Louisiana Weddings

This wedding will leave you breathless, speechless, and with your jaw on the floor. I pinky promise. A true New Orleans wedding, the soiree took place in the heart of The French Quarter, and today I am convinced that there is nothing prettier than a stunning bride in a gorgeous Monique Lhuillier gown, hand in hand with her brand new, and black tie-clad, husband in The Big Easy. Or so Wayne and Angela‘s cameras have led me to believe. Promise me you’ll save a few moments this afternoon for the gallery and I promise you you will be in complete awe.

From Wayne and Angela … When Melissa and Ali, two New York City lawyers, began to plan their wedding, there was no better place to tie the knot than Melissa’s beautiful hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana. They selected a ceremony site located in the heart of the ever-so-colorful French Quarter—the Hermann-Grima House—a historic museum featuring traditional New Orleans architecture and a cozy garden courtyard where this happy couple would exchange their vows. Since so many of their guests were traveling in from all over the world, Melissa and Ali planned a lot of small details to give everyone a true New Orleans experience. For one, they honored the birth place of jazz and hired a local jazz band to set the mood during their ceremony. They even served beignets for dessert that evening!

The bride looked stunning in a classic Monique Lhuillier lace gown and fine pearls; a Swarovski-embellished veil was the cherry on top of a effortlessly beautiful look. But more than looking picture-perfect on her wedding day was how happy both Melissa and Ali looked when they saw each other for the first time before the ceremony! Even their bridesmaids couldn’t help but get a little teary-eyed.

As first-timers to the French Quarter, there was no doubt it would become one of our favorite places to visit. Pastel-colored buildings painted the streets with soft greens, peachy corals and heather blue. It was such a dreamy backdrop for their wedding portraits—full of history and timelessly romantic. As Melissa and Ali walked hand-in-hand down the weathered streets as newly weds, we were certain this would be the beginning of a beautiful journey together.

Photography: Wayne and Angela / Ceremony Venue: Hermann-Grima House / Reception Venue: Windsor Court Hotel / Dress Designer: Monique Lhuillier / Shoes: Kate Spade / Bridesmaids Dresses: Jenny Yoo / Florist: Fat Cat Flowers / Cake: Sucre / DJ + Emcee: Dr. Jazz + Rock-It Productions / Event Planner + Coordinator: Get Polished Events / Make up + Hair: Get Polished Beauty / Invitations: Bella Figura

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Bridesmaid

Jenny Yoo

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There is a serious Terrell House party about to happen on your screen.  The bride is every bit the guest of honor of this 20’s inspired New Orleans bash in a shimmering Jenny Packham sheath. Fancy as this couple looks on the big day, their first date took place at a hot dog stand (an upscale one, of course, as the groom would interject right about now).  Tory Williams for Kristy May captured the colorful Great Gatsby meets Mardi Gras celebration, so it’s time to grab a mask on a stick and peep through those holes at the big easy on the eyes entire gallery!

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From the bride… Alex and I were both transplants living in Los Angeles — he in the radio industry and I am a footwear designer — looking for love, but we had no idea we would actually find our soul mates. On our first date, he asked me out and took me to a hot dog stand (he insists it was a classy hot dog stand!), and I knew from that day that he was the one. Not too many months later, we decided to change our lives, take a leap of faith and move across the country to North Carolina to start our life together. He proposed on the front steps of our little southern bungalow, and we let the planning begin!

I have always loved the 1920’s era for its music, glamour and sense of free spiritedness, so when it came time to look for inspiration, I knew my hometown would be the perfect setting for a modern “Great Gatsby” themed soiree. My mother and I searched for the perfect New Orleans courtyard and found it in the Garden District’s Terrell House. Its lush greenery, romantic fountain and grand guest houses made perfect place welcome our family in friends and to create a magical evening with a nod to the past.

On Friday, Alex’s parents carried the theme and hosted our reherarsal dinner at John Besh’s Domenica Restaurant inside the Roosevelt Hotel. The grand columns, gilt accents and art-deco elegance was the perfect complement to the modern Italian fare the guests dined on. One of our favorite memories of the evening happened when all of the chefs and staff cheered as we were escorted to our private dining room — through the kitchen! So many of our guests had never visited our beloved city, so we especially wanted to give them a quintessential New Orleans experience, sharing our love of food, music and community. As we planned the big day, these elements were the keystones. For food, the Terrell House proprieter, Linda O’Brien, created a classic creole-cajun menu, including jumbalaya, crab bisque and cajun fried turkey on french bread. For music, the Brent Rose Trio played rag time and jazz classics throughout the night with a surprise appearance from the Young Pinstripes Brass Band and Mardi Gras Indians who led the second-line parade (traditional New Orleans parade). Our family and friends flew in from literally all over the U.S. and as far as Paris. To get guests mingling Alex and I created a grapefruit Tom Collins to sip on, and Kristy May Photography and Tory Williams set up a photo booth and encouraged the guests to don the Mardi Gras themed props. Together, being surrounded by all of our loved ones in our favorite city, it just doesn’t get any better. Laissez les bons temps rouler!

Wedding Photography: Tory Williams for Kristy May / Wedding Venue: Terrell House in New Orleans, Louisiana / Floral Design + Catering: Linda O’Brien of Terrell House / Wedding Cake + Groom’s “New Jersey” Cake: Swiss Confectionery / Cake Pops + Candy Bar: Queen of Pops / Brass Band: Young PinStripe Brass Band / Jazz: Brent Rose Trio + Mardi Gras Indians / Wedding Invitations, Hand-Drawn Map, Monogram, Save-the-Dates, Guest Book, Candle Favors with Custom Match Books: PAPER+SNOW / Fabric Poms, Table Runners, Custom Handkerchiefs for the Second Line Parade, Candy Bags for the Candy Bar, Second Line Umbrellas, Antique Teacup Collecting: The Bride’s Mother / Wedding Dress: Jenny Packham / Bride’s Stole: Vintage / Bride’s Shoes: Seychelles / Bride’s Jewelry: Borrowed from the Groom’s Mother / Bridesmaids’ Robes: Plum Pretty Sugar / Groom’s Suit: J.Crew

I might need help with this wedding. Every time I sit down to introduce it, my mind starts swirling in a pretty New Orleans-induced haze, filled with beautiful cotton bouquets, stunning historic churches, big brass bands, cookies and milk, soft candlelight, natural (and gorgeous) decor elements… You see, this is the problem. The images from Maile Lani Photography set my soiree-adoring mind swimming in romantic Southern details, and not a coherent word is to be found! I simply must leave you with the gallery, so I’m not the only one muttering about the gorgeous that is this wedding.

Click here to see the rest in the gallery!

When people ask me about our wedding the one word that comes to mind is “perfect.” From the moment I was engaged (and let’s be real even before we were engaged) I had a picture in my head of what this day would be like. We knew from the beginning that we wanted to do most of the planning ourselves. I’m a theatre director and Marcus is a lighting and sound technician/designer. We really wanted our wedding celebration to be a big party with all of our friends and family. For as long as I can remember I’ve wanted to be married on New Year’s Eve. That wasn’t an option at our church so December 30th it was.

