Contributing Writers Amy Gabriel, Misty Milioto, Melanie Warner Spencer
Copy Editor Liz Clearman
ADVERTISING
Senior Account Executive
Brooke Genusa
Brooke@MyNewOrleans.com
Vice President of Sales and Marketing Kate Henry, Kate@MyNewOrleans.com
Account Director Meggie Schmidt
Senior Account Executive Erin Chiartano
MARKETING
Marketing Manager Greer Stewart
Video Media Producer Mallary Wolfe
RENAISSANCE PUBLISHING
PRODUCTION
Digital Director Rosa Balaguer Arostegui
Designers Ashley Pemberton, Czarlyn Trinidad
CIRCULATION
Distribution John Holzer
ADMINISTRATION
Office Manager Emily Ruiz
Chief Executive Officer Todd Matherne
STANDARDS
FROM THE EDITOR 24
REAL WEDDINGS 80
HONEYMOON 86
Fit for Royalty
Travel like kings and queens in a swanky castle hotel
LAGNIAPPE 88
Bejeweled Brides
Mignon Faget’s Legacy Collection
PRELUDE
MAKEUP 28
Marry and Bright
Big Day color popping makeup
HAIR 30
A Head Start
Pre-wedding haircare
BEAUTY 32
Sealed with a Fix
Hot new fresh-faced products and tools
INVITATIONS 34
Artful Summons
Design details to remember
FASHION
BRIDAL/MENSWEAR 42
Lovestruck for Southern Charm
Nostalgic details are having a moment
ON THE COVER
DETAILS
CAKES 54
Lustrous Layers
Oyster pearl dragées add couture shine
FLOWERS 58
Luxury Blooms
Eclectic, textural bouquets in bespoke shades
CUISINE & COCKTAILS 64
Culinary Wanderlust
Globally-inspired grazing tables
First Drink to Last Clink 66
Make a splash at your reception
LOCATIONS 68
Venerable Venues
News from esteemed locales that epitomize a New Orleans wedding
PHOTOGRAPHY 72
Photo Op Do’s and Don’ts
Capturing lasting memories in the Instagram era
MUSIC 76
Good Vibrations
Creating unforgettable musical moments
TRANSPORTATION 78
Getting There
A handy guide to New Orleans’ many options to get you and your guests to and from the wedding
“Holland” natural illusion lace sheath gown by Maggie Sottero and pearl drop earrings by Untamed Petals at LinenJolie Bridal, linenjoliebridal.com. Model: Haley Gibbs; Photographed by Theresa Cassagne; Styled by Lisa Tudor; Makeup by Meggan Ory; Hair by Monique Muñoz.
Welcome to the latest issue of New Orleans Bride, where we celebrate the timeless beauty, rich traditions and flair that define Southern weddings. Whether you are planning a garden party or ballroom affair, we are here to help you pull together a celebration as unforgettable as the city of New Orleans itself.
Shot on location at The Chloe, this season’s fashion, cakes, florals and invitations, like the picturesque venue, have charming bespoke details that will stand the test of time. See more of the stunning spread on pg. 42.
Planning a wedding can feel like a whirlwind of decisions, from choosing the perfect dress to curating every detail. In this issue, we bring you the very best new trends, with an emphasis on enduring elegance, from breathtaking venues to exquisite gowns, and heartfelt real wedding stories. With fresh-faced beauty picks and more Big Day glam tools, you’ll find what you need on these pages to make your celebration uniquely yours.
What sets a Southern wedding apart is not just the grandeur, but the heart, soul and culture woven into every detail. We spoke with cocktail expert Neal Bodenheimer of CureCo who shares the perfect drink suggestions for all phases of a wedding. And, we take a look at “what not to do” with sage advice from wedding photographers who have undoubtedly seen it all.
We hope you’ll find something here that sparks your imagination and helps bring your vision to life.
Cheers!
NEVER MISS AN ISSUE, SCAN AND SUBSCRIBE TODAY!
Join us January 9, 2025 at The Roosevelt Hotel for the biannual New Orleans Bride bridal show. Meet the city’s top wedding professionals in a festive setting to plan your big day. Visit brideneworleans.com for tickets, pricing and more details.
P.S.
Be sure to visit our website and check out our “Let Them Eat Cake” blog. We love to hear from you! If there is a topic you would like to see featured, a real wedding or proposal story, please email LTEC@myneworleans.com.
WEDDING SCENTS
Tijon — a hand-crafted, luxury fragrance brand that began on the French Caribbean Island of St. Martin — opened a location in the French Quarter in December 2022. Using best practices from the perfumeries in Grasse, France, Tijon offers perfume classes in which participants can create their own custom perfume or cologne choosing from more than 300 different types of oils. The classes are not only a fun way to celebrate a bachelor or bachelorette party, but they also allow future brides and grooms to create their own wedding scent. By wearing something other than an everyday scent, brides and grooms can then associate the scent with their wedding day. Tijon also keeps the custom blend on file, so participants can reorder in the future. Try the 90-minute Mix & Match class to create three perfumes, or the two- to three-hour Class 101 to create as many scents as time allows. With either class, you’ll bottle the scent you like the best. 631 Toulouse St., 504-428-8422, tijon.com
BRIDAL NAIL TRENDS
Fresha, a beauty and wellness marketplace, recently pinpointed the latest must-have nail designs for wedding guests and brides (based on global TikTok and Instagram data). Long nails — with everything from unique designs to vibrant colors — rank at the top of the list (a surprising find, given that shorter nail shapes proved popular last year), followed closely by the always classic French manicure. Short nails also are still popular, while almond-shaped and square-shaped nails also made the list. In terms of color, high-shine chrome nails, nature-inspired green nails and pastel-colored nails rank in the top 10 nail trends making waves. Meanwhile, BIAB (Builder In A Bottle) nails rank for their long-lasting nature, and 3D nails are popular for their depth, dimension and intricate designs. fresha.com
BIG DAY GLOW UP
Enjoy a bridal party relaxation day at The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans, which has welcomed Hungarian skincare line Omorovicza to its curated menu of body treatments and facials. Rooted in the family legacy of the 1861 Rácz thermal bath in Hungary, Omorovicza is a clean-ingredient skincare line known for its Healing Concentrate (a patented biotech formula including 26 essential minerals from the ancient healing waters of Budapest). The facials and body treatments themselves also are touted for their high-touch, sensual skincare techniques used in the rigorous Hungarian tradition. The new Omorovicza offerings include the Mineral-Infused Moor Mud Wrap, the Glitters is Gold Body Scrub, the Healing Waters Moor Mud Facial, The Gold Hydralifting facial and The Blue Diamond Fitness Facial. Omorovicza’s range of retail products also are available for purchase at the spa and would make thoughtful additions to welcome bags. While at the spa, be sure to make time for the steam room and cool mist experience. 2 Canal St., 504-434-5108, fourseasons.com/neworleans/spa
Also in beauty news, Gucci has released its Rouge À Lèvres Mat Lipstick in Rosso Ancora, the house’s new signature red shade hand-picked by Creative Director Sabato De Sarno. The dramatic color takes inspiration from the walls of one of The Savoy hotel’s elevators in London, where founder Guccio Gucci worked as a porter in the late 18th century (and where he became inspired to bring his leather goods and luggage brand to life). The color is perfect for adding a bit of bold glamour to your wedding day. Available at Sephora, 414 N. Peters St., 504-561-9889, sephora.com
CALLING CONTENT CREATORS
Elation Entertainment — a multimedia hub for creatives in music, film, television, podcasting and more — recently opened in Metairie and is the perfect spot for content creators. For example, bachelor and bachelorette parties can rent out studios and/or sets to create social media content about the wedding weekend or even create their own wedding-centric videos. Brides- and grooms-to-be (or their wedding parties) also can write and lay down their very own wedding track for a truly unique experience. Elation Entertainment, 710 Papworth Ave. Metairie, 504-321-1850, elationent.com.
