French Quarter Archives - Page 2 of 2

New Orleans Elopement For Two

Elope, Featured New Orleans Elopement packages, French Quarter, gulf coast, new orleans, Park Wedding, Tree of LIfe, Wedding / Marcia

You may have already decided that the magic of New Orleans is the perfect backdrop for your destination elopement, but have you decided on the size of your ceremony yet? Micro-weddings and intimate elopements are becoming more popular, as younger couples are looking for a more organic, romantic wedding experience without all of the planning and hassle of a traditional wedding. What if you wanted a ceremony just for you and your significant other? What if you wanted to treat your elopement like a true honeymoon? You can! If you’re thinking about having a more intimate elopement experience while still enjoying all the fun and excitement New Orleans has to offer, we’ll tell you how. Minimal Expense, Maximum Romance First thing you should know about the “just us” style of eloping, it’s more common than you think! In fact, the classic imagery of a couple eloping typically didn’t involve relatives and friends. Thousands of couples every year fly out for their destination elopement in cities like Vegas and New Orleans without anyone with them. This is perfect for couples who are looking for an intimate experience and a ceremony not bogged down with the pressures of entertaining family members or appeasing people in general. Not to mention the price tag that comes with such ceremonies. When it’s just you and your significant other, there’s no giant catering bill, the cake doesn’t have to feed an army, you can book smaller (cozier!) venues, and said venues don’t need to be decorated to the hilt. It saves a load of hassle, not to mention money that could be better spent on other things, like memorable activities. Another often overlooked benefit of not having guests is that booking accommodations is effortless. Nab that king suite in the fanciest hotel in the city and don’t feel a pang of guilt. You don’t have to think about the logistics of stuffing your best friends and beloved family into an overbooked hotel or worry about having to coordinate several hotels, transportation day of, food, and whatever else might be needed in order to ensure everything happens without any issues. If it’s just you and your significant other, all you have to do is decide which hotel has an open suite that suits your needs, and snatch it up before anyone else does. Not only will you feel like you’re on your honeymoon before you even tie the knot, you don’t have to think about the awkward scenarios of friends and family co-habitating in the same space or conflicting personalities raining on your parade. Just do you and let the sparks fly! Your Happiness Will Come First Sometimes, traditional-sized wedding ceremonies can get bogged down in how everyone else feels, often leaving the bride to play mediator, parent, and peacekeeper when they should be focused on their special day. Stress levels are one of the biggest complaints brides-to-be have. A large portion of that stress is derived from making sure everyone’s expectations are being met. But what about the bride and groom? Aren’t they the ones everyone else should be catering to? That’s simply not how it is. Much of the planning for big weddings includes extensive research and accommodations for all guests. This includes everything from learning what your niece-in-law is allergic to, to figuring out how to arrange reliable transportation to and fro the airport for every member of your family. All of this is part of the reason why more couples are scaling their weddings down and making them more intimate, with only a few family and friends, or even no one else at all. Shouldn’t your wedding be about you and not the expectations of a bunch of other people? Even if culture and tradition is important to you? The best part of a “Just Us” elopement package, you come first and you are the highest priority. No stressing out over how to cater to five different food allergies and picky kids, no wondering if the hotel you booked will somehow mess up your accommodations for 25 people, no fretting over whether or not the DJ will be to everyone’s taste. Our New Orleans Elopement Package For Two New Orleans is perfect for every size elopement, but I know just the right place for the ultimate elopement for just two. Magnolia Elopement Package $1990 + tax Collection of trusted and professional makeup artists, restaurants, hotels and other vendors will be provided Ceremony photos followed by full photo session around ceremony location – up to 1.5 hours photography coverage (50) professionally edited hi-res images in an online gallery for downloading, sharing and printing (print release included) Officiant who will assist with obtaining marriage license Private Online Gallery for 60 days to share with loved ones Personalized e-announcement with a photo from your day – delivered within 72 hours of ceremony Want to experience the magic for yourself? Please get in touch with us so we can start helping you put together the elopement of your dreams!

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Want ideas of FREE things to do in New Orleans?

