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Author name: Marcia Grover

You Don’t Need a Big Fussy Event (Again) to Say “I Do” This Time Around!

Hey there, gorgeous! It’s Marcia…let’s talk about love, second chances, and shaking things up a bit. You know how I love a good love story, and guess what? Second marriages can be the sweetest chapters yet! But listen, sometimes the whole wedding extravaganza with the five-tier cake and the guest list longer than your arm just isn’t the vibe, especially this time around. Been there, done that, bought the engraved cake knife/server (which, by the way, are probably still gathering dust in the back of your cabinet).  If you’re thinking about saying “I do” again, but with a more intimate and budget-friendly twist, then have I got news for you: elopements are having a moment, and honey, they’re not just for couples running away to marry in secret! Elope? But Won’t it Feel Cheap? Hold on a hot minute! Elopement doesn’t have to mean running off to Vegas in a pink Cadillac (although, hey, if that’s your fantasy, you do you!). These days, elopements can be incredibly chic, romantic, and oh-so-personal. Plus, let’s be honest, between the dress, the venue, the catering, a traditional wedding can cost more than a down payment on a house!  Wouldn’t you rather spend that money on a luxurious honeymoon adventure or a dream experience you’ll both cherish forever? Budget-Friendly Doesn’t Mean Basic, Sweetie! Now, I know some of you might be thinking, “Elopements sound great, but won’t the pictures be, well, kind of…meh?” Absolutely not! That’s where these amazing elopement packages come in. Picture this: instead of stressing over seating charts and wedding favors, you can focus on what truly matters – celebrating your love with your partner in a stunning location. These packages take care of everything from finding the perfect spot to say “I do” (think dramatic century old oaks, charming gardens, or even a rooftop overlooking the city skyline) to securing permits and even connecting you with amazing officiants & violinists who can make your ceremony extra special. Unveiling Your Dream Elopement: Packages for Every Love Story Here’s the best part: elopement packages aren’t one-size-fits-all.  Just like your love story, they can be customized to reflect your unique personalities and desires. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing: And guess what? These packages can be tailored to include things that make your second marriage extra special. Making it Special for Your Love Story, Chapter Two Just because it’s your second time around doesn’t mean it can’t be just as magical (or maybe even more so!). Here are some ways to personalize your elopement package and make it truly yours: Let’s Talk About Family (Because We All Know There Will Be Some) Listen, we all know navigating family dynamics, especially around weddings, can be a bit of a minefield.  The good news is, with an elopement, you can set boundaries and manage expectations in a way that feels comfortable for you. Here are a few tips: The Investment in Lasting Memories Sure..you could spend a small fortune on a wedding that everyone forgets about a week later.  Or, you could invest in something truly priceless: capturing the emotions, the love, and the pure joy of your elopement with stunning professional photography.  These are the photos you’ll look back on for years to come, the ones that bring tears to your eyes and remind you of the magic of your special day. Imagine a gallery filled with breathtaking landscapes that serve as the backdrop for your love story.  See yourselves laughing, crying happy tears, whispering sweet nothings in each other’s ears. These are the photos that tell your unique story, a story that’s even more beautiful because it’s a second chance at forever. Ready to Say “I Do” Your Way? Let’s Chat! So are you ready to ditch the stress and embrace the magic of an elopement? Our incredible package offer a stylish, budget-friendly, and unforgettable way to celebrate your love story.  Don’t wait another minute –  contact us today for a personalized consultation and let’s get started planning your dream elopement!  Remember, it’s your love story, rewrite the ending the way you want it to be!

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Small Wedding Venues in New Orleans - Elope To Nola

