Your Dream French Quarter Elopement: A Guide to the Most Romantic and Historic Spots.

An Elopement Experience Dripping with New Orleans Magic

Imagine saying “I do” with the sound of distant jazz drifting through the air, historic ironwork as your backdrop and the vibrant energy of the French Quarter celebrating alongside you. Picture soft, dappled light in a secret courtyard, or the energy of a balcony overlooking the bustling streets. Does that vision make your heart race? Yeah, we thought so.

The French Quarter isn’t just a location; it’s a character in your love story, offering an unparalleled blend of romance, history and a touch of joyful irreverence. With our French Quarter elopement packages, we make it effortless for you to step into this magic, blending simple planning with exceptional service. It’s all about creating a day that feels as incredible as it looks.

See Our Elopement Packages HERE

Iconic French Quarter Locations for Your Elopement

The French Quarter offers a diverse array of enchanting spots, each with its own unique charm. We’ll help you find the perfect one for your “I do.”

• Historic Hotel Balcony: Imagine exchanging vows on a private balcony, high above the bustling streets, with the historic architecture and vibrant life of the French Quarter as your witness. Several boutique hotels offer stunning private balconies perfect for an intimate ceremony. These often require a venue fee or a booked overnight room, but the experience is truly unforgettable. 

• Secluded Courtyards (e.g., Pharmacy Museum): Step through an unassuming gate and discover a world of tranquility. The French Quarter is full of hidden secret courtyards, like the one at the historic Pharmacy Museum, offering lush greenery, brick walls and intimate privacy. These typically involve a venue fee, providing an exclusive and serene setting away from the street energy. 

• Louis Armstrong Park: Named for the legendary jazz musician, this beautiful park at the edge of the French Quarter offers grand archways, tranquil lagoons, and open green spaces. It provides a more expansive, yet still intimate, setting with beautiful photo opportunities. It does require a separate permit fee for ceremonies. 

• The Riverfront (Moonwalk/Woldenberg Park): For couples who dream of saying “I do” with the mighty Mississippi River as their witness, the Riverfront offers sweeping views of the riverboats and the iconic New Orleans skyline. The Moonwalk promenade and nearby Woldenberg Park provide open, public spaces that capture the essence of New Orleans’ port city heritage. A venue fee is typically required for small ceremonies. 

Determining Venue Fees: Some of these incredible locations, especially private balconies and historic courtyards, have additional fees. Don’t worry, we’ll guide you through understanding these costs and help you find the perfect spot that aligns with your vision and budget.

The Practical Stuff: Permits, Logistics, and Best Times

Planning your elopement should be filled with excitement, not stress. We handle the nitty-gritty so you can focus on each other.

• Permits & Permissions: For private venues like hotel balconies or courtyards, their internal policies and fees will apply. For public spaces like Armstrong Park or the Riverfront, small permit fees are usually required for any size groups, larger gatherings or extensive setups might need city approval. We’ll clarify all requirements for your chosen spot.

• Best Time of Day: Mornings in the French Quarter are magical—the light is soft, and the streets are quieter before the city fully wakes up. Late afternoons leading into sunset offer incredible golden hour light and the start of the evening’s lively atmosphere. We’ll help you pick the perfect time to maximize both intimacy and beautiful photos.

• Crowd Management: The French Quarter is always bustling! We have strategies for navigating crowds, finding secluded moments, and using the energy of the city to enhance your photos, not detract from them.

• What to Wear: Comfort is key, especially if you plan to explore the cobblestone streets for photos! We encourage attire that makes you feel amazing and authentic. 

Your Stress-Free French Quarter Elopement Timeline

This is an example of what your day could look like, but remember, it’s all about your flow and your story.

• 3:00 PM: Let the Adventure Begin! We’ll meet at your chosen private balcony or charming courtyard.

• 3:15 PM: Your Intimate Ceremony. Your officiant will guide you through your heartfelt vows, surrounded by the Quarter’s charm.

• 3:45 PM: Newlywed Photos! We’ll then embark on a relaxed stroll through the fun and exciting streets, capturing candid moments and iconic backdrops. Tip: Be prepared for lots of attention! New Orleans loves a wedding and you will be congratulated everywhere we walk!

• 5:00 PM: Time to Celebrate. The ceremony and photos are captured! You’re free to enjoy a world-class meal, grab a celebratory drink at a historic bar or simply soak in your newlywed bliss amidst the Quarter’s lively ambiance.

Why “Elope to NOLA” is Your Perfect Choice for a French Quarter Wedding

At Elope to NOLA, we understand your elopement wedding day is one of the most meaningful moments of your life. That’s why we specialize in crafting intimate, personalized elopements that truly capture the essence of your love and the soul of New Orleans.

• Tailored Planning: We’re all ears. Whether you’re dreaming of a grand balcony affair or a quiet courtyard “I do,” we’ll make sure every detail feels like you—not a wedding template.

• Expert Photography: With over 11 years of experience, we’ll capture your love story in a way that feels real and authentic, finding those perfect, unscripted moments against the Quarter’s unforgettable backdrop.

• All-Inclusive Packages: Every package includes photography, a licensed officiant, florals, permit guidance (where applicable) and full-service planning to ensure a seamless experience.

Ready to start your stress-free journey and immerse yourselves in the romance of the French Quarter?

Book Your Call!