One of the best parts about eloping in New Orleans? You get to design a day that’s 100% you — no strict timeline, no awkward traditions, and no pressure to entertain anyone but yourselves.
That kind of freedom is amazing… but it can also leave couples wondering, “What do we actually do on our elopement day?”
Don’t worry — after more than a decade of capturing elopements in New Orleans, I’ve got you covered. Whether you want a laid-back day with just the two of you or something a little extra, this city has endless ways to make your wedding day uniquely yours.
Here are some of my favorite New Orleans-themed elopement activities — perfect for adding a little local flavor to your day while creating memories (and photos) you’ll treasure forever.
Start Your Day With Something Relaxed & Personal
Before the vows and the celebrations, I always encourage couples to ease into the day with something you already love doing together. Whether it’s sipping coffee or taking a quiet stroll, these small moments create some of the most meaningful photos.
- Coffee & beignets picnic in City Park or along the Mississippi River
- Breakfast at a neighborhood gem like Cafe Beignet or The Vintage
- A peaceful morning walk through the French Quarter while the streets are still waking up
- Private chef-prepared brunch at your Airbnb
- Writing and customizing your own vows
- Take the Algiers Ferry to the other side of the Mississippi River and take in the amazing city skyline
These personal touches set the tone for the rest of the day — low-stress and full of joy.
Explore the City — Your Way
Eloping in New Orleans means you’re surrounded by history, culture, and beauty at every turn. Why not make your elopement an adventure with some iconic NOLA experiences?
- Take a Sazerac House cocktail tour
- Visit the Mardi Gras Museum and play dress-up in elaborate costumes
- Browse local art at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art
- Ride the St. Charles streetcar for classic views of the Garden District
- Visit the Audubon Zoo if you’re animal lovers
- Take a Creole cooking class and learn how to make gumbo or pralines
- Ride the authentic (built in Venice) Gondola in City Park
New Orleans has something for every couple — from laid-back explorers to full-on foodies.
Celebrate With Food & Drinks (It’s What We Do Best)
It’s not a proper New Orleans celebration without amazing food and a toast (or two). Whether you want to splurge on a fine-dining experience or keep it casual with a park picnic, we’ve got you covered.
- Private chef dinner at your Airbnb — fully customized to your tastes
- Picnic with St. James Cheese Company provisions + wedding cake under the oaks
- Oysters & bubbly at The Salted Pearl or Luke’s
- Take a food tour to sample NOLA’s best bites
- Craft beer tasting at Urban South Brewery or Second Line Brewing
Pro tip: Your wedding cake doesn’t have to be a cake! King cake, beignets, or even a towering pile of pralines — whatever feels right for you.
Add a Creative Twist
Your elopement is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to try something new together. Whether you’re into art, music, or hands-on experiences, there’s no shortage of creative fun.
- Take an art class and create a painting together to hang at home
- Visit a pottery studio and make keepsake wedding mugs
- Hire a local musician for a private first dance in the street (trust me — it’s magical)
- Book a live painter to capture your vows on canvas
These are the personal touches that make your day feel uniquely yours — and they look incredible in photos.
End With a Memorable Finale
Your elopement doesn’t have to end when the vows do. Cap off your celebration with a memorable moment you’ll talk about for years.
- Sunset riverboat cruise on the Mississippi
- Romantic dinner at a historic spot like Commander’s Palace or Antoine’s
- Cocktails at the iconic Carousel Bar or a hidden speakeasy
- Take a ghost tour through the haunted French Quarter
- Champagne toast & private cake cutting back at your Airbnb
Whether you’re dancing in the street or soaking up a quiet moment together, the key is to end the day your way.
Your Day, Your Way
At the end of the day, eloping in New Orleans isn’t just about saying ‘I do’ — it’s about creating a day you’ll remember forever. Whether that means an intimate picnic, a full-on food & cocktail tour, or something in between — your day should reflect you.
I’m here to help make it happen (and capture it all) — so you can focus on each other and leave the planning to the pros.
✨ Ready to start planning your unforgettable New Orleans elopement?
Let’s chat!
