Hey there, soon-to-be newlyweds! Alyse here from Alyse & Ben Photography. If you’re dreaming of saying “I do” against the romantic backdrop of New Orleans, you’ve come to the right place. As a New Orleans native and wedding photographer, I’ve spent over a decade capturing love stories amidst the city’s iconic sights and vibrant culture. Trust me, there’s no place quite like it for a show stopping destination wedding! See some of our work for yourself!

From the charming French Quarter to the lush gardens of the Garden District, New Orleans offers endless inspiration for crafting an extraordinary celebration. But planning a destination wedding, especially in a city as unique as NOLA, comes with its own set of logistics. That’s why I’m sharing all my insider tips and tricks to make your New Orleans nuptials truly legendary. Learn more about your photographers!

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Venue Styles 

New Orleans has incredible venue variety to fit any couple’s taste. Historic homes, plantations, courtyards, hotels, museums, restaurants – you name it! Some of the most popular venue vibes include:

Classic New Orleans 

Think centuries-old mansions, lush gardens, romantic courtyards dripping with ivy. Venues like Race & Religious and Sully Mansion capture that signature New Orleans architectural charm.

Contemporary Luxury 

Upscale hotels like The Ritz Carlton and Omni Royal Orleans offer sleek, modern ballrooms and stunning outdoor terraces/gardens for ultra-chic affairs.

Industrial Chic 

Converted warehouses and artsy spaces in areas like the Bywater are perfect for couples wanting an edgier, urban vibe.

On-Site Services 

Many venues provide helpful on-site services to make planning easier as a destination couple. Things like coordinators, catering, tables/chairs, getting ready rooms etc. Omni Royal even has an on-site florist!

Guest Capacity 

From intimate micro-weddings to grand soirées, New Orleans has venues suited for every sized guest list. Mansion venues like Race & Religious are capped around 200, while hotel ballrooms like at The Ritz can host 800+.

Book Early! 

Popular venues can book up 12-18 months in advance, especially for prime spring/fall dates. I recommend inquiring with your top venue choices as soon as you set your wedding date and city.

Site Visits 

If you’re able to visit venues in person, definitely take advantage! Or, many venues offer virtual tours. Seeing the space is invaluable for envisioning your big day.

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Our Favorite Venues

MARCHE

CAPACITY

Seated Buyout: 180 guests, Reception-Style Buyout: 300 guests

AMENITIES

Immerse yourself in a classic New Orleans experience at The Marche, located in the historic French Market. With balconies overlooking both the majestic Mississippi River and the iconic French Quarter, this one-of-a-kind venue offers versatility. From intimate 50-person dinners to spectacular receptions for up to 300 guests, The Marche ensures memories that will last a lifetime.

EVENT SPACES

Balconies Overlooking the Mississippi River and French Quarter

Experience the breathtaking views of both the majestic Mississippi River and the historic French Quarter from the romantic balconies.

Versatile Interior

The Marche provides a one-of-a-kind space in the historic French Market, offering versatility for weddings of almost any size, from intimate 50-person dinners to grand receptions for up to 300 guests.

THE RITZ

CAPACITY

Tailored to your preferences, up to 880

AMENITIES

Exchange vows in the outdoor courtyard or beneath crystal chandeliers in the Lafayette Ballroom at The Ritz. Nestled in the French Quarter, this venue provides a romantic ambiance and convenient proximity to popular local attractions. Immerse yourself in elegance and history as you celebrate your love in this timeless setting.

EVENT SPACES

Outdoor Courtyard

Exchange vows in the enchanting outdoor courtyard surrounded by lush greenery, creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere.

Lafayette Ballroom

Beneath crystal chandeliers, the Lafayette Ballroom exudes elegance and serves as a sophisticated setting for your wedding ceremony or reception.

THE OMNI HOTEL

Grand Salon: Minimum of $18,000

Royal Garden Terrace: Minimum of $15,000

Esplanade: Minimum of $12,000

AMENITIES

The Omni Hotel boasts opulence redefined. With various event spaces, including the Grand Salon, Royal Garden Terrace, and the Esplanade, this venue offers capacity options to suit your guest list. Elevate your wedding experience with the lavish surroundings and impeccable service that The Omni Hotel is renowned for.

EVENT SPACES

Grand Salon

With a capacity ranging from 90 to 230 guests, the Grand Salon offers a luxurious setting with customizable options to suit your preferences.

Royal Garden Terrace

Enjoy an outdoor celebration with a capacity of 50-200 guests amid the lush surroundings of the Royal Garden Terrace.