Best Small Wedding Venues in New Orleans

Hey Y’all! Say “Yes” to New Orleans: Top Intimate Venues for Your Dream Wedding for under 50 guests! Congratulations on your engagement beautiful people! It’s Marcia, and let me tell you something: love deserves a grand celebration, but sometimes, a small and intimate ceremony is exactly what the heart desires. Now, if you’ve been dreaming of saying “I do” to your soulmate in the magical city of New Orleans, with just your closest loved ones by your side, then listen up! This article is your one-stop shop for finding the perfect venue and planning a stress-free, unforgettable elopement in the Big Easy. New Orleans: A City Made for Love New Orleans isn’t just about Mardi Gras mayhem and world-famous beignets (although, honey, there’s a place for those too!). This vibrant city oozes Southern charm with its elegant architecture, rich history, and infectious culture. Imagine exchanging vows under a canopy of majestic oaks or strolling hand-in-hand through the French Quarter’s pastel and wrought iron streets after your ceremony – pure magic, wouldn’t you say? Why Elope in the Big Easy? Picture-Perfect Backdrops: New Orleans is a photographer’s paradise. From the iconic wrought-iron balconies of the French Quarter to the lush greenery of City Park’s largest concentration of historic oaks dripping with Spanish Moss, there’s a stunning location for every couple’s taste. Foodie Paradise: New Orleans is a melting pot of cultures, reflected in its incredible food scene. Treat yourselves to a post-wedding feast at a cozy bistro in the Faubourg Marigny, or indulge in a romantic candlelit dinner at a French Quarter fine-dining establishment. Endless Entertainment: Your elopement doesn’t have to end after the ceremony! Explore the vibrant nightlife on Frenchmen Street, take a leisurely stroll through the Garden District’s historic mansions, or catch a live jazz performance in a cozy club. Ditch the Stress & Embrace the Love: Custom Elopement Packages Let’s be honest, planning a wedding can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry! With a custom elopement package, you can take the pressure off and focus on what truly matters – celebrating your love. Here at Ibay Photography, we offer a range of packages designed to suit every budget and style. What’s Included? Officiant Services: Say “I do” in a beautiful ceremony officiated by a professional who will make your special moment heartfelt and memorable. Stunning Photography: Capture every precious moment of your elopement with a skilled photographer who will create a stunning visual story of your special day. Beautiful Blooms: Let our florist create a breathtaking bouquet that complements your style. And More! Depending on your package, we can also include a delicious wedding cake, personal violinist, and even a live artist to paint a special moment on site. Our Favorite Small Wedding Venues in New Orleans Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty: where to say “I do” in this enchanting city! Here are some of our favorite venues that cater to intimate weddings of under 50 guests: Butler Fountain (City Park): Butler Memorial Fountain holds a certain charm with its classic design and tranquil setting. It’s a perfect spot for a private ceremony amidst the vibrant energy of City Park. Canal Street Inn (Mid-City): With its charming ambiance and focus on personalized service, the Canal Street Inn is also a great choice for small weddings or intimate gatherings. Imagine exchanging vows in the historic courtyard or hosting a celebratory dinner in the gardens after in a dreamy location. The inn’s unique atmosphere creates a truly special setting for unforgettable memories. Tree of Life (Uptown): Nestled amidst the sprawling greens of New Orleans’ Audubon Park lies the majestic Tree of Life, a beloved landmark steeped in history and shrouded in romantic mystique. This awe-inspiring live oak, estimated to be anywhere between 400 and 800 years old, is more than just a grand tree – it’s a captivating symbol of enduring love and a truly magical backdrop for an intimate wedding ceremony. Napoleon House (French Quarter): Step back in time and exchange vows amidst the rich history and undeniable charm of the Napoleon House, a legendary landmark in the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter. This iconic restaurant, boasting over 200 years of existence, offers a unique and unforgettable setting for a small wedding or intimate elopement. After your ceremony, indulge in a New Orleans 2nd line parade (it’s the best only in New Orleans experience!) Pharmacy Museum (French Quarter): Forget the traditional wedding halls! New Orleans, the city of quirk and charm, offers a truly unique venue for your special day: The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum. Step into a world of vintage apothecary jars and fascinating medical history, and create a wedding that’s both romantic and unforgettable. Reach out to us, we’d be honored to assist!

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Get Married in Louisiana

Popular Places to Get Married in Louisiana

So, you want to get married in Louisiana? Good choice! If you can’t tell, we’re big fans of elopements around here. An elopement allows you an intimate setting to truly experience every moment of your special day. Instead of worrying about seating arrangements, 6-figure catering bills and whether you should invite your third cousin twice-removed, you can say “I do” surrounded by the people that truly matter. But I don’t need to convince you to elope- you’ve already made up your mind! The next step is deciding where you want to elope. Best Places to Get Married in Louisiana Louisiana is a beautiful state, which means there are so many stunning cities and venues to choose from- far too many for me to list here. So I’m just going to highlight a few of my favorite places: Lafayette If you want to elope somewhere that is brimming with culture, Lafayette is it. The Hub City is known for its Cajun and Creole influences. It is a dynamic city- a concrete jungle strewn with hidden oases. Some of the most scenic locations for elopements are: Cajun Mansion DoubleTree by Hilton Magnolia Court Baton Rouge Baton Rouge is undoubtedly one of the most iconic cities in Louisiana. The state’s capital is a picturesque city built along the Mississippi River. Some prime elopement locations in the city include: The Stockade Bed and Breakfast Magnolia Mound Plantation Baton Rouge Gallery Baton Rouge Zoo Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center New Orleans Of course I couldn’t leave out good old NOLA! I may be a bit biased, but I truly believe that New Orleans is the most beautiful city in the world- especially for photographing elopements! From the electric French Quarter to the enchanting Audubon Park, elopements in New Orleans are a sight to behold. Some of my favorite locations to photograph elopements in the city are: The French Quarter The Tree of Life in Audubon Park (View the Top 3 Packages) Pirate’s Alley Jackson Square Algiers Courthouse City Park Regardless of where you choose to elope, rest assured – Ibay Photography will come to you! We will travel anywhere in Louisiana to capture elopements. But we do more than that! Let us help you plan your elopement from choosing the right location to photographing your special day. Grab our 5 secrets to a successful (and stress-free) elopement and receive a FREE checklist!

