Embracing New Orleans Wedding Traditions In Classy-As-Hell Style
The picturesque backdrop of New Orleans was the perfect setting for Mandana, an entertainment attorney, to tie the knot with her offbeat partner Sean, a video editor. The couple’s special day took place on October 3, 2015, at St. Louis Cathedral, followed by a reception at the charming Maison Montegut. The stunning photos capturing their big day were courtesy of Zoeica Images.
Our offbeat wedding at a glance:
As we began planning our special day, we were adamant about hosting a destination wedding that would be accessible and budget-friendly for our loved ones. We envisioned an unforgettable weekend experience for our guests, rather than just a one-day celebration followed by a swift departure. Our ceremony needed to be steeped in tradition, with the exchange of vows taking place within the stunning walls of a beautiful cathedral. The reception, meanwhile, would unfold under the stars outdoors.
Fate smiled upon us as we stumbled upon a unique combination of both a picturesque cathedral and an outdoor reception space, all nestled within the historic French Quarter of New Orleans – my hometown where family ties remain strong. This charming destination proved to be the perfect setting for our celebration, allowing guests from far-flung places like NYC, California, Germany, and Sweden to converge and indulge in the city’s renowned culinary delights and lively attractions.
Tell us about the ceremony:
As we planned our Catholic ceremony, it was crucial for us to incorporate elements that reflected our heritage and personal touch. To do this, we drew inspiration from New Orleans traditions, including a lively second line parade, cake pulls, and a groom’s cake that was truly unforgettable.
In addition to these unique touches, we also wove in smaller details that revealed our personalities, such as welcome bags filled with treats and goodies, custom dolls that held special meaning, family photos that showcased our love for one another, and a playlist featuring the iconic sounds of ’80s alternative music.
Tell us about your reception:
Our wedding celebration at Maison Montegut was truly unforgettable. The charming courtyard and grand ballroom provided a picturesque backdrop for our special day. One of the most memorable details was the custom-designed cipher displayed on the wooden bar, which served as a unique touchpoint for our guests to collect their photo booth memories in to-go cups and second-line hankies.
We also had our custom-made dolls, resembling us, serve as an unconventional yet endearing cake topper, placed alongside the groom’s cake in the shape of a voodoo doll. As we’re both fond of lavender, we incorporated it into various aspects of our wedding. Our invitations were wrapped in black silk ribbon and adorned with sprigs of dried lavender, filling the air with its sweet aroma when opened.
We even featured lavender cocktails as our signature drink at the reception and placed small vases of dried lavender throughout the venue to create a cohesive ambiance. Above all, we wanted to honor the memories of loved ones who could no longer join us on our special day. To achieve this, we displayed framed photos of each of them in strategic locations around the reception rooms, allowing their presence to be felt and celebrated.
What was your most important lesson learned?
When it comes to planning your special day, don’t underestimate the value of having a trusted wedding planner by your side. They’ll not only take care of the logistics but also offer valuable guidance and support throughout the process. If hiring a planner isn’t feasible, consider delegating tasks to a reliable coordinator or friend who can help you stay organized and focused on what truly matters.
Remember, your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so be sure to soak it all in and cherish every moment. And when it’s all said and done, take a step back and appreciate the incredible vendors who helped bring your vision to life. It’s crucial to do your due diligence and find professionals who share your aesthetic and can deliver on their promises. By doing so, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the celebration without worrying about the finer details.
Vendors
The creative team behind this unforgettable celebration included Photography by Zoeica Images, capturing every special moment with precision. Get Polished Events took care of the coordination and linens, ensuring a seamless experience for guests. The ceremony was held at St. Louis Cathedral, while the reception was hosted at Maison Montegut. A friend provided the entertainment with their exceptional DJ skills. Nola Flora brought the beauty of nature to life with their stunning florals.
Scriptura designed the stationery that matched the elegance of the event. Firefly Ambiance handled the event rentals and lighting, setting the tone for a magical night. Deep Fried Photo’s photo booth was a huge hit, allowing guests to take home unforgettable memories. NorthSouth Video Productions captured the entire experience on film.
To satisfy sweet tooth cravings, King’s Cake and Petit Fours were provided by Haydel’s, while Royal Cakery crafted the wedding cake and groom’s cake with precision. The Second Line Band, Free Agents Brass Band, got everyone moving with their infectious beats. The bride stunned in her Tara Keely gown from Kleinfeld’s, while the groom looked dashing in his Holland and Sherry Bespoke suit. Tiffany’s provided the couple’s rings, which they exchanged amidst the celebration.
Beauty and Brains Design took care of the hair and makeup, ensuring the wedding party looked their absolute best. La Bellas Catering served up delicious cuisine that delighted every palate.