Esplanade

A versatile space accommodating 50-200 guests, the Esplanade offers a picturesque setting for a memorable celebration.

RACE + RELIGIOUS

RECEPTION CAPACITY

Up to 200 guests, Seated Dinner Capacity: 90 guests

OVERNIGHT STAY

Available for up to 11 people

AMENITIES

Host your ceremony and reception under the palms in the moonlight-drenched courtyards of Race + Religious. With a cocktail-style reception capacity of up to 200 guests and a seated dinner capacity of 90, this venue offers a dreamy setting. Extend the celebration by staying overnight with your favorite people in this enchanting oasis.

EVENT SPACES

Moonlight-Drenched Courtyards

Host your ceremony and reception under the palms in the enchanting moonlight-drenched courtyards, creating a magical and romantic ambiance.

Indoor Spaces

Race + Religious provides indoor spaces with a cocktail-style reception capacity of up to 200 guests and a seated dinner capacity of 90.

SULLY MANSION

CAPACITY

Up to 30 guests

AMENITIES

Sully Mansion, an intimate event venue, is perfect for those seeking an elegant and historic setting for their celebration. With private spaces around the venue, it can be transformed for various events, including microweddings, engagement parties, elopements, and more. Let the Boutique Inn host your stay, creating a backdrop that adds a touch of timeless charm to your special moments.

EVENT SPACES

Intimate Indoor Spaces

Sully Mansion, being an intimate event venue, offers various private indoor spaces that can be rented and transformed for your special occasion.

Historic Surroundings

The entire historic venue, with its timeless charm, can be the backdrop for your microwedding, engagement party, elopement, private dinner, bridal shower, baby shower, proposal, workshop, and more.

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Make A Weekend Out Of It

Having a destination wedding as a full weekend event is highly recommended for couples getting married in New Orleans or any location that requires travel for a good portion of guests. Here are some key reasons why extending it to a weekend celebration is ideal:

Allow More Quality Time with Guests 

With guests making the effort to travel for your wedding, turning it into a weekend affair gives you much more meaningful face-time together. Rather than just a quick ceremony and reception, you can plan multiple events to truly soak up this special time surrounded by loved ones.

Better Guest Experience

A weekend schedule provides an overall better experience for out-of-town attendees. They get to explore the locale, have downtime to relax, and make it more of a mini-vacation versus just attending the wedding day itself.

Justify Travel Costs 

For guests shelling out money on airfare, hotels, etc., a full weekend celebration helps justify those travel costs. They’re getting more bang for their buck by making a whole trip out of it.

Spacing Out Events 

Spreading things like the rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception, brunch, etc. over several days prevents a chaotic single-day timeline. Events feel less rushed when spaced out across a weekend.

Incorporate Local Flare 

A weekend schedule allows you to plan events and activities that infuse the local culture and ambiance. For New Orleans, that could mean a second line parade, swamp tour, jazz brunch, etc.

Increased Bonding Time 

From the welcome party to group outings to downtime at the hotel, a weekend wedding equals more together-time for your families and friend groups to interact in a relaxed setting.

Make a Grand Exit 

Instead of just a quick send-off after the reception, you can have a proper farewell brunch before jetting off on your honeymoon. It’s the perfect way to cap off an amazing weekend.

The main keys are allowing ample celebration time and ensuring guests can truly experience the destination over a multi-day event. A seamless weekend wedding is more convenient for everyone involved!

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Sample Timeline

Here’s a sample timeline for a weekend destination wedding in New Orleans:

Friday

Welcome Party (Evening)

• 6:00pm – 9:00pm: Welcome reception at hotel/venue with drinks, light appetizers
• This gives out-of-town guests a chance to meet and mingle
• Could include New Orleans inspired fare, cocktails, music

Saturday

Morning/Early Afternoon – Free Time for Guests

• Provide suggestions for brunch, activities like swamp tours, etc.

Wedding Ceremony

• 4:00pm – 4:30pm: Ceremony at venue like Race & Religious
• 4:30pm – 5:30pm: Newlywed photos around French Quarter

Cocktail Hour

• 5:30pm – 6:30pm: At venue with passed appetizers, signature drinks

Reception

• 6:30pm – 7:30pm: Guests enter reception space for dinner
• 7:30pm – 8:30pm: Dinner service with plated salad/entrées
• 8:30pm: Cutting of wedding cake
• 8:45pm: Couple’s first dance, followed by parent dances
• 9:00pm: Dance floor opens, live band/DJ starts
• 10:30pm: Late night snacks served (beignets, sliders, etc.)
• 11:00pm: Couple’s last dance
• 11:30pm: Shuttle transportation begins for guest hotel departure

