendations And Hair/Makeup Referrals?
Absolutely! Once you book with us, we will provide a list of great vendors we trust.
What Are Some Creative Elopement Ceremony Ideas For A Meaningful Experience?
Elopement ceremonies can be as simple or elaborate as you like. You can exchange personal vows, have a reading, or incorporate symbolic elements that reflect your love story. Ex: our favorite couple actually played their favorite song “Tina Turner – Simply the Best” and sang to each other during the vows 🙂 Or what if we spent the day together covering your ceremony, then a fun Nola cooking class, then custom desserts to toast your celebration. You can even surprise your guests with your elopement, have them show up to your favorite restaurant or bar and we marry you guys there. Fun, unique, exciting and special!
What Attire Should We Wear For Our Elopement (Dress, Suit, Something More Casual, Colors)?
Elopement attire is entirely up to you! Choose something that makes you feel comfortable and confident, whether it’s a formal wedding dress and suit, or something more relaxed and adventurous. We personally love seeing colors and uniqueness. The beauty of an elopement is you can personalize everything including your attire! Get inspiration HERE
Do You Want To Know How To Elope And Where To Get A Marriage License In Louisiana?
As your wedding day draws near, the excitement can be overwhelming. You’ve found the perfect dress, a picturesque venue, a talented photographer (Hi! ) and it’s starting to all come together.
Planning your perfect day is nothing short of exciting. However, it can be easy to get caught up in the excitement and forget about the legal side of a marriage. Sure, you’ve found your officiant, but do you know the ins and outs of getting a marriage license?
If you don’t, don’t panic. Getting a license in Louisiana is actually quite easy! Before you walk down the aisle, here are a few questions you need answered on how to elope legally in our unique state!
Where can I get a marriage license in Louisiana?
You can go to any Clerk of Court office in Louisiana. There are clerk of court offices in every parish in the state and, depending on the size of the parish, there may be multiple office locations where you can obtain your paperwork.
Licenses obtained in any Clerk of Court office are valid throughout the entire state- meaning even if you get your license in another city, you can still get married in NoLA! More details from the clerk of courts office is HERE.
Do I need to make an appointment?
Most offices are accepting walk-ins. Call your parish of choice before arriving. If marrying in New Orleans, I recommend going to get a license in nearby Jefferson Parish in Jefferson, LA. Address and phone number are at the bottom of this article.
What documents will I need to bring?
Both you and your fiancé need to bring the following documents when applying for your marriage license:
- A current driver’s license, current state ID or passport
- A certified copy of a birth certificate or a certified birth card
- Social Security numbers if born in the United States. If 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
- A certified copy of the final divorce decree (if previously married)
- A certified copy of the death certificate of the former spouse (if widowed)
Are there fees?
Yes, but don’t worry! The fee is minimal. It ranges from $25-$55 depending on the parish.
Is there a minimum age to marry in Lousiana?
You need to be at least 16 years old to get a marriage license in Louisiana. If you are under 18 years old, you need to have both written consent from both of your parents and judicial authorization. However, if you are under the age of 18, you will not be issued a marriage license if you have an age difference of more than 2 years.
What are the hours?
Clerk of Court office hours vary by parish, but they are typically open Monday-Friday from 8:30am-3:30pm except for Federal and State holidays.
It’s best to get your license a few days before your wedding ceremony for two reasons:
Marriage licenses are only valid for 30 days.
There is a 24-hour waiting period between when your license is issued and when you can get married (can possibly be waived in certain circumstances – reach out to us if need waival)
If you’re ready to say “I Do,” be sure you know how to get a marriage license in Louisiana. Thankfully, the process is fairly simple and straightforward. If you need help planning your elopement- or you want a photographer for your special day- get in touch with us, we can help you with the basics on how to elope! We would love to be a part of your wedding.
Resources and Contact Info for offices in New Orleans:
Orleans Parish Marriage Office
1450 Poydras Street (Benson Tower) 4th Floor
New Orleans, LA 70112
Ph: 504-593-5100
Hours: 8:30am to 3:00pm
Mon-Fri (except state holidays)
Click here to go to New Orleans Clerk of Court
Jefferson Parish Marriage Office
1221 Elmwood Park Blvd #603
Jefferson, LA 70121.
Ph: 504-736-6390
Click here to go to the Jefferson Parish Clerk of Courts office