Photos Archives - Elope to New Orleans

How to Tell Family and Friends You’re Eloping Without Hurting Feelings

Elope, new orleans, Photos, Venue, Wedding / Marcia

Hey ya’ll! Let’s talk about love today because ain’t nothin’ more magical than two souls joining together. Now, we all know what a traditional wedding looks like: the white dress with a 6′ long train, the endless party favors, the choreographed dances. But what if you, a high-powered & crazy busy couple, crave something different? Maybe you’re jet-setting CEOs who haven’t got the time for a year of wedding planning. Maybe you’re adventurous foodies who dream of saying “I do” on a private sail with a curated meal. Or maybe you’re just music lovers who crave an intimate ceremony with a local violinist serenading your vows. Well I’m here to tell you there’s another way! The world of elopements is calling, and it’s bursting with romance, adventure, and a whole lot less stress. Now, before you envision running off to Vegas in a pink Cadillac (although, hey, if that’s your jam, then go for it!), let’s talk about how to elope in a way that celebrates your love story while keeping your loved ones feeling cherished. Because let’s face it, even the most independent spirit craves a little bit of support from their tribe. So, grab a glass of bubbly, snuggle up with your soulmate, and let’s explore the secrets to a fabulous elopement that won’t leave anyone feeling left out. The Allure of the Elopement: It’s All About You, Baby! First things first, let’s talk about why elopements are so darn appealing. Imagine this: you, your partner, stunning scenery that takes your breath away (think sunset ceremony overlooking a grand lake, or a sunrise exchange of vows amidst the majestic oaks with spanish moss hanging from above). No stress about seating charts, no awkward small talk with coworkers you barely speak with at work, just pure, unadulterated focus on the love you share. Now, for busy professionals like yourselves, elopements offer a beautiful escape from the wedding planning frenzy. Let’s be honest, with your busy schedules and traveling lifestyles, who needs the added pressure of RSVPs and vendor meetings? Elopements free up your time and energy, allowing you to focus on the real prize: starting your forever together with an unforgettable experience. Plus let’s not forget the budget! Traditional weddings can be a real financial commitment. Elopements, on the other hand, allow you to redirect those resources towards creating a truly extraordinary honeymoon that reflects your passions. Picture yourselves indulging in a private chef-curated culinary adventure in Bali, or exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia on a romantic hike. But wait, there’s more! Are you a couple who lives for good food? Elopements open up a world of culinary possibilities. Imagine a private chef whipping up a gourmet feast just for the two of you, complete with breathtaking views and personalized touches that reflect your love story. Maybe it’s a five-course cajun meal you just learned in a cooking school, or a delicious dessert picnic in the park. The possibilities are endless! And for my music lovers out there? Imagine a local violinist serenading your vows as the sun sets over the horizon, or a jazz trio setting the mood for a rooftop ceremony overlooking the bustling city skyline. Elopements allow you to personalize every detail, creating an atmosphere that truly resonates with your souls. Breaking the News: Communication is Your Love Song Alright so you’ve decided to elope. Fantastic! Now comes the tricky part: telling your loved ones. Here’s the thing: open and honest communication is key. Remember, even the most independent spirit craves a little bit of love and support from their tribe. The last thing you want is for loved ones to feel hurt or excluded. So, take a deep breath and get ready to share your exciting news! Here are a few tips to navigate this conversation with grace and love: Sweetening the Deal: Including Your Loved Ones (Even From Afar) Here’s the beauty of technology! Even though your elopement might be a private affair, there are ways to include your loved ones virtually. The Vow Renewal Option: A Celebration for All Let’s be real, some folks might miss the traditional wedding experience. If that’s the case, consider a vow renewal ceremony at a later date. This gives you the opportunity to celebrate your marriage with a larger group of loved ones,complete with all the traditional trimmings – the dress, the flowers, the cake (and maybe even Uncle Lou’s dance moves!). But with zero pressure on the legalities of the wedding and much smaller scale – think foregoing most of the traditions that cost money and really don’t matter to your guests. The Power of Photography: Capturing Your Elopement Story Now let’s talk about the magic of capturing this incredible experience. As your soulmate’s wingwoman and wedding photographer, we specialize in crafting visuals that tell your unique love story. Elopements offer a beautiful canvas for creativity. Imagine breathtaking landscapes as your backdrop, intimate moments filled with raw emotion, and the joy of your newfound union radiating through every image. Because let’s face it, these are memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime. We are here to capture the essence of your elopement, from the nervous excitement before the ceremony to the pure joy of saying “I do.” We can explore hidden coves and dramatic rooftops, capture the warm glow of a private chef-prepared meal, or document the serenity of a sunrise ceremony bathed in golden light. So, are you ready to elope in style? Contact us today for a free consultation. Let’s chat about your dream elopement and how we can help you create a visual masterpiece that reflects your love story, your passions, and your adventurous spirit. Remember, your wedding day should be a reflection of your love, not societal expectations. Elopements offer a beautiful and intimate way to celebrate your commitment, while creating memories that will last a lifetime. So, go forth,explore the world, and say “I do” in a way that’s uniquely you! Congratulations!!!

