Find Gothic Wedding venues for rent in New Orleans, LA

About New Orleans

New Orleans is an iconic Southern city rich in history, culture, and intrigue. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, this major port city is known for its vibrant music, French Creole heritage, and world-famous cuisine. From the hum of the streetcars to the colorful markets of the French Quarter and beyond, something about New Orleans draws people from all over the world.

But this city's unique blend of Gothic architecture and romantic ambiance sets this city apart. The cemeteries are filled with ornate monuments to those who have gone before us. The churches boast soaring spires and stained glass windows that tell stories, and grand homes with wrought iron balconies line many streets. Whether you're strolling down St Charles Avenue or gazing up at the graceful balconies of the historic buildings, it's easy to understand why some have compared the city to a grand European capital. This aesthetic has made it a popular choice for romantic weddings combining classic charm and modern elegance. From grand and elegant cathedrals to intimate plantation settings or haunted mansions, there are plenty of options for couples who want to add gothic flair to their big day.

Gothic Wedding Options in New Orleans

• Floral Designer
  A floral designer is essential for any wedding and can be customized to create a gothic look with dramatic black and blood-red flowers. They can help fill the venue with an atmosphere that reflects the celebration's mood and provide an exotic touch to the arrangements.

• Photographers and Videographers
  Professional photographers and videographers are needed to capture every wedding moment, especially when it comes to one with a gothic theme. They can take stunning images with dark lighting, interesting angles, and hypnotizing visuals that will contribute to an unforgettable event.

• Venue Decorator
  When organizing a gothic-themed wedding, decorations are essential for setting up the perfect atmosphere. A professional decorator can be hired to create a truly unique experience by using elements inspired by horror movies, medieval castles, or even Victorian literature. This can include spectacular lighting displays, eerie sculptures, or spooky antiques that will add intriguing touches all around the room.

Gothic Wedding Vendors in New Orleans

• Alchemy Events
  Alchemy Events is a professional wedding and event planning service based in New Orleans. With over 20 years of experience, they specialize in creating unique and unforgettable events by providing event coordination, design, and styling services. They offer assistance for all stages of life, including micro weddings, fundraisers, non-traditional weddings, gothic weddings, corporate events, and more. Every client is provided with an event website and a phone app, which includes tools such as floor plans, budgeting, design boards, checklists, and a guest list manager. Alchemy Events also has experience in working with various religions, cultures, and lifestyles to ensure all clients have the perfect event they desire.

• Swanson Photography
  Swanson Photography is a professional team based in New Orleans, Louisiana, offering wedding and portrait photography services. They are experienced with various celebrations and are open to clients from all backgrounds and styles, traditional, gothic weddings, non-traditional weddings, or anything else. They specialize in capturing unique memories for couples so that they can look back on the day with fondness.

• Albrecht Ice Sculptures
  Albrecht Ice Sculptures is a family-owned business that has delivered custom ice sculptures to clients throughout Louisiana for over 30 years. Specializing in customized creations, they provide a wide range of services, from creating templates to delivering them and sculpting on location. The team at Albrecht Ice Sculptures can provide tips and suggestions to create the perfect ice sculpture for your gothic wedding. Their attention to detail and commitment to quality ensures that each piece they craft is an incredible work of art.

Pros and Cons of Gothic Weddings in New Orleans

Gothic weddings in New Orleans are becoming increasingly popular among couples looking to add a bit of drama and mystery to their special day. While holding a wedding in a gothic venue may make for an unforgettable experience, some pros and cons should be considered before booking such a venue.

Advantages

• Unique and romantic atmosphere: Gothic venues often have dim lighting, ornate decorations, and plenty of mystical charm that can lend an air of romance to any couple’s special day.
  
  
• Flexible styling options: Many gothic venues offer a variety of styles and themes, from classic Victorian architecture to modern crypts, allowing couples to customize their event according to their tastes.
  
  
• Cost-effective: Gothic weddings are often cheaper than traditional ceremonies because the decor and dress code are simpler and more affordable.

Disadvantages

• Limited event space: Many gothic venues may be limited in size and cannot accommodate large weddings or receptions.
  
  
• Inconvenient locations: Gothic venues might not necessarily be centrally located or easily accessible by transportation, making it difficult for guests to attend remotely.
  
  
• Unfamiliarity: As the gothic style is still relatively unfamiliar to many, some guests may not feel comfortable attending a gothic wedding or appreciate its unique atmosphere.

Tips on How to Organize Gothic Weddings in New Orleans

Organizing a Gothic wedding in New Orleans is a unique experience that requires patience and attention to detail. Whether you’re opting for the classic, traditional gothic style or something inspired by modern-day trends, these tips will help ensure your gothic wedding is one to remember.

• Choose the Right Venue: When selecting the right venue for your gothic wedding in New Orleans, look for places with an old, haunted feel or architecture. Try to select locations with plenty of natural light, like churches or other historical buildings, as well as dark corners and moody passageways.
  
  
• Consider Your Color Scheme: The color scheme should be carefully chosen to set the tone of the wedding. Black is appropriate, but you can use many other colors, such as deep reds or purples, gold accents, ivory or silver touches, etc. Bright colors are typically not recommended since they can clash with the atmosphere you’re trying to create.
  
  
• Set Up Ambient Lighting: Ambient lighting plays an important role in creating a spooky atmosphere for your guests at your gothic wedding. Think about using low-level lighting with dimmer switches so guests can find their way around without being overwhelmed by too much light too quickly. Candles are always classic options when setting up ambient lighting. Use them throughout your venue along staircases and hallways for extra effect.
  
  
• Use Appropriate Music: Music can shape our experiences, so you must choose music that fits your desired theme; something creepy yet romantic would be perfect. Look into classic horror movie soundtracks or tracks from classical composers like Wagner and Bach if you're looking for inspiration when picking out music for your gothic wedding in New Orleans.
  
  
• Incorporate Other Elements: Think about incorporating props like faux skeletons or ghostly figures, costumes, and masks, food served on silver platters, drinks served out of cauldrons, smoke machines, tarot card readings before dinner, tarot decks used as decoration around tables, etc., all these elements come together to create an unforgettable experience for guests attending your gothic wedding in New Orleans.

Famous Locations in New Orleans

• Museum of Death
  The Museum of Death is not for the faint of heart. If you are fascinated with death, from skulls to cannibalism, this museum has everything you could ever want. Various morticians' instruments, shrunken heads, and even a how-to autopsy video are on display. But that's not all. The museum takes you on a journey through some of the most disastrous events in history, including the El Salvador massacre. From animal and human skulls to death-related topics, this museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the darker side of life.

• St Louis Cemetery No 3
  St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 in New Orleans is a must-visit for cemetery enthusiasts and anyone interested in the city’s rich history. Established in 1854 on the site of the old Bayou Cemetery, it’s a long but compact space that is both haunting and beautiful. As you stroll through its paths lined with elaborate tombs and mausoleums, take a moment to admire the striking monument designed by James Gallier Jr. for his lost-at-sea parents. The monument is a favorite among cemetery enthusiasts and is located just a few steps inside the entrance gate from Esplanade Ave. Strolling through this cemetery is worth an experience for anyone visiting New Orleans.

• New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum
  Dive into the world of voodoo at the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum, a beloved attraction in the French Quarter. The museum boasts a haunting ambiance with its narrow corridors and dimly lit rooms filled with mysterious objects like statues, dolls, and paintings. Its extensive information placards provide insight into voodoo practices' fascinating history and intricacies. You'll uncover the secrets and traditions of this mystical religion, all while feeling as though you've stepped into another world. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, this museum will leave a lasting impression on anyone visiting it.