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Craft Your Dream Elopement: Your Timeline Guide to a Perfect “I Do”

Imagine this: you and your love, whisked away on an adventure, saying “I do” under a sky painted with fiery hues of sunset. No stress, no fuss, just an elopement tailored to your wildest dreams. But how do you turn this dream into reality? Worry not, lovebirds, for this guide will help you craft the perfect elopement timeline, ensuring your special day unfolds seamlessly and captures every precious moment. Step 1: Prioritize Your Passions What makes your hearts sing? Is it a ceremony bathed in the golden glow of sunrise, or an intimate exchange of vows over water with a beautiful and romantic sunset? Do you envision playful photos with your photographer or an electrifying second line parade through the streets? Jot down your must-have moments, and let them be the anchors of your timeline. Step 2: Embrace Your Timeframe Full-day elopements offer leisurely pacing and space for multiple activities, while micro-elopements focus on the core ceremony and intimate moments. Choose the adventure that suits your style and budget. Step 3: Build Your Masterpiece Think of your timeline as a beautiful tapestry. Start with your ceremony time and work backwards from there. Weave in meals and activities, allocating realistic durations and considering buffer periods for unexpected moments. Remember to include getting ready time, travel between locations, and those essential breaks to take in the views! Step 4: Don’t Forget the Sparkle Sprinkle in special touches like a romantic first look, a sunset photo session capturing the magic of the golden hour (remember, your photographer will be your lighting guru!), or an unforgettable second line parade celebrating your love with the entire city. Don’t forget to factor in transportation and any permits or access fees you might need. Step 5: Embrace the Magic, Not the Meltdown Life happens, even on your elopement day. Build in flexibility for weather changes, unplanned moments, or simply indulging in the joy of the occasion. Share your timeline with your vendors so everyone’s on the same page, and communicate openly to ensure a smooth flow. Most importantly, relax, savor the moment, and let your love story unfold naturally. Bonus: NOLA Calling! Dreaming of an elopement that’s anything but ordinary? New Orleans, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and infectious energy, could be your perfect match. Let Ibay Photography capture the magic, stress-free! We offer expert planning, timeline assistance, and stunning photos to make your NOLA elopement unforgettable. Limited prime dates are available, so book now and secure your dream “I Do” in the Big Easy! By following these steps and embracing the possibilities, you can create an elopement timeline that reflects your unique love story and ensures your special day is filled with joy, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime. Elopement Checklist ☑️ Airfare ☑️ Hotel Reservations ☑️ Pre or Post Ceremony Meal Reservations ☑️ Photographer 🙂 ☑️ Officiant ☑️ Florist/Baker ☑️ Musicians / Jazz Band for Ceremony and Second Line (if desired) ☑️ Hair/Makeup Artists ☑️ Wedding Attires for couple ☑️ Shoes and Accessories ☑️ WEDDING RINGS ☑️ Paperwork required to Apply for Marriage License ☑️ Day of Timeline – coordinated with your photographer or planner ☑️ Excursions/Tours/Jazz Club Reservations ☑️ Prepare for Destination – check weather, water bottles, tissues, comfy shoes for walking, umbrellas

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New Orleans Rooftop Wedding

Elope on a Rooftop in New Orleans

New Orleans, with its vibrant culture and stunning architecture, offers some truly magical rooftop wedding venues. Here are a few of the best to consider, each with its own unique charm: For panoramic city views: For intimate garden vibes: Additional things to consider when choosing a rooftop wedding venue in New Orleans: Ultimately, the best rooftop wedding venue for you will depend on your individual style, budget, and guest count. With so many amazing options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect place to say “I do” in the Big Easy! Check out our all-inclusive packages that bundle many of the services you will want on your wedding day! I hope this helps you find the perfect rooftop wedding venue for your special day in New Orleans! Laissez les bons temps rouler 🙂 ????????⚜️ For dreamy elopement and small wedding inspiration, our Pinterest Page is full of wedding eye candy!! ????????⚜️

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Couple marrying at Canal Street Inn

