Whether you're dreaming of something elegant, laid-back, or something in between, planning a destination wedding in New Orleans is full of fun possibilities. Keep reading to check out how to make your NOLA wedding weekend feel effortless, exciting, and totally you.
Start With the Right Venue
One of the biggest decisions you’ll make about your big day is choosing from the many amazing wedding venues in New Orleans, Louisiana. The good news? There’s something for every style and budget.
For example, if you love nature, a wedding in New Orleans City Park is a beautiful option. Picture majestic oak trees draped in Spanish moss and peaceful water views. It’s romantic without even trying.
Do you and your fiancée prefer something a bit more artsy and upscale? Many couples fall in love with weddings at the New Orleans Museum of Art, where classic architecture meets creative energy.
From historic courtyards throughout the French Quarter to modern rooftop spaces, weddings in New Orleans offer endless possibilities. The key is to pick a spot that fits your vibe and makes logistics easy for your guests.
Plan a Full Wedding Weekend (It’s More Than Just a Day!)
One of the best parts of celebrating your marriage in New Orleans is that it naturally turns into a weekend of festivities. Most couples don’t just plan for the wedding day itself, but sprinkle in fun during the surrounding days, too.
The day before the wedding, plan a welcome party for your guests or a casual dinner. Depending on your budget and number of guests, consider a jazz dinner cruise (or maybe you want to get married on a paddlewheeler?).
Following the wedding day, wrap everything up with a brunch at the Court of Two Sisters or Antoine’s. These extra days give you more time to actually enjoy your guests, especially since many will be traveling for your destination wedding in New Orleans.
Pay Attention to Your Budget
A big question when it comes to a wedding is, “How much does it cost?” The cost of a wedding in New Orleans varies depending on your choices. However, you can have a fantastic New Orleans wedding without breaking the bank.
A good way to cut back on your expenses is to choose off-peak dates, like summertime and weekdays. These days tend to be more affordable since demand is typically lower than other times of the year.
Another way to pare down costs is to tighten up your guest list if possible. Smaller weddings usually mean smaller numbers.
You can also look into bundling various services. For example, many hotels and venues offer package deals that incorporate music, catering, or other amenities.
Don’t Forget the Parade!
If there’s one thing that makes a wedding in New Orleans truly unforgettable, it’s the second line. If you’ve never seen one before, imagine a joyful parade led by a brass band and guests dancing behind you through the streets.
Adding a second line to your NOLA wedding in New Orleans is a must if you want that true local experience. It’s lively and interactive, and it makes for incredible photos.
Talk with your concierge about how to organize a second line for your event, as you’ll need to get a permit if you plan to take it to the streets. Alternatively, you can simply enjoy a second line throughout your reception area, perhaps with a trumpeter leading the way.
Make It Easy for Your Guests
Since you're planning a destination wedding in New Orleans, it’s wise to think about your guests’ experience from start to finish.
Choose hotel accommodations close to your venue and share a simple itinerary with everyone in advance. Offer local recommendations for food, tours, must-see attractions, and kid-friendly activities in NOLA if your guest list includes little ones.
Many couples hosting weddings in New Orleans partner with hotels to block rooms, which makes everything run more smoothly. Also, assist with transportation to and from your wedding and reception, as well as any wedding-related activities, as much as possible. Rideshares, limo services, or guides for the New Orleans streetcar are some of your options.
Embrace Local Flavors
New Orleans is known for its personality, so don’t be afraid to let that shine throughout your wedding.
- Add beignets or pralines as favors for your guests.
- Incorporate a jazz trio into your cocktail hour.
- Serve authentic New Orleans cuisine such as gumbo or po-boys.
- Whip up signature NOLA cocktails like a Hurricane or French 75.
Get Ready to Say, “Yes!” to a New Orleans Wedding
At the end of the day, the best weddings in New Orleans are the ones that feel personal. Let the city’s vibrant culture and traditions influence your big event and help you plan a wedding weekend as unique as your love story.
Enjoy the process and get ready! Your New Orleans wedding is going to be something you and your guests will talk about for years to come.