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Elope In New Orleans

Top 5 Picturesque Places to Elope In New Orleans

New Orleans is a city filled with magical and majestic locations for the perfect elopement. We know- we’ve photographed couples at most of them! With such a long list of venues to choose from- from Jackson Square in the French Quarter to Audubon Park. If you’re thinking to Elope In New Orleans it can be hard to choose the ideal location for your elopement. But the beauty of Nola is that there is something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature-lover who wants to get married under an enchanting willow tree or a bonafide city girl that wants to say “I do” to the soothing sounds of New Orleans jazz and the city’s hustle and bustle, we’ve got you covered. Here are the top 5 picturesque places to elope in New Orleans Lake Ponchartrain If you love the calm tranquility of bodies of water, you might want to consider saying your vows on the beautiful Lake Ponchartrain. There are several restaurants in the area that can host an amazing post-ceremony meal as well. This stress free option offers not only the simple delight of a private ceremony but you will be wowed by the stunning views. French Quarter The French Quarter is arguably one of the most popular elopement locations in NoLa because it perfectly captures the city’s vibrant culture. If you want the city’s eclectic mix of Baroque, modern and Spanish architecture as the backdrop to your perfect day, Jackson Square is a wonderful venue. If you want a simple but stylish location, Exchange Alley is perfect- and quite unique, too! For bold couples who love bright colors and rich culture, Pirates Alley is a wonderful elopement location. Garden District B&B Do you dream of Victorian charm and sophisticated simplicity on your special day? The Garden District B&B is one of the most breathtaking hidden gems when it comes to elopement locations. It is a restored Victorian home turned bed and breakfast nestled in the charming Garden District. This makes it more than just a beautiful elopement location- it can also act as a hotel for your guests! Parks – Audubon or City Park One of the most unique aspects of New Orleans is that it has several large, lush garden oases in the middle of such a bustling city. Two of the most notable are City Park and Audubon Park– which features the famous Tree of Life. From quaint bridges and reflective ponds to soothing flora and fauna, New Orleans parks are absolutely stunning. Frenchmen Street This iconic street is located in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood, known as the musical hub of New Orleans. Venues in the area boast live performances of every genre and attract music-lovers from around the world. There are plenty of hotels, restaurants and hole-in-the-wall venues in the area that act as incredible elopement venues for music and culture-loving couples. Are you ready to take the next step and start planning your elopement? If you want to work with a photographer who is just as passionate about your wedding as you are, look no further. Your wedding-obsessed, self-proclaimed New Orleans expert photographer is here! At Elope to NOLA, we have helped hundreds of couples plan and capture their dream weddings. View Done-For-You Elopement Wedding Packages HERE! Read more helpful articles HERE

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New Orleans Elopement

Real New Orleans Elopement During COVID-19

Planning a New Orleans elopement is typically a fun and easy undertaking, as it is one of the perks of getting eloped in general as opposed to traditional marriage. Being able to choose from a variety of fun activities in New Orleans to top of a lively elopement ceremony sounds like a dream come true, but what happens when you try to have your ceremony in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic? In recent weeks, it’s been a difficult realization for many couples all over the world that their wedding and elopement plans for 2020 have largely been dashed. Even as the prospect of businesses opening back up appears to come coming into focus, it’s hard to predict exactly what will be open and what won’t be, leaving many couples completely in the dark. Many reason that it’s better to simply not plan at all, at least not for the next few months. However, there is still plenty of wisdom in planning for later this year or early next, because it is inevitable that the COVID restrictions will lift and life will return to normal. It’s just a matter of time. New Orleans Elopement during Covid However, for one couple that planned to get eloped before the weight of coronavirus took hold around the globe, their ceremony took place but was anything but ordinary. The truth is there is always magic to be had here in New Orleans, even in the middle of this pandemic. A True Pandemic Elopement Love Story Amanda and David decided to share their experience with us. Their story proves that love prevails even in the most bizarre of circumstances and even when everything that could possibly go wrong pretty much does. How did you two meet? We met at a Thanksgiving day celebration hosted by David’s sister Mary at her apartment in Little Rock, Arkansas. My mom and I had become friends with Mary and her daughter Sharon via volunteer work with Riverfest (a local nonprofit festival). After that time, it seemed as if our paths were constantly crossing, especially after Sharon’s unexpected passing. It all happened organically. The rest is history and boy are we blessed! How did David propose? It was Saturday at noon in Jackson Square. The church bells at St. Louis Cathedral were ringing, the street performers were vibrantly lining the pathways, and on lookers were everywhere. At that moment in time, David got on his knee and proposed. We were solely focused on each other and the excitement of the moment. When we finally looked around us hundreds of people were clapping and cheering – most noteworthy a bearded lady, a pirate, a golden statue, and a magician can be seen cheering for us in the background of the photos. Best of all, David had been teaching my mom how to video the entire thing for weeks. She made a mistake and filmed it all in slow motion. How was your COVID 19 wedding? As an Event Planner, changes are typically no big deal to me. Of course, things feel a bit different when it’s your own event and you’re in the middle of a pandemic. Throughout the course of things, it seemed that as one change was made it was already obsolete and needing to be changed again in a moment’s notice. Here are a few of the highlights: * They decided to close the office that issues marriage licenses. We got there with one minute to spare… on Friday the 13th. * People started cancelling flying in as soon as we got in town. It ended up just being my mom, my best friend, David and myself. * Every location we planned to visit or celebrate at closed. * Restaurants we had scheduled reduced to 50% capacity and we were afraid we might have our reservations cancelled. In less than 24 hours, every restaurant in fact did close. I ended up breaking down in the middle of a restaurant in the Metairie. I would go from laughing to sobbing and back again. We ended up having our reception the day before at GW Fins and had our wedding meal delivered to our Air BnB. We ate in our pajamas. * We canceled our post wedding celebration back home based on recommendations from the CDC. *Our honeymoon was cancelled. * The air conditioning at our Air BnB died 2 nights before the wedding. We were scrambling to figure out if we would need to find a different place to get ready. Luckily, the owner found someone to repair it quickly. *Our violinist canceled at midnight the night before the wedding, so I walked down the aisle to no music. * Its started to rain on our wedding day. Luckily, the rain moved out quickly and we didn’t have that to deal with too! *When Marcia texted the day of the wedding we were afraid she was canceling too.  A few good points: * We had the people most important in my life there with us. David, Mom and my best friend Chase braved it all with me and we managed to make some amazing memories even if most of them were inside the house. We can always find a reason to laugh which makes even the toughest days joyful. * We had a beautiful, comfortable home with the most amazing owner who left us surprises everywhere like orange juice, bagels and cream cheese in the fridge. * The locals on the Bayou St John / Mid City were welcoming. Whether it was on our front porch or at the grocery store, even in the midst of a crisis situation they welcomed us with open arms. After we were married, the neighbors came outside and cheered for us. They even brought us a bottle of champagne to celebrate. *We found a videographer last minute to film the wedding for us. We can’t wait to see the coverage he got and share it with those that missed our big day. *