How to Get Married at Canal Street Inn-New Orleans

The Canal Street Inn in New Orleans offers a unique and charming experience compared to typical hotels. Here are some reasons why you might consider staying there: Location: Ambiance and Character: Amenities: Reasons why you may want to consider the Canal Street Inn for your Wedding or Vow Renewal:  Memorable Moments Beyond the Ceremony Remember, your wedding is about celebrating your love and creating lasting memories with the people who matter most. The Canal Street Inn offers a charming and historic setting, personalized service, and a touch of New Orleans magic to make your special day truly unforgettable. See photos of weddings performed at Canal Street Inn HERE! Ultimately, the best wedding venue is the one that resonates with you and your partner. Consider your vision, priorities, and guest experience when making your decision. The Canal Street Inn may just be the perfect place to begin your happily-ever-after! Reach out to Canal Street Inn today, they would love to hear from you and welcome you to New Orleans!

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couple eloping in new orleans

Elopements: Romantic Getaway and Wedding in One

For couples looking for something a bit more exotic and less like a traditional wedding, we have the elopement. There’s something magical about the idea of forgoing the rituals and burdens of the typical wedding and just getting married on your own terms, and this is one of the biggest reasons why elopements are taking off all over the country. Essentially, an elopement is for couples who don’t really want to drop tons of money just to hold an elaborate ceremony. Maybe they want to save the money as a down payment for a house, maybe they simply don’t have a lot of family and friends that can attend, or maybe they just want their special day to be an adventure and intimate. Whatever the case may be, elopements provide an amazing alternative for couples who just don’t feel like an small wedding is “intimate” enough. Often, an elopement will just include the couple getting married, and a small group of friends. Sometimes, couples get eloped on their own. This makes the logistics and planning stages much easier than in a typical wedding. What’s more, you have many more options when you go this route. Instead of having to plan elaborate catering, you can simply have an amazing dinner at a local world renown restaurant you always wanted to go to, or if you are traveling someplace exotic, you can just have a night on the town. You have far more options when you don’t have to plan for and accommodate dozens of people. Every stage of an elopement is typically easier to plan. You don’t really have to worry about putting together all the pieces, because even things like the wedding dress are only suggestions, not necessities. Many brides, for example, will just choose to buy any kind of pretty dress that suits the location and theme of the elopement, rather than purchasing a white wedding gown. Another benefit of elopements is that a capable elopement planner can take care of just about all your needs. Here at IBAY we help couples do just that, by taking care of a lot of the “behind the scenes” stuff, so if you plan on having an elopement in New Orleans, all you need to worry about is having fun! An elopement is meant to be more like a romantic getaway, in the sense that there is much less ceremony involved. You also typically fly out to a more exotic location to hold the marriage, as opposed to a wedding, which is usually followed by a honeymoon. The elopement is the honeymoon! That is one of the draws to eloping: it fuses the best parts of the wedding into the honeymoon, to create something altogether different and special. Whichever route you choose, remember to choose what works best for you. Sometimes due to family and friend obligations, elopements just aren’t possible. But remember, you can always talk with your friends and family and see what they are comfortable with. You never know, a dozen of them might want to come with you on your trip across the country and share the magic with you! At Ibay Photography, we offer all-inclusive elopement packages to make planning easy breezy! We believe it’s all about having fun and no stress! The ultimate goal is to be married or renew your vows, and we will help you do just that in the most romantic city in the United States! Connect with us HERE! We can’t wait to chat with you 🙂

