Nope! We have decided to elope before gathering our friends and family to celebrate in New Orleans. Come prepared to eat, drink, and dance the night away — in true NOLA style.
NOLA weddings are all about the celebration, so we will not have a traditional seated meal. We will have appetizers and a buffet for guests to enjoy dinner at their leisure. There will be a mix of tables and high tops along with lounge furniture for guests to dine with old or new friends.
We recommend cocktail attire. For women, you can wear a dress (short or long), fancy jumper, or whatever will get you on the dance floor. For men, a suit (tie optional) or sports jacket and dress shirt are good bets. The weather in NOLA is typically between 50-70 degrees in November. We will be walking to an after party location, so we encourage guests to wear comfortable shoes. Cross body bags (vs. clutches) are also advisable for those who plan your venture out after the party.
The party will start at 7pm. Since we are not doing a ceremony, it’s no biggie if you’re running behind.
Our venue is in the French Quarter, so please expect travel delays because vehicles will need to navigate around the Bourbon street chaos. We will have mini-buses picking up guests from Virgin Hotel (48 seats) and Old 77 (24 seats). The buses will depart from the hotels to Latrobe’s at 6:45pm. Ubers and taxis are available for those departing from other locations in NOLA. We recommend walking from Hotel Monteleone. For those who want to keep the party going after our reception, please join our second line to the after party at BMACS, which is near Bourbon Street. One mini-bus (24 seats) will be at BMACS to drop guests back at Old 77 or the Virgin.
There are two parts to a second line. The first line is made up of the grand marshal or parade leader, the band, and whoever is being honored. In a wedding, the bride and the groom take a position up front. The strutting revelers who fall in behind are referred to as the second line. The leaders of the parade carry decorated umbrellas, while the other participants shake handkerchiefs while they dance. A brass band plays some beats that gets everyone dancing and moving. You can often spot the second-line by bright colored suits and banners. We will be parade to a tbd location on Bourbon Street after the reception.
Like any city, New Orleans has areas that are safer than others at night. The French Quarter and some parts of the downtown area are generally considered safe due to their lively atmosphere and heavy tourist presence. However, it's always wise to remain cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area. It's also a good idea to stick to well-lit and populated areas, avoid walking alone, be aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts. We recommend cross body bags for women.
There are numerous hotels and Airbnb options within walking distance or a short distance from the French Quarter (where our venue is located). You are welcome to stay in one of our room blocks or book your own accommodations. Overview of Convenient Neighborhoods near the French Quarter: 1. French Quarter: Staying within the French Quarter itself offers the most convenient access to our venue and attractions. You'll be immersed in the lively atmosphere, with historic architecture, vibrant nightlife, and renowned dining options right at your doorstep. 2. Marigny: Adjacent to the French Quarter, the Marigny neighborhood offers a more laid-back vibe while still being within walking distance of all the action. Here, you'll find charming bed and breakfasts, boutique hotels, and unique Airbnb properties. 3. Central Business District (CBD): Located just a short walk or streetcar ride away from the French Quarter, the CBD offers a mix of upscale hotels and modern accommodations. This area is ideal for guests seeking a quieter atmosphere while still being close to the excitement of the French Quarter. 4. Warehouse District: Also known as the Arts District, the Warehouse District is a trendy area with art galleries, museums, and upscale dining options. It's within walking distance or a short ride from the French Quarter and offers a range of boutique hotels and stylish Airbnb rentals. 5. Bywater: For guests looking for a more eclectic and artistic atmosphere, Bywater is a great option. This neighborhood features colorful murals, hip cafes, and unique accommodations, including quirky Airbnb rentals and cozy guesthouses. 6. Garden District: A bit further from the French Quarter but still accessible by streetcar or car, the Garden District offers a glimpse of New Orleans' historic grandeur. Here, you'll find elegant mansions, lush gardens, and charming bed and breakfasts, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter.
Please RSVP on this website by 10/1/2024.
On Saturday, we will post up at a few of our favorite spots around Bourbon and Frenchmen streets. We will be walking from bar to bar, and welcome you to join us whenever it works for you! To get updates on our location, please join our WhatsApp group (below) or text Mary/Matt directly. This is an informal event with cash bars along the way. We encourage you to dress comfortably. We will have some surprise goodies for those who join us along the way :) WhatsApp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DlgsSXeeRnLDecKveVrEJz