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The Shocking Truth Behind Wedding Photography Rates

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

So You Want to Know the Real Deal About Wedding Photography Prices? Hey there! Planning your big day? Congratulations! Amongst all the exciting details, there’s one that might leave you scratching your head (and arguably the most important investment in your big day!): Wedding Photography Prices. Let’s be honest, they can seem a bit steep at first glance. But before you write off those photographers as fancy picture-takers with inflated egos, hear us out! The Truth Behind the Price Tag It’s easy to think wedding photography is just about capturing hours of your special day. But there’s way more to it than that! Wedding photographers invest a ton of time and effort into making your memories shine, both before and after the “I dos.” Think of it like this: you’re not just paying for those picture-perfect moments, you’re paying for the photographer’s expertise, experience, and the unseen hours behind the scenes. The Gear Game: It Ain’t Cheap Let’s talk shop! Those stunning photos you dream of? They come courtesy of top-notch cameras, lenses, flashes, the whole kit and kaboodle. And let me tell you, this stuff doesn’t come cheap. Photographers aren’t just rocking one camera either; backups are essential to ensure everything runs smoothly on your wedding day. On top of the initial investment,keeping this equipment tip-top requires maintenance, repairs, and sometimes even replacements. But Wait, There’s More! Being a wedding photographer goes way beyond fancy equipment. It’s about running a whole business! That means things like accounting, marketing, legal fees, website maintenance, and even software subscriptions for editing and galleries to showcase your photos. All these expenses add up, and photographers need to factor them into their pricing to keep their business afloat. The Hidden Hustle: Behind the Scenes While you might see your photographer for several hours on your wedding day, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. For every hour of shooting at your wedding, there’s even more hours of hidden work. Think editing (and more editing, and guess what… even more editing 🙂, marketing, client communication, social media, and so much more. It’s a full-time job ensuring a smooth shoot and delivering breathtaking final photos. Why Photographers Deserve Their Price Wedding photographers aren’t out there to squeeze every penny out of soon-to-be-weds. They set their prices based on their experience, the time they invest, and the need to make a living. Let’s face it, photographers have bills to pay too! Their pricing needs to cover things like housing, food, and keeping their lights on. In a seasonal business like wedding photography, unrealistic prices simply don’t cut it. Setting Realistic Expectations So, how much should you expect to pay? Well, it depends on the photographer’s experience. For beginners, packages might start around $1,500. This might seem low considering the importance of the day, but it’s a starting point. As experience goes up, so do the prices. Expect to pay between $4,000 and $12,000 (depending on how many hours of coverage you request) for photographers with a few years under their belt. For high-end photographers and destination photographers (who will travel to your far away dream location), the sky’s the limit! These are pricing packages for traditional weddings with guests. For elopements, pricing can vary tremendously depending on popularity of destination, if your photographer will also step in as your planner + their local knowledge of your chosen destination :). The value in finding a local photographer who knows all the ins and outs of your destination is priceless. A Word to the Wise: Beware of Rock-Bottom Prices If a photographer’s rates seem too good to be true, well, they probably are. Anyone can grab a camera and call themselves a photographer, but a true professional invests in their craft and runs a legitimate business. Going with a super-cheap option could mean blurry photos, equipment malfunctions, or even lost memories. Not exactly the fairytale ending you envisioned, right? Invest in Your Memories Let’s be real, capturing your wedding day in stunning photos is priceless. A talented photographer dedicates their experience, skill and time to preserving these memories for you and your loved ones. They deserve to be fairly compensated for their work. While the initial price tag might seem high, remember you’re investing in beautiful images that will tell the story of your special day for generations to come. It’s an investment worth making, just ask any friend that recently married. It’s likely they will say their photographer was worth every penny 🙂 If you would like to chat with an experienced wedding photographer, please don’t hesitate to REACH OUT! We are happy to assist in any way 🙂 Congratulations to you both!