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tree of life new orleans

$5000 Elopement? Yes its Possible

When it comes to celebrating love in a unique and memorable way, few places can compare to the magical city of New Orleans.  Getting married in a beautiful location doesn’t always have to be expensive. You’re in luck if you’ve been hoping to have a romantic elopement in New Orleans without going over budget. The lively city’s vibrant culture, historic allure, and captivating atmosphere make for the ideal setting for a reasonably priced celebration of your love. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to put together a lovely elopement wedding in the heart of New Orleans for less than $5,000. Selecting a Reasonably Priced Location New Orleans provides a variety of venues that won’t break the bank. Explore picturesque neighborhoods with quaint courtyards or public parks like Audubon Park. By choosing an outdoor location, you can keep the costs of your wedding location down so that you can spend it on other memorable things. And, what else is more beautiful than getting married in nature’s splendor. Click here for a list of our recommended locations Consolidate as you personalize Some couples choose to elope with the barest of essentials. If you do choose to incorporate some traditional elements, don’t be afraid to get creative. To dress up the cake, request that the florist who makes your bouquet to add a few extra blooms. This is a low-cost way to dress up the dessert while still having it coordinate with your wedding flowers. Don’t feel like you have to follow convention since eloping is by nature unconventional. Choose what is best for YOU! A Taste of the Local Cuisine It’s essential to indulge in the flavors of New Orleans, which is a culinary paradise. Instead of a formal reception, choose a private dinner at a local Creole or Cajun restaurant. Numerous restaurants provide reasonable prix-fixe menus so you can enjoy the city’s world-famous cuisine without going over your spending limit. Get in touch with us for our recommendations. Get married during the week Did you know that most vendors offer discounts for weddings held on a weekday? What a great way to keep costs down without compromising the experience. Plus, if you have your wedding on a Monday or a Tuesday, when many places see their fewest visitors, you’re much more likely to have the venue to yourself. Just make sure to check online ahead of time to confirm that the place you’re visiting is open on the day you intend to stop by. Have an intimate guest list This one is simple if it’s an old-fashioned elopement! Your future spouse and you alone. This can be more challenging for contemporary elopements with a larger guest list. You can create a personal and meaningful experience while effectively managing costs if you only invite your closest relatives and friends. A smaller guest list enables you to select more budget-friendly locations, streamline catering choices, and concentrate on the factors that are most important to you and your partner. With this strategy, you can have a more intimate elopement and spend more time with the people who are important to you while also keeping costs down. *** Check out our Custom Packages! Select a restaurant with a $50 per person post-celebratory brunch or dinner for 20 people… and you are still at $5000! *** Eloping in New Orleans on a budget is possible and can result in a charming and unforgettable experience. You can create a romantic celebration that captures your love story for less than $5,000 with careful planning, considerate decisions, and an emphasis on what matters most. New Orleans offers the perfect setting for couples looking for a magical elopement on a budget, thanks to the city’s historic charm, vibrant culture, and mouthwatering cuisine. As you say “I do,” embrace the energy of the city and go on an unforgettable journey. And Yes, an elopement should be exciting and unplanned, but you want to save money while still having a good time, right? Work with an experienced local business like Ibay photography that has the knowledge to help you save money while still getting the most out of the experience and guarantee that you stay under $5000. Hiring an elopement photographer has many advantages. With the assistance of an elopement photographer, you will have someone take care of all the last-minute hassles and complications on your special day, allowing you to simply enjoy the occasion. We can guide you through all the details and make sure you do not forget anything. Unlimited planning support, including access to the Ibay Photography team for assistance with ceremony location (*permit fees may apply; not included in package pricing…Click HERE for suggested ceremony locations), vendor recommendations, activities suggestions, and a timeline. We are by your side at every turn! Reach out to us for more details, and we’ll work with you to make your dreams happen!!

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Elope on a Boat, boat elopement