LUSCIOUS LIPS
Marry and Bright
After popping the question, a well-placed pop of color is a beauty must on your big day.
BY AMY GABRIEL
We love a makeup shade named after a French Champagne cocktail. ReDimension Hydra Powder Blush from RMS Beauty in Kir Royale is a nourishing way to add a glowing highlight to your cheeks. The Windsor Court Spa, 504-5236000, thewindsorcourt.com.
Give your lips a boost with a Lip Whip from Kari Gran. Pictured in the shade Jolene, each dab is the ideal mix of a balm and a lipstick. Vibrant Market, 504-206-4419, thevibrantmarket.com.
Pucker up in Lip Suede Matte Lipstick from Westman Atelier. Shown in a bright tomato red, this hydrating lipstick offers an ultra-saturated, hydro-matte finish with a vivid pigment that lasts. ByGeorge New Orleans, 504-350-2449, saintvincentnola.com/ bygeorgeneworleans.
Ideal for lips and cheeks, the shimmer balms from Olio E Osso can be used as a bronzer or highlighter for a natural glow and hint of color. Beauty Pop, 504-333-6161, beautypopnola.com.
Add some spice to your smooch with Mango Lip Honey in Chilli from Ere Perez. Get glossed with this wearable vegan sheen to add volume with vitamins and minerals plus a pretty color pop. Freedom Apothecary, 504-381-5920, freedomapothecary.com.
Wow on the dance floor with a playful pigment like Fleurty from Elektra Cosmetics. Made from minerals and ethically sourced, this hyperpigmented metallic magenta shimmer is designed to be used with your favorite primer or eye shadow base. Elektra Cosmetics, 504-5078470, elektracosmetics.com.
Thrice as nice, the 3-in-1 Beauty Stix, part of the signature collection from About Face, is the epitome of multitasking. Providing a swipe of color for cheeks, lips and eyes in the dusty rose shade “Play it Up”, the buttery texture goes on smooth and stays breathable with every wear. About Face, 504-304-1556, aboutfaceco.com.
Seeking a little scalp solace?
A Revitalizing Scalp Mask from Omorovicza imparts a restorative blend of mineralrich Hungarian moor mud and gentle exfoliating salicylic acid to purify, while soothing camphor crystals and cooling menthol offer comfort to your crown. The Spa at Four Seasons New Orleans, 504-4345100, fourseasons.com/ neworleans/spa.
A Head Start
Self-care begins at the roots. Love up your locks and treat your tresses to some pre-wedding pampering.
BY AMY GABRIEL
Does your mane fall a little flat? Working in a dose of Living Proof’s Dry Volume & Texture Spray helps with oil absorption and adds longlasting volume and texture for fine or thin hair. BLEU a Blowdry Bar, 504-309-5999, bleuablowdrybar.com.
Turn over a new leaf with Dream Cocktail Kale-Infused Leave-in Treatment from Color WOW. This leave-in treatment, activated by heat, will help strengthen and reduce breakage from one blow-dry to the next. The Ritz-Carlton Spa, 504-670-2929, ritzcarlton.com.
Look your bridal best with body and bounce from BODY.MASS from Kevin Murphy. Created using eyelash thickening and lengthening technology, this leave-in plumping treatment helps fortify and strengthen your strands. The Windsor Court Spa, 504-523-6000, thewindsorcourt.com.
Detox your locks with Invisible Defense Universal Protection Spray by Oribe. A weightless mist shields hair from thermal damage up to 450°F, UV rays and pollution without weighing hair down. ByGeorge New Orleans, 504-3502449, saintvincentnola. com/bygeorgeneworleans.
Before you put on your veil, make sure your scalp is at its best with the Act + Acre Cold Processed Scalp Detox. A 20-minute pre-wash oil breaks down impurities while intensely moisturizing. Vibrant Market, 504-206-4419, thevibrantmarket.com.
Achieve silky soft, tangle-free tresses with an argan oil hair conditioner bar from Ardent Goods. A little lather and rinse with this cocoa butter infused bar goes a long way. Freedom Apothecary, 504-381-5920, freedomapothecary.com.
Sealed With A Fix
To highlight your natural beauty, fill your toolbox with a curated collection of products that help to put your best face forward on your big day.
BY AMY GABRIEL
The magic wand of skincare, a pair of Cryo Sculpting Globes from 111SKIN are ergonomically shaped to fit the contours of the face. Brennan Rosonet, spa director at The Windsor Court Spa, suggests popping them into a champagne bucket of ice for 10 minutes to provide an even more refreshing experience when used over a sheet mask or serum, but not on dry skin. The Windsor Court Spa, 504-5236000, thewindsorcourt.com.
With the tagline “Lights On, Years Off”, the DRx SpectraLite™ EyeCare Max Pro offers hands-free light therapy to target the full 360 eye area. Designed with 96 Red LED lights in four wavelengths, this three-minute daily treatment has endless benefits. The Ritz-Carlton Spa, 504-670-2929, ritzcarlton.com.
Beauty therapy with good vibrations. Crafted from authentic clear quartz, a sculpt and lift face stone from Ere Perez adjusts to the natural contours of your face to provide radiant benefits. Freedom Apothecary, 504-3815920, freedomapothecary.com.
Rejuvenate your skin with a duo of Kitsch mini eye and race rollers. Designed to fit into the small contours of your face and your delicate eye area, these silicone rollers massage, promote healthy blood circulation and lymphatic drainage. Spa Aria, 504-523-9990, spaaria.com.
Cleansing never looked so cute. The Cleansing Sponge Bamboo Charcoal Heart from One Love Organics helps remove excess oil and is a biodegradable, ecofriendly replacement for makeup remover for the face, neck and delicate under-eye area. Vibrant Market, 504-206-4419, thevibrantmarket.com.
When mixing a clay mask from local label Oxalis, do so in a stoneware mask bowl, a custom collaboration between Oxalis and NY ceramic artist, Erica Recto. It also comes with a lovely facial mask brush with vegan bristles, wooden handle and rose gold metal detail. Oxalis Apothecary, oxalisapothecary.com.