We are the eighth generation on my mother’s side of the family to be married in St. Michael’s Church. I grew up attending this church with my grandmother and have so many fond memories in this beautiful wood and marble structure. Once we decided to have the wedding here everything else started to fall in place. Poche Plantation is gorgeous and located right next door to St. Michael’s Church. The bridesmaids and I stayed here the night before the wedding. It’s also where Marcus and I had our “first look.”

Behind the church is a great big empty parish hall that we were able to transform into anything we wish. We’ve always loved the outdoors and all things Southern. Somewhere early in my planning, I came across a blog post about using cotton in place of flowers. I instantly fell in love with the idea for our December wedding. It reminded me of snow (something I knew we would be very unlikely to get for a December wedding in Louisiana). My mother started phoning Louisiana cotton farmers until she got a very nice lady on the phone at Young and Young Cotton Farms. Her name was Dorothy and she was incredible. She informed us that we only had a week or two left in the cotton season and if we wanted to come pick cotton that we needed to come that weekend. So my mother, godmother and I drove up to Wisner, LA the following weekend for a cotton-picking expedition. Being in that cotton field was one of the most amazing moments of my life. It was so beautiful and Dorothy taught me so much about cotton!

I love natural materials and neutral colors so burlap seemed like an obvious choice to accompany our white cotton theme. Marcus and I met in New Orleans at college and we spent a lot of time in Audubon Park among the oak trees. So when I started looking for wedding invitations a tree theme emerged. Being the DIY girl that I am I decided to design and print my invitations. My friend and co-worker who is a wonderful graphic designer stepped in and helped me finish them up so we could mail them before the wedding date passed us up!

I’m allergic to milk so I didn’t want to have a traditional wedding cake. I love oreo cookies (they are vegan!) and saw the idea of oreo’s stacked in the shape of a cake on Martha Stewart – it seemed like a perfect choice for me. We had a “milk bar” to accompany the oreo cookie “cake.” We offered almond, soy and cow’s milk in repurposed Starbucks frappuccinos bottles. I’m a teacher and collected the bottles from my students then my dad used his sand blaster to engrave “MILK” on each bottle. My mother really wanted me to have an actual wedding cake so she agreed to bake one for me dairy free. She is an amazing baker (and cook!) and actually ended up baking cup cakes and other goodies for the desert table.

We truly did everything ourselves and only hired people to cater and provide music. We called in a lot of favors from our family and friends! All of Marcus’ work friends donated their time to hang the truss and lights for the space. I’m born and raised in New Orleans, so we hired The Pinettes, the only female brass band, to play for our reception. They were waiting for us outside of the church and we second lined with our entire wedding party and guests into the reception hall. The party started right away! We wanted this to be a celebration of our love for each other and all of our friends and family who have been with us along the way.

We ended the night by releasing Chinese Lanterns into the sky. It was such a beautiful moment to be standing on the levee with all my family and friends watching the sky light up with our lanterns. It was the perfect ending to a perfect night.

Photography: Maile Lani Photography / Wedding Dress: Pronovias from Bustles and Bows / Shoes: TOMS / Grooms Suit: Rubensteins / Bridesmaids Dresses: Amsale from Wedding Belles / Hair piece: Created by Bride / Hair: Mandy Pembo, Shear Fun / Groom’s Cake: May May Cakes / Entertainment: Pinettes Brass Band / Wedding Coordinator: Cindy Pembo / Lighting & Production Management: SM Entertainment Consulting / Ceremony: St. Michael’s Church

With Valentine’s Day less than a week away – and the excitement building – we figured it was about time to show off one of our favorite LBB Jewelers, because, as she says, I’ve never met a woman who doesn’t like jewelry! dejarnette new orleans is a boutique jewelry designer out of – you guessed it – New Orleans and we can’t get enough of her dainty detailed pieces. So we asked her to sit down and answer a few questions we were dying to know. Don’t forget about dejarnette new orleans’ portfolio where you can get the lowdown on this talented lady!

How did your passion for jewelry grow into dejarnette new orleans?

dejarnette new orleans is the name of my company (dejarnette is my middle name). I design and create handmade jewelry. I’ve been designing jewelry for myself and close friends for many years. I began selling my pieces at local boutiques in 2004. I then decided to launch a website and offer my jewelry to those outside of the New Orleans area in May 2006.

What kinds of pieces do you just love?

I love super girly pieces with a little bit of quirky. I get so excited when I find unusual vintage bits or things that I can transform into a necklace -everything from vintage mardi gras doubloons to antique hardware to delicate lace. I love being able to throw on some jeans and a t-shirt and add a statement piece of jewelry to make my outfit special.

What is your favorite part of a wedding?

For my wedding it was the ceremony. I walked up the aisle with my Mom and Dad and the aisle was lined with candlelit lanterns. To see all of my family and friends as I walked down the aisle and then see my handsome groom was a magical moment. When I’m a guest at a wedding, I appreciate all of the little details. I know first hand the time and effort that is involved in each and every aspect of the planning process.

Does the city of New Orleans every influence your work ?

Absolutely! Mardi Gras is just around the corner, which is my favorite time of the year in New Orleans. The costumes, floats, themes – it is unbelievable the intricate details involved in every aspect of this holiday.

What advice to you have for brides & grooms to be?

To relax, have fun, and enjoy your special day-it goes by so quickly!

How about any advice for our readers with Valentines day just around the corner?

I’ve never met a woman who doesn’t like jewelry!

Jewelry: dejarnette new orleans / Photography: Jennifer Zdon, Twirl Photography + Elizabeth Ray Photography + dejarnette new orleans

This couple had their dream wedding, thanks to winning the big prize from Crate & Barrel’s Ultimate Wedding Contest. And to be completely honest, it is my dream wedding too. And I’m betting more than a few of you might have visions of this soiree dancing through your head tonight. It is filled with so many romantic, classic New Orleans touches I seriously need someone to come through this screen and pinch me. Docuvitae has provided us with SO much eye candy, sweet as molasses, from the day that we had to fill up a great, big gallery for your viewing pleasure!

Thanks to my orange shoes, a beautiful love story, the support family and friends, and a whole lot of luck, we were the 2011 grand prize winners of the Crate & Barrel Ultimate Wedding Contest. The contest enabled us to have our dream wedding in New Orleans, Louisiana. In mid-2011, we relocated to Beijing, China and our guest list spanned 41 states and seven countries. We wanted to give our guests a destination wedding in America that had a unique local flavor, worthy of at least a weekend visit. There is no better place to host a celebration than the French Quarter in the Big Easy, and our wedding mantra was “laissez bon temps rouler” (let the good times roll). Julie Gibson, founder of Studio Grace, designed our save the date and passport like-invitations that reflected both NOLA and our ever-traveling careers.

Romantic, old New Orleans was brought to life thanks to Yifat Oren & Associates, our wedding planner, courtesy of Crate & Barrel. Stefanie Cove, Managing Partner, was with us every step of the way to choose the best local vendors (neither Michael or I are from NOLA) that would bring the vision of Southern charm, cajun comfort, and French elegance to life. Laura Kleinhenz of Docuvitae, our photographers, captured each moment in their authentic photojournalist style. They produced images that were more than just photographs – they were art! Welliver productions shot our wedding video and stayed with us throughout the entire evening.