Boat Elopement – Elope on a Boat in New Orleans

Some couples desire a wedding experience that goes beyond tradition and embraces the extraordinary when they exchange vows. If you want an intimate ceremony that combines luxury, privacy, exclusivity, and a dash of adventure, why not elope on a boat. This might be the perfect option for you. Picture yourself with only your closest loved ones by your side, sailing through calm waters, amidst breathtaking vistas. In this post, we delve into the romantic world of eloping on a boat, a genuinely one-of-a-kind and unforgettable wedding experience. A boat wedding is a fantastic option for couples looking for a private and unique wedding experience because it comes with a host of benefits. Luxury and intimacy A level of luxury and intimacy that is difficult to match is provided by eloping on a boat. Imagine yourself on a luxurious yacht that has been exquisitely furnished and equipped. Now imagine the stunning photos captured that you will cherish for a lifetime. A boat elopement’s exclusivity guarantees that your special day will remain a private affair, shared only with your closest friends and family. You can concentrate on building meaningful relationships and having an intimate celebration of your love when there are fewer guests present. This enables you to forego the customary wedding rituals and fully savor the happiness of the occasion. Gorgeous Locations Eloping on a boat offers the chance to choose from a variety of breathtaking locations, which is one of its most alluring features. A boat elopement gives you the chance to discover the most romantic waterways and undiscovered treasures in the entire world, whether you’ve always imagined saying “I do” in front of a dramatic coastline, amidst the serene beauty of a remote island, or beneath the vibrant hues of a setting sun. There are endless possibilities for creating a wedding experience as unique as your love story, from the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean to the dramatic fjords of Norway. Because of the flexibility of a boat wedding, you can embark on a romantic adventure together, discovering new destinations and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Best Kept Secret The allure of eloping on a boat lies in the fact that it is something you and your partner can keep to yourselves. Imagine announcing to your loved ones that you are getting married on a boat, leaving them speechless at your unusual and extraordinary decision. This element of surprise makes your wedding journey more intriguing and exciting, ensuring that your special day will live on in their memories forever. Eloping in New Orleans is another best kept secret… full of romance, character and uniqueness! Professional Help Although organizing a boat elopement may seem difficult, the good news is that there are experts who focus on creating these special occasions. You can be guided through each step of the process by our wedding planners and boat charter businesses, ensuring that your vision is realized. They are prepared to handle the logistics, freeing you to concentrate on your relationship and the magic of the moment. This includes choosing the ideal boat and destination as well as organizing florals, photography, and all the smaller details. Last but not least!! You simply can’t pass up the opportunity to experience a sunset boat elopement. Imagine being on the deck of a lavish boat, surrounded by the sound of the water lapping against the deck and a gentle breeze blowing in the evening. A surreal and magical atmosphere is created by the reflection of the vivid colors on the still water, setting the stage for an unforgettable ceremony. You and your partner exchange vows in front of this picturesque setting, savoring the beauty and peace of the occasion. A truly captivating experience is produced when the breathtaking sunset, the calming sounds of nature, and being on a boat in close proximity come together. Don’t pass up the chance to elope on a boat in the evening and make memories that will last a lifetime. A truly unique wedding experience that combines luxury, intimacy, adventure, and exclusivity is eloping on a boat. It gives you the freedom to veer from convention and design a day that is especially special to you. This well-kept secret ensures a romantic celebration to remember with stunning settings, opulent lodgings, and the element of surprise. Elope on a boat for the ideal combination of elegance, romance, and adventure, so if you want a wedding experience that is as exceptional as your relationship, let’s do it. Check out our Sunset Lake Elopement Packages for an all inclusive boat wedding, New Orleans. Don’t forget to check out our TOP Elopement or Vow Renewal Packages HERE! Click HERE to learn the 5 secrets to a successful (and stress-free) elopement and BONUS checklist!

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Marrying at Chateau Lemoyne Hotel

