As wedding photographers in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Ben and I have had the privilege of capturing countless love stories in some of the most breathtaking venues across the Big Easy. Today, we want to shine a spotlight on one of our absolute favorite locations: Il Mercato. This stunning venue has stolen our hearts, and we’re excited to share why it might just be the perfect setting for your special day.

A Slice of European Elegance in the Garden District

The moment you step onto the grounds of Il Mercato, you’re transported to another world. Nestled on the famous Magazine Street in the heart of the Garden District, this venue exudes a charm that’s uniquely New Orleans yet somehow reminiscent of a quaint European marketplace (which is fitting, given its name means “the market” in Italian).

As photographers, Ben and I are always on the lookout for venues that offer that perfect blend of aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. Il Mercato delivers on both fronts in spades. The Spanish-style architecture, with its grand arches and authentic details, provides a stunning backdrop for photos that will make your wedding album truly shine.

A Venue That Tells a Story

One of the things we love most about Il Mercato is its rich history. Built in 1931, this venue has seen nearly a century of New Orleans life unfold around it. The original architectural details – from the brass doors to the steel frame windows – have been lovingly preserved, creating a space that feels both timeless and contemporary.

As we guide our couples through the venue during pre-wedding site visits, we often find ourselves imagining the countless stories these walls could tell. There’s something magical about celebrating your love in a place with such deep roots in the community.

Versatility

Now, let’s talk about what really makes Il Mercato stand out from a photographer’s perspective: its incredible versatility. This venue is like a chameleon, able to adapt to any style or vision a couple might have for their big day.

The Courtyard

The expansive courtyard is, without a doubt, one of our favorite spots to shoot. It’s a secluded oasis that offers endless possibilities for beautiful photos. Whether we’re capturing the bride’s grand entrance, snapping candid shots of guests mingling during cocktail hour, or setting up romantic portraits of the newlyweds, the courtyard never disappoints.

One feature that always catches our eye (and our camera lenses) is the iconic outdoor fireplace. It’s the perfect spot for those cozy, intimate shots that really capture the love between a couple. And let’s not forget about the ivy-clad archways – they provide a stunning frame for photos that look like they’ve been plucked straight from a fairytale.

La Sala

The main room, or La Sala, is where the magic really happens. With over 3,000 square feet of space, it’s a blank canvas that can be transformed to match any couple’s vision. We’ve seen this room dressed up in every style imaginable, from classic elegance to modern chic, and it always looks fantastic.

What we particularly appreciate about La Sala is its open floor plan. Unlike some historical venues that can feel cramped or segmented, this space allows for a natural flow of movement. This means we can capture all the key moments – from the first dance to the cake cutting – without feeling like we’re intruding on the celebration.

The Library

For couples looking for something a little different, the Library is a real treat. With its original wood beams and custom cabinetry, it has a moody, intimate feel that’s perfect for those looking to add a touch of drama to their wedding photos.

We often recommend using the Library for getting-ready shots or as a quiet space for the couple to steal a few moments alone during the reception. The soft, ambient lighting in this room is a photographer’s dream, creating a warm glow that makes everyone look their best.

Check out some of our other favorite venues in New Orleans:
Elms Mansion
The Southern Hotel
The Ritz
Marche

Flexibility for Every Celebration

One of the things we appreciate most about Il Mercato is its ability to accommodate weddings of all sizes. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering of close friends and family or a grand celebration with hundreds of guests, this venue has you covered.

For ceremonies, the space can comfortably seat up to 275 people. If you’re envisioning a cocktail-style reception, you can invite up to 400 guests. And for seated dinners, the venue can accommodate up to 185 people. This flexibility means that no matter what you have in mind for your big day, Il Mercato can make it happen.

A Feast for the Senses

While our focus is on capturing the visual aspects of your wedding, we can’t help but be impressed by Il Mercato’s approach to the culinary side of things. Their exclusive catering partner, Joel Catering, has been a staple of the New Orleans food scene for nearly three decades.

From what we’ve seen (and tasted!) at the weddings we’ve photographed here, the food is nothing short of spectacular. Whether it’s passed hors d’oeuvres during cocktail hour or a sit-down dinner featuring local Louisiana cuisine, the culinary offerings at Il Mercato are sure to leave your guests raving.

The Perfect Canvas for Your Vision

One of the things we love most about shooting at Il Mercato is how it serves as the perfect backdrop for any wedding style. The neutral color palette and open floor plan provide a blank canvas that can be customized to fit any vision.

We’ve seen couples transform the space into everything from a romantic garden party to a glamorous black-tie affair. The venue’s versatility means that your personality can really shine through in every detail of your wedding day.

Location, Location, Location

As local photographers, we can’t stress enough how ideal Il Mercato’s location is. Situated in the heart of the Garden District, it’s surrounded by some of the most iconic New Orleans architecture. This means that not only do you have a beautiful venue for your ceremony and reception, but you also have countless options for stunning outdoor photos.

Imagine taking a stroll down Magazine Street for some quintessential New Orleans shots, or using the historic homes of the Garden District as a backdrop for your couple’s portraits. The possibilities are endless!

Our Final Thoughts

After photographing numerous weddings at Il Mercato, Ben and I can confidently say that it’s one of the best venues New Orleans has to offer. Its blend of historical charm and modern amenities, coupled with its versatility and prime location, make it a dream come true for couples and photographers alike.

If you’re considering Il Mercato for your wedding, we wholeheartedly encourage you to book a tour. Walk through the spaces, imagine your guests mingling in the courtyard, picture yourself dancing the night away in La Sala. We have a feeling you’ll fall in love with this venue just as we have.

And if you do choose Il Mercato for your big day, know that you’re not just choosing a venue – you’re choosing to become part of a rich tapestry of love stories that have unfolded within these historic walls. As photographers, we can’t think of anything more beautiful than that.

Here’s to love, to New Orleans, and to the magic of Il Mercato. We hope to see you there soon!