The day began at the Aveda Paris Parker Salon where the bridesmaids, mothers of the bride and groom, and me had our hair and makeup done. The stylists and artists treated us like old friends, did beautiful work, and gave us a relaxing morning. We returned to our hotel to change; the bridesmaids wore long, ivory Two Birds Convertible Dresses (purchased from Bella Bridesmaid DC), which gave them fifteen different ways to wear their dress. The thick, high-quality jersey fabric was comfortable to wear all day and photographed beautifully. I wore two dresses: for the ceremony, a Pronovias lace gown and for the dinner and at the reception a silk with tulle overlay gown by Vera Wang. I purchased the Vera Wang dress from the most lovely Bridal Boutique I had ever been to: Mimi NOLA. Gail and Mimi, two of NOLA’s finest ladies assisted me and theirs is the only VW bridal boutique in New Orleans. They gave us the most personal attention, service, and advice for hosting a spectacular local wedding. They are the place to go bridal shopping if in New Orleans, hands down. As a nod to how we met, I wore orange pumps and my bridesmaids and flower girl did too. The groomsmen changed into a Calvin Klein classic tuxedo from Men’s Wearhouse and my handsome groom wore his own tuxedo by J.Crew. To give the groom distinction, we had him be the only one in a white bow tie and the rest of his men in black.

We wanted to maximize time with our guests, so we decided to take pictures before the ceremony at one of the most iconic parks in New Orleans, Jackson Square. It sits before St. Louis Cathedral, which provided a stunning backdrop for the portraits. Next, we asked our guests to meet at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, which tucked in the 140 friends and family for an intimate and cozy view of our ceremony. Pastor Stephen Aguillard gave what my Grandfather called, “the best wedding ceremony I’ve ever seen” as he preached about men’s and women’s needs in marriage. We wrote our own vows; Michael read his from a neatly folded piece of paper, me from my iPhone, which caused a few chuckles. It added to the interesting quirk of our young Pastor reading from his iPad, too. Our florals for the ceremony were by Ambiance Flowers and added to our mostly white with a few pops of orange in our bouquets. Harry Hardin’s string trio played Air on the G String for the family procession, Hallelujah by Jeff Buckley for the bridal party procession, and then my father and I entered with Mascagni’s Intermezzo. After a tearful vow exchange, we recessed to the traditional Mendelssohn’s Wedding March.

Joyfully marching out of the church as husband and wife, we were greeted by the brass instruments of the Storyville Stompers, one of the most decorated second line bands in New Orleans. Orange handkerchiefs and white feather boas were handed out to the guests and to their surprise, we began marching down the French Quarter. Michael and I briefly followed the parade in a horse and carriage, but we soon joined the crowd, not ones to miss out on any fun. Locals took pictures from their balconies and some even threw beads! We marched and danced with the brass band about eight blocks to the reception site, Galvez Restaurant, located in the French Quarter on the bank of the Mississippi river.

As the sun was setting, the second line band played for our cocktail hour outdoors in the Dutch Alley next the French Market. White lights streamed the alley, and specialty New-Orleans-inspired drinks and delicious Spanish-Cajun hors d’oeuvres were passed around. When it was time, guests were invited to walk up the votive lined stair case, up to the dining hall where five long king’s tables were set. I remember hearing my mother gasp, “Wow!” Each of the tables had no fewer than 100 candles illuminating the room; some in candelabras, some in candlesticks, and small votives. The room needed no other lighting, and the hundreds of candles were my favorite signature touch. The tables also were decorated by Ambiance Flowers vases with white flowers and baby’s breath. Each place setting contained a hand-written note to each guest, from either Michael or me, thanking them for coming.

Dinner was led by Chef Laura, of Galvez. Even though our event was black tie, we served our five courses family style to make for a more personal meal. Our guests passed around their incredible spanish, american, and french inspired dishes: ensaladas, crab cakes, grilled rack of lamb, paella valenciana, and shrimp and grits. It was cooked to perfection, thank you Chef! Our toasts broke up the courses, and our best man and maid of honor gave memorable and touching speeches. My father went last, and after his invited the guests to the dance floor, in the neighboring room.

The dance floor at Galvez is surrounded by French windows and doors that lead to a wrap around balcony. It’s one of the most romantic views in New Orleans, and our guests could watch steamboats chugging along the river as they sipped cocktails on the Crate and Barrel designed lounges outdoors. Or, inside they could get footloose with us to the incredibly talented, seven piece band, Taboo. They were a show stopper and played everything we asked, plus the favorites that even kept my Grandparents dancing way past their usual bed time.

We served two cakes: our wedding cake was by a local favorite sweet shop: Sucré, and they did a buttercream, three tiered wedding cake and our Groom’s cake (we’re in the South, after all!) was by Courtney Schmidig, a family friend and pastry chef at the French Laundry. I insisted on taste before appearance, so there was no fondant, only delicious butter cream and natural ingredients, they both were outstanding, but Courtney’s took the cake to another level!

We danced until midnight with Taboo and their incredible band arrangement and ended the night with a stellar performance that had most guests ready to continue their evening onto Bourbon street. In the morning, we relived the night over beignets and chicory coffee at Cafe Du Monde and bid a final farewell to our guests. We’re still hearing stories about how amazing strolling down the French Quarter with a second line band was, and the awesome jazz ensemble during cocktail hour, and the candlelit views of the Mississippi at night. Thank you Crate & Barrel, and thank you New Orleans, you gave us all an event to remember.

Wedding Contest: Crate & Barrel / Wedding Planners: Yifat Oren & Associates / Church: St. Mark’s United Methodist / Pastor: Stephen Aguillard / Reception, Catering & Bar: Galvez Restaurant / Invitations: Studio Grace / Photographer: Laura and Hannah of Docuvitae Photography /  Videographer: Welliver Productions / Flowers: Ambiance Flower Shop / Second Line Band: Storyville Stompers / Reception Band: Taboo / Bridal Gown (Ceremony): Pronovias, from Designer Loft, New York / Bridal Gown (Reception): Mimi NOLA / Rings: Blue Nile / Tableware, Lounge, and Decor: Crate & Barrel / Rentals: Your Event Delivered / Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Two Birds, from Bella Bridesmaid / Hair & Makeup: Aveda Paris Parker Salon New Orleans / Groom’s Tuxedo: J.Crew / Groomsmen Attire: Men’s Wearhouse / Wedding Cake: Sucre / Groom’s Cake: Chef Courtney Schmidig / Farewell Breakfast: Cafe Du Monde

Have you been to New Orleans? It’s fantastic. Gorgeous, old architecture all around gives an old world romance feel. Which is why it is the perfect spot to hold a southern wedding. If you haven’t been to the Big Easy, fear not. Eau Claire Photographics was able to capture it’s essence whilst capturing this fabulous wedding – which is also SO New Orleans chic. The wedding is one of my favorites from Nawlins, with a easy, romantic charm oozing from every photograph. You’ll want take it nice and slow to see them all in the gallery, so click here!

Click here for the highlight film from Your Day Productions!