Complete Guide to Marrying at Chateau Lemoyne Hotel, French Quarter

Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! Planning a wedding can be an exciting yet challenging task. To help you with your preparations, here’s a complete guide to marrying at Chateau Lemoyne Hotel, New Orleans. Considering New Orleans for your ideal wedding in New Orleans? Look nowhere else! This thriving city, located in the heart of Louisiana, offers a magical setting for your special day that will make it truly unforgettable. Imagine saying “I do” in an elegant mansion filled with Southern charm, or exchanging vows in a historic courtyard decorated with blooming magnolias and sparkling fairy lights. The vibrant energy and rich cultural heritage of New Orleans make it a unique setting for your celebration. From the intoxicating sounds of jazz filling the air to the vivacious energy of Mardi Gras, New Orleans radiates an infectious joie de vivre that will add an extra dose of excitement to your wedding. So, if you’re prepared to set out on a unique wedding adventure, marrying at Chateau Lemoyne Hotel New Orleans is the ideal place to fulfill your goals. Why Chateau Lemoyne Hotel is a Perfect Place to Elope in New Orleans Elopements have gained popularity among couples seeking an intimate and romantic wedding experience. If you’re considering eloping in New Orleans, look no further than the enchanting Chateau Lemoyne Hotel, this undiscovered gem offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable elopement thanks to its historic charm, first-rate service, and picturesque location in the middle of the city. Let’s look at why the Chateau Lemoyne Hotel is the ideal setting for a small wedding. Romantic Atmosphere The Chateau Lemoyne Hotel exudes a romantic and intimate ambiance, making it ideal for an elopement. You’ll be enchanted by the historic property’s ageless elegance and charm the moment you set foot inside. The hotel’s tastefully decorated rooms, peaceful courtyards, and traditional architecture make for a charming and romantic setting for your elopement ceremony. Beautiful Ceremony Locations The hotel offers a variety of gorgeous ceremony locations that can be customized to your needs. You can choose to have your ceremony outside in the lush greenery of the courtyard with its cascading vines and sparkling lights, or inside in one of their elegant event spaces. The staff at the Chateau Lemoyne Hotel will collaborate closely with you to design a unique, private ceremony that celebrates your love. Packages for Customized Elopements Customized elopement packages are available at the Chateau Lemoyne Hotel to make your wedding day stress-free and special. With these packages, you can concentrate on your love and making priceless memories because they include necessities like a ceremony location, an officiant, a bridal bouquet, and a champagne toast. To further personalize your elopement experience, extras like photography services and couple’s spa treatments can be added. Expert Advice on Wedding Planning Even though organizing an elopement may seem easier than organizing a traditional wedding, hiring a planner guarantees that every last detail is attended to. The committed wedding staff at the Chateau Lemoyne Hotel will assist you every step of the way, from obtaining the required licenses to suggesting regional suppliers for photography, floral arrangements, and more. A seamless and stress-free elopement will be made possible by their experience and attention to detail. Arrangements for a Private Getaway Retire to the hotel’s opulent rooms for a romantic and private getaway after exchanging vows. The well-appointed rooms and suites at the Chateau Lemoyne Hotel combine contemporary comfort with classic charm. Enjoy a romantic dinner for two, indulge in a soothing spa treatment, or just relax and celebrate your love in the comfort of your tastefully decorated room. Go on a French Quarter exploration The Chateau Lemoyne Hotel’s prime location in the heart of the French Quarter is among the best reasons to get married there. As you set out on a romantic journey through the old streets, immerse yourselves in the vibrant culture, music, and cuisine of New Orleans. The French Quarter offers countless opportunities for making priceless memories during your elopement, from jovial jazz clubs and renowned restaurants to picturesque parks and famous landmarks. Couples can embrace the intimacy and romance of a small wedding while reveling in the beauty and vibrancy of the French Quarter by eloping at the Chateau Lemoyne Hotel in New Orleans.  Chateau Lemoyne Hotel Wedding Services The Chateau Lemoyne Hotel offers the most luxurious top-knotch wedding venue services. Aside from the most beautiful Luxurious Bridal Suites, other services to consider are: How to get Married at Chateau Lemoyne Hotel Here are some tips to help you plan marrying at Chateau Lemoyne Hotel. Explore the Venue: Start by familiarizing yourself with the venue’s offerings and facilities. Chateau Lemoyne Hotel boasts a classic French Quarter architecture, adorned with wrought-iron balconies, lush courtyards, and beautiful indoor spaces. Take a virtual tour or arrange a visit to truly experience the venue’s charm and ambiance. Setting the Date: Contact the Chateau Lemoyne Hotel to check their availability and secure your desired wedding date. It’s advisable to book well in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak wedding season. To discuss your wedding plans, get in touch with the Chateau Lemoyne Hotel’s event coordinator. They will walk you through the process, respond to your inquiries, and give you crucial details about the prices, packages, and dates that are available. Your vision will be closely matched with the capabilities of the venue through the coordinator’s close collaboration with you. Select a Wedding Package: The Chateau Lemoyne Hotel offers a variety of customizable wedding packages to meet different needs and spending limits. Their packages typically include necessities like ceremony and reception spaces, catering choices, bar services, linens, and more, whether you want a small gathering or a large celebration. Make the package fit your needs and look into any upgrades or extra services they may provide for marrying at Chateau Lemoyne Hotel. Plan the Ceremony and Reception: Establish a close working relationship with the event coordinator to plan the ceremony and reception’s specifics. The location offers a variety of indoor