Sculpt, lift and de-puff your face with a face cupping kit from WTHN. This traditional Chinese medicine technique can help renew your cheeks, jawline, forehead and around your eye area when used properly even just once a week. Vibrant Market, 504-206-4419, thevibrantmarket.com.
gold thermography ink on ecru stock and exquisite embossing at the card’s edge present a luxurious feel. Notched corners and beveled edges contrast on oversized ecru cotton stock finely engraved in delicate champagne ink to create a bespoke look, by Gem Printing Company, gemprinting.com
BY LISA TUDOR
PHOTOGRAPHED BY THERESA CASSAGNE
Raised
Soft white stock letterpress printed in two shades of blue with custom artwork and wax seal. The invitations for this destination wedding (set in Portugal) convey a romantic sense of place and have a storybook feeling that transcends time, by Scriptura, scriptura.com
Foil-pressed invitation suite with custom watercolor painting of the couple’s wedding florals as envelope liner, wrapped with lustrous olive ribbon and secured with dried hydrangea pressed into vellum wax seal. Guest addressing in a modern script calligraphy. Welcome bag tag and additional event goodies to match. Design, painting, calligraphy and production by Catherine Flotte of Sprinkles Art Co, sprinklesartco.com
LOVESTRUCK FOR SOUTHERN CHARM
The Chloe, with its elegant parlors and hidden alcoves, is a romantic showcase for New Orleans bridal fashion, flowers and confections. Housed in an 1891 Thomas Sully-designed Victorian, the reimagined mansion provides a stylishly curated canvas of indoor and outdoor spaces for intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. With 14 charming guest rooms and an exceptional culinary and craft cocktail program, this small hotel tucked behind its iron gate on St. Charles Avenue is a bonafide Uptown oasis for visitors and locals alike, and a credit to native son Robert LeBlanc’s boutique hospitality portfolio.
By Lisa Tudor | Photography by Theresa Cassagne Makeup by Meggan Ory | Hair by Monique Muñoz
Models Haley Gibbs and Brock Sylvia for Images Model and Talent Agency
Photographed at The Chloe, thechloenola.com
“Holland” natural illusion lace sheath gown by Maggie Sottero and pearl drop earrings by Untamed Petals at Linen Jolie Bridal, linenjoliebridal.com
Neil Allyn ivory shawl collar dinner jacket at John’s Tuxedos & Suits, johnstuxedos.com
“Lex” fitted lace gown with puff sleeves and chapel-length train by Lillian West (66362) at Bliss Bridal, beablissbride.com
Neil Allyn ivory shawl collar dinner jacket at John’s Tuxedos & Suits,
Ricca Sposa Amalfi Passion Collection
“Olga” strapless lace ball gown at MaeMe The Bridal Boutique, maemebridal.com
“Alera” ball gown from Maison Collection II by Steven Khalil at I Do Bridal Couture, idobridalcouture.com
“Darling” lace ball gown with black grosgrain ribbon trim and gloves by Monique Lhuillier Spring 2025 at I Do Bridal Couture, idobridalcouture.com
“Echo” strapless ball gown in rose jacquard with basque waist and chapel-length train by Lea-Ann Belter for Astrid & Mercedes collection; Petal Crystal Mini Earrings by Kate
Couture 1910 classic black “Quincy” tuxedo with satin notch lapel at John’s Tuxedos & Suits, johnstuxedos.com
Lillian West “Luna” embroidered lace ball gown (66353) at Bliss Bridal, beablissbride.com
BY LISA TUDOR
PHOTOGRAPHED BY THERESA CASSAGNE
Almond wedding cake filled with cream cheese buttercream and a mix of fresh berries, topped with two tiers of butter cake filled with dulce de leche buttercream and chopped chocolate toffee bits iced in vanilla buttercream with white sprinkles and candy pearls, by Jenny Pacaccio for The Sweet Life Bakery, nolasweetlife.com.
Luxury Blooms
Eclectic hand-tied textural bouquets in bespoke shades
BY LISA TUDOR | PHOTOGRAPHED BY THERESA CASSAGNE
A vibrant bouquet of dahlias, cremons, hellebores, butterfly ranunculus, scabiosa, quicksand roses, snapdragons and spray roses tied with chocolate satin ribbon by Nicole Chauvin for IRIS floral + event design studio, irisfloral.com.
Symbol roses, cream ranunculus butterfly litai, standard white tulips, crystal white mini calla lilies, African Queen Anne’s lace and Italian ruscus featured in a delicate whimsical bouquet, finished with double-face satin antique white ribbon and designed by Marvin Johnson for The Plant Gallery, theplantgallery.com.
Delicate shades of pink and green punctuated with bark brown in this bouquet of lisianthus, cremones, Italian ruscus, secret garden roses, scabiosa stellata, jasmine vine, magnolia foliage, and anthurium by Kim Starr Wise Floral Events, kimstarrwise.com.
Culinary Wanderlust
The Globally Inspired Grazing Table
BY AMY GABRIEL
Unlike the long, teary-eyed toast that your bridesmaid plans to give at your reception, food has a way of telling a story in presentation alone. The art of the grazing table can provide that opportunity, particularly if you are of the mind to incorporate globally inspired fare. Whether it was the burrata buffet during your couple’s trip to Capri or the Argentinian picada your fiancé’s parents served to introduce you to their culture, presenting a map’s worth of palate pleasers through your reception menu can take your friends and family on a tasteful culinary journey.
“Cocktail hour is a great time to introduce guests to global cuisines through passed appetizers or grazing stations,” said Katie Morris, owner of Black Pearl Catering. “A lot of our passed appetizers have influence from different cuisines around the world,” she said, noting unique ideas like roast beef “po’bao” and fried green tomato bánh mì. “By adding appetizers from other cuisines, you’re giving your guests a taste of your heritage, travels or favorite foods, with a delicious bite, without taking over your entire reception menu.”
To feature your heritage through your wedding fare, Jen Sherrod, owner and general manager of Elysian Events Catering, finds that well-appointed grazing tables are exceptionally helpful, recalling ideas like serving takoyaki for a bride with Japanese heritage and pork loin with Chinese five spice served with bao buns for a bride with Chinese heritage.
Sherrod notes that a fun way to wow guests is to infuse New Orleansinspired twists into these global bites.
“We took a classic New Orleans interactive station, the chargrilled oysters, and did a Japanese take with yuzu ponzu and fresh grated daikon, so it was a different and unique flavor profile of a distinctly New Orleans
menu item. It still kept the fun and festive element of someone grilling the oysters to order!”
She also encourages couples to play up the global theme with specific utensils and vessels.
“Creative presentation is always important, especially when serving something that guests may not be familiar with. Using different elements such as décor pieces, dishes or serving utensils that are cuisine specific make it more interesting and fun,” she said, noting ideas like using Asian soup spoons and terra-cotta tagines as vehicles. “Using serving vessels borrowed from different cuisines helps paint a better picture for guests.”
In addition to introducing heritage through food, Sarah Hall, president of Joel Catering, finds that many couples rely on global grazing tables to celebrate travels they’ve experienced together.
