A cocktail reception - the wedding style of choice in NOLA! - is where the format for the evening is like a cocktail party with guests mingling throughout the evening while being served food in the form of passed hors d'oeuvres and meal stations, which will be open throughout the night. That being said, while there will be no formally seated dinner, rest assured that food and drinks will be flowing steadily and plentifully throughout the event!
Immediately following our ceremony, we will have a second line parade. One of New Orleans’ most iconic traditions, the second line is a moving party directly following the “official” parade (in this case, the bride and groom). The second line—that’s you, our lovely guests—will follow the brass band throughout the streets before looping back to Il Mercato for the reception. You can pick up bonus local style points for waving your handkerchiefs to the beat and having fun with it!
There will not be formally assigned seats or formal dinner. Don't worry though, there will be plenty of seats for everyone!
While we love all of your little precious gifts, we ask they do not attend the wedding events.
Il Mercato is a beautiful indoor-outdoor space with a lovely courtyard. In the case of rain, the courtyard will be covered with a tent (don't worry, we intend to keep you dry!).
There will not be any formal transportation to and from the hotel block however the hotel is only a short Uber or Lyft away! It is even a walkable distance.