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elopement new orleans

Best Places to Elope in New Orleans

Are you looking for magical moments for your Elopement Wedding or Vow Renewal, consisting of dreamy, picture-perfect backdrops? If so, you must consider these gems of the city. Not only are they the Best New Orleans Elopement Venues but they won’t break the bank, all locations have permit fees of $500 or less (valid for couple only elopements or up to 20 guests), and some are even free! Here are the best places to elope in New Orleans… ⛵ Just you two? Click here to see our favorite package which INCLUDES a sunset ceremony on a private sailboat ⛵ Keep in mind, even if some are tucked away, each location is in a public area so we can’t control visitors or locals in the area.  However, most people will stay out of the way if they see a wedding or vow renewal in progress :). Everyone in New Orleans loves a wedding! New Orleans Elopement Venues The 6 Best Places to Elope to Nola 1. City Park – McDonough Tree or Butler Fountain                If you’re looking for all the whimsy and beauty New Orleans has to offer, City Park is the perfect spot for you. As one of the oldest established parks in the country, City Park offers beauty and history you can see and feel.                The McDonough Tree is a popular spot. Dripping with historic Spanish Moss and limbs that stretch far into the space, the McDonough Tree is the perfect backdrop for your ceremony. Not only will your pictures capture the whimsy of New Orleans, but being surrounded by the chirping birds, gentle breezes, and all the beauty City Park has to offer will make you fall in love all over again.                Tucked into the twisting paths of City Park, Butler Fountain makes a beautiful setting for your intimate ceremony. Surrounded by Oak Trees and lush greenery, you will feel like royalty in your own personal garden. Private enough to not be disturbed, but with fantastic views of the park, Butler Fountain might be the perfect spot for sharing the love. Click HERE for information on obtaining a permit for an elopement at City Park. 2. Audubon Park – Tree of Life, Hyams Fountain, Gumbel Fountain                Audubon Park is another beautiful spot if you’re looking for romance and whimsy. The Tree of Life offers a beautiful backdrop of limbs and light. Legend says that the tree was planted as a wedding gift to a bride many years ago, and the gift of love still stands strong today. You can’t get much more romantic than a long history of love.                Nestled in a private area of Audubon Park, you will find Hyams Fountain. Like many other pieces in New Orleans, this fountain has a unique history. Sara Hyams donated her jewelry collection so that children would have a place to enjoy the summers. The Hyams Fountain is surrounded by lush gardens and cool breezes that sing the songs of New Orleans’s history that you can feel.                Gumbel Fountain is another beautiful backdrop for water and nature. Sitting among well-kept gardens, the fountain will make you sigh with its beauty. It is every bit as magical as a movie. Click HERE for information on obtaining a permit for an elopement at Tree of Life. 3. Washington Park across from Jackson Square                If you’re looking for the New Orleans city feel, look no further than Washington Park! This park overlooks Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral. An outdoor space dripping in history and beauty all in one, Washington Park boasts stunning views of Jackson Square that are picturesque and breathtaking. Get that picture perfect venue for your weekday elopement – not recommended Friday thru Sunday due to popular tourist photo spot! 4. Exchange Alley                Your wedding day should be stress-free and easy. For the couple who wants gorgeous simplicity, but still wants that New Orleans charm, Exchange Alley is your perfect spot. What is more “New Orleans” than the French Quarter? How does intimacy sound in a city that is always full of life? Just moments away from the bustling noise of the most amazing city, your private ceremony awaits you. Feel the southern charm and comfort while the area is still full of life. 5. Pirates Alley                Charming parks aren’t your style? No problem! New Orleans has something for everyone and Pirates Alley might just be perfect for you. This seemingly simple alleyway is anything but. As part of the Historic French Quarter, Pirates Alley puts you in the heart and soul of New Orleans, while still offering a spot for some privacy. The unique architecture as a backdrop mixed with the natural lighting provides a beautiful space for you. The atmosphere of Pirates Alley is a draw for many couples looking to tie the knot. Once there, you can see what all the fuss is about.                            6. Armstrong Park                Just a quick walk away from the French Quarter and downtown New Orleans, the iconic arch of Armstrong Park welcomes visitors to experience all the different areas it has to offer. This 32-acre park, named after famous jazz musician Louis Armstrong, has enormous oak trees and is home to historic Congo Square. Armstrong Park comes to life in beautiful daytime ceremonies. Armstrong Park can fit every vibe, from the whimsy of oak trees to the industrial vibe of the arching bridge. Brick pathways will line your walk, giving you a traditional feeling of walking through Old Time New Orleans. Click HERE for information on obtaining a permit for an elopement at Armstrong Park. ⚜️ Ask us about Hotels and B&B’s that offer their courtyards or parlours for a more private ceremony location ⚜️ Don’t forget to check out our All-Inclusive Elopement Packages HERE! Click HERE to learn the 5 secrets to a successful (and stress-free) elopement and BONUS checklist!