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Embrace the Bites: New Orleans Elopement Cakes That Wow!

Elope, new orleans, Photos, Vow Renewal, Wedding / Marcia

The ceremony might be intimate, but the celebration doesn’t have to be small! While bouquets are a classic elopement tradition, here at Elope to Nola, we believe there’s also another way to add a touch of beauty and sweetness to your special day – the perfect elopement cake! Focus on Flavor: With an elopement cake, all you need to do is choose a flavor that tantalizes your taste buds and a design that reflects your love story. Here are ideas to get you started but you can also ask your baker if other non-traditional flavors/fillings are available: Cake flavor options – Almond (white), vanilla (yellow), chocolate, marble (2 flavor swirl), red velvet (subject to limitations in hot weather) and special flavors (small additional charge). Filling options – Traditional buttercream, chocolate buttercream, fudge, pineapple, strawberry, raspberry, lemon, toasted almond, caramel, mocha, coconut and passion fruit. Special requests subject to availability and market price (i.e Fresh fruit) For Design Inspiration, visit our Pinterest Page HERE Additional helpful information from your baker, Chez Ru Rene Bakery: • Please provide any/all images of designs you like, at least 3 weeks prior to event date to determine if the details fit into the cake allowance. • Any elements on the cake i.e. flowers, appliques and any other embellishments may be subject to additional charges *Note- some elements may require substitution, due to lack of availability. • I will strive to achieve a design similar to the images provided and aim to minimize any additional costs. • Lastly, I recognize that this is a very special event and want to help you have the vision you are looking for 🙂 Guaranteed Freshness: We focus on seasonal ingredients and local ingredients, ensuring your elopement cake is not only delicious but also boasts the freshest flavors available during your special day. This means no long-distance travel for your cake, which translates to better quality and a lighter footprint. Beyond the Traditional Tiered Treat: Elopement cakes are all about ditching the expectations and creating a dessert that’s as unique as your love story. Imagine single-serving cheesecakes drizzled with caramel sauce, decadent chocolate cakes adorned with fresh berries, or a moist carrot cake with a cream cheese frosting – the possibilities are endless! Presentation Perfection: Who says a small cake can’t be a showstopper? Our partnered baker is an expert at crafting beautiful and elegant cakes. Think custom desserts that echo iconic New Orleans traditions like King Cakes or praline flavors, delicate sugar flowers, or a minimalist design with fresh, seasonal fruits. Making Your Cake Dreams a Reality: Here are some tips to consider when choosing your elopement cake: Elope to Nola: Your One-Stop Shop for Elopement Bliss Whether you’re exchanging vows under the iconic oak trees of City Park or saying “I do” amidst the lively atmosphere of Jackson Square, we’ll help you create an elopement experience that’s both intimate and unforgettable. And don’t forget the cake – the perfect finishing touch to celebrate the start of your forever together! Any questions,feel free to reach out! We are happy to assist! Congratulations to you both 🙂