French Quarter, Jackson Square, new orleans, Photos, Wedding / Marcia

Free Things to Do in New Orleans Quite honestly, there are scads of free things to do in New Orleans… something for everyone. I photograph many weddings in the New Orleans area and I get the same question every time… what should we do while in New Orleans? Keep reading, to learn more about several popular choices. The hardest part is deciding which one to enjoy first. Tour the Garden District. This stunning neighborhood, home to lavish mansions, is easily one of the most beautiful areas in New Orleans. Free tour maps are available at the French Quarter Visitor Center. Walk around City Park. The 1,300-acre park is home to the largest collection of live oak trees in the world. There are a number of walking and bike trails to explore. Playgrounds and wide-open spaces are plentiful, providing lots of room for children to run around. Listen to a concert at Lafayette Square. A 12-week concert series takes place here each year. The lineup includes a number of local bands you don’t want to miss. These concerts take place every Wednesday and are free to attend. Stroll down Magazine Street for some serious window shopping. Here you’ll find a wide variety of shops, situated in historic buildings, selling everything from designer clothing to folk art and antiques and a whole lot more! Watch a parade. The streets of New Orleans see their fair share of parades, particularly during Mardi Gras season. These parades, which are always free, provide a great way to immerse yourself in the fantastic culture of the city. As a wedding photographer, I also recommend watching a 2nd line parade with a couple who just married. What a unique and fun way to witness someone’s special day! Sample delicious cuisine. New Orleans-style cooking is a unique blend of African, French, Spanish, Cajun and Creole traditions. For an “insider look” at what the fuss is about, check out Crescent City Farmers’ Market. They sell fresh (local) produce and are known to host free cooking demonstrations from time to time. So this last one is technically not free, but super inexpensive… take the Algiers Ferry ($2 per rider) over to the other side of the Mississippi River. Soak in the views while on the ferry of the French Quarter skyline and Crescent City Connection bridge. When you get on the other side, grab a po-boy and cocktail at the Dry Dock Cafe. The Old Algiers Point bar is also a super iconic location for a drink. You will meet some really nice locals as well. If you would like to see some glass blown art, head over to the Rosetree Blown Glass (just a few short blocks from the Ferry). They specialize in the creation of blown art glass in the Venetian style of furnace work and have one of the largest contemporary art glass galleries in the South! This is just the beginning when it comes to free things to do in New Orleans. However, these options are all a good representation of what’s available. Get ready… get set… experience New Orleans! If you are thinking of marrying in New Orleans and having a small destination wedding or elopement, reach out to us! Grab our 5 secrets to a successful (and stress-free) elopement and receive a FREE checklist!

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Popular Places to Get Married in Louisiana

Elope, French Quarter, Jackson Square, new orleans, Photos, Wedding / Marcia Grover

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!

Top 5 Picturesque Places to Elope In New Orleans

Elope, French Quarter, Jackson Square, new orleans, Park Wedding, Tree of LIfe, Venue, Wedding / Marcia Grover

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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Real New Orleans Elopement During COVID-19

Elope, French Quarter, Jackson Square, new orleans, Park Wedding, Photos, Tree of LIfe, Wedding / Marcia Grover

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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STEAL THIS $3000 ELOPEMENT WEDDING EXPERIENCE

Elope, Featured New Orleans Elopement packages, French Quarter, new orleans, Park Wedding, Venue, Wedding / Marcia Grover

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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Why Getting Eloped is the Top Marriage Trend

Elope, French Quarter, gulf coast, Jackson Square, new orleans, Venue, Wedding / Marcia Grover

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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Top 5 French Quarter New Orleans Small Wedding Ideas

Elope, French Quarter, Jackson Square, new orleans, Park Wedding, Photos, Tree of LIfe, Venue, Wedding / Marcia Grover

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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The Advantages of Having an Intimate Wedding

French Quarter, new orleans, Park Wedding, Photos, Venue, Wedding / Marcia Grover

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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What do Couples Actually do on Their Elopement Day?

Elope, French Quarter, gulf coast, new orleans, Park Wedding, Photos, Venue, Wedding / Marcia Grover

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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Where Can I Elope in French Quarter New Orleans?

Elope, French Quarter, Jackson Square, new orleans, Photos, Venue, Wedding / Marcia Grover

