Tree of LIfe Archives - Elope to New Orleans

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 Don’t feel pressured to conform to outdated traditions.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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Top Elopement Packages

Elope, new orleans, Park Wedding, Photos, Tree of LIfe, Venue, Wedding / Marcia

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!

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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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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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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How to get married at the Tree of Life in Audubon Park New Orleans best elopement ideas

How To Get Married At The Tree Of Life New Orleans

2 Comments / Tree of LIfe / Marcia Grover

How to get married at the Tree of Life in Audubon Park New Orleans – If you’re looking for a unique place to get married in beautiful New Orleans, then you’ll want to hear about the Tree of Life in Audubon Park. Previously a sugar cane plantation, the land that is now called Audubon Park was bought by the city of New Orleans in 1871 and is bordered by the stunning Mississippi river and picturesque St. Charles Avenue. The expansive park features everything including sports fields, a zoo, and the renowned Tree of Life. The Tree of Life is a sprawling centuries-old oak tree that is loved by locals. AND The Tree of Life’s original name was the Étienne de Boray Oak, named after New Orlean’s first May. The Tree Of Life New Orleans However, in recent times the extraordinary oak tree has been renamed The Tree of Life, perhaps because it is so large and old that it seems to have been around forever. While no one knows the exact age of the tree, the Life Oak Society estimates it to be anywhere from 200-800 years old. The Tree of Life has large, gnarled branches perfect for climbing or acting as a backdrop for photo shoots- which is what makes it the perfect wedding location. If you’ve always dreamed of an outdoor wedding in a mystical, fairytale atmosphere, then the Tree of Life should be your dream venue. As a Photographer As a photographer, every wedding that I shoot is special. Each venue, couple and group of guests creates a different atmosphere, which makes for one of a kind photos. But let me be honest. I love being behind the camera in any setting, but when I get to shoot a wedding in a unique location, I get especially excited. There are few venues in New Orleans as unique as the Tree of Life. The way that the tree catches the light, and casts shadows and beams of light on those standing beneath it, is absolutely stunning. The Tree of Life is so unbelievably huge that it acts as the centerpiece in most pictures, but rather than look overbearing, the tree completely transforms a traditional outdoors park wedding into a magical wonderland. I have few clients who opt for The Tree of Life as a wedding venue, however, so I put together this blog post to share more information on how to get married at what I consider to be one of the most charming wedding venues that the city of New Orleans has to offer. See past elopements and micro weddings held at the iconic Tree of Life HERE Who will marry us? As the Tree of Life is located in a public park, you will need to bring your own officiant. We can help you secure a reputable, knowledgeable and personable officiant who is licensed in Orleans Parish. We even include officiants’ services with all of our packages. When can I get married at The Tree of Life? Audubon Park is open from 5am-10pm every day of the week but the tree hours for ceremonies is 9am to 5:30pm, so you can get married nearly any time of the day or day of the week that suits you best! Elope To Nola does recommend you select a time just after sunrise or around 2 hours prior to sunset for the most optimal wedding photos. What do I need to get married at The Tree of Life? Understandably, there is some planning that needs to go into a wedding at The Tree of Life. However, it’s much less involved than booking a prestigious indoor venue! To get married at The Tree of Life, you will need to contact the city at 504-212-5420 or bcs@auduboninstitute.org (best method) to obtain a permit. How much does it cost to have a ceremony at The Tree of Life? For any ceremony with up to 100 guests included, a $150 (fees may change, call to get accurate amount) permit will be required. One of the benefits of getting married at this famous oak tree, aside from the jaw-dropping aesthetics, is that it’s only a very minimal costs for elopements and small weddings. Opting for a nominal fee wedding venue as beautiful as this means that you can spend more money and time taking wedding photos than you would be able to if you had a large wedding venue bill. How many guests can we invite? As many as can fit! A blessing with outdoor weddings, including those at Audubon Park, is that you can have up to 100 guests you can invite. However, if you want any type of seating for guests, you’ll need to bring your own chairs and remove them immediately following the ceremony or hire a chair rental company to deliver. How do we get to The Tree of Life? Many couples who get married at The Tree of Life don’t realize that they need directions. While The Tree of Life is one of the oldest and largest oak trees in the world (aka it’s incredibly hard to miss), Audubon Park spans a whopping 350 acres. If you don’t know where you’re going in the park, you’ll be wandering for quite some time. The good news is that, with directions, The Tree of Life isn’t too hard to find. The best way to get to the tree of life is: From magazine street, turn on Calhoun (towards the river), turn right on Tchoupitoulas. From there, make a right on East Drive and park anywhere along the road (you will see the tree on the left side). I hope that you found our Tree of Life New Orleans marriage guide useful! If you are getting married anywhere in the New Orleans area, I would be honored to photograph your wedding. Please don’t hesitate to email me at: info@elopetonola.com or via our Contact Page or by texting us at: 504-292-4856 to learn more about my process and the packages available. Grab our

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