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Micro Wedding Ideas That Are Pure Magic

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

Let’s Talk About Your Dream Wedding (Because It’s Likely Not Going To Be Traditional!) Hey there, beautiful people! I’ve seen my fair share of weddings in my 10 years as a destination wedding & elopement photographer. From over-the-top extravaganzas to heartwarming courthouse ceremonies, I’ve witnessed every kind of love story unfold. But lately, there’s a new trend bubbling up, and let me tell you, it’s got my creative heart singing – micro weddings! Now, don’t get me wrong, a big, beautiful celebration is a joy to many. But for some couples, especially busy couples or second chances at love romances like yourselves, the traditional wedding just doesn’t fit the vibe. You crave something unique, intimate, and unforgettable. Well, guess what? Micro weddings are the answer to your wildest (and most personalized) wedding dreams! So, what exactly is this micro wedding phenomenon? Imagine this: instead of a guest list that reads like a phonebook, you have your closest family and a handful of cherished friends. Instead of a generic banquet hall, you say “I do” amidst a breathtaking tunnel of centuries old oaks, on a sunset drenched beach, or aboard a private sailboat on a serene Lake. Instead of a predictable sit-down dinner, you create a multi-course culinary adventure prepared by a world-renowned chef. This ain’t your mama’s wedding – it’s a celebration of your love story, tailored to your wildest dreams. But why a micro wedding, you ask? Well, besides the obvious perk of avoiding stress, multiple personalities & opinions, there are some incredible benefits for busy, adventurous couples like yourselves. Here are some pro-tips for planning a micro wedding that’s both intimate and unforgettable: So are you ready to ditch tradition and plan a micro wedding that reflects your unique love story? Here are some additional things to consider to make your micro wedding truly magical: Remember, your wedding day is a celebration of your love story, and it should reflect you as a couple. Don’t feel pressured to conform to outdated traditions. With a micro wedding, you have the freedom to create a day that’s intimate,unforgettable, and bursting with personality. So, grab your lovey and get ready to plan a micro wedding that’s as extraordinary as your love! And hey, if you’re looking for a photographer who specializes in capturing the magic of micro weddings, well, you know where to find me! I’m passionate about helping couples like yourselves create a wedding day that feels intimate,authentic, and absolutely unforgettable. Get in touch, and let’s chat about how we can capture the love story that deserves to be told. Go forth and plan the micro wedding of your dreams and congratulations to you both!

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Elope in NOLA: Top 10 Questions Answered for Your Dream New Orleans Elopement

Elope, French Quarter, gulf coast, new orleans, Park Wedding, Photos, Tree of LIfe, Venue, Wedding / Marcia

