About New Orleans
New Orleans is a vibrant and eclectic city located in Louisiana, USA. The city is known for its iconic French Quarter, specifically the Bourbon Street entertainment district, which offers an abundance of bars, restaurants, and nightlife. It also has several notable museums and galleries, like the renowned National World War II Museum. The city has a distinct culture and personality that draws visitors worldwide. The weather in New Orleans can fluctuate drastically, with hot summers and mild winters. However, it's often warm throughout the year due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. The landscape ranges from historic buildings to lush outdoor parks such as City Park, which features 1,300 acres of greenery plus an amusement park and sports complex.
New Orleans is an ideal destination for arranging small events, given its wealth of cultural attractions and quality hospitality services provided by local businesses catering to tourists’ needs. Additionally, with numerous accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to bed & breakfasts at reasonable prices, visitors have ample choice when planning their stay in the Big Easy. Furthermore, New Orleans' well-developed infrastructure allows easy access within the city's limits and from nearby cities via major highways like Interstate 10 or Louis Armstrong International Airport.
Small Event Options in New Orleans
- Decorators
Planning a special event in the city of New Orleans? Make it truly unforgettable by hiring an experienced decorator. With their eye for detail and knack for choosing just the right colors, furniture placement, and decorative accents, they'll create an atmosphere that will leave guests raving about your small event! And even better — many specialist decorators offer custom looks tailored to your needs.
- Photographers
Hiring a professional photographer to capture all the special moments of your small event in New Orleans is essential. They should have technical proficiency and an eye for creativity and artistry — ensuring each moment frozen in time evokes magic and nostalgia. Through their lens, you get high-quality photos that will last well beyond the life of other details associated with the gathering: from pre-event anticipation to post-celebration emotions!
- Event Planners
An experienced event planner specializing in organizing small events in New Orleans can help turn any occasion into an unforgettable experience. Countless event planners in New Orleans are knowledgeable about local venues, vendors, and caterers, helping them create custom experiences for each client that will impress everyone in attendance. They also handle logistics such as scheduling, budgeting, and coordinating transportation for out-of-town guests. Hence, everything runs smoothly during the planning stages or on the day of your small event.
Small Event Vendors in New Orleans
- Buggin’ Out Boils
Buggin’ Out Boils is a full-service catering company owned and operated by Casey & Margo Giardina, a professionally trained chef. Their passion for good food has taken them from backyard barbecues to catering private events of all sizes. Buggin’ Out Boils prides itself on providing an incredible experience for every customer — from bachelor/bachelorette parties to corporate events. Plus, Buggin’ Out Boils only sources its ingredients locally from independent Louisiana fishermen and farmers, a nod to the unique culture of New Orleans.
- Mobile DJ NOLA
Mobile DJ NOLA has been delivering music and entertainment to New Orleans and South Louisiana events for over a decade. They have a reputation for providing exceptional celebratory experiences that meet their client's needs. Mobile DJ NOLA boasts an array of sound, lighting, announcements, decor options, and a vast selection of music tailored to your preferences. They also offer consultations with all clients before any event to ensure every detail is perfect.
- Ceremonies By Kristi
Ceremonies By Kristi is a professional service that provides comprehensive assistance for your special day. The team comprises experienced and ordained ministers dedicated to ensuring your ceremony is seamless, stress-free, and affordable. They specialize in creating unique and meaningful personal ceremonies, whether a commitment ceremony or an elopement in New Orleans. For those who prefer more traditional options, they also offer customizable packages that cater to all needs. Moreover, Ceremonies By Kristi is an inclusive service provider and welcomes all, including the LGBTQIA+ community, with love and respect.
Pros and Cons of Small Venues in New Orleans
If you're looking to plan a private and customized gathering, New Orleans is the perfect place! But don’t forget there are advantages and drawbacks when organizing a small event in this lively city. So with that being said, here's what you should keep in mind:
Advantages
- New Orleans is an incredibly vibrant city filled with beautiful architecture, culture, and entertainment, making it an excellent place for small events.
- The city offers many food and beverage options, from traditional Cajun cuisine to modern gastronomy.
- Venues have lots of character and charm, adding a unique atmosphere to any event.
- The locals are friendly and welcoming, making it easy for visitors to find their way around and make the most of their stay in this fantastic city!
Disadvantages
- Finding a suitable location to host smaller events can be tricky since many venues only cater to larger groups.
- Parking can be challenging for event attendees in certain parts of the city due to limited availability and size restrictions.
- Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so planning the timing of any event should consider this.
Tips on How to Organize Small Venues in New Orleans
Small events are a great way to enjoy all that New Orleans has to offer without being overwhelmed by the crowds. You can arrange an intimate and memorable gathering in this unique city with careful planning. Here are some tips for organizing small events in New Orleans:
- Start Planning Early: When planning a small event in New Orleans, starting the process at least 6-8 weeks in advance is essential. This will give you time to research local venues, vendors, and any possible regulations. It also gives your guests more lead time for travel plans and other arrangements.
- Research Venues & Vendors: There are plenty of unique venues around New Orleans for hosting small events. From historic locations to modern spaces, there are many options available. Additionally, it is essential to research thoroughly and vet vendors regarding their quality of service, costs, and reviews from past clients.
- Choose Your Theme: Choosing an appropriate theme or concept can be a great way to set the tone of your event. Consider whether you would like something traditional with a classic Jazz Band or a more modern feel with trendy décor and entertainment ideas. This solidified early on will help narrow down potential vendors specializing in that particular style.
- Ask Guests What They Would Prefer: Since it’s a small event, consider contacting invitees directly via email or phone to ask what kind of food they prefer or if there is any entertainment they would enjoy the most. This can help plan the details much more manageable, knowing what your guests want, which may even include them helping with some aspects of your event, such as bringing decorations or supplies.
Famous Locations in New Orleans
- Motivation Team Athletic Academy Mural
Motivation Team Athletic Academy recently unveiled a stunning new mural by BMike. Located at 3445 Toledano St, New Orleans, this mural is a collaboration between BMike and the Little Homies group that can be viewed behind the gym. For photographers looking to capture the perfect shot of this colorful composition, try visiting in the afternoon when the sun is not directly overhead. In the morning, a heavy shadow will be cast by the basketball court, which impedes your ability to get great lighting on your photo. Take advantage of this fantastic artistic display!
- Washington Artillery Park
Washington Artillery Park is an important site along the Mississippi Riverfront and a reminder of New Orleans' rich history. It was established in 1976 to recognize the service of the Washington Artillery Association, which fought on the side of the Confederacy during the Civil War. Afterward, their name changed to Louisiana Volunteer Field Artillery. They played a heavy-handed role in labor strikes throughout the state — up to and including the horrible massacre of 1887 in Thibodaux. While it's not necessarily something to be celebrated, it's important that this history isn't forgotten — people can only learn from it and work towards building a better future.
- Esplanade Avenue
Esplanade Avenue is a one-of-a-kind street in the famous city of New Orleans. Every step along the path transports you to another time as the old-world buildings and lush greenery break the pace of modernity. The experience begins with a walk across an old wooden bridge that winds up at the edge of the Mississippi River levee. All around are sprawling oaks and brightly painted houses, each sharing its unique architecture and history. Whether you’re looking for an afternoon stroll or exploring New Orleans’s iconic landmarks, Esplanade Avenue should certainly be included!