“If you’re a couple who traveled to Italy during your courtship, you probably even considered having your wedding in Italy. But having it in New Orleans, you can still honor a travel theme, entertain people and give them something super beautiful to look at and enjoy,” said Hall, who suggests chef-designed grazing tables with a feast of cured meats, cheeses, breads and antipasto.
She advises that the most important thing to remember is to make sure that you are making it clear to people what you’re doing with your theme. “The impact comes from repetition and grouping things together, so if you’re doing an Italian theme, add in a specialty cocktail like an Aperol spritz and signage inspired by your travels. Giving people high visual impact will really drive it home and allow it to be the topic of conversation.” b
First Drink to Last Clink
Make A Splash at Your Reception
BY AMY GABRIEL
You may have perfected the art of hosting a happy hour amongst friends, but choosing which libations to serve at your reception can be a daunting endeavor. For professional sip assistance on the topic of tipples, we called upon Neal Bodenheimer, managing partner of CureCo., the acclaimed group
behind Cure, Cane & Table and VALS. In between running beverage operations at Peychaud’s at The Celestine, and his role as co-chair of the board of directors for Tales of the Cocktail Foundation, he provided his prowess on what to serve your guests, and why each will keep them in a celebratory mood from first drink to last clink.
WELCOME WAGON
French 75
“This cocktail is light, refreshing and elegant, making it a perfect welcome drink for guests arriving at the wedding. The Champagne adds a celebratory touch, while the citrus sets a festive tone.”
1½ ounces (45 ml) Sainte Louise brandy
½ ounce (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
½ ounce (15 ml) simple syrup Sparkling wine
Lemon peel for garnish
Combine the brandy, lemon juice and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker filled with ice and short shake (about ten shakes) so as not to over dilute.
Double strain into a cocktail glass and top with sparkling wine. Express and mount the lemon peel and serve.
DANCE FLOOR DRINK
Promises, Promises
“This vibrant gin-based cocktail, with its lively citrus flavor, is invigorating and fun — just like a good dance party! Plus, it’s clear so no worries about staining your outfit while dancing.”
1½ ounces (45 ml) Plymouth gin
¾ ounce (22.5 ml) Cocchi Americano Rosa Aperitivo vermouth
¼ ounce (7.5 ml) Giffard crème de pamplemousse liqueur
7 drops Bittermens hopped grapefruit bitters
Orange peel, for garnish
Combine all the ingredients except the garnish in a mixing glass filled with ice and stir until chilled. Strain into a double oldfashioned glass filled with ice, garnish with the orange peel and serve.
CAKE CUTTING COCKTAIL
King’s Cobbler “The sweetness of the strawberry balanced by the warmth of the amaro makes the King’s Cobbler a perfect cocktail to toast to a special moment.”
½ strawberry, hulled
2 ounces (60 ml) Zucca Rabarbaro amaro
¾ ounce (22.5 ml) fresh lemon juice
¾ ounce (22.5 ml) Simple Syrup
Strawberry fan, for garnish
Muddle the strawberry in a shaker tin, then add the Zucca, lemon juice and simple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice, shake until chilled and double strain into a double old-fashioned glass filled with crushed ice. Garnish with the strawberry fan and serve.
SECOND LINE SIP
Fancy Sazerac
“This rye cocktail combines classic elements of a New Orleans celebration with a twist. It’s a drink that embodies the festive atmosphere of a second line.”
4 spritzes Herbsaint
2 ounces Sazerac rye
1/4 ounce Demerara syrup (2 parts Demerara sugar, 1 part water)
23 drops (3 dashes) Peychaud’s bitters
Lemon peel, for garnish
Spritz the Herbsaint from an atomizer into the interior of a chilled double old-fashioned glass. Combine the rye, Demerara syrup and bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice and stir to chill. Strain into the prepared double old-fashioned glass, garnish with the lemon peel and serve.
W New OrleansFrench Quarter
Venerable Venues
News from esteemed locales that epitomize the look and feel of a New Orleans wedding.
BY MISTY MILIOTO
THE BARNETT AND MAISON MÉTIER
Now part of the JdV by Hyatt brand, the hotel formerly known as the Ace Hotel New Orleans has been rebranded as The Barnett. The Barnett offers more than 16,000 square feet of flexible event space, from intimate weddings in the Barnett Green Room to grand celebrations in the 4,000-square-foot ballroom, Barnett Hall. Meanwhile, Maison de la Luz also has been rebranded as Maison Métier and is now part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt portfolio. Maison Métier provides an elegant backdrop for weddings and private events with several distinctive spaces, including intimate cocktail receptions in Bar Métier to bridal events in the Breakfast Room or receptions on the spacious mezzanine. The luxurious accommodations and tailored event menus also ensure a memorable and customized experience. Bar Marilou — now named Bar Métier (a name that will soon change) — is a great spot for afternoon tea with the bridal party or even sophisticated bachelor and bachelorette parties. The Barnett and Maison Métier, 600 Carondelet St., 504-900-1180, 546 Carondelet St., 504-814-7720, hyatt.com.