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ELOPEMENT WEDDING

STEAL THIS $3000 ELOPEMENT WEDDING EXPERIENCE

The perfect New Orleans elopement wedding experience for only $3200? You’re probably wondering if it’s even possible.  Book this package! Instead of going too deep into the details, we’ll let our lovely couple Gabriel and Samira tell their story for us! “Gabriel and I decided early on during our engagement we wanted to elope. After viewing various vendors in different destinations, we knew we had to get married in New Orleans. Marcia was so friendly and helpful from the very beginning and her recommended vendors went out of their way to ensure everything was set for the big day. We are so happy with how everything turned out for our special day and it was even better than we expected! The whole process was stress free and simple; exactly what we wanted for our destination elopement. And our photos turned out absolutely stunning! Even if you are from out of town and have never been to New Orleans like us, we highly recommend working with Ibay Photography for your own special New Orleans elopement!” – Gabriel and Samira WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS NEW ORLEANS ELOPEMENT WEDDING PACKAGE? This affordable destination elopement experience can be yours, too! Here’s what this package includes: Officiant who will assist you with obtaining your marriage license Fresh florals Collection of trusted and professional makeup artists, restaurants, hotels and other vendors Ceremony photos followed by full photo session around ceremony location Professionally edited hi-res digital photos with personal printing rights Private Online Gallery for 60 days to share with loved ones​​​ Print package This package includes several famous New Orleans elopement locations (check out our blog HERE for more detailed info) to choose from, such as City Park, Audubon Park, Pirates Alley, and Exchange Alley. Some locations have a small permit fee of no more than $300. Ibay Photography also offers several generous add-ons to complete your full elopement wedding experience if there’s something you need that the package doesn’t cover. Check out their full elopement package details here! Where else can you experience an elopement quite like this for this kind of price? If you’re looking for a one of a kind elopement in the heart of New Orleans, get in touch with Ibay Photography today at info@elopetonola.com Grab our 5 secrets to a successful (and stress-free) elopement and receive a FREE checklist!

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Getting Eloped

Why Getting Eloped is the Top Marriage Trend

When you think about the top marriage trends, pictures of different kinds of dresses and décor come to mind, but you might be surprised to learn that more recently, couples have been completely changing the way they get married. It’s not really all that shocking considering the costs associated with traditional weddings, combined with the state of our economy and the desire for something new. Couples these days want to focus more on the romance and excitement of their marriage ceremony and not just how to wow a bunch of extended family members. So what about getting eloped makes it so desirable, and why are couples everywhere starting to adopt it? Why Getting Eloped is the new Trend Elopements are Adaptable and Fun! It’s very easy to “elope your way,” which can’t always be said about many other wedding ceremonies that hold fast to the expected way of doing things. In fact, there are many facets of tradition style weddings that are more of an obligation than anything, whereas with an elopement, you can pick and choose what to include, or do away with the “classic” model of weddings altogether. This is extremely appealing for numerous reasons. Maybe you don’t enjoy the stuffiness of long complex ceremonies. Maybe you don’t have many close friends and would rather have a small, intimate ceremony someplace other than a church or wedding hall. Perhaps you want to get married someplace more exotic rather than going there just for your honeymoon. Whichever the case may be, elopements are simply easier to customize. One of the reasons why they are on the rise is because they are easier to fit into people’s busy lives. With all of the financial obligations and various responsibilities we have to deal with these days, planning a full-scale wedding and actually holding it may seem like a whole lot of work. Elopements are easier to fit into everyone’s schedule, because there are fewer people to think about and less aspects that need to be arranged. Elopements also tend to be very spontaneous. There’s a lot more room for fun and deciding on the spur of the moment to try something or visit a certain restaurant that traditional weddings don’t really allow for. There’s more romance and excitement when you’re not tied down to the usual planned ceremonies. This makes for a more exciting, interesting kind of event that has a certain romantic appeal. Also, given current events, having a more adaptable wedding option is more important than ever. You never know when a certain venue may be closed, or how you may be forced to work around certain issues in order to plan your big day. There’s no reason to place all your eggs in one basket when you have the choice and freedom to customize your ceremony exactly how you want it. Elopements are Affordable! It used to be culturally acceptable and even expected to drop huge sums of money on a wedding whether you had the money to spare or not. In the days of family inheritances and bottomless wells of credit, this wasn’t difficult to manage. However, times are changing and new couples don’t have the same kinds of resources that their parents did just a couple generations ago. In fact, the entire economy is currently undergoing a shift, and when this is combined with the clearly evident fact that the Middle Class has shrunk in recent years, you have the perfect storm of financial difficulty. It’s far too burdensome for many couples to shoulder such a massive cost as is usually associated with a traditional style wedding. Elopements offer an affordable alternative that is far more forgiving and customizable. Don’t want full decorations? Don’t buy them. Not particularly sold on having a cake? No problem. The ceremony is completely yours to change and tailor to your needs, rather than adhering strictly to tradition. This frees couples up to spend more on a luxurious hotel suite, or to invest the money they would have spent on the down payment for a house or similar purchase. Couples are looking for ways to make smart financial decisions, and in this economy, eloping just makes a whole lot more sense. Elopements are Low Pressure! This is the big one, perhaps the number one reason why elopements are taking off as the new trend. With all of the other hardships and responsibilities we have to face these days, no one wants to turn their marriage ceremony into an ordeal. Elopements are the furthest thing from a pressure cooker. They can be as lax and as laid back as you need them to be. In fact, they can be a getaway, spa treatment, and fantasy vacation all rolled into one. Rather than piling on a hundred little stressors, your elopement can actually serve to take away your stress and relieve you of your troubles. Planning an elopement is especially simplistic. This makes a world of difference because the typical complexities of planning a wedding actually is proven to be quite stressful for everyone involved, especially the bride and groom to be. This seems quite counterintuitive, and is one of the points regarding our marriage customs that couples are starting to question. Should your marriage be the opposite of a stressful event? By creating a low pressure environment, elopements are appealing and relaxing. You’re not trying to craft these crazy high expectations, you’re not trying to please family members or keep from embarrassing yourself in front of hundreds of people. It’s just you and your significant other living your best life!  To speak with an elopement specialist, text us at 504-292-4856 Grab our 5 secrets to a successful (and stress-free) elopement and receive a FREE checklist!