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best places to elope

Best Places for an Elopement and Top Things to do Before and After Your Elopement Wedding

There is no shortage of things to do in New Orleans. If you’re planning your wedding there, in a place known to be one of the best places for an elopement, it only makes sense to partake in some of the food, entertainment, art, and history that the city has to offer. After all, New Orleans isn’t just one of the top places for couples looking to tie the knot in style along with the Mississippi Gulf Coast beaches, it’s also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the entire country. There is quite a bit to see and do. So if you are looking to make some memories before the ceremony even begins, we’ve got some ideas for you! 1. Eat beignets (not at touristy cafe du monde, but at Cafe Beignet!) This is basically essential if you’re visiting New Orleans. If this is where you’re getting married, even better. These little fried pastries are a specialty here and you don’t want to miss out on these world famous New Orleans style donuts. 2. Have a cocktail at the carousel bar in the Hotel Monteleone Want to try something a bit unorthodox? The extravagant Hotel Monteleone has a unique take on the typical fancy bar. Known simply as the Carousel Bar, it’s something that has to be experienced to be believed. It’s definitely a different take on the classic bar scene. 3. Take a selfie in Exchange Alley Nearby from Hotel Monteleone, there’s the gorgeous decorative street known as Exchange Alley, a place rich in art, culture, colorful buildings and dining. It’s one of those well-taken care of little city hidden gems that makes for a perfect backdrop to a Newlywed photo. 4. Take the beautiful Algiers ferry to the westbank side of the mighty Mississippi River Once there, enjoy a bite or drink at Dry Dock Cafe or Old Point Bar, two of the best places to grab a drink and mingle with the locals. This is one of those uniquely New Orleans experiences that you don’t want to miss out on.  Don’t forget to take in the New Orleans city skyline from that side of the Mississippi River. 5. Take the Streetcar Down Historic St. Charles Avenue The streetcar will take you from the French Quarter through the Garden District and Uptown New Orleans.  The street is lined with antebellum homes + majestic oak trees that will take your breath away.  The streetcar is affordable and fun and a main staple in the New Orleans landscape!   It’s truly a must see and do.  Tip:  Stop in Columns Hotel or Pontchartrain Hotel (Rooftop) for amazing cocktails. 6. Try and find all the cool rooftop bars with amazing city views, for a memorable dining experience Tip: some are guests only as the pool is rooftop as well and only for guests privileges. Don’t be afraid to call a location beforehand and ask about their amenities. Many New Orleans restaurants and hotels have classic sensibilities and will go out of their way to cater to patrons. 7. Stop and enjoy a conversation with a local!  Local New Orleanians are the nicest people on planet earth. Promise you will leave the conversation with a new friend and a dozen other recommended hot spots to see, not to mention a new take on the city’s history, or simply where to get the best oysters. 8. For the ladies: stop in “Bourbon French Parfums” This shop on Royal street makes custom tailored scents that can be made into your special wedding day fragrance. If you’re looking for that special something to spice up your big day and want to do something out of the ordinary, this is just the right opportunity. 9. Must take photos in Jackson Square The historic St Louis Cathedral is stunning and millions of people make sure to capture photos of the iconic church whenever they are visiting New Orleans. Try taking photos in Jackson Square at different angles with the church in the background. I promise… these will be the photos you will frame and cherish for life. 10. Is traditional New Orleans style music something you’re interested in? ​​Frenchman Street is just a quick stroll outside of the FQ. If you want to hear authentic live New Orleans music, this is the place to go. It’s where all the locals go to hear the real sound of New Orleans! Grab our 5 secrets to a successful (and stress-free) elopement and receive a FREE checklist!