COMMON HOUSE
The newly opened Common House features multiple spaces for private events such as weddings, rehearsal dinners and cocktail receptions. The modern social club, located in the heart of the Warehouse District, is in the space formerly occupied by the Louisiana Children’s Museum and flaunts thoughtful design by Joshua Charles of Joshua Joseph
Interiors. The 20,000-square-foot space features the iconic blue exterior double doors, exposed brick, concrete floors, arched portals and murals commissioned by local artists (such as Brandan “BMIKE” Odums and Tyrell Shaw). Wedding spaces include a restaurant and bar helmed by Chef de Cuisine Sean Rajo; Lilli Hall (which can accommodate up to 200 guests standing); the Remy Room (perfect for a brunch or bridal shower, accommodating 70 seated guests and up to 90 standing); and a long inner courtyard (for up to 250 guests standing). The event venues are open to members and non-members alike and provide all-inclusive services, including in-house catering, full bar services, furniture, audio/ visual equipment and a professional waitstaff. Common House, 420 Julia St., 504-315-2030, commonhouse.com/neworleans
COPPER VINE WINE PUB & INN
Copper Vine Wine Pub & Inn has opened its highly anticipated boutique inn as an extension of the restaurant, and it’s the perfect place for bridal parties to stay during the wedding festivities. Located in the heart of downtown New Orleans on Poydras Street, the inn features 10 lofty guest rooms and a sweeping Terrace Suite (that would also make for an amazing bridal suite). Designed in collaboration with Studio West, which also designed the restaurant, Copper Vine Inn flaunts custom-designed, locally made fabrics and handcrafted furniture from New Orleans-based millworkers as well as bespoke art pieces. Guest rooms also boast floor-toceiling windows adorned with locally made blackout curtains from Pavy,
plush linens and spacious bathrooms with a rainfall shower (some rooms also have an enormous soaking tub that’s suitable for two). Meanwhile, the Terrace Suite — located in what was formerly the attic space of the original 1800s-era building — flaunts exposed brick chimneys, dormer windows transformed into cozy reading nooks, a romantic wet room, a well-stocked kitchenette and a rooftop terrace with gorgeous views of downtown. Of course, Copper Vine Wine Pub also is great spot for bridal luncheons and rehearsal dinners. Copper Vine, 1001 Poydras St., 504-208-9535, coppervine.com
EASY VIRTUE
Easy Virtue, a new restaurant and bar on Fulton Street in the Warehouse District, offers daily brunch, lunch and dinner, plus an extensive whiskey selection. The large private dining room can seat up to 50 guests (so it’s perfect for bridal brunches or rehearsal dinners). Easy Virtue also boasts a large 36-seat central bar that acts as an evening cocktail destination with more than 100 of the most refined bourbons and whiskeys in the city (so bachelor and bachelorette parties also can rejoice). Meanwhile, the bubbly menu offers a selection of Champagne, sparkling wines and Champagne cocktails. When guests are ready to kick it up a notch, they can indulge in the EV Mimosa Party, which includes a bottle of bubbly, assorted juices and fresh berries. And for the coup de grâce, The Room with a Veuve package includes a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne with a hotel room on the side at the adjacent New Orleans Marriott Warehouse Arts District Hotel. Easy Virtue, 878 Fulton St., 504-613-2844, easyvirtue.com
GREENHOUSE WORKSPACE
Greenhouse Workspace is a new venue that offers space for 150 to 200 guests, and it’s a lovely spot for weddings and receptions. Located along the Lafitte Greenway, the coworking and event space is designed to connect occupants to the natural environment thanks to the interior decor by the Inhab Group and live plants provided by Luna Botanicals. The renovated warehouse features more than 10,000 square feet of space with original wooden roof trusses, large steel windows and garage doors retrofitted with glass to allow the sunlight in — all providing a lovely backdrop for wedding photos. Greenhouse Workspace, 4157 St. Louis St., 504-434-2210, greenhouseworkspace.com
GW FINS
Interior designer Christine Diggs recently redesigned the interiors for local beloved restaurant GW Fins, and the gorgeous new space (with a separate private dining room that seats 32) is perfect for bridal luncheons and smaller rehearsal dinners. The new design
Copper Vine Wine Pub & Inn
Sheraton New Orleans Hotel
features wall finishes and textured fabrics in a deep color palette of silver, dark blue and charcoal. Meanwhile, every surface — from chairs and banquettes to walls, ceiling and floors — have been updated to imbue an air of sophistication. A dramatic floor-to-ceiling mural with an image of Louisiana trees and marsh also changes colors as the light reflects through the windows. GW Fins, 808 Bienville St., 504-581-3467, gwfins.com
NEW ORLEANS MARRIOTT
Located on Canal Street at the entrance to the French Quarter, New Orleans Marriott boasts event spaces for bridal showers to large receptions. For example, The Grand Ballroom is the hotel’s largest event space and can accommodate up to 3,100 guests. It can also be broken down into three smaller spaces: Acadia; Bissonet; and Carondelet. Meanwhile, Preservation Hall features 16,000 square feet of versatile space (with room for up to 1,600 guests in reception style), including 10 adaptable studios with a central foyer. The Mardi Gras Ballroom, located on third floor next to the Grand Ballroom, features 10,300 square feet of event space with room for up to 1,100 guests. And with its Marriott Certified Wedding Planners, who each complete demanding coursework, each detail will be exquisitely planned. The new executive chef, Thorsten Leighty, hails from Germany and spent the first 10 years of his career at Michelin-starred restaurants abroad. New Orleans Marriot, 555 Canal St., 504-581-1000, marriott.com
SHERATON NEW ORLEANS HOTEL
For large weddings, consider the Napoleon Room at Sheraton New Orleans Hotel, located on Canal Street. The Napoleon Room is one of the largest New Orleans wedding venues available with seating for up to 2,255 guests. The hotel also features the Armstrong Ballroom, which offers a romantic French Quarter backdrop. The hotel also has Marriott Certified Wedding Planners, so you can be sure to get hitched without a hitch. In addition to New Orleans-style celebrations, Sheraton New Orleans Hotel is experienced in hosting multicultural weddings. The new executive chef, Chandra Swamy, also brings an international flair to wedding cuisine.
VUE ORLEANS
Vue Orleans — located at the Four Seasons Hotel and Private Residences New Orleans — is a one-of-a-kind venue offering a Nola-centric setting for private events like weddings and receptions. Whether you’re inviting 10 or 200 guests, this indoor and outdoor venue offers a multi-level interactive cultural experience (including nine original films and seven interactive exhibits), stunning views from the city’s only rooftop 360-degree panoramic observation deck and personalized service. Vue Orleans, 2 Canal St., 504-285-3600, vueorleans.com
W NEW ORLEANS – FRENCH QUARTER
Wedding parties looking for an authentic New Orleans experience can book rooms at the newly redesigned W New Orleans – French Quarter. The hotel, located on Chartres Street in the heart of the French Quarter, has unveiled a multimillion-dollar renovation to its 97 guest rooms and carriage houses with an eye on sophisticated, detail-driven design. Led by Canadian design firm Chapi Chapo Design, the renovation spotlights New Orleans’ world-famous bayous through intricate textures and soothing tones. For example, the guest rooms feature a bold navy backdrop with French-style wall moldings that distinguish the bedroom from the seating area. Meanwhile, touches of Sazerac orange (the official spirit of New Orleans) are present throughout. The rooms also boast Spanish moss-inspired light sconces; custom-made floor lamps that project a backlit visual of a bayou canopy onto the ceiling; marble coffee tables; gold hardware; framed black-and-white line drawings of jazz singers; and mini bars reminiscent of a treasure chest (as an homage to the French pirate, Jean Lafitte). Meanwhile, the gorgeous courtyard presents a lovely backdrop for wedding ceremonies, and the hotel’s restaurant, 3rd Block Depot, is available for bridal luncheons and rehearsal dinners. W New Orleans – French Quarter, 316 Chartres St., 504-581-1200, marriott.com b
Sheraton Hotel New Orleans, 500 Canal St., 504-525-2500, marriott.com
The Barnett and Maison Métier
Photo Op Do’s and Don’ts
Tips for capturing lasting memories in the Instagram era
BY MELANIE WARNER SPENCER
Picture it: You and your betrothed are surrounded by loved ones amid the elegant ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian monastery in Leeds, England. It’s time to exchange rings and a majestic barn owl swoops in from the rooftops to deliver the wedding bands. Or that was the plan. According to reports from the real 2024 wedding Juno, the owl, took off for seven hours. Thankfully, Juno eventually returned to its handler and the rings were recovered. The Instagram era has brought endless photo ops ideas, some of which are at best ill-advised (like an owl ring bearer) and at worst, dangerous. For this issue of New Orleans Bride, we’ve asked local photographers to share some of their favorite shots that are not only Insta-worthy but also a timeless addition to your home or keepsake album. While it’s tempting to lean exclusively into creative candids and photojournalistic-style documentation of your big day, it’s important to include the classics, such as close-ups of hand-holding and meaningful glances or group shots of the new spouses with siblings and other immediate family. Pharmacist-turned-photographer Dr. Devonte Williford of Rare Sighting Photography (raresightingphotography.com) is known for his candids but starts out by sharing that formal photos are the most requested
for prints. “We need to make sure we have some of the good stuff to put on mom and dad’s fridge,” Williford says. “What typically makes it to the highlight reels on Facebook and Instagram versus what’s in the homes is very different. They preserve that legacy.”