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French Quarter packages

Top 5 French Quarter New Orleans Small Wedding Ideas

Is it your dream to have a fairytale elopement in the magical city of New Orleans? We can’t blame you. From the stunning architecture to the magnetic Creole culture, it’s a fantastic location to say “I Do.” While there are dozens of picturesque elopement venues in NOLA, nowhere captures the New Orleans spirit quite like the French Quarter. Whether you want a grand, royal elopement or an intimate ceremony, you can find it all in the iconic French Quarter. Here are the top _ French Quarter New Orleans small wedding ideas: French Quarter New Orleans Small Wedding Ideas In Nature If you and your hubby-to-be are outdoors fanatics, there are plenty of captivating locations to choose from that are minutes from the French Quarter. Two of our favorites are Audubon Park- specifically at the Tree of LIfe – and Longue Vue Gardens. Longue Vue Gardens is a historic museum and gardens filled with water features, tree-lined walkways and plenty of foliage. If you adore wedding shoots at plantation-style homes or parks, this venue gives you the best of both worlds with a bit more privacy. The Tree of Life is a majestic spot to say your vows. Nestled in Audubon Park, this massive, centuries-old tree will make your wedding romantic and dreamy- and it adds something unique to your elopement photos! Among the stars There is nothing more breathtaking than getting married on a rooftop overlooking the Mississippi River. With the city lights and cool city skyline as your backdrop, a rooftop wedding will make your elopement truly unforgettable! We have several venues that we coordinate with in the French Quarter to make special days like this a reality. Just a short streetcar ride (another historic landmark of New Orleans) is the gorgeous and historic Canal Street Inn.  This stunning property with 11 private guest rooms is the perfect place to make memories at your New Orleans wedding. Explore the many options and special wedding services they have to offer. In a historic hotel Do you love the royal, grandiose feel of a historic hotel, but want an intimate micro-wedding? Guess what? You can have both! At Elope to NOLA, we have partnered with both the Four Points Sheraton French Quarter and the Residence Inn Hotel to offer two unique elopement packages perfect for you. The Four Points Sheraton is a landmark in the French Quarter. Its quaint balconies juxtaposed with its regal Spanish and French-influenced architecture will make you truly feel like Cinderella. However, if you want a sleek and modern setting, the Residence Inn Hotel is a great option. Overlooking the bustling French Quarter, this hotel is sophisticated, but still offers that unique New Orleans charm. We have several wedding packages available at these stunning French Quarter and Park locations. Packages start around $2000 and all include stunning photography to capture your special day!  To see a detailed list of our elopement packages, click here! Do you want to work with a photographer who is just as passionate about your wedding as you are? Look no further because your wedding-obsessed, self-proclaimed New Orleans expert photographer is here. At Elope to NOLA, we have helped hundreds of couples plan and capture their dream weddings. Click here to learn more about how we can help you! Grab our 5 secrets to a successful (and stress-free) elopement and receive a FREE checklist!