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elopement packages

Top Elopement Packages

The elopement of your dreams doesn’t have to break the bank. Quite the contrary, these trends prove that elopements are still one of the cheapest ways to get married… and we have the perfect elopement packages HERE to consider! While you are here, we also wanted to give you ideas of new trends we are seeing everywhere. Every year more and more couples seem to be looking into “unconventional” ceremony formats, and getting eloped just fits. What’s could be better than a romantic getaway that actually cuts expenses compared to a traditional wedding? That’s music to every couple’s ears. Let’s take a look at a few trends that you might want to incorporate into your ceremony: First Looks are the Trend! A few months ago we wrote about how First Look elopement photography was taking off. That trend has only risen as couples everywhere are learning about this new “tradition.” If you’re not familiar, a First Look is a pre-ceremony activity that allows the couple to meet each other right before the ceremony takes place, to give them a more intimate time together before the actual ceremony starts. This is perfect if you are having a medium to large sized elopement with friends and family, which gives the couple some space before having to present themselves to the crowd. As an added bonus, a First Look is often like a private photo shoot. It is becoming customary to invite the photographer to this intimate meeting, so they can shoot an on-site pre-ceremony collection that often creates beautiful moments. After all, the bride and groom are seeing each other on their special day for the first time and this creates electric photography. First Looks are even more popular in summer months and warmer climates like New Orleans, where couples have the liberty of staying outside for longer periods and can decide to have a fully outdoors shoot if they desire. Less Formal, More Fun! Eloping has taken off in part because it allows couples to do away with many of the old formalities and just get married where and when they want without a ton of hassle. This trend is only increasing, as we’re seeing more and more couples go the casual route when it comes to their ceremony. There’s much more focus on having a good time and an authentic experience rather than spending a fortune on a particular item or place. When there’s less focus on the formalities, it allows couples to unwind and just enjoy themselves, and shouldn’t that be what getting married is all about? It’s so important for couples to realize that if they are feeling pressure in wedding planning maybe it’s time they look into getting eloped. It’s a very different experience when you can just focus on your significant other and not have to plan for months on end just to “get everything right” and please 100 random relatives that insisted on coming. Less formal also often means less money spent. Ditch the expensive trappings of typical wedding ceremonies and just let loose and enjoy yourself. Wear what you want, go where you want, and focus on romance! Back to Nature! What could be better than getting married under the boughs of romantic spanish moss under a 600yr old oak, in the middle of a picturesque park, or right on the riverfront with city skyline views? Holding elopements and weddings in the outdoors is nothing new, but it’s certainly a growing trend. What better way to save money and transform your ceremony into a special adventure than having the entire thing outdoors? This is the perfect answer for couples looking to save a ton of money on things like hotel halls and chapels. Not to mention, a natural backdrop is the ultimate elopement set. You can choose exactly the kind of atmosphere you want to accentuate your big day, whether you want a more earthy event in the middle of the woods or want to go full blown mermaid by the sea. That’s the beauty of having an elopement, you don’t have to worry about the logistics of planning for 100 or more people on a small patch of beach or in a particular corner of a park. The crowd size will be small, no parking snafus, and you don’t have to somehow cater a feast in the woods. And above all, most of the time it’s free! Some parks in New Orleans charge a small event fee for hosting crowds at certain times of the day and after a certain size, but for the most part, if you seek out a particular area of nature that you want to transform into your perfect elopement backdrop, you’re not going to be spending a ton of money. Congratulations to you both! Don’t forget to check out our TOP 3 elopement packages here!Click HERE to learn the 5 secrets to a successful (and stress-free) elopement and BONUS checklist!

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