After considering having the wedding at Rachel’s family property on the Northshore, the couple realized that New Orleans was there home, where they met, and would be the most meaningful place to get married. Because there would be a majority of out-of-town guests, they decided to play up the “New Orleans” theme and what could be better than a courtyard wedding? After interning at the Gallier House in undergraduate school, Rachel knew just the place – the sister property: the Hermann-Grima house on St. Louis Street in the heart of the Quarter.

Because the majority of the guests would be traveling in from out of town, the couple decided to make a whole weekend celebration of the wedding and invite all guest to all the events. They really wanted their family and friends to see many sides to the region and have a variety of experiences. Therefore, on Friday evening, the weekend began with a “Laissez le Bon Temps Rouler!” champagne and dessert Welcome Reception at the Martine Chaisson Gallery in the Warehouse District. A string trio, featuring top musicians from the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (an organization that both the couple and Rachel’s father are passionately involved with), entertained the guests while enjoying desserts and champagne from Joel’s Catering.

On Saturday, all guests were bused to Lacombe (a small town located north of the lake) to enjoy a Rehearsal Supper at the Chotin Residence on the bayou. Mary Garrett, the Chotin’s long-time house keeper graciously catered the event and cooked her famous Red Beans and Rice, along with Shrimp and Chicken pastas. Guests gathered under the ancient, moss-filled oaks and listened to Bluegrass music by Otis Hurtz & The Cry Babies (Spider Murphy, John Malcovich and Dave Talmage) while sipping on Jason’s favorite drink from the Bloody Mary bar. Praline Bread Pudding and Pecan and Apple Pies (baked by Rachel’s mother) rounded out the menu for the afternoon.

The wedding ceremony and reception were both held at the Hermann-Grima House in the French Quarter on Sunday, October 9th, beginning at 5pm in the afternoon. Between the two, guests were entertained by the same ceremony gypsy jazz band, Zazou City Quartet, in the adjoining Stable Courtyard for a “happy half-hour”. Passed hors d’oeuvres and signature cocktails (“Jason loves New Orleans Sazerac” and “Rachel loves Texas Margarita”) were enjoyed by the guests while the main courtyard was transformed from ceremony to reception.

The bride carried a solid cotton bouquet and the softness was complemented by the bridesmaid’s pop of color with the orange  carnations. Rachel borrowed two large vases from her father’s extensive McCarty Pottery collection and filled them with cotton to flank the altar for the ceremony. Orange roses in vases with sliced oranges were placed on tables at the reception. Not only was orange Rachel’s grandmother’s favorite color, but also orange roses were her favorite flower. Along with the orange color theme, oranges held special meaning to the couple because (as the story goes) the Lincolns, several generations ago, lived in New Orleans on an orange plantation before settling in San Antonio, Texas.

Although what may appear to be an over-the-top, extravagant wedding – Rachel prided herself on cutting corners and being cost-conscious by creating a majority of the details herself and shopping around for the best prices. She designed all invitations/graphics herself and printing at home on recycled paper, borrowed as many family heirlooms as possible. She also designed the flower arrangements herself and therefore used a small neighborhood florist to implement her designs. Rachel’s mother helped tremendously: assembled welcome bags for the guests, sewed the flower girl’s dress, made the ring bearer’s pillow, made the favors. Rachel handled all the planning herself until two weeks before the wedding when she realized she would need a little help in executing the plan! 

We both agree that two of the most special moments were when we were alone and able to soak it all in. After our “first look” on top of the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel, we went down into the Quarter and took pictures on Pirate’s Alley. This was a great experience for us. We were able to calm our nerves, spend a little time together and capture some great shots.

Photographer: Eau Claire Photographics / Videographer: Your Day Productions / Floral Designer: Audubon Flowers / Day Of Coordinator: Old.New.Blue / Rehersal Planning & Design: Charlotte Weil Event Design / Invitation Designer: Rachel Chotin Lincoln, Printed on recycled paper from Paper Source / Stickers: Sticker Mule / Save the Dates: Smartpress / Cake: Gambino’s Bakery / Wedding Gown Designer: Alyne Bridal / Bridesmaid’s Dress Designer: Ann Taylor Loft / Band: Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra String Trio, Otis Hurtz & the Cry Babies / Ceremony & Happy Half-Hour Music: Zazou City Quartet / Reception Music: Jayna Morgan and the Sazerac Sunrise Jazz Band

We don’t see nearly enough rehearsal dinner inspiration for our fête loving hearts but these events are a a great way to bring personality into your wedding pre-party. While your Big Day might be reserved for the more traditional, the rehearsal dinner allows you to let loose, let your hair down and, in this case, throw an Oyster Dinner. Elyse Jennings Weddings designed this dream of a party fit for the glamour lover yet totally attainable with easy DIY elements woven throughout. And joining the knockout list of vendors is Greer G Photography who snapped all the loveliness including the perfect floral foliage by Bee’s Weddings and Events and Tupelo Honey’s invitations that had us at hello. I mean watercolor mollusks? Genius. Get your inspiration on in the full gallery.

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From Elyse Jennings Weddings…While I love a bride who is completely into personalizing their wedding day designs, I know that not all brides are ready to commit to that trend- especially our more traditional brides who are born and raised in New Orleans! We wanted those brides to know that there was a way to have the best of both worlds and prove to them that personalizing your event doesn’t mean that it has to be a “theme.” I designed and personalized this rehearsal dinner to show couples that it is okay to bring their heritage, passions, and personalities into their wedding parties! I based the designs of this rehearsal dinner on my own family’s heritage of oyster fishing. We named each of our dinner tables an oyster dish, incorporated oyster shells in the table decor, and even built an oyster chandelier!  We also incorporated burlap, which oyster sacks are made out of {and a huge trend right now, as you know}! All small touches of the family without coming off as super themed! While oysters and burlap are very raw elements, we added the wedding glam by incorporating mercury glass and sequins–the perfect marriage where rustic meets chic!

We chose the beautifully unique backdrop of Race and Religious, a venue in New Orleans that has so much character and personality in itself! The messy clay, exposed brick, and gas lanterns exuded the unique Nola vibe that we were going for!

By using a bunch of DIY things {the chandelier, burlap and jute wrapped candles, pearl wrapped champagne flutes, banner, pool monogram, and bench swag}, we created a perfectly attainable and unique rehearsal dinner. My incredible team of vendors, and fantastic photographer, helped immensely to bring my vision to life and capture it perfectly! We hope to have given brides some ideas and inspired them to take a chance and add some of themselves to any of their wedding parties! It will separate their wedding from every other wedding! Enjoy!

Planning + Design: Elyse Jennings Weddings / Photography: Greer G Photography / Floral Design: Bee’s Weddings and Events / Lighting Decor: Luminous Events / Invitation Suite: Tupelo Honey / Venue: Race and Religious / Make-up: Ashley Melzer Sievert / Hair: Ginger Dickey at Color Bar Salon / Sweets: Sucre / Dress: Alice + Olivia via Saks

I sure hope you haven’t put any sugar into that morning coffee yet, because I think we might just have the perfect amount of sweet for you all contained in one fantastic Louisiana wedding this morning. Stevie Ramos Photography was on hand at this classic southern affair – and what a southern affair it was. The bride (who looked beautiful) and groom (quite the handsome fella) tied the knot under a great big Oak tree, on the sprawling lawn of a gorgeous Louisiana plantation. Surrounded by friends and family, and not to mention the most fabulous, lush flowers, the two lovebirds started their story together in a day that could not have been prettier. You’ll definitely want to grab a mason jar of lemonade and meet me in the full image gallery for the rest of this southern stunner!