Planning a New Orleans elopement? You’re in for a magical experience! Here are some of the most common questions couples ask to make their elopement truly unforgettable: Q: Where can we find unique and romantic elopement spots in New Orleans? A: Nola offers amazing options, whether you crave nature or urban vibes. Popular picks include City Park’s lush greens, Audubon Park’s historic charm, French Quarter’s hidden alleys bursting with character, or a stunning sunset ceremony aboard a private sailboat with the beautiful Lake Pontchartrain as your backdrop. Q: How much does an elopement typically cost? A: The beauty of eloping is that you control the budget! Costs vary depending on location, vendors, and desired experiences. Talk to your photographer about creating a package that fits your dream elopement. Q: Can we have guests at our elopement? A: Absolutely! Elopements can be just the 2 of you + 2 witnesses or include a small group. Decide what feels most comfortable for you as a couple. Most elopements are under 25 guests, anything more and the elopement becomes a wedding with more logistics and more planning. Q: Will we get all the elopement photos? A: Each photographer offers different packages. Most elopement photographers capture every moment and professionally edit them for a vibrant collection. Typically, they’ll also create some stunning black and white photos to add timeless elegance. Some photographers may only offer a selected amount of images for a discounted session fee. But in my experience, all digital hi res files are released. Q: What makes an elopement photographer different? A: Elopement photographers go beyond just capturing photos; they’re your elopement planning team! They focus on crafting a beautiful experience from consultations to your special day. Pro tip: Browse photographer portfolios to find a style that matches your vision. Q: We’re coming from out of town. Can you help with the marriage license? A: Getting hitched in New Orleans? No problem! Many officiants can guide you through the marriage license process, including the paperwork you’ll need (especially if you’re from out of state). All the packages we offer include your officiant who will personalize a beautiful ceremony for you both. Q: Help! We need hotel and hair/makeup recommendations! A: The best elopement photographers often are natives from the location you select and have a trusted network of local vendors. They’ll be happy to connect you with amazing hair stylists, makeup artists, musicians, restaurants and hotels that will make your elopement even more special. Q: Spill the tea! How can we create a meaningful elopement ceremony? A: Elopement ceremonies are all about YOU! Keep it simple or add special touches. Write heartfelt vows, choose a meaningful reading, or incorporate symbolic elements that reflect your love story. (We loved one couple who serenaded each other with their favorite song during their vows!) Q: What should we wear for our elopement? A: This is your big day, your way! When it comes to attire, comfort and confidence are key. Rock a classic wedding dress and tux, or embrace a more relaxed and adventurous look. Don’t be afraid to add pops of color and unique touches – the beauty of an elopement is that you can personalize everything, including your outfits! See inspiration dresses here! See our Done-For-You Packages OR Get In Touch With Us to start planning your dream elopement!

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

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

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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destination elopement photographer capturing timeless memories

How to Find the Best Elopement Photographer

Elope, French Quarter, gulf coast, new orleans, Photos, Stories, Vow Renewal, Wedding / Marcia

Capture Your “I Do” Forever: The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Elopement Photographer Congratulations! You’ve decided a big over the top wedding is not for you. Eloping – an intimate, adventurous way to start your forever together sounds like an intriguing choice. But even with little planning needed, one detail stands out: finding the perfect elopement photographer to capture your special day in stunning, timeless imagery. Let’s find your perfect elopement photographer! This guide will help you with everything you need to find the photographer or team who will translate the raw emotions and breathtaking scenery of your elopement into photographs you’ll cherish for a lifetime. What Makes an Elopement Photographer Different? Elopement photographers are a special breed. They’re not just skilled with a camera; they’re experts at capturing the essence of an intimate ceremony, the thrill of adventure, and the raw emotions of a day unlike any other. Here’s what sets them apart: Finding Your Perfect Match: A Step-by-Step Guide Ready to Find Your Dream Elopement Photographer? Don’t wait! With these tips in hand, you’re well on your way to capturing the magic of your elopement in photographs that will bring you joy for years to come. Still have questions? We’re here to help! Contact us today to discuss your elopement photography needs and discover how we can turn your dream elopement into a visual masterpiece.

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How to Get Married in Biloxi, MS: Your Beachfront Bliss Awaits!

Elope, gulf coast, Photos, Venue, Wedding / Marcia

Dreaming of a picturesque wedding ceremony with the sugar-white sands of Biloxi Beach as your backdrop? Whether you envision a barefoot ceremony on the shore or a quaint celebration near the historic lighthouse, Biloxi offers a unique and unforgettable setting for your special day. But before you start collecting seashells for your custom frames, here’s a quick guide to navigate the legalities and logistics of getting married in Biloxi, MS: 1. Secure Your Marriage License: 2. Find Your Officiant: 3. Pick Your Perfect Beach Venue: 4. Plan Your “I Do” Moment: Beyond the Basics: Ready to say “I do” on the Mississippi coast? Skip the stress, say “I do” on the beach! Our Biloxi elopement packages are all-inclusive and make planning your small wedding a breeze. We can’t wait to chat with you about your beach elopement vision! Check out our favorite package HERE!