Sunday

Morning – Farewell Brunch

• 10:00am – 12:00pm: Brunch at venue or restaurant
• Opportunity for out-of-town guests to spend more time together
• Couple can pass out favors/welcome bags if not done previously

Afternoon/Evening – Couple’s Departure for Honeymoon

Other Potential Activities

• Bridal luncheon on Friday or Saturday
• Groomsmen golf outing
• Second line parade arriving to reception
• Brunch option on Monday for red-eye guests

This is just one example, but allows for a long weekend celebrating in New Orleans while still providing some scheduled events and free time. The timeline can be adjusted based on your priorities and guest needs. 

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Guest Accommodations

Here are some tips for making sure your guests have a comfortable and convenient experience:

Hotel Room Blocks 

Reserving a room block at one or more hotels is basically essential for a New Orleans destination wedding. This allows guests to book rooms at a discounted group rate. Many hotels offer room block discounts when you reserve a minimum number of rooms.

I recommend choosing hotels that are centrally located and close to your venue/festivities. Properties in neighborhoods like the French Quarter, Central Business District, Warehouse District and Garden District put guests steps away from the best of the city.

Some couples opt to reserve room blocks at multiple hotels to fit different budgets. For example, you could get a block at a luxury hotel like The Ritz as well as a more affordable option.

Transportation 

Providing some form of group transportation is very helpful, especially if your venue is outside the main hotel area. This could include:

• Shuttle bus/van service between hotels and venues
• Chartered streetcars/trolleys
• Pedicab/bike taxi rentals for shorter distances

You can also just provide guests with recommended transportation companies for ride shares, taxis, etc.

Welcome Bags 

Welcome bags are a fun way to greet guests and get them acquainted with New Orleans. You can include things like:

• Snacks/bottled beverages from local purveyors
• Tourism maps/brochures
• Hangover kits!
• Custom koozies/favors
• Recommended restaurants/attraction list

Activites & Excursions 

Make it easy for guests to experience NOLA by scheduling group activities like brewery tours, swamp tours, cooking classes, etc. You can purchase tickets in advance or just provide recommendations.

Communication 

Keep guests informed by creating a wedding website with details on hotels, transportation, activities, wedding schedule/dresscode and more. You can also share periodic email updates.

With a little pre-planning, your guests will be able to sit back and simply enjoy the incredible experience of a New Orleans destination wedding!

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Travel

Traveling to New Orleans for a destination wedding is easy whether you’re flying or driving! Here are some details on both options:

By Plane

New Orleans is serviced by the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). It’s a major hub with direct flights from most major U.S. cities on all the major airlines.

The airport is located about 15 miles west of downtown New Orleans in the suburb of Kenner. It’s an easy 20-30 minute drive straight into the city via I-10 for arrivals.

For transportation from the airport, taxis, rideshares like Uber/Lyft, rental cars and shuttle services are all readily available. Many hotels also offer airport shuttle service if you let them know your flight details in advance.

I’d recommend flying in at least one day before your wedding events to allow some buffer time in case of any travel delays. The French Quarter and downtown areas are just a short 20-25 minute drive from MSY.

By Car 

New Orleans is drivable from many parts of the South and even farther with some dedicated road tripping! The city is located right off Interstates 10 and 12 which provide easy access.

For East Coasters, it’s about a 14-15 hour drive from cities like Washington D.C. or Atlanta. From Dallas it’s around 8 hours, and from Nashville around 7 hours.

Within Louisiana, New Orleans is 1-3 hours from cities like Baton Rouge, Lafayette and the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Perfect for a dual honeymoon road trip along the Gulf!

If driving, you’ll likely want to stay in one of the downtown hotels with secure overnight parking options. Many offer valet parking or attached garages for your convenience.

No matter how you arrive, having your car or arranging transportation is a must for getting around New Orleans during your stay. With its historic neighborhoods spread across the city, you’ll want reliable transpo to fully experience everything.

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Seasonal Considerations

Spring (March – May) 

Spring is one of the most popular times to visit and host weddings in New Orleans thanks to the mild temperatures and lower humidity levels.

• Average highs range from the upper 70s in March to the mid 80s in May
• Lows are comfortable in the 50s and 60s
• Rain chances increase in late spring, with May being one of the wetter months

Summer (June – August)

Summers are hot, humid and the peak of hurricane season in New Orleans.