Click here to see the full image gallery!

I always dreamed of having a southern plantation style wedding. Once I found the man of my dreams I knew exactly what I envisioned for our wedding. The ceremony was absolutely gorgeous. We got married at dusk, under massive live oaks with tea lights and beautiful peonies and hydrangeas with an ideal southern plantation as our backdrop. We wanted to keep it small and intimate. My husband was very understanding to what my dream was and did everything to make it come true. It was truly a day we will remember while growing old together.

Photography: Stevie Ramos Photography / Ceremony & Reception: Nottoway Plantation / Event Planning & Coordination: Nottoway Plantation / Florist: Billy Heromans / Gown: David’s Bridal / Bridesmaid Dresses: David’s Bridal

Happy Weekend, LBBers! We’ve got a special cinematic treat for you this morning and I’m going to give you a little advice. If you’re already likely to cry at this New Orleans highlight film, just for the simple fact that it is a highlight film and that alone can bring a tear to your eye (guilty), don’t read the description from the talented cinematographers, BRIDE FILM, until after you watch it. If you’d like the shed an extra couple tears at a little butterfly’s appearance in the film, by all means, read the description first. But don’t say I didn’t warn you. And when you’re ready for more like this (it’s the weekend after all – you have all day!), click here for more beautiful, cinematic work!

Photo courtesy of Bray Danielle Photography.

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butterfly. // cayden + kevin + bridgette from // BRIDE FILM // on Vimeo.

From BRIDE FILM … We had the great pleasure of becoming friends with Bridgette and Kevin. Bridgette is a special events coordinator in New Orleans and Kevin is anathletic trainer at a local high school.

When we first met to do their “how we met” piece for the rehearsal dinner, I was really impressed by how well they knew each other.  Each question I asked, similarly phrased, was answered with remarkable accuracy to the other.  They really understood and knew everything about each other because of how they communicated before actually dating.

They had exchanged emails.  Kevin would write from Mississippi and Bridgette would respond.  This cycle of countless email exchanges and no phone interaction proved somewhat puzzling until finally Bridgette replied per email, “Hey are you gonna call?”  And so this initiated a their first date.

Naturally, I thought their story of love would be pretty apparent.  Equally as important as Kevin and Bridgette’s story is our other main character, Cayden, Bridgette’s son.  This 5 year old, supercharged with energy, was the real star of the show.  This little guy was tearing up the dance floor the entire night.

Lastly, you will see on the film that a butterfly attaches itself to Bridgette’s dress during the ceremony.  She immediately burst into tears and smiles.  All of her programs were marked with butterflies in remembrance of her brother.

Cinematography: BRIDE FILM / Event Planning: Dakota-Cuvee Events / Photography: Bray Danielle Photography / Ceremony Venue: Sculpture Gardens, City Park / Reception Venue: New Orleans Museum of Art / Band: Rockin Dopsie & The Zydeco Twisters / Floral: Dunn & Sonnier / Cake: Zoes Bakery / Lighting & Fireworks: See-Hear Productions / Rentals & Furniture: Your Event Delivered / Makeup: About Face of Mandeville / Hair: Urban Retreat / Music for Video: “Stones” by PlainJane Automobile / Music Licensing: Song Freedom

This New Orleans Plantation wedding? Hello GORGEOUS. From the light streaming through the Spanish Moss to the tickled pink and purple details to the sweet bride and groom, this fête is dripping in glamour. And it’s a homegrown, Southern style glamour at that. The cake and desserts? Made with love by the couple’s mothers. The flowers? Arranged by the bride’s talented father. The decor? Bridesmaids. All captured by the oh-so-talented Eau Claire Photographics, this affair was DIY stunning. And the party doesn’t stop here – it continues in the gallery!

More, more, more? Check our the great video from Prodigy Media Group!

I really wanted to get married outside while still incorporating New Orleans and the South into the vibe of the day. We went to visit Destrehan Plantation and I knew driving up that the huge live oak trees covered in Spanish moss with the historic plantation in the background was the perfect place for our ceremony. And what was even better was the rustic mule barn on the property that we could use for the cocktail hour and reception.

After discovering Style Me Pretty and the world of wedding blog’s I soon found myself drawn to the same images over and over, and easily came to the conclusion that I wanted my wedding to look like Anthropologie threw a wedding at a barn, everything rustic and natural but still clean and crisp.

I wanted my bridesmaids to be able to make their own dress choices, so I chose an array of purples and corals from J. Crew and let them go to town on their dresses and accessories. My Dad and I ordered the flowers online from the Flower Exchange and he and a good friend put together all the arrangements and bouquets like experts. I enlisted everyone I know into collecting jars and bottles, ordering and finding things on etsy, ebay and in flea markets, put bridesmaids to work crafting reception decor items, and forced my brothers and best friends to come help me decorate the day before the wedding.

I wasn’t really falling in love with any wedding cake pictures, so my amazing mother stepped up and baked and frosted all of the different cakes and cupcakes for the desert table and John’s mom even made his favorite mint brownies and brought them in with her from St. Louis. We provided to go containers and there wasn’t a desert left at the end of the night!

Picking favorite photos is impossible. Sandra of EAU Claire Photographics blew us out of the water with her work. We knew from looking at her previous weddings that she was going to be great, but we never thought the pictures would be as amazing as they are. I never once saw her the whole ceremony and reception, yet she and Sam managed to capture a perfect picture of everything! All the details that were so special to me, all the guests candid faces, the emotions on our faces and the excitement vibrating throughout the whole barn.

Photographer: Eau Claire Photographics / Videographer: Prodigy Media Group / Floral Designer: The Flower Exchange / Event Designer & Planner: Emily with Get Polished Events / Invitation Designer: Meredtih with RE Style & Design, Printed by Mercurio Brothers / Cake & Desserts: Brides Mom / Wedding Gown Designer: Allure Bridals from Ventura’s Bridal / Bridesmaid’s Dress Designer: J. Crew / Flower Girl Dresses: Lesley at Homemade Grits

This Louisiana wedding is so stinkin’ cute it hurts! I love all the handmade details, especially the way they tied the silverware with teeny-tiny flowers and twine. Captured beautifully by Three Nails Photography, it’s country, it’s vintage, and it’s all sorts of sassy. And it’s all here in the gallery for us to devour, lucky us!

Click here to see entire image gallery!

From the moment we got engaged, Jared knew that this was going to be an exciting but exhausting project. He gave me full control to plan and perfect the wedding of my dreams. He only had one request–that we get married outside. I happily obliged since that fit into my rustic fantasy wonderfully! I was completely inspired by the venue, Dixie Gin. I came across it in a magazine and instantly knew that this was our place. It had the country feel I had wanted but with an added vintage touch that made it so welcoming.