The French Quarter, also known as the Vieux Carre’ or The Big Easy, is the oldest and most vibrant neighborhood in the city of New Orleans. When you think of New Orleans, you think French Quarter and probably world famous Bourbon Street. The French Quarter area has been designated as a historic landmark, with many significant structures and buildings. It is a prime tourist destination for both visitors and locals alike. This is the area where you can try the world famous beignets, the hurricane drink and some of the best authentic New Orleans cuisine you’ve ever had. Shopping, dining, dancing, drinking cocktails and listening to live Jazz bands are some of the many things locals and tourist enjoy when in the French Quarter. If there is one city in the USA that enjoys and lives life to the fullest, its New Orleans. Rich in culture and traditions… I can almost guarantee you will fall in love with the city the instant you arrive. Why Elope in French Quarter Many couples have chosen New Orleans and specifically the French Quarter neighborhood for their elopement weddings. The one-of-a-kind, unique and romantic experiences are what draws couples to choose New Orleans…Not to mention the gorgeous backdrops of the pastel colored buildings and gas lantern streets make for amazing wedding photos! Who will marry us? Since these suggested areas are open to the public, you will need to bring your own officiant to perform the ceremony. We can help you secure an officiant that will also assist with securing your marriage license. All of our Elopement Packages include officiant services. Where can I marry in the French Quarter? We recommend: Exchange Alley – under 10 guests – standing room only – no chairs allowed. Pirates Alley – under 20 guests – standing room only – no chairs allowed. Jackson Square – Permit fee required (prices vary depending on guests count) – chairs allowed (rented by couple) You can see photos on our Pinterest Page of each location by visiting our Gallery Page You can also get a good feel of these locations from our best places to elope Blog HERE What is required to marry in the French Quarter? Besides an excellent wedding or elopement planner (which is one of our specialties!), all you’re really going to need is any required permit from Jackson Square. We also highly recommend a New Orleans tradition of a 2nd line wedding parade to complete your elopement experience – rates vary. What is the cost? Please call Jackson Square at (504) 658-3200 for information on permits required. When writing this blog, fees were around $500 for up to 25 guests and $700 for 26-100 guests. Alternatively, your wedding or elopement planner can handle much of these details so you don’t get bogged down. Your planner can help put a package together for you that saves assist you with all your requests to have the best destination wedding in New Orleans! How many guests can we invite? Jackson Square can accommodate up to 200 guests. Remember that this is still a public park and tourist will still be roaming the area within Jackson Square. While you will be the only wedding during your scheduled block of time, the park will not secure a section for you to have a private ceremony. The great news is that New Orleans locals and visitors are some of the nicest people you will meet and will respect your wedding during your ceremony. Many of them will want to just stand on the sidelines, witness and wait for the big kiss so that they can celebrate with congratulatory well wishes. How do we get to the French Quarter – New Orleans? All three locations we have recommended are within the 13 very short blocks of the French Quarter. Once you arrive to your French Quarter hotel, all of these locations will be walking distance for you. Or if you prefer, a quick Uber ride from hotel to ceremony location. New Orleans is an extremely easy to travel city, so keep on the lookout for signage that will point you in the right direction. Hopefully you found this information on Eloping in New Orleans useful for your upcoming elopement or micro-wedding. Feel free to contact us anytime if you want to talk about a package deal just for you, so you can experience the magic and romance of the French Quarter for yourself! View Done-For-You all inclusive packages HERE and Congratulations to you both!

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Just eloped in New Orleans? What to do the next day

Elope, French Quarter, new orleans, Photos, Wedding / Marcia Grover

Congratulations, You just eloped in New Orleans! You’re Married!!! Just Eloped in New Orleans Now that you guys have just celebrated the best day of your lives…what are the best things to do after your wedding day? Tour the most romantic city in the world of course! Here is an ideal perfect day in New Orleans: 1. Have beignets and coffee at Cafe Beignet on Royal Street. Most tourist believe the only place to enjoy our famous beignets is to visit Cafe Du Monde on Decatur St. Just a few short blocks is a very quaint shop called Cafe Beignet that sells (in my opinion) even better beignets than the original. An added bonus…no 2 mile long lines here! 2. Catch the free shuttle service to Mardi Gras World and see the amazing Mardi Gras floats up close and personal…then catch the streetcar that follows St. Charles Ave and take it all the way to the river (ask the driver which stop drops you off at Camelia Grill for lunch). The antebellum homes and historic areas of Uptown New Orleans will impress you….. OR after beignets and coffee, jump on the Algiers Ferry and take a short ride over to the westbank side of the river (soak in the great city views while on the ferry). When you arrive in Algiers, walk over to the Rosetree blown glass studio and grab lunch at Dry Dock Cafe. 3. When back in the French Quarter, grab a daiquiri “to go” from anywhere on Decatur St and walk along the river toward Crescent Park OR grab a super short uber ride over to City Park and see the majestic oaks with picturesque moss, cobblestone bridges and the vast beauty of this 1300 acre green space. Did you know that City Park is actually larger than Central Park in New York?? 4. End your day back in the French Quarter at the Hotel Monteleone for cocktails (are you getting the theme here in New Orleans? It’s all about the spirits…haha) before dinner. The Carousel Bar is world re-known for it’s replicated Carousel bar that revolves around just like an actual carousel (verryyy slowly) while you enjoy some of the best drinks you’ve ever had in New Orleans. There are so many truly authentic New Orleans restaurants serving some of the best meals you will have the pleasure of tasting. The French Quarter, Garden District and Uptown New Orleans are great places to start. Hope you enjoy your mini-moon here in New Orleans after your wedding day. We offer affordable and unique elopement packages in New Orleans. Reach out to us for any suggestions, we love our city and love sharing our experiences with you! Grab our 5 secrets to a successful (and stress-free) elopement and receive a FREE checklist! Laissez les bons temps rouler!

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