• High temperatures frequently reach the 90s
• Lows only dip into the 70s at night
• High humidity levels make heat index values soar over 100°F
• Afternoon thunderstorms are common
• Prime hurricane season is June 1 – November 30

Fall (September – November) 

Fall brings a pleasant return of drier air and more moderate temperatures.

• Highs range from the 80s in September to 70s in November
• Lows cool from 70s to 50s
• Humidity decreases significantly compared to summer
• October and November are two of the drier months

Winter (December – February) 

Winters are mild compared to other parts of the country.

• Highs in the 60s are common for daytime
• Lows can dip into the 40s on cooler nights
• Rain chances are lower but rain is still possible
• Rare snow/ice events about once every 5-10 years

New Orleans has a subtropical climate, so warm and humid conditions last the majority of the year. Spring and fall are ideal for comfortable outdoor events, while summer’s heat and winter’s rain chances present more challenges for weddings.

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New Orleans Wedding Checklist

Here is a comprehensive checklist for having a destination wedding in New Orleans:

12+ Months Out 

[ ] Determine your budget (Budget)

[ ] Hire a wedding planner (optional but very helpful for destination) 

[ ] Vision and decide on your overall wedding style/theme 

[ ] Start compiling guest list – I like Zola for this

[ ] Research and tour potential NOLA venue options 

[ ] Book venue and caterer 

[ ] Reserve room blocks at hotel(s) for guests 

[ ] Start assembling vendor team (photographer, florist, cake, etc.)

10-12 Months Out 

[ ] Book photographer (see what working with us looks like!), videographer, officiant, band/DJ 

[ ] Send save-the-dates 

[ ] Start shopping for wedding dress, suits/tuxes 

[ ] Determine wedding colors, flowers, decor vision 

[ ] Book rental companies (tables, chairs, lighting, etc. if needed) 

[ ] Reserve transportation (shuttles, Classic cars, etc.) 

[ ] Hire wedding ceremony musicians if wanted 

[ ] Investigate marriage license requirements for New Orleans

6-9 Months Out

[ ] Mail wedding invitations with travel/accommodations info 

[ ] Schedule tastings with caterer and cake maker 

[ ] Start planning welcome bags/favors for guests

[ ] Book rehearsal dinner venue 

[ ] Purchase wedding dress/suits and schedule fittings 

[ ] Reserve room for wedding night 

[ ] Book honeymoon accommodations and travel

4-6 Months Out 

[ ] Mail out-of-town bag supplies and assemble 

[ ] Finalize catering menu and alcohol/bar setup

[ ] Choose and order wedding cake 

[ ] Purchase favors if not included in welcome bags 

[ ] Book spa/salon services for wedding party 

[ ] Obtain marriage license

2-4 Months Out 

[ ] Mail final guest count to venue/caterers 

[ ] Schedule dress fitting appointments

[ ] Plan day-of timeline and shot list for photo/video team 

[ ] Purchase guest book, bathroom baskets, and other miscellaneous items 

[ ] Finalize arrangements for out-of-town guests (shuttles, transportation, etc) 

[ ] Start organizing placement/seating chart

1 Month Out 

[ ] Enter final RSVPs and guest counts

[ ] Have final gown/attire fittings 

[ ] Arrange for dress to be steamed/pressed 

[ ] Confirm all vendor arrangements and payments 

[ ] Put cash tip envelopes together for vendors 

[ ] Assemble welcome baskets/favors 

[ ] Get hair/makeup trial if desired

2 Weeks Out 

[ ] Provide final vendor contact sheet and day-of schedules 

[ ] Delegate day-of coordinator and point person for vendors

[ ] Confirm attire has been picked up/steamed

[ ] Review final guest list and seating arrangements

1 Week Out 

[ ] Reconfirm times for all vendor arrivals/services 

[ ] Make sure marriage license is ready

[ ] Remind wedding party of rehearsal time

[ ] Arrange for guest book, favors, decor etc to be delivered to venue 

[ ] Pack for honeymoon!

Day Before 

[ ] Attend wedding rehearsal 

[ ] Welcome out-of-town guests 

[ ] Deliver welcome baskets to hotel 

[ ] Get mani/pedi if desired 

[ ] Try to get plenty of rest!

Wedding Day! 

[ ] Have a fun morning getting ready with your wedding party 

[ ] Soak in every special moment – you’re getting married!

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Budgeting Your Destination Wedding

Budgeting is one of the most important aspects when planning a destination wedding in New Orleans. Here are some tips for creating and sticking to a realistic budget:

Determine Your Total Budget 

First, decide on your total wedding budget based on what you and your families are comfortable spending. For a destination wedding in New Orleans, couples typically budget $30,000-$50,000 on average when you factor in travel costs for yourselves and guests.