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Romantic wedding ceremony on a sailboat with a colorful sunset in the background

Forget the Fuss, Embrace the Love: Steal These 10 Intimate and Romantic Elopement Wedding Ideas

Elope, Featured New Orleans Elopement packages, new orleans, Photos, Venue, Vow Renewal, Wedding / bobmorgan

Have you ever dreamt of saying “I do” under a canopy of majestic oaks or a private sunset sail, with only the beating of your hearts as witnesses? Elopements are no longer just for the impulsive or rebellious. They’re a beautiful and intimate way to celebrate your love, free from the stress and expectations of a traditional wedding. But where do you begin? Planning an elopement might seem daunting, but it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Here are 10 romantic and unforgettable elopement wedding ideas to spark your imagination: 1. Sail away on a private sailboat: Set sail on a luxurious sailboat and exchange vows on the open waters. This intimate setting allows you to completely disconnect and focus solely on each other. Imagine kissing at sunset while sharing champagne and wedding cake! 2. Get lost in a charming Parisian bookstore: Bookworms, unite! Paris is a city steeped in romance, and what could be more intimate than declaring your love surrounded by towering shelves overflowing with stories? 3. Hike to a secluded mountain peak: For the adventurous souls, a mountain top elopement offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment to mark your special day. Pack a picnic basket and celebrate your love amidst the beauty of nature. 4. Whisper your vows beneath the Northern Lights: Imagine exchanging vows under a breathtaking display of celestial magic. Alaska, Iceland, and Norway offer incredible opportunities to witness this natural wonder. 5. Stargaze in the heart of the desert: The vastness and tranquility of the desert create a magical backdrop for your elopement. Imagine saying “I do” under a blanket of stars, feeling a profound connection to the universe and each other. 6. Get cozy in a rustic cabin: Snuggle up in a cozy cabin nestled amidst the woods. This intimate setting allows you to create a truly personal and memorable experience, complete with crackling fireplaces and breathtaking views. 7. Explore the ancient ruins of Rome: Steep yourselves in history and romance by exchanging vows amidst the ruins of Rome. The Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, or any other iconic landmark can serve as a unique and unforgettable backdrop for your special day. 8. Take a hot air balloon ride over a vineyard: Float above the rolling hills of a picturesque vineyard and exchange vows as the sun dips below the horizon. This breathtaking experience will create lasting memories for you and your partner. 9. Renew your vows at the place you first met: Relive the magic of your love story by returning to the place where you first met. This sentimental elopement will be deeply personal and filled with heartwarming memories. 10. elope in your own backyard: Sometimes, the most beautiful setting is the one closest to your heart. Create a magical atmosphere in your own backyard with fairy lights, flowers, and intimate touches that reflect your love story. Elopements are all about celebrating your love in a way that feels authentic and meaningful to you. Don’t be afraid to break away from tradition and create an elopement experience that is uniquely yours. Ready to turn your elopement dream into reality? Don’t let these inspiring ideas just sit in your imagination! Connect with me today and let’s chat about capturing the magic of your elopement in New Orleans. I’m here to help you plan, document, and celebrate your love story in a way that feels authentic and unforgettable. Click here to schedule a free consultation!

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couple second lining on bourbon street during wedding day

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

Elope, French Quarter, Jackson Square, new orleans, Park Wedding, Photos, Venue, Wedding / bobmorgan

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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Elope on a Rooftop in New Orleans

Elope, French Quarter, new orleans, Photos, Venue, Vow Renewal, Wedding / bobmorgan

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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Elopements: Romantic Getaway and Wedding in One

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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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