Making time for the classics doesn’t mean there isn’t room for fun, however, and Williford seeks those moments throughout the engagement sessions and on a couple’s wedding day. One couple who married at the Renaissance New Orleans Arts Warehouse District Hotel walked to the nearby District bar after their “first look.” There, Williford took photos of them sharing a basket of fries. One bride getting married at Tomas Bistro set off with Williford across the street to New Orleans Social House. “They have this photo op area; it’s this huge white bathtub, and she just got in there,” says Williford.
The Eliza Jane and Louis Armstong Park are also favorite haunts. Williford likes the latter because it’s on the edge of the French Quarter and he can take couples to The Will & The Way for drinks and cozy shots of them on the bar’s vibrant mustard-hued sofa.
Casey McMurray didn’t want to follow in her photographer mother’s
Casey McMurray Photography
Is Rad
footsteps, so she pursued acting for 10 years. After resisting it for a few years, McMurray began taking portraits and eventually started shooting weddings under her eponymous moniker (caseymcmurray.com). Telling a couple’s love story is McMurray’s favorite aspect of her work. Time in front of the camera as an actor helped McMurray hone her skills in composition and lighting, tapping into the most flattering poses and learning to read people. Zeroing in on the couple’s story and key moments in their relationship often provides potential locations for engagement sessions, for example where they met or a favorite place to go for date night. McMurray cites the cocktail bar Cure, City Park Conservancy and, of course, the French Quarter, as some of her go-to locales. Second lines rank high in McMurray’s photo op list, and she recommends that couples who plan one opt for a daytime wedding. Rare Sighting Photography
“I think it’s very European, very chic,” McMurray says. “You can have two exits. So, if it’s daylight still you can exit your ceremony venue and then second line [to the reception]. It’s better during the day because then you get to highlight the colors of the French Quarter, as opposed to at night.”
A former commercial photographer, Sandra O’Claire of Eue Claire Photographics (eauclairephotographics.com) has a Master of Fine Arts in Film and has been shooting weddings since high school. O’Claire says she shoots a lot of engagement sessions in the French Quarter, but it’s becoming more common to do “after” shoots. This is where, after the honeymoon, the couple dons their wedding finery and sets out for another session. It’s a chance to relax and let loose without the constraints of the wedding day. “You don’t have to worry about getting the dress dirty,” O’Claire says. “You can take some really good, fun photos we can’t do during weddings.” Streetcar photos are at the top of her photo op request list, so O’Claire says she will take couples to Carrollton and Claiborne where the streetcars meet, slip the driver a tip and get that perfect, romantic shot.
Ollie Alexander started as an editorial, fashion and product photographer, but weddings became his true passion, and his company Love is Rad was born (loveisrad. com). To find his photo op locales, Alexander asks couples where they usually spend their days off together. This leads to places such as Hansen’s Sno-Bliz and Parkway Bakery & Tavern. “My goal is to feel like I’m thirdwheeling it,” Alexander says. “I find this always puts couples at ease and the photos are unique to their life and story together.”
All the photographers we spoke with have ways to draw out the best in even the most reserved or shy couples and individuals. Their unique tricks of the trade are where the magic happens, so it’s important to put your trust in the photographer and focus on being present with the person you are committing to. That doesn’t mean people don’t still show up for wedding day photos with feelings of obligation. Which is entirely normal. Alexander’s remedy for the problem is to remind couples there are no rules. “You don’t have to do things because that’s the way they’ve always been done,” Alexander says. Does a three-tiered white cake really sound better than a giant cookie cake? Throw a talent show at your reception, get married in the street outside your house with all your friends standing around in Mardi Gras costumes, walk down the aisle in a denim gown.”
Perhaps the best photo ops are those in which the couple dares to have fun — wildlife not required. b
PHOTO OP DONT’S
Just because you can, that doesn’t mean you should, so here are a few photo ops our experts cautioned against. Incorporating wildlife as ring bearers, or otherwise.
Dangling your feet in a body of water, because gators.
Champagne sprays with red or pink varietals to avoid staining clothing.
Sparkler exits at the end of the night or any other activity that puts fire in the hands of tipsy guests.
PHOTO MAGIC
Instagram-trending photo ops might seem like a good idea, but they can quickly become dated or wreak havoc.
CONTACTS
Rare Sightings
Photography
504-457-1694
drw@raresightingphotography.com
Casey McMurray
Photography 504-261-5457
hello@caseymcmurray. com
Eau Claire
Photographics 504-432-7879
SandraOClaire@ eauphoto.com
Love is Rad 985-705-6546 hello@loveisrad.com
Love
Good Vibrations
During a New Orleans wedding, the music is as important as the food and drink, so we’ve asked local experts how to create musical moments you and your guests will never forget.
BY MELANIE WARNER SPENCER
Deciding on the music for your wedding festivities in a city steeped in music can be, at best, daunting and, at worst, paralyzing. When should you start planning the music? Should you go with a DJ or band? Do guests expect music at celebrations other than the walk down the aisle and the reception? How much should you tip the band? Will the DJ and musicians need to be included in the catering headcount? There are so many questions and not all the answers are clear-cut, so we consulted a few of New Orleans’ top wedding and event planners to demystify the process.
While booking your planner, venue and photographer are typically the first items of business on a couple’s wedding planning to-do list, our experts listed music vendors in the same timeline. Belinda Belk of Blue Gardenia Events says some of her clients even plan the wedding date based on their favorite band’s availability.
“We have so many great bands in this town, but there are a top few bands that understand the wedding format and what sets our top wedding bands apart is they know how to work that wedding group crowd,” says Belk.
These are the bands that know how to read the audience and keep the dance floor packed.
The exception to this rule is soloists or other ceremony musicians, which Belk says can be booked as late as six months before the wedding.
“You want to kind of have a good flow and arc of music, so [ceremony music] sometimes doesn’t come together until a bit more into the planning process,” says Belk. “You want to see how everything’s coming together and then you can focus on what’s going to fit best in your venue.”
If you and your betrothed have your hearts set on a specific group, another crucial reason to focus on the band before the venue is something most of us likely wouldn’t consider — logistics.
“It should be a discussion initially as you are
choosing your venue as the two go hand in hand,” says Susan Zackin of Z Event Company. “You would not want to hire a large band and not be able to fit them into the venue you select.”
In the past, after becoming engaged, couples would at most have an engagement party, a few showers, a rehearsal dinner, the ceremony and a reception, but these days weddings are more of a weekend to week-long event. Hiring vendors is the heaviest lift in the wedding planning process and event planners field hundreds of exchanges a week for months in advance to book and communicate with the myriad businesses that have to come together to create even the most paired back wedding weekend. While more challenging and costly to plan, the rise of the wedding weekend does present additional opportunities to incorporate music into your festivities.