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Elopement in New Orleans

How to Plan an Elopement in New Orleans

Thinking of getting eloped in New Orleans? You have made an excellent choice. This historic, gorgeous city has become one of the choice locations for elopements throughout the entire country, for several key reasons. From the agreeable weather to the accepting atmosphere, to the five-star dining, glamorous hotels, and assortment of museums, parks, parades, and events to attend, it’s no wonder why NOLA is becoming recognized as the best place to get eloped. How do you actually go about planning an elopement, though? While there’s not as much to think about compared to an ordinary wedding, you don’t want to just wake up one day and decide to fly to Louisiana. The best thing you can do for your big day is to plan it out properly! Even if you are a couple that enjoys spontaneity and excitement, you don’t want to run into any scheduling snafus, overbooked restaurants, unplanned for holiday parades, or any other x-factors. A lack of proper planning can take what is supposed to be a magical day and turn it into a giant headache. This quick guide will cover some of the most important aspects of planning an elopement in New Orleans, so your big day will unfold seamlessly, for the best experience possible! Start By Picking a Date For Your Elopement! While it may feel a bit arbitrary or unimportant, you do want to get this out of the way. Now, it wouldn’t matter as much if you were planning on getting married on some remote mountain in Montana or something, but if you are getting married in New Orleans, you have to be aware of the date. First of all, New Orleans is a lively city. There’s always something going on here, whether it’s a cultural festival, holiday event, live musical performance, or art show of some kind. The dates for these events are easy to find, and are featured in places like NewOrleans.com. Why is this important? Because you want to plan your elopement around these days and incorporate them into your stay accordingly. For instance, if you are planning on holding your elopement at a particular historic site, and there just so happens to be a parade planned in the city for that day, on that street, you may just want to reconsider. Keep tabs on the big events happening throughout the city, as well as federal holidays and other important dates, and choose a specific day that meets your needs and won’t cause you any unwelcome surprises. Remember, the day that you select for your elopement could also impact availability at local hotels, so book well in advance. This is why you want to choose the date and get it out of the way beforehand. Where Will You Get Eloped in New Orleans? Once you pick the “when,” you need the “where.” New Orleans offers a wide assortment of different venues to choose from, depending on what your interests are as a couple and what theme you would like your elopement to have. One great aspect of eloping in NOLA is the number of options you have to make your elopement truly unique and special. Select from a wide range of different parks, botanical gardens, cozy hotel balconies, aesthetic alleyways, bed and breakfasts, historical sites, and more. You can even incorporate more than one of these places into your plans, if you choose. New Orleans is full of romantic photo-taking opportunities, providing the ideal backdrop for any couple who are truly looking for a magical escape from the ordinary. Do You Have a Theme For Your Elopement? If you are planning to add a theme to your marriage proceedings, the location that you choose will play an important role here. You also want to think about whether or not you will be holding the elopement ceremony outdoors or inside someplace such as a hotel, and how this might affect your dress. Remember, one of the best aspects of an elopement is that you don’t have to feel pressured to wear something specific. Rather, dress for the weather or to be comfortable more than anything. If you are putting together a specific theme, this is when you want to think about such things as the dress, any decorations, bridesmaid dresses, and so on. These points don’t come into play with every elopement, especially smaller-sized events, but it’s something worth noting if you plan on having a theme and a certain number of guests. Elopement Event Planning This is where you might want the assistance of a New Orleans elopement planner. There’s certainly nothing wrong with trying to plan out every last aspect of your elopement by yourself, but you are only increasing the chance that something could backfire if you do this. An elopement planner familiar with the city will be able to guide you in your decision-making. Whether it’s to provide advice on a certain local restaurant that you may never have heard of before, or to help you plan out each leg of your day so that you can avoid scheduling conflicts and other issues, the benefits of a professional elopement planner are numerous. Chances are, you’re not going to have nearly as many different services to account for as you would during the course of a wedding. However, there are still quite a few different things that have to come together in order to ensure that an elopement happens smoothly. Not only will an elopement planner be able to point out which services are better, they will be able to provide assistance with booking or take care of everything themselves without you having to fuss over anything. Having someone on your side that is familiar with the area is important, and something that usually doesn’t come into play with a typical wedding. Most weddings occur close to home in a place that is familiar to the bride and groom, such as a family church. However, many elopements occur in cities or other locations that could be totally new to a

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intimate wedding new orleans