When our day finally came, it was absolutely everything I had hoped for. The unpredictable Louisiana weather turned out perfectly for our field ceremony and outdoor reception. The Dixie Gin looked amazing. The lighting, décor, and the beautiful chandelier made my budget friendly wedding look so extravagant!  Our caterer went above and beyond adding simple touches to everything from the cake tables to the food display. It looked fantastic and tasted even better! However, my favorite moment was by far dancing with my friends and family. Our D.J. kept the party going and our feet moving all night. Even Jared, who doesn’t dance, was all over the dance floor! It was an amazing day with amazing people that we will never forget.

Photography: Three Nails Photography / Venue: Dixie Gin / Caterer: Charles Ashley Event Productions / Florist: Keepsake Korner / Wedding Dress: Azarue’s / Cakes: Priscilla McGee / Tuxes: Men’s Warehouse

Talk about beauty and brains, this Houston bride has it all and we are totally crushing on her ultra glam meets modern style. Hints of gold, monochrome flowers, bold jewelry, Chanel No 5…yep this wedding had us at hello… and then sucked us completely in with all the pretty images from Docuvitae. I swoon, you swoon, we ALL swoon for fabulously chic weddings and there is a whole lot more of this one in the gallery.

Click here to see the entire image gallery!

From the Bride… The design choices for our wedding celebration were inspired by our venues. For our ceremony, my husband and I chose St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, a historic building with incredible Gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. Our reception was held at the Artista Restaurant, an elegant two-story edifice with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the downtown Houston skyline. While I loved the idea of an outdoor wedding, it was clearly not an option for Houston in August. To incorporate that outdoor feel, I transformed the restaurant balcony into an outdoor lounge space. Our wonderful florist, Melanie Tipton of Last Petal, brought my vision to life by accenting the lounge space and restaurant with simple, chic floral arrangements. Once our venues were selected, everything from our color scheme to our invitation style came into place.

After looking at numerous wedding invitation websites, we decided nothing in our budget really inspired us. My husband, a self-taught graphic designer, decided to take a stab at creating our wedding invitations. As a nod to our hometowns, my husband placed images of the Houston skyline and the Baton Rouge, LA Horace Wilkinson Bridge on the invitation suite. We then had the invitation suite letterpress printed. The end result was AMAZING!  My husband went on to design all of the stationary elements of the wedding–programs, menu cards, signage, etc.

In addition to getting the design elements just right, we infused our wedding with elements that would reflect our love (we decided to write our own vows in addition to citing traditional ones), family (my uncle married us) and sentimentality (I surprised my husband with a traditional New Orleans Second-line band for our exit as he always wanted one for his wedding day). And when our wedding day came, we let everything else go and decided to bask in the blessedness of the day–we laughed, cried (okay, I cried) and danced the night away. There were definitely bumps (okay, mountains) along the road in the planning process, but when we sit back and look at the wonderful images captured by Rebecca of Docuvitae (whom I found right here on SMP and cannot say enough positive things about), they bring a smile to our faces every.single.time.

Wedding Photography: Rebecca of Docuvitae / Second Shooter: Juli of Docuvitae / Wedding Ceremony: St. Paul’s United Methodist Church / Wedding Reception: Artista Restaurant / Wedding Cinematography: Aaron of 31FILMS / Flowers: Melanie Tipton of Last Petal / Wedding Invitation Design: Timothy Perry (The Groom) / Invitation Printing: Studio on Fire / Event Design & Planning: Kourtney James Perry (The Bride) / Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo / Wedding Dress: Angel Sanchez via Maison de Mode / Hair: Albert Dominguez of Solution for Hair & Makeup / Makeup: Your Beautiful Face / Jewelry: DIY, The Bride (Created from Talbots‘ Necklaces) / Second Line Band: New Orleans Hustlers Brass Band / Vintage Rolls Royce: Jordan Limousines

Vintage amber, honey and wheat – sounds like a delicious color palette if you ask me, and it produced the most drool-worthy Louisiana wedding for you to devour this lovely Wednesday. Catherine Guidry was there to capture all the sweetness and the personal details told their story seamlessly. But don’t forget, this is just a smidgen of the deliciousness – there is even more in the full gallery.

Click here to see the full gallery of images!

From Catherine Guidry…  Kelly’s nostalgic vision and quirky personality left the venue filled with a natural palette of colors like Vintage Amber, Honey, & Wheat; sentimental family heirlooms; and timeless photographs strung together to tell the story. Her life is filled with silk screening and furniture building and became very influential for her wedding day. There were hints of the Jason and Kelly in every detail, and sprinkles of Kelly’s distinct artistic vision in every corner of the venue.

Although many of you are still recovering from the holidays and totally immersed in Winter, we couldn’t resist sharing this beautiful Fall affair with you. It’s the warm colors, the vintage images, the sweet and totally approachable style that completely stole our hearts. Plus, we’re thinking that a lot of you newly engaged ladies and gents are planning Fall inspired affairs for next year…just like this one. Photographed by Mark Eric, this wedding is all goodness. Click here for even more.

click here for more goodness!

The idea for our wedding began when Andrew proposed to me a year earlier in the same field in which we were married. Since we are lovers of natural beauty, we knew after the engagement that we would love to be married in the field. It made for such a beautiful, natural backdrop and since Andrew’s parent’s lovely, country home was within walking distance from the field, we knew where we could host the reception.

We knew from the very beginning that we wanted a small, intimate wedding that included all of our closest friends and family. And since we both have such talented friends and family, we trusted them with many of the wedding day designs. We brainstormed for ideas to integrate our love for the outdoors and our vintage, chic style. Andrew’s Mom and Aunt combed antique shops and estate sales from Louisiana to Oklahoma looking for the perfect pieces of décor. We raided friends’ homes for furniture and silverware. We were constantly on look out for decorative pieces throughout the year of planning. It was so much fun collecting the different eclectic pieces. Many of the pieces were so graciously loaned to us to use for the wedding. We were so thankful for all the friends and family members who were able to contribute towards the wedding. From my Mom typing the invitations and programs, to Andrew’s sister-in-law making the cakes, so many people graciously pitched in to help make our ideas come to fruition.

Initially, the thought of an outdoor wedding made both me and Andrew very anxious. We could control almost everything, but the weather was completely out of our hands. Luckily we chose a perfect day to have an outdoor Louisiana wedding. The weather turned cool right before the day of the wedding, and the new, crisp fall air was absolutely perfect.

I believe my favorite thing about the wedding was all the small, personal details. Andrew’s Dad built the groom’s table from lumber from the original community post office located on their property. The clock faces in every unique table centerpiece, the hand carved tree stumps by Andrew, the custom made flower girl dresses by Andrew’s mom, there were just so many little, personal touches that made the wedding feel so familiar. So…us. That was the whole idea for the wedding. We wanted the wedding to project our style and personality. And I believe with the help of our wonderful family and friends, we were able to truly create the perfect wedding for me and Andrew. It was truly the happiest day of our lives. We couldn’t have asked for a better wedding.

