THE ULTIMATE TOP SEVEN TIPS FOR CREATING A TRADITIONAL NEW ORLEANS WEDDING
What’s more romantic than a wedding in New Orleans? The Crescent City celebrates indulgence, adventure, and tradition year-round while providing a beautiful backdrop for timeless photos. Filled with nostalgic and historic charm, the city is the perfect setting for an unforgettable traditional wedding.
Planning a wedding requires a lot of coordination and decision-making. Regardless, when it comes to tradition, New Orleans makes it easy. From groom’s cakes to floral arrangements, ritual finds its way into every aspect of a New Orleans wedding. Incorporating New Orleans tradition is the best way to create a memorable wedding and welcome a little southern hospitality.
Before solidifying any dates, cross-check the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau calendar for any events or festivals that could affect wedding plans.
Invitations
Invoke southern elegance and set the tone by incorporating New Orleans touches on wedding invitations. It’s important to build anticipation for a special event while giving guests a peek into the magic of what’s to come. Adding famously New Orleans phrases like “Les Bon Temps Rouler” or simply incorporating a fleur de lis make a significant impact when inviting guests.
Floral Arrangements
Whether the ultimate style goal is simplicity or pizzazz, working with a local florist is another way to subtly embody the richness of New Orleans culture. Consider incorporating native plants and flowers when crafting bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages, and centerpieces.
Mule-Drawn Carriage
Add an element of royalty by booking a luxurious mule-drawn wedding carriage as transportation to the ceremony. Royal Carriages, a family-owned mule-drawn carriage company, has been operating for over 80 years, making this tradition perfectly curated for those seeking relaxation and intimacy on the way to the ceremony. For fantasy lovers, some carriage companies even offer a Cinderella-inspired pumpkin coach.
Cake Pulls
Unsurprisingly, one of New Orleans’s greatest wedding traditions hides in the cake and dates back to the 1600s. A cake pull is a ribbon tied to a small silver charm placed between the wedding cake layers. Typically pulled out by the bridal party and guests before cutting the cake, each charm symbolizes the puller’s fortune. For example, the ring charm represents marriage in the future. Create a special moment to celebrate friends and family with this uniquely southern tradition. Cake pulls can be found at local jewelers like Mignon Faget or online from Etsy.
Second Line
Dancing through the streets of New Orleans to signify a new beginning is the perfect send-off for a bride and groom. Historically, second lines were a way for neighborhoods to grieve, celebrate or advertise milestones within the community. For a wedding celebration, a brass band leads the second line and parades the whole party from the ceremony to the reception hall. Put intimacy and romance on display, but don’t forget Umbrellas and handkerchiefs to spin around while doing so. This jazzy tradition is a must for a classic New Orleans wedding.
Be sure to get a parade permit from the City of New Orleans to avoid legal trouble.
Wedding Reception Band
In true New Orleans spirit, a special day wouldn’t be complete without live music. Go the extra mile by booking a local New Orleans jazz, brass, or blues band to create the perfect background music for a charming evening of tradition and everlasting love.
Here are a few other ideas to consider:
- Arrive by streetcar or Mardi Gras float
- Customize umbrellas and handkerchiefs for a second line
- Serve specialized bride and groom cocktails at the reception
- Include New Orleans sweet treats in the wedding favors
- Book a local food truck to cater the event
- Stroll through the New Orleans Botanical Garden for floral arrangement inspiration
- Hire a Mardi Gras dance crew to perform at the reception
- Order a groom’s cake inspired by his personality and hobbies
- Provide go-cups customized with the bride and groom’s names or wedding date
Stay at the Jung Hotel & Residences
One of the best ways to create a charming wedding experience in New Orleans is by staying at a hotel in the middle of it all. The Jung Hotel & Residences is ideally situated near the Canal Streetcar line, allowing easy accessibility. Make a reservation at the Jung Hotel today, and experience culture, tradition, and celebration.