Prioritize Your Spending 

Make a list of what elements are must-haves versus nice-to-haves. The venue, catering, photographer, attire, and accommodations will likely take the biggest portions of your budget. Other items like entertainment, transportation, and welcome bags may be areas to save.

Research Local Costs 

Pricing can vary greatly in New Orleans compared to other cities. Research typical costs for your guest count from local NOLA vendors. Build in buffer amounts of 5-10% for costs that are estimates only.

Factor in Guest Count 

More guests means higher costs for things like catering, rentals, favors, and even some venues. Get a gauge of your approximate guest count early to accurately budget items calculated per person.

Budget for Extras 

Don’t forget buffer amounts for unexpected fees, tips, taxes, travel/lodging costs for yourselves and wedding party, welcome baskets, transportation, etc. These can add up quickly!

Create a Per-Category Breakdown 

Once you have your total budget, break it down by category based on prioritized spending. For example:

• 40% venue/catering
• 15% photography/video
• 10% attire
• 10% flowers/decor
• 10% music/entertainment
• 15% everything else

This allows you to allocate amounts for each vendor/element.

Be Flexible and Communicative

Expect your budget to fluctuate as you book vendors and plans evolve. Discuss any needed adjustments together, get quotes in writing, and be willing to re-prioritize spending as needed to stay on track.

With careful planning from the start, you can design a beautiful celebration while avoiding debt after your New Orleans destination wedding. 

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Budget Breakdown

Costs will fluctuate drastically based on guest count.  These averages are based on a 200 guest attendance.

Attire & Accessories: $1,848 – $2,258 

• Dress Accessories: $232 – $284 
• Tuxedo/Suit/Other Accessories: $110 – $134 
• Tuxedo/Suit/Other Rent/Purchase: $222 – $272 
• Wedding Dress: $1,283 – $1,569 

Beauty & Spa: $167 – $204 

• Hair Service: $68 – $84
• Makeup Service: $57 – $69 
• Manicure & Pedicure: $41 – $51 

Entertainment: $2,297 – $2,807 

• Live Band or DJ: $2,297 – $2,807 

Flowers & Decorations: $3,262 – $3,986 

• Bouquets: $352 – $430 
• Boutonnieres, Corsages: $159 – $195 
• Wedding Venue Decorations: $512 – $626 
• Wedding Venue Flowers & Arrangements: $1,449 – $1,771 
• Wedding Venue Table Centerpieces: $789 – $965 

Gifts & Favors: $1,237 – $1,511

• Tips (for all services): $895 – $1,093 
• Wedding Favors: $342 – $418 

Invitations: $1,230 – $1,504 

• Ceremony Programs: $191 – $233
• Engagement Announcements: $167 – $205
• Guest Book: $92 – $112 
• Invitations & Reply Cards: $329 – $403 (
• Postage: $150 – $184 
• Save the Date Cards: $167 – $205 
• Thank You Cards: $133 – $163 

Photography & Video: $5,093 – $5,781 

• Wedding Photographer: $2,847 – $3,257 
• Wedding Videographer: $2,247 – $2,524 

Venue, Catering & Rentals: $32,933 – $40,251 

• Officiant: $194 – $238 
• Rehearsal Dinner: $651 – $795 
• Wedding Cake/Dessert: $995 – $1,217 
• Wedding Venue Accessories: $478 – $584 
• Wedding Venue Bar Service: $6,404 – $7,827 
• Wedding Venue Food Service: $12,506 – $15,285 
• Wedding Venue Location: $7,414 – $9,062
• Wedding Venue Rentals: $4,291 – $5,245 

Estimated Total Cost: $48,066 – $58,302 

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Savor Every Moment

More than anything, I want to remind you to truly immerse yourself in the joy of your celebration. Although planning a destination wedding adds some extra logistics, having an experienced team of vendors is key to ensuring everything goes smoothly. Once the big day arrives, be present and let yourself get swept up in the magic.

As your photographers, Ben and I will be right by your side capturing all the love, laughter, and once-in-a-lifetime moments. We know all the most photogenic locales, from the tree-canopied sidewalks of St. Charles Avenue to the vibrant Jackson Square, to ensure you have portrait backdrops as amazing as the city itself.

So get ready to experience the capital of cosmopolitan Southern living like you’ve never imagined. New Orleans is truly one of the country’s most storied settings for distinctive nuptials. Your destination wedding here is sure to be an experience you’ll cherish for a lifetime…and have the photos to relive it all over again!