Photography: Mark Eric Photography / Headpiece: GracyLu Originals / Wedding dress: Mori Lee by Madeline Gardner / Car Owner: Greg Grunlian / Ceremony music: Cara Waring, singer; Rebecca Axsom, violin; Devin Jackson, guitar / Reception music: Devin Jackson / Hair and makeup: Amore Salon / Ceremony programs: Kathy Kupperschmid @ The Printing Connection / Bridesmaid belt: rosebudlips / Groomsmen bowties: MeandMatilda / Ring bearer bowtie: butteredtoast / Wedding and groom’s cake: Alisha Hooker / Floral Design: Mary Hooker and Debbie Wilhoite

Happy, happy TGIF! I know on Fridays we usually display oodles of inspiration via photo shoots but today we are going to switch it up a bit and bring you a plethora of inspiration from very real, very pretty weddings. We have a whole line-up of beauties to send you off into the wilds of weekend fun. And don’t forget, this is just a sampling of each celebration. By clicking on the gallery, you can revel in every inch of gorgeous that each wedding has to offer.

We are going to start things off with the absolute cutest day held in good ol’ New Orleans. The perfect combination of historic beauty and fun-filled whimsy, this wedding is an absolute charmer and we just can’t get enough of that perfect, perfect calligraphy by Jenna Hein. See the full celebration, NOLA style, in the gallery.

see all of the details here!

From the Bride…

Dan and I live in New York City. His family is from California and mine is from New Jersey, and so for our wedding, we decided to have everyone meet somewhere in the middle: New Orleans! New Orleans is one of our favorite American cities and holds a special place for us as a couple because we got engaged there. Everything we love about the city—its casual vibe, amazing food, vibrant music, fun, energy and magic—basically described the kind of wedding we wanted to have. There was no other place to have our wedding but New Orleans. About sixty-five of our closest friends and family joined us in New Orleans for our wedding, coming from 10 different states and three countries! (Not one person was from New Orleans!) To have all of our favorite people from all over the world in one place (just for us!) made the entire wedding feel so special. We had a very traditional Catholic ceremony at the Holy Name of Jesus Church, followed by a fun-filled reception at a historic building/event space called the Board of Trade. Dan and I were both equally involved in the planning and were super into it. We have the excel spreadsheets and millions of tearsheets to prove it! But the things I remember the most about our wedding day are the things we didn’t plan for: The street performers who played “Here comes the bride” when we walked by; hopping on a street car before our ceremony and having all the strangers onboard cheer applaud, the moment before we walked down the aisle and Dan was trying to make me laugh so I wouldn’t cry, eating leftover wedding cake together, with one fork, in our hotel room when it was all over.

Here is my advice for any bride planning their wedding from afar:

I highly recommend visiting your location to choose your venue in person. Places looked A LOT different on the internet than in person, and so I am really glad that we made a trip out there to check out venues. You can do a lot of things on the phone/internet, but it’s hard to do this one without someone being there in person Go with the local customs. Where I live in the Northeast, a traditional wedding reception is about 6 hours long with a sit-down dinner. We found out in New Orleans that they tend to do 3-hour long receptions with a buffet dinner. We opted to do it how the locals do it, and I am so happy we made that decision. Not only does it make it easier for your vendors to do what they’re used to, it will actually make your wedding more memorable and different for your guests. Then again, don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path. Since our wedding reception was so short…we didn’t do any of the typical wedding stuff: Cut the cake, throw the bouquet, etc. I am glad that we didn’t because it would have felt like we just had to cross things off our to-do list rather than enjoy our day. We did do a first dance—only because we took some swing lessons and wanted to show off our skills. But even that was not super choreographed and planned. We also walked down the aisle together which felt so special to me. It felt like we were walking into this thing called marriage together. When it comes to finding vendors, do a ton of research. Don’t always rely on web sites. Sometimes they look a little cheesy, but when you speak to the people on the phone, you get a better vibe. Trust your instincts. When I found a vendor I trusted, I often ended up asking them for recommendations for other vendors. When the photographer we wanted was booked, they recommended me someone who they worked with in the past who ended up being more affordable and just as great!  If you are doing any DIY stuff you want set up beforehand, do everything before you arrive to the location. You don’t want to be tying bows the night before. Ship everything (with tracking number!) to the location or your wedding coordinator a few days ahead of time. And if you can afford it, hire a day of coordinator to set everything up. Even though it was an added expense, I am so happy I did that and didn’t have to worry about it the day of the event. (The only this is that you SHOULD bring your wedding dress on the plane with you as a carry on. Don’t ship it) • Learn to let go. Not everything is going to be perfect. It’s a destination wedding. Things are bound to go awry. Focus on the stuff that is important. You are getting married! All your family and friends are there. This is freakin awesome! If you keep this in mind, you will have the best day of your life. We did!

Ceremony Location: Holy Name of Jesus Church / Reception Location: Board of Trade / Food: Pigeon Catering / Photographer: Ooti Billeaud / Second Photographer: Brittany Mitchell/ Florist: Nola Flora / Cakes: Flour Power / Band: Some Like It Hot / Second Line Band: Jazzmen Brass Band / Hair and Make-up: Glam Therapy / Veil and Hairpiece: Bridal Veil Falls / Invitation and Save the Date: Michele Lee / Calligraphy: Jenna Hein / Cake Topper: The Small Object / Praline Favors: Southern Candymakers / Day of Coordinator: Taylor Quintini / Wedding Dress: Melissa Sweet Reverie / Bridal Shoes: Stuart Weitzman (heels)/ J. Crew (flats) / Bridesmaid Dress: Priscilla of Boston / Groom’s Suit: Perlis / Groom’s Shoes: Tommy Hilfiger

Jose Villa is a name synonymous with absolutely gorgeous photography so when he sent us this dreamy photo shoot we couldn’t wait to share. He teamed up with Joy Thigpen, the goddess of beautiful styling, and together they created this New Orleans inspired Honeymoon shoot. Anything these two touch turns to gold and this little gem is no exception. What could be more romantic than a honeymoon getaway to the Big Easy? The styling is spot on, the photography is killing us with its prettiness and the backdrop is perfection. All in all, WE DIE. Be sure to check out the gallery for more from this Louisiana shoot.

Ready to pack your bags for a getaway, Louisiana style? I know we are! Big thank you to Jose Villa and Joy Thigpen for a dose of loveliness to start the week off right. Be sure to head over to the gallery for more from this yummy photo shoot.

Photography: Jose Villa / Styling: Joy Thigpen

It seems that all of Kristin Vining’s couples are up for some great fun when it comes to their engagement shoots! Take Dustee and Justin, for example …..

With Mardi Gras just about to get into full swing, what better time to post Dustee & Justin’s lively e* session in New Orleans with Kristin!

Dustee told us that she and Justin had decided on a destination wedding ~ but were torn between New Orleans and the Carribean. Once they finally settled on the Bahamas, they jumped at the chance to meet Kristin in New Orleans for their e*shoot.

From Dustee … Justin and I both love history and wanted to incorporate interesting historical periods in our wedding and our engagement photos.  In the time of prohibition, cities across America outlawed alcohol, including New Orleans. However, speakeasies popped up all over the city. Two historic restaurants, Commander’s Palace and Delmonico’s were raided in the early 20s and everyone went underground. However, no place embraced the “roar” of the 20s quite like New Orleans. Justin and I decided to channel that spirit along with the sights and sounds of Mardi Gras for our photos. We did lots of research on our costumes and raided a fantastic vintage costume shop in Dallas — a treasure trove of great 20s accessories.