The Advantages of Having an Intimate Wedding

The perfect setting, a warm cozy atmosphere, and the most important people in your life gathered together to celebrate your wedding without any hassles or problems. Sound like a dream scenario? Rather than stick with a large traditional-style wedding, more and more couples are opting to scale down in favor of intimate weddings that feature smaller venues, fewer guests, and best of all, more focus on the bride and groom and less on the pageantry. What exactly is an Intimate Wedding? They go by many names; including small wedding, micro wedding and private elopements, but regardless of the name in question, they all share some commonalities that make them extremely desirable for couples seeking an alternative to the stress and complexity that typically comes with many classic kinds of wedding ceremonies. An intimate wedding ceremony is often a more personal celebration, featuring only a handful of important guests and less focus on decorations and a hundred other distractions. With much less to plan and worry about, these wedding ceremonies seem casual, lighthearted, and fun compared to the potential stuffiness and formal nature of traditional ceremonies. What’s also important to note is that the smaller wedding size allows for more flexibility with venue and overall location. Many couples choose to have a destination elopement in a somewhat exotic location for this very reason. It would be a pain to have to coordinate a full-scale wedding on the other side of the country, but if you’re only talking about a dozen guests and a few simple services, it’s a brand new scenario. Couples love the idea of intimate style ceremonies because rather than get caught up in all of the planning and family politics that can accompany a traditional wedding, these ceremonies flip the script and put the focus back on the couple. These ceremonies often come across as lively, intimate, and romantic because there’s more room for the couples to be themselves and less pressure put on them by family and the gravity of the ceremony. What are the advantages to a Smaller Ceremony? If you are deliberating as to what kind of ceremony to have, and you aren’t looking forward to trying to cater to dozens of people on your special day, an intimate wedding might be just what you want. However, this isn’t the only reason why these smaller ceremonies are becoming so popular. Consider the following points: Much more affordable. The scaled-down size means far fewer costs all around the board. Less on catering, less on decorations, smaller venue. Most of the time, these kinds of ceremonies are only a fraction of the cost of a traditional wedding, which is great for couples who want to start off their marriage with a smart investment, such as a down payment on a new house, or paying off student loans. These days, being frivolous with money for any reason isn’t exactly a smart idea, so this kind of ceremony makes sense. More freedom to make your ceremony unique. Due to the smaller guest list and less pressure to conform to the expectations of a traditional wedding, you can truly own your wedding ceremony by holding it wherever and however you want and then concentrating on your new life with your spouse. In New Orleans for instance, it’s popular to have wedding ceremonies in the beautiful gardens, parks, and aesthetic alleyways that the city features. From luxurious hotel balconies to picturesque park settings, you can easily plan for a ceremony in these kinds of spots because you don’t have to worry about cramming 60 people there. Focus on each other before the “honeymoon.” Rather than make your wedding this formal event that feels stressful and stuffy, you can hold a small, lighthearted ceremony and begin having fun right away. You don’t necessarily have to fly away to a honeymoon location if you hold your wedding in the same location that you want to “escape” to. That’s the great part about destination elopements that more couples are discovering. Why wait for the romance and fun to begin when you can incorporate your wedding and elopement into the same place? Much less stressful in general. It’s a fact that large weddings can be extremely taxing to plan and carry out. There are counseling services that specifically cater to couples about to get married. Between conflicting family personalities, the staggering cost, and trying to arrange a dozen different services so that they all come through for you on that one special day all at the right time, without any hiccups, is certainly cause for some stress. Rather than bother with this kind of aggravation, more couples are beginning to see the value in a smaller, scaled down event that removes a lot of the hassle. With far fewer people to worry about, less services to arrange, and fewer things to think about in general, intimate weddings become fun instead of frustrating. As you can see, there’s many reasons why you would want to have an intimate style ceremony. Whether you are trying to save a little money or if you would simply prefer to only invite your closest friends and family to your wedding, this is the best way of going about doing it. Are there any drawbacks to a Smaller Wedding? You could say that there are potential drawbacks depending on your preferences and the limitation of your venue. For instance, maybe you always had your heart set on a beautiful wedding in New Orleans, but you realize it wouldn’t be practical to invite your entire extended family due to the logistics involved, and because you want to get married in a small, cozy courtyard or alley. For the most part though, there aren’t any real drawbacks to having a small or intimate wedding. Part of the reason for this is because they are so customizable. Since you have so much more freedom to do what you want with the ceremony, there isn’t much room for disappointment. Plus, whatever events or festivities you can’t cram into

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How To Get Married In Exchange Alley New Orleans

How To Get Married In Exchange Alley New Orleans

How To Get Married In Exchange Alley New Orleans? How would you like to celebrate your wedding day? If simplicity is your cup of tea, why not try an intimate but more meaningful elopement in the best place in New Orleans? And when you think about the best place in the city, the first thing that probably comes to your mind is the French Quarter in New Orleans. One cannot deny the fact that the streets of the French Quarter serves as an impeccable wedding venue. A lot of couples have decided to elope in this place and have held the most intimate wedding they could ever wish for. What if I tell you that you can get married at the best spot in French Quarter, hassle free and within your budget? Sounds like a great plan right? How To Get Married In Exchange Alley New Orleans Get married at Exchange Alley Like any other streets in the French Quarter, Exchange Alley has its own beauty and history. This spot is known as one of the most famous walkways in the French Quarter. Previously called Place de Exchange, it was supposed to be the second back entrance to the Merchant’s Exchange on Royal Street where it played an important part in the city’s street commerce. The U.S. district court was previously located in this area before it was destroyed by a fire in the 1960s. Built in 1831 this Alley has been the heart of street weddings in New Orleans. The beautifully situated buildings and shops complements the romantic ambiance for a wedding and serves as a stunning backdrop for wedding photos.  Nowadays where low-key is the new party, you would probably want to spend your wedding in a cozier and more organized venue. Yet if you still want to have that lively vibe with a pinch of intimacy, Exchange Alley is perfect for you. Amongst the spots in the French Quarter, Exchange Alley is one of those distinct streets that feels calm and relaxed ambiance but still full of life. Your elopement here will be a one of a kind experience.  Getting married at Exchange Alley? Getting married at Exchange Alley means you can have that meaningful ceremony with a fun feeling at the same time. Feel that southern comfort right at the center of French Quarter where it is intimate and breezy at the same time. Every corner of Exchange Alley is picturesque representing the finest New Orleans architecture. Imagine being surrounded by an array of colorful structures, romantically positioned lampposts, and beautifully cobbled pavement. Just passing by the alley would make you want to hold hands and get married there at any time of the day. An elopement at exchange alley can indeed be a special celebration and unique experience that you will always remember.  What are the steps to Marrying in Exchange Alley? Contact a local elopement specialist who knows the ins and outs of weddings in the French Quarter, New Orleans.  The alley is open to the public and there is no permit required.  We like to keep elopement weddings under 10 people due to the size of the alley. It’s a perfect, intimate space!  When you hire an all-inclusive elopement company, you will also have your officiant and florals included.  We suggest marrying either really early morning around 8:30am or two hours prior to sunset for the most optimal lighting! Don’t take our word for it, see our recent experience from a sweet couple who married in Exchange Alley:  “Our day was everything and more! From start to finish Marcia was just amazing. The planning was made so simple and seamless, cause of her. I still keep tearing up tears of joy when I look at our photos, she did such a beautiful job of capturing our day. The way Colleen or should I say Mamma C officiated our wedding, was also just amazing, she made our vows so special. We couldn’t have asked for a better team, we consider them family now. “ Grab our 5 secrets to a successful (and stress-free) elopement and receive a FREE checklist!

