Getting Married in New Orleans: Your Guide to Big Weddings vs. All-Inclusive Elopements
Getting Married in New Orleans: Big Weddings vs. All-Inclusive Elopements So, you’re thinking about getting married in New Orleans? Excellent
Your Comprehensive Guide To Your Dream Pirate's Alley Elopement
Experience a New Orleans elopement as enchanting as the city’s legends, as you say “I do” in the heart of the iconic French Quarter.
An Intimate Elopement Steeped in Mystery and Romance
Imagine exchanging vows in a secluded, pastel colored alleyway and the historic St. Louis Cathedral adjacent to you. Picture the quiet romance of this hidden gem, where every corner holds a story and every brick whispers of a bygone era. Does that vision feel like the perfect fit for your love story? Yes! We thought so.
Pirate’s Alley is a place where history, romance and legend meet, offering a private and truly unforgettable setting for your intimate ceremony. With our Pirate’s Alley elopement packages, we make it easy breezy 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.
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The Practical Stuff: Permits, Logistics, and Best Times
Planning your elopement should be fun, not full of stress. The good news is, we handle all the details so you can focus on each other.
Permits & Fees: The best part? Pirate’s Alley is a public space and does not require a permit or fee for a ceremony. This allows for a stress-free planning process and a beautifully spontaneous feel for your day.
Guest Count: Because the alley is so narrow and a major thorough street to get to Jackson Square, we highly recommend keeping your guest count to under 15 people for the best experience. This ensures everyone has a view and we can move through the space comfortably for photos.
Best Time of Day: We always recommend eloping in the early morning or about an hour before sunset. The light is beautiful, and the alley is less crowded, allowing for a more intimate experience. We also recommend avoiding major event days like Mardi Gras, French Quarter Fest or weekend festivals when the area is at its busiest.
What to Wear: The ground in Pirate’s Alley can be a bit uneven, so be sure to choose footwear that allows you to walk comfortably while still looking amazing.
Your Stress-Free Pirate’s Alley Elopement Timeline
This is just an example of what your day could look like. The real magic is in the moments we don’t plan.
9:00 AM: Let the Adventure Begin! We’ll meet you near Pirate’s Alley to begin your ceremony.
9:15 AM: Your Intimate Ceremony. Your officiant will guide you through your vows in this charming, historic setting.
9:45 AM: Newlywed Photos! We’ll explore the immediate area, capturing photos with the iconic historic buildings and excitement only New Orleans has to offer.
11:00 AM: Time to Celebrate. Enjoy your first moments as a married couple! Head to a world-renowned restaurant for a celebratory meal, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere of the French Quarter.
Why Elope to NOLA is Your Perfect Choice
With over a decade of experience creating unforgettable elopements, we know this: your day should feel like you.
We Know the Alley: We’ve photographed dozens of elopements in Pirate’s Alley. We know the best angles, the best times and how to find those private moments in the heart of the city.
A Personalized, Stress-Free Experience: From handling the photography to crafting a timeline that matches your vibe, Elope to NOLA handles it all so you can relax and enjoy every minute.
All-Inclusive Packages: We handle every detail, from your licensed officiant to your professional photos to a gorgeous custom bouquet.
Your perfect Pirate’s Alley elopement is within reach.
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Pirates Alley Elopement Photography in New Orleans
Discover How Magical Your Elopement Can Be at Pirates Alley Through Our Lens.
Hear From Couples Who Eloped With Us at Pirate Alley
Why Pirates Alley Is the Perfect Setting for Your Intimate Wedding Ceremony
Right in the heart of New Orleans, Pirates Alley is a quiet spot full of history and character, perfect for an intimate elopement.
Its cobblestones, vintage architecture, and tucked-away feel make it one of the most laid-back and photogenic places to say “I do.” Just steps away is the famous Pirate’s Alley Café, known for its absinthe cocktails and moody, old-world bar vibes – great for a post-ceremony toast (or just a cool photo op).
If you’re looking for something simple, beautiful and full of that old New Orleans charm, this is it.
FAQs About Pirates Alley Intimate Wedding
Do we need a permit to elope in Pirate’s Alley?
No permit is required to elope in Pirate’s Alley. It’s a public pedestrian walkway in the French Quarter, so you can hold your ceremony there without formal approval. However, since it’s open to the public, you cannot block off the space or prevent foot traffic during your ceremony.
How many guests can we invite?
Pirate’s Alley is best suited for intimate elopements. It’s recommended to keep the guest count to 15 or fewer. The space is narrow and standing-room only; chairs are not allowed.
What is the best time to hold our ceremony?
Weekday mornings or late afternoons are ideal for eloping in Pirate’s Alley. These times help you avoid large crowds and harsh lighting. Avoid peak tourist times like Mardi Gras, Friday nights, and Saturdays, as the area can become quite crowded. Sun-Thur is best!
What are the legal requirements for getting married in New Orleans?
To legally marry in New Orleans, you’ll need:
A valid Orleans Parish marriage license (applied for at any clerk of court in Louisiana).
A 24-hour waiting period between license issuance and the ceremony. This waiting period can be waived by a judge for non-Louisiana residents.
A licensed officiant to perform the ceremony.
Ensure you have all necessary documents, such as identification and, if applicable, divorce decrees or death certificates.
Start Planning Your Dream Elopement in Pirates Alley
Let us help you create the intimate, stress-free wedding of your dreams at one of New Orleans’ most romantic locations. Reach out today to get your personalized Pirates Alley elopement quote and start planning your perfect day with Elope to NOLA.
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