Classy, Elegant New Orleans Wedding Ideas

One of the first and most important parts of planning a wedding is choosing a location and venue. And when it comes to wedding destinations, very few places beat New Orleans’s elegance. 

So, if you’re considering getting married in New Orleans, Louisiana, read on for some classy and elegant ideas you can use to make the special day truly unique.

Why New Orleans? 

New Orleans is an amazing city to host a wedding. It has a unique culture and history that can lend a special atmosphere to your special day. There are plenty of beautiful wedding venues to choose from, such as the iconic City Park, the French Quarter, and even a plantation.

The city is home to some of the best food in the United States and the party atmosphere is unparalleled. You can also find a wide variety of music for your wedding, from jazz to blues to Zydeco. With its vibrant culture and its romantic setting, New Orleans is the perfect place to celebrate your wedding day.

Fantastic Ideas to Make Your Wedding Classy and Elegant 

Get Married in Church

If you are looking for a timeless and elegant atmosphere, consider getting married in one of the city’s famous churches. From the grandeur of St. Louis Cathedral to the cozy atmosphere of St. Augustine’s Chapel, there are a variety of beautiful churches to choose from.

For a unique twist, consider a second-line parade through the streets of the French Quarter. Often called a second-line band, the parade basically leads the way for the bride and the groom, afterward leading the guests to the wedding ceremony and reception. This fun parade is sure to get your guests in the spirit of the day, and you can even incorporate some of the city’s famous jazz musicians.

Serve Local Dishes and Hire a Good Caterer

New Orleans is known for its amazing cuisine. Serve your guests dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, red beans and rice, and po’boys for a true Creole experience. Make it a little elegant and classier by consulting with experienced wedding caterers in New Orleans for ideas or their services. 

They can do all the heavy lifting for you and take care of everyone on your guest lists, from vegans to vegetarians and special diet individuals.

Create a Signature Cocktail: 

Finally, no New Orleans wedding would be complete without a signature cocktail. A classic French 75 is a perfect choice, as it uses champagne, a touch of cognac, and a splash of lemon. You can also create custom cocktails inspired by the city, such as a Sazerac or a Vieux Carre. 

With so many options, it’s easy to make your New Orleans wedding both elegant and unique with one or several signature cocktails that are sure to delight your guests.

Incorporate Local Music

Needless to reiterate, New Orleans is known for its vibrant music scene, mostly for jazz. So, when it comes to wedding music planning, you’ll want to consider hiring a famous local jazz or blues band to provide a soundtrack to your wedding.

Linens and Crystal Glasses for the Reception

When it comes to the reception, there are plenty of New Orleans wedding ideas that will make your event both classy and fun. For an elegant touch, consider using classic white linens and crystal glasses for the tables. 

You can also add a touch of New Orleans flair by using crawfish as a centerpiece or offering beignets as a dessert. Alternatively, you can consider using Fleur de Lis decorations throughout your decor for a truly unique and colorful event.

Add a Touch of Mardi Gras

Whether it’s colorful beads or festive masks, adding a touch of Mardi Gras to your wedding will give it a unique New Orleans flair. You could also incorporate Mardi Gras themes into your decorations and wedding cake, such as masks, feathers, and a fleur de lis. Choosing wedding colors in the traditional Mardi Gras colors of purple, green and gold is an easy way to get started.

Whether you’re the bride, groom, or wedding planner, there you have it! While it might be a bit impractical to utilize all the above ideas, you’re sure to get one or two that might help make your New Orleans wedding truly classy and elegant.