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What to do on elopement day

What do Couples Actually do on Their Elopement Day?

One of the best parts of an elopement is the sense of truly being able to own your ceremony and make it yours. This can leave couples asking however, what in the world do you actually do on your elopement day? Bucking the traditional wedding format means you can pretty much do whatever you want, but this is where confusion can set in. When do you have the ceremony? Can we squeeze in a romantic photo shoot in the park beforehand? Do we have to have a reception at a hall on the same day? What about entertaining our guests? The freedom that elopement offers can seem daunting when it actually comes time to plan everything, but that’s why I put together this handy guide. An elopement doesn’t have to follow the typical structure of a classic wedding. In fact, part of the appeal is in mixing it up and adding activities and events that you wouldn’t normally be able to cram into a traditional wedding day, such as viewing a parade, a night on the town, or a whimsical garden photo shoot. The possibilities are truly limitless and that’s why it’s important to plan your elopement day well beforehand to get the most out of it. Sure, the idea of spontaneity is probably one of the things that attracted you to the idea of getting eloped in the first place, but too much of it will just lead to a mass of confusion and headaches you don’t want. Maximize the excitement, fun, and carefree feel of your elopement by structuring your day with some of these popular ideas. Private Photo Session Pre-Ceremony Isn’t it bad luck for the groom to see the bride before the actual ceremony? Not when you’re eloping! In fact, a rising trend that couples love involves having your own private scheduled photo shoot before the ceremony even begins. Not unlike an engagement shoot or something similar, couples work with their elopement planner or photographer to pick a romantic location such as a garden, public park, or hotel balcony just to have some personal time together before everything gets rolling. Couples claim that pre-ceremony photoshoots (also known as “first looks”) ease tension and can be extremely romantic. Even during an elopement, things can get busy, leaving little to no private time for the couple. Sometimes a little quiet intimacy goes a long way. You can even incorporate the photo shoot location into the ceremony itself if you want. Just make sure to work it out with your elopement planner. Museums and Tours Why not see the sights while you’re getting married? It’s popular to get eloped in cities that are rich in history and culture. Sure, you could wait a couple days to take advantage of these attractions, but nothing’s stopping you from incorporating them right into your special day. If your ceremony is scheduled for the morning, why not spend the afternoon touring a famous museum or spending it exploring the historic streets of places like the French Quarter? These are the kinds of perks couples love about eloping that you simply can’t get with a traditional wedding. If you really want to go all out, you could schedule a tour or witness a parade before your actual ceremony. Embrace everything your location of choice has to offer! Add in Some Adventure Nothing says you can’t add some real spice to the day of your elopement ceremony. Just remember to dress for the occasion and plan accordingly. Want to say your vows on a carriage ride or hop on a steam boat? Or maybe you want to visit an historic cemetery or have a picnic in the park? The choice is yours! An elopement doesn’t have to mimic a traditional wedding at all, if that’s not your thing. How about a Spa Treatment? You’re saving time by not having to deal with a drawn out wedding ceremony, and you’re also saving a ton of money by getting eloped in the first place. Don’t be afraid to treat yourself! Take a slice out of the day to splurge on your hair and nails at the finest place in town. Coordinate with your elopement planner and dedicate a solid block of time for a good pampering. Not only will you look and feel great before the ceremony, this can also act as a stress-reliever. Because you’re not going to be bogged down trying to corral 100 people at a wedding reception, eloping leaves more time open for you to unwind and enjoy life! Romantic Dinner for Two! Yes, you can cap off the night with a classic candlelit dinner. In New Orleans, great food comes with the territory. There are no shortages of five star restaurants and romantic locations to choose from. Because you’re not flying out to your honeymoon destination right after you get married (since you’re already there!), the night of your ceremony is open for you to do what you want with. This means less headaches and more romance. After the ceremony is over, feel free to trot back to your hotel (or ride there in style with a rented limo or horse drawn carriage), get changed into something more comfy, and live it up with a night on the town. What about the Actual Ceremony? This is all up to you as well! Exchange your vows and rings, play some music of your choosing, share a kiss, or mix it up. The beauty of an elopement is that there is no one right way to do anything. Include religious content or don’t. Include traditions like throwing the bouquet or don’t. Or go all out with a unique theme and invent traditions of your own. What’s important is that your elopement speaks to you and that you fill the day with purposeful and meaningful activities. Don’t include anything just because it’s tradition or you think you’re expected to. Own your elopement! Grab our 5 secrets to a successful (and stress-free) elopement and receive a FREE checklist!

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