“Music plays a big part in setting the tone for the wedding,” says Anissa Coleman of Elegance by Ace. Coleman suggests that couples start working on their music list early as well, which means getting the vendor’s playlist and suggestions. “This will help ensure that their music preferences are aligned and that any special songs or genres are included.”
There’s no better place to set the tone for the weekend than the welcome party and there are so many ways to let your guests know they are in for something special.
“You could lean into the New Orleans jazz or gypsy jazz vibe, which has more of a French flair,” says Belk, who often suggests Zydeco, too. “It’s your moment to give them a little bit more of a wow factor and do something unexpected.”
Most of us expect to hear music during the ceremony and reception of course. But there’s no rule about what these musical moments have to look like and there are so many more options than a traditional soloist or string quartet. For example, Zackin says she has hired gospel choirs to perform at rehearsal dinners and Sunday brunches. Belk says she once booked an opera singer to perform in the middle of the room at Hotel Peter & Paul as guests flowed into the decommissioned Church. Coleman likes to work with Kinfolk Brass Band for second line parades to bring an authentic New Orleans vibe.
“Maybe during cocktail hour you have someone like T. Ray the violinist or another electric violinist that kind of amps up the energy after the ceremony and gives people just a taste of something a little different,” says Belk. “Another fun element is what’s called a towering violinist. [The musician] is on a 15-foot platform with skirts that flow down to the ground.”
Last but not least, it’s essential to include not only tips for musical entertainment (anywhere from 18 to 20 percent of their fee or from $25 to $200 per band member), but also food and beverage in your wedding budget. Performers can technically be included in your catering headcount, but our experts suggested a separate meal for performers because they aren’t generally eating at the same time as guests. Also, performers often have riders with specific requests. Your event planner will navigate these agreements and ensure that dietary and other contract needs are met.
New Orleans has such a vast network of potential entertainment vendors it can be overwhelming to even know where to begin. Add to that navigating contracts and logistics such as a band’s load in or the AV requirements for the DJ. As Zackin says, “There is much more to just ‘hiring a band or a DJ for a wedding.” But with the right foresight, planning and event professionals, your wedding festivities will be as infused with memorable music as the city itself. b
Getting There
A handy guide to New Orleans’ many options to get you and your guests to and from the wedding.
Don’t stress about how you’re going to make it to your wedding. With so many options for couples in New Orleans — whether you want to make it to your ceremony by land, air or sea — you can arrive in style. Each choice has its own charm and beauty and can be tailored to your wedding ceremony, so all you have to do is enjoy the ride.
HORSE AND CARRIAGE
The classic New Orleans mode of wedding transportation, the horse and carriage, is the image of wedded bliss. Enter your ceremony as if you are in your own personal fairy tale. Royal Carriages has been a New Orleans institution since 1941 and provides several options to its guests. neworleanscarriages.com
STREETCAR
Seat 40 to 52 of your guests in a classic New Orleans streetcar by chartering one from the city. You can create your own route, bring food and non-alcoholic drinks onto the streetcar and decorate it to your heart’s content. It’s a mode of transportation steeped in history but customizable to your goals. norta.com/help-and-contacts/ business-information/streetcar-charters
LIMO
They’re ubiquitous to weddings for a reason — the luxury and comfort of a limo is tough to beat. Sip champagne and settle into the rich leather interior while a chauffeur gets you to your destination in style. americanluxury.com, bonolimo. com, limolivery.com
ROLLS ROYCE
A classic Rolls Royce or antique Bentley exudes vintage luxury and style and allows you to transcend time. Arrive at your wedding in true elegance and enjoy the plush leather seating while sipping champagne in VIP Transportation’s antique motorcars. viptransportationinc.net, alerttransportation.com
PEDICAB
Whether it’s your main means of transportation for your ceremony, a bachelor or bachelorette party visit to the French Quarter or you put a coupon for a free ride in your wedding gift bag, these chauffeur-driven bicycles provide a fun means to explore the city and offer a quick getaway when necessary. needaridenola.com, neworleansbiketaxi.com
MOTORCYCLE OR SCOOTER
Get a fleet of motorcycles or scooters to carry you, your beloved and your guests to your wedding. Pick between classic Harleys or BMWs on the motorcycle side or hop on a Genuine Buddy scooter with your pals and fly through the streets. avenuescooters.com, eaglerider.com/neworleans
TANDEM BIKE
Prove your commitment to fun, whimsy and teamwork by renting bikes on your Big Day. The American Bicycle Rental Company gets its bicycles made specifically for the wear and tear of the Big Easy’s streets, so that the beginning of your marriage isn’t too bumpy. bikerentalneworleans.com
PARTY BUS
Why not rent a party bus? Champagne chillers, accent and fiber optic lighting, flat-screen TVs, a mirrored ceiling and a dancing pole — gasp! — are a few of the amenities. The buses range in size, running up to 28-passenger limits, and Royal Coach will meet all of your specifications. myroyalcoach.com, nopartybus.com
GONDOLA – CITY PARK
If you’re near City Park for your wedding, a gondola ride is a must. Glide through the smooth waters of the park and have a private, relaxing moment with your new partner in life and love. If you want to bring guests, the boat carries up to six. nolagondola.com
YACHT
Charter a yacht and party all the way to the altar. Watch the sun set and enjoy balmy breezes as you float through the waters of Lake Pontchartrain. If you’re up to it, have the captain of the ship officiate the wedding. The options are endless when luxury is your focus. neworleansyacht.com
TROLLEY
Don’t worry, you can still ride off into the sunset in a classic Crescent City trolley even if your wedding isn’t on one of the town’s main streetcar lines. Limousine Livery provides refurbished streetcars free of both cable restraints and tourists. What’s more, the renovated vehicle’s cushioned seats offer a little more luxury than the city’s current hardwood offerings, so you can cozy up and cool off next to your new spouse. limolivery.com b
sBride: Estelle Cheslert
Groom:Trevor Cheslert
Date: November 18, 2023 Ceremony
Location: New Orleans
Pharmacy Museum
Reception Location:
Omni Royal Orleans
Hotel Photographer:
Alicia Lucia Photography Coordinator:
Uncommon Camellia
Bridal Gown: Watters
Florist: Fat Cat Flowers
Caterer: Omni Royal
Orleans Hotel Cake: Jenny’s Cake Creations
Videographer: Alicia
Lucia Photography Hair and Makeup: Angele
Pringle Beauty Music: Kinfolk Brass Band
Invitation and Signage: Spanish Moss Creative
Bride: Sydney McDaniel
Groom: Francisco
Anaya Date: May 5, 2024
Ceremony Location: St. Joseph Church
Reception Location: Il
Mercato Photographer: Laura Shepherd Images
Coordinator: Tatiana Czerwiak of Vine & Branch Events Bridal Gown: “Diana” by Netta BenShabu purchased at Jaxon James Couture
Bridal Bridesmaids’
Dresses: Jasmine
Halter Maxi Dress in the color “Show Me The Ring Luxe Satin” by Show Me Your Mumu
Men’s Attire: Groom’s tux: custom by Ivan Martinez; Groomsmen: SuitShop; Shoes: Vagary
Worldwide Rings:
sMSK Design Florist: Poppy Flowers Caterer:
Joel Catering Cake: Bittersweet Confections
Videographer Circle Dot
Weddings Hair: Christina
Michelle Makeup: Shay
M Makeup Artistry Music
DJ Jayfourtea Other
Entertainment: Kinfolk
Brass Band Getting Ready and First Look
Location: Soulet Muse
Content Creator: Chloe
Leblanc of Captured by Chloe Signage: Made & True Save the Dates: Minted Invitation Suite:
MadPie Designs Photo Booth: Boogie Booth
Rentals: Lovegood
Wedding & Event
Rentals Transportation:
Royal Coach Limousine
Bride’s Second Look: Madela Bridal
Submit your wedding for our magazine! CHECK
OUT HOW....