We are doing something similar for our wedding. The site of our ceremony and reception (The One & Only Ocean Club) hosted the famed Bal du Paradis in the 60s to christen the location. It was a glittering and glamorous event of the who’s who from across the world. Interestingly enough, Bal du Paradis means Bride of Paradise. Our wedding will feature lots of influences from that historic event.

You know we always say that inspiration is all around you! Couldn’t ask for a more perfect example. A huge congratulations, Dustee & Justin, from all of us here at SMP!

And Kristin, wow, girl!! Can’t wait to see the wedding!!!

Kristin has LOTS more photos from shoot on her blog … terrifically fun, so do take a look:  Dustee & Justin’s NOLA E*Shoot

As I was formatting the photographs and the post for this incredible wedding, I tried desperately to edit down the bride’s text a bit, as it was longer than we normally have on SMP. But I seriously couldn’t! Every detail was so incredible and her words made me feel like I was there, experiencing it all for myself.

You already saw the stunning film that Chris Jones of Mason Jar Films put together, but now the bride is stopping by to share a little bit more…

photography by Zoeica Images

Planning a wedding from 4800 miles and 6 time zones away requires loads of patience and a generous supply of optimism. This NOLA bride was surrounded by a Parisian fiancé and loving parents with generous supply of patience and diligence when hers ran short. Born and raised in NOLA, as we affectionately call New Orleans, Louisiana, the wedding location was never a question. Paris exudes elegance, beauty and culture. New Orleans possesses some of that plus a healthy dose of southern decadence for its own special savoir-vivre.

The week-end started with Thursday’s Dads’ Jazz Jam night and Cajun cuisine, Cocktails on Friday in Muriel’s, a historic building off Jackson Square, and ended with Brunch at the Columns Hotel in the Garden District. Guests hailed from as far away as Angola, Africa to London and Paris and as close by as Thibodeaux, louisiana. Saturday, the Day, took off with a classic French Quarter carriage ride from the historic Faubourg Marigny district to the oldest cathedral in North America, the St. Louis Cathedral. The St. Louis Cathedral was named for Louis the IX, sainted King of France. French guests were quite pleased with that cultural reference! New Orleans is steeped in ready references to its French roots.

photography by Zoeica Images

The mass at the cathedral was accompanied by musicians from one of New Orleans’ most famous music families–the Jordans with Stephanie Jordan on the violin and big brother, Kent Jordan, flute. After the ceremony the bride and guests were accompanied to the reception site by the New Wave Brass Band and a ‘second line’ of wedding guests dancing in the street, striding, and stepping away from the Cathedral. The Restaurant Galvez, our reception site was a testament to our patience plus faith — our wedding served as the restaurant’s first post-Hurricane Katrina opening.

A touch of Paris kicked off the reception with a champagne toast and French gypsy jazz band by French native/ New Orleans transplant Pierre Pichon. The music never stopped. Pierre was followed by the Treme Brass Band, the Storyville Stompers Brass Brand. Jazz trumpeter extraordinaire Leroy Jones and Creole crooner John Boutte added a sensitive NOLA jazz touch to the dinner.

photography by Zoeica Images

Dinner included a five course meal completely Louisiana inspired [began with a Creole Crawfish Bisque, a zucchini and goat cheese Napoleon, Gulf Redfish with lump crabmeat and a Chocolate Pecan Tart finished with a French Cheese platter and] topped off by a “pièce montée” the traditional French wedding cake composed of a pastried tower of croquembouche.

With the live New Orleans jazz music and flavorful Creole cuisine, the wedding attire took a subtler route. A Monique Lhuillier lace dress (the Calista) with silk ivory sling backs by Christian Louboutin for the bride. The bridesmaids wore pale gray Vera Wang floor length dresses that complimented the men’s traditional charcoal grey morning suits. New Orleans had the food, the architecture, the music, the romance, the historic icons, the setting for a deeply French and deeply American wedding.

Our wedding expressed who we are. It was the perfect marriage of New Orleans and Paris. We wouldn’t have it any other way.

I love working with really talented Cinematographers. We have quite a few in our Little Black Book and Chris Jones of Mason Jar Films is definitely one of my favorites. His vignettes are more akin to movies than to a wedding video…with dreamy music, an unbelievably elegant approach and a beautiful depiction of the day. I have yet to see one of his films where I don’t tear up and this one…this one is no different!

We have the AMAZING wedding story coming up next!

Sometimes … (well, maybe most of the time) … I struggle for the right words to start a feature. But today, the word that immediately popped into my mind was “ethereal”. The play of the light streaming throughout these images can only be described as ethereal …

Aron is soooo handsome and Emmy is just about the most radiant bride I’ve ever seen! The sunshine striking her parasol and saturating her skin gives her that glow that we all long for  …

After all the months of planning, the look on her face is what it’s ALL about!

Emmy and Aron were married in New Orleans at the end of March. A true southern REAL SPRING wedding!!

Megan, with the Casey Cunningham Photography sent us Emmy and Aron’s story … it’s so VERY heart-warming …

Being from opposite sides of the U.S. (Aron grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area, Emmy grew up in the Midwest), having met in Boston, and having friends all over the world, Emmy and Aron struggled with where to hold their wedding. They consider Washington DC their home now but travel to the gulf coast and New Orleans quite a bit. Through their many visits while Aron has helped to finance the recovery of the city, they witnessed a unique spirit of hope and rejuvenation.

They came to realize that many of the elements essential to building a great city reflect those of building a great marriage: communication, collaboration, patience, faith, and enduring love. This realization, coupled with the desire to put money back into the city, solidified their decision to hold their wedding in the beautiful New Orleans area. Not only did two Yankees hold their wedding in the deep south … transforming Emmy into an elegant southern bride … but they also incorporated the Lutheran and Jewish faiths into their ceremony.  Both a Rabbi and Lutheran minister were present for their vows.

Emmy and Aron fell in love with Houmas House and all of the towering oak trees and Spanish moss; this was their great starting point for design inspiration. Their ceremony took place under the “Cathedral of Oaks” on the front lawn with the reception immediately following on the back lawn. Timing was everything for this couple, making sure the sun cascaded beautiful shadows during the ceremony.

Afterwards, the guests were treated to a walking tour through the bottom floor of the majestic house while they made their way out back. Upon walking through the kitchen, Emmy and Aron treated their guests to a taste of  New Orleans with a cup of butternut squash and corn soup!

Casey and Andrea Cunningham have a distinct knack for capturing the very essence of EVERY wedding they shoot. No, that’s not quite right. They capture the very essence of the people they film. They may be on the outskirts of the activities … at times, you won’t even know they’re there … but their brides and grooms are at the center of their being.

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Random Acts Of Beauty … Casey and Andrea’s pledge to all their couples … to capture those special moments that this very day is all about.

… to tell their story with images, almost to the point that words are unnecessary …

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I mean,  I feel their joy … don’t you? And what better way to end a wedding day … than strolling down the streets of New Orleans with a sparkler in one hand and your honey in the other!

Thanks to ALL for sharing the day … Andrea and Casey ~ you’re the best!