About New Orleans
New Orleans, known as the ‘Crescent City’ due to its crescent shape of land along the bend of the Mississippi River, is a city steeped in history and culture. Founded in 1718 by French explorers, New Orleans boasts a unique blend of African, Caribbean, French, and Spanish influences, which can be seen throughout the city’s architecture, cuisine, and music. Its colorful past makes it one of the most romantic cities in America, making it an ideal place for couples to tie the knot.
When it comes to wedding venues, New Orleans offers a wide range of luxurious options that provide truly unforgettable experiences. For those looking for something more traditional, some of its many historic mansions offer exquisite grand ballrooms perfect for lavish receptions. If you’re thinking of something more out-of-the-box, it’s also quite easy to find a charming outdoor venue with rustic barns or sprawling lawns surrounded by stately oak trees draped in Spanish moss. From picturesque estates surrounded by greenery to modern lofts oozing glamour, venues in New Orleans has something special that will make your luxury wedding unforgettable!
Luxury Wedding Options in New Orleans
- Bakery
One of the most important items to have on your wedding day is the cake; it should not only taste divine, but it also has to be visually stunning. Luckily, there are many bakeries in New Orleans that excel in creating show-stopping cakes for luxury weddings of all themes and sizes.
- Wedding Planners
If you're hoping to have a grandiose wedding, then working with a wedding planner may be your best bet. Planners can help with all sorts of aspects related to weddings, like booking vendors and helping manage budgets. And if you need some guidance outside of meeting times, most planners are open for consultations too.
- Flowers
Trustworthy and luxurious florists exist all over New Orleans; these vendors can provide stunning floral displays for your wedding ceremony and reception. You're guaranteed to find gorgeous premium flowers that will add sophistication to your big day from one of the many qualified city florists.
Luxury Wedding Vendors in New Orleans
- Lady B's Cakes
Lady B's is a local bakery known for providing high-quality and delectable custom cakes for any type of occasion. Their expert team has years of experience crafting and delivering delicious cakes and cupcakes to weddings, birthday parties, and other big events. Whether you're looking for an over-the-top tiered cake or a simpler wedding cake, their professional bakers have the skills and creativity required to make your big day memorable.
- Revelry Events NOLA
At Revelry Events NOLA, they specialize in creating unforgettable weddings, parties, and other special events. If you are planning to have a grandiose and unique wedding day, they have the expertise and resources to make your vision come to life. Their team comprises local small businesses who share their dedication to making every event truly special and full of New Orleans flair. Revelry Events NOLA also works closely with couples so that they can achieve all their requests without going over budget.
- Harkins
Harkins has a rich history dating back to 1937, when it was first founded in Jackson, Mississippi. Despite the challenges posed by the Great Depression and World War II, the Harkins family managed to keep the business strong; the business began to flourish in the postwar years, eventually expanding to six different locations. Today, Harkins is still family-owned and operated and remains one of the premier florists in Louisiana. With a wide variety of fresh flowers and beautiful arrangements, they have something to suit every taste.
Pros and Cons of Luxury Weddings in New Orleans
Planning a wedding is a big undertaking, especially if you want to organize an incredible and luxurious event. From the beautiful architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious local cuisine, a luxury wedding in New Orleans has plenty of pros to make it stand out from other destinations. However, some cons must be considered before making such an important decision.
Advantages
- There is no shortage of spectacular venues for luxury weddings in New Orleans. Whether you’re looking for a modern space or something more traditional, there is sure to be something perfect for you.
- From florists who can create stunning bouquets and decorations to caterers who serve up delicious traditional dishes like jambalaya, these experts have years of experience crafting unforgettable experiences for newlyweds-to-be.
- Enjoy spacious rooms equipped with balconies overlooking picturesque views of the Mississippi River or cozy suites right off Bourbon Street. No matter what type of accommodation you choose, you’ll be able to make lasting memories during your stay in The Big Easy.
Disadvantages
- While many consider Louisiana weather mild year-round, some potential issues may arise due to extreme temperatures or storms during certain times of the year.
- While professional vendors and high-end venues certainly give couples access to fantastic experiences on their special day, they can also come with a hefty price tag.
- There is so much going on during the wedding planning process — from finding vendors and designing décor to deciding what food to serve — that couples can easily get overwhelmed and stressed out.
Tips on How to Organize Luxury Weddings in New Orleans
With the countless luxury wedding venues located in New Orleans, it might feel daunting to choose just one for your momentous occasion. To make this search easier, try these helpful tips on organizing an elegant wedding in the Big Easy:
- Research a venue: Start by researching and listing potential venues; this will help you narrow your options and focus on the venues that genuinely stand out.
- Check the venues' offerings and process: Once you have a list of potential venues, do some digging and learn more about their offerings and prices. This will help you to get a sense of what each venue has to offer, allowing you to make an informed decision about which one best suits your needs and budget.
- Consider facilities and amenities: Once you have selected your top potential venues, be sure to visit them in person to get an up-close look at them. This will allow you to get a better sense of whether or not they are the right fit for your wedding.
- Make a decision: Finally, go with your gut when making your final choice, considering factors such as cost, location, size, and style preferences when deciding which venue is best for you and your partner.
Famous Locations in New Orleans
- Dr. Bob's Folk Art
If you're looking to indulge in the eccentric charm of New Orleans, there's no better place than Dr. Bob’s Folk Art Gallery in the vibrant Bywater district. Here, you will find many hand-painted signs and other marvelously crafted pieces that captivate your eye with their bold colors and cheeky messages. Although Dr. Bob takes his craft seriously, it is evident through his artistry that he deeply appreciates the culture of New Orleans — so don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind opportunity for an unforgettable experience.
- St. Ann's Shrine and Grotto
Situated in the middle of New Orleans, St. Ann's Shrine and Grotto is a one-of-a-kind destination that celebrates the city's profound spiritual heritage. The outdoor sanctuary spans an entire block and is fashioned after a renowned shrine and grotto in France. This sacred site honors St. Ann — the patron saint of grandmothers, mothers, and educators — and her great legacy lives on these grounds. At the stunning St. Ann's Shrine and Grotto, guests can relax in a tranquil atmosphere surrounded by floral gardens of various hues. If feeling motivated, take the trek to its two-story shrine for a lovely view of New Orleans from atop the rooftop terrace.
- Union Passenger Terminal Murals
The Union Passenger Terminal is a transportation hub located in New Orleans, Louisiana, serving both Amtrak and Greyhound lines. However, what truly makes this station stand out is its breathtaking array of murals lining the walls. With striking images depicting scenes from New Orleans history, these frescoes take travelers through time, from early colonizers and soldiers to modern-day scientists and activists. See murals that reflect on the struggles of antebellum slaves and advances in civil rights at this iconic New Orleans train station; these images remind visitors of this city's influence on the United States and the world.