To be considered as a featured local wedding in New Orleans Bride magazine, email a download link or zip file with high-resolution photographs and a word document of the detail listed below. If you are selected you agree to be published in the pages of New Orleans Bride, as well as on our related websites and blogs. Below is a helpful checklist to ensure that you have included all of the correct materials.
___ Please include five other photos of your choice
* Please send at least 10-15 photographs and Word document of your vendors
HOW TO SEND
Please email a download link or zip file of photos and Word document to tiffani@myneworleans.com
Subject line: Real Wedding Submission ONLY DOWNLOAD LINKS AND ZIP FILES WILL BE ACCEPTED. DO NOT SEND INDIVIDUAL FILES.
HOW WE CHOOSE
New Orleans Bride Magazine reserves the right to choose the wedding and the issue in which it will be featured. Submissions are not guaranteed to be published. The bride, groom and photographer must give permission to use the photographs and information of the submitted wedding.
Fit for Royalty
Honeymoon Like Kings and Queens in a Swanky Castle Hotel
BY BECCA HENSLEY
You could follow the royals to exotic honeymoon destinations around the world from Hawaii to the Seychelles. Or you could just choose to spend your post-wedding idleness in a real castle, channeling your inner regal nobility. Here are some of our favorite castle and palace hotels, ideal for being pampered like the sovereign couple you are — jousters, moats and jesters may or may not be part of the package, but dreams fulfilled are guaranteed.
CHÂTEAU LOUISE DE LA VALLIÈRE
LOIRE VALLEY, FRANCE
Nothing says fairytale like a 16th-century storybook castle in France’s storied Loire Valley, where bygone Parisian nobility escaped the city for bucolic honeymoons and repose. Château Louise de La Vallière, part of the Relais & Chateaux collection, snuggles into a forest amongst winelands near Amboise. With just 20 rooms and suites, the hotel delves into its
past with staff wearing period dress and décor summoning the ornate pomp of former times. Embracing a 47-acre park, the retreat has a spa and gastronomic restaurant, but couples may find themselves most fixated by the grandeur of their Grand Boudoir, one of the peerless rooms ideal for honeymooners, chateaulouise.com
ANANTARA NEW YORK PALACE HOTEL BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Like the most pampered royalty, you’ll celebrate your nuptials nibbling 24-carat-gold cakes and sipping coffee at Anantara New York Palace Hotel, Budapest’s elegant New York Café, the favoured salon for the city’s poets and artists for more than a century. Minutes from the storied Danube River, this luxurious palace on glitzy Erzsébet Körút Boulevard evokes the imperial era as a Belle Époque architectural marvel. Columns, chandeliers, ornate carvings, marble galore — even a courtly watchtower — set an
Château Louise de La Vallière
aristocratic scene suited for the new dynasty you’ve created together. Book the Ruby Presidential Suite, an elaborate sanctum, kitted out in red hues — there’s even a red Murano glass chandelier, anantara.com
PESTANA PALÁCIO DO FREIXO, A LEADING HOTEL OF THE WORLD PORTO, PORTUGAL
Buzzy Porto, as densely redolent with cultural flavor as its famous wine (port, of course) lies on the Douro River in northern Portugal. These days a favorite port for river cruises and hotspot for oenophiles, it offers up a slew of uber modern boutique hotels. But, those enamoured with flamboyance and extravagance can revel in regal romance at Pestana Palácio do Freixo, a restored Baroque palace, replete with a Versailles-like Hall of Mirrors, on the banks of the river, a short drive from the city center. Book the Suite Nicolau Nasoni, which features an enormous deck above the water, lhw.com
ASHFORD CASTLE
COUNTY MAYO, CONG IRELAND
The sort of place you expect to see knights in armour, court jesters juggling and perhaps a hidden dungeon or two, Ashford Castle boasts
Rapunzel-esque towers, sturdy stone ramparts and crenelations aplenty. A 13th-century castle that once housed the Guinness family, the lavishly restored, five-star castle hotel lords over Lough Corrib, anchoring a massive, wooded estate. Be peers of the realm as you explore the posh fortress, a bastion of Irish history. Go falconing, fishing, ride horses or relax in the spa, then retreat to your suite, one of Ashford Castle’s exceptional staterooms. Note: Consider booking with Brendan Vacations, an outfitter who can organize an entire itinerary of castle stays in Ireland and Scotland, ashfordcastle.com, brendanvacations.com
SCHLOSS ELMAU
BAVARIAN ALPS, GERMANY
Don’t be surprised if you see a unicorn galloping amid the countryside that surrounds lofty Schloss Elmau. In a realm that brims with mountain peaks, forests, glimmering lakes and meadows of wildflowers in season, this stately castle hotel beckons. A snow sport paradise in winter, a hiker’s dream in summer, the resort caters to wellness buffs all year offering six separate pampering spas. Fit for kings and queens, the junior suite with balcony is as priceless as the crown jewels, schloss-elmau.de/en. b
Schloss Elmau
Anantara New York Palace Hotel Budapest
Ashford Castle
Bejeweled Brides
Mignon Faget’s Legacy Collection
BY MISTY MILIOTO
Whether for the bride herself, or as gifts for her bridesmaids, Mignon Faget’s new Legacy Collection is a beauty to behold. Inspired by classic shapes the brand has come to be known for (such as architectural and natural forms), the collection also features sleek, futuristic curves in modern designs. In 2025, Mignon Faget is celebrating its 55th anniversary, and the Legacy Collection highlights the jewelry house’s classic designs crafted over the last half century. For example, the collection tells a story of passing down authentic
heritage in a global culture and is reminiscent of previous Mignon Faget pieces (calling to mind ironworks and the Renaissance). Pieces in the collection include necklaces, bracelets, earrings, cuffs and rings in sterling silver and 14K gold. Perfect Mignon Faget pieces for the bride include the intricately detailed Renaissance ring and the Jasmine Flower Chain Choker. Meanwhile, lovely gifts for bridesmaids include the Hive Jeweled Narrow Cuff and the Legacy Era Ear Cuff. Mignon Faget, 3801 Magazine St., 504-891-2005, mignonfaget.com b
