New Orleans Bride Winter 2022

NEW ORLEANS BRIDE WINTER/SPRING 2022

DECADENT CAKES

FASHION

PLANNING CHECKLIST

display until 5/31/2022

WINTER/SPRING 2022

$6.95

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EDITORIAL

EDITOR Melanie Warner Spencer CREATIVE DIRECTOR Tiffani Reding Amedeo ASSOCIATE EDITOR Kelly Massicot PHOTOGRAPHER Theresa Cassagne STYLE EDITOR Andy Myer CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Mirella Cameran, Becca Hensley, Lisa Tudor CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rebecca Friedman, Amy Gabriel, Misty Milioto COPY EDITOR Liz Clearman ADVERTISING

VP OF SALES AND MARKETING Kate Henry Kate@MyNewOrleans.com ACCOUNT DIRECTOR Meggie Schmidt SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Brooke Genusa, Rachel Webber ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Erin Chiartano ADVERTISING CONSULTANT Penn Iarocci

RENAISSANCE PUBLISHING MARKETING

COORDINATOR Abbie Whatley PRODUCTION

MANAGER Rosa Balaguer Arostegui SENIOR DESIGNER Meghan Rooney CIRCULATION

SUBSCRIPTIONS Jessica Armand DISTRIBUTION John Holzer ADMINISTRATION

OFFICE MANAGER Mallary Wolfe For subscription information call (504) 828-1380

A Publication of Renaissance Publishing, LLC Printed in USA 110 Veterans Memorial Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005 (504) 828-1380 New Orleans Bride is a publication of New Orleans Magazine and is published twice a year by Renaissance Publishing, LLC., 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005; (504) 828-1380. It is sold at newsstands throughout Greater New Orleans, complimentary at retail locations and available online at brideneworleans.com. Postage paid at Metairie, LA, and additional entry offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Renaissance Publishing, LLC, 110 Veterans Blvd., Suite 123, Metairie, LA 70005. Copyright © 2022 New Orleans Bride Magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher.

The trademark New Orleans Bride is registered. New Orleans Bride is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photos and artwork even if accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. The opinions expressed in New Orleans Bride Magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the magazine managers or owners.

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C O N TE NTS

STANDARDS

DETAILS

F RO M TH E E DITOR 12

F LOW E RS 4 0

Wild Things R EAL WE DDINGS 66

Neutral colors in bold, unfussy sprays and lush bouquets lend a modern edge to wedding florals

HO NEYMOON 74

Bottoms Up CAKES 44

These beverage-focused honeymoons will quench your thirst

Smooth Operators Fondant can take many forms and all of them make a bold statement

C HEC K LIST 78

Check It Twice

CUI S I N E & CO C KTA I LS 50

Our handy checklist for staying organized

Let There Be Brunch Bring the celebration into the lovely light of day

L AGNI APPE 80

Sizzle Sauce

Cocktail Color Styor

Wedding favors with a local twist add pizazz to your nuptials

Creating a sip experience to please ‘palettes’ LO C AT I O N S 5 4

Lovely Locales These New Orleans venues offer tons of amenities to simplify the planning process

PRELUDE

P H OTO G RA P H Y 5 8

Captured Moments BEAU TY 16

ON THE COVER

Less is More These multitaskers will help perfect your skin for your Big Day and beyond

Consider these trends when booking your wedding photographer in 2022 M US I C 6 2

Strike a Chord HAIR 18

Tips for making your wedding sing

Good Hair Days The best haircare products for 2022

FASHION

T RA N S P O RTAT I O N 64

Getting There

MA K EUP 20

A handy guide to New Orleans’ many options to get you and your guests to and from the wedding

High Drama It’s your time to shine with makeup that amps up your Big Day glow I NV ITATIONS 22

Local Luxe Three classic stationery suites with contemporary panache

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BR IDAL/ MEN S WEAR 26

Center Stage The wedding fashion forecast for 2022 feels smart, luxe and super sophisticated

Photograph by Theresa Cassagne; Styled by Lisa Tudor; Model Lindsey Badon; Makeup by Meggan Ory; Hair by Monique Munoz; Gown at Pearl’s Place.

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FRO M THE E D I T OR

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f this season’s wedding gown trends are any indication, weddings are going glam. Regal detailing, loads of shimmer and shine and luxe sophistication abounds and we are here for it.

As we learn how to live in this ever-cautious era of pandemic protocols, our celebrations have become more intimate, but we’re putting even more thought into how to make them special, memorable and infused with razzle-dazzle. Our fashion spread on page 36 explores this concept of refined glamour and puts style center stage.

Meanwhile, we also have everything else you need to pull off a chic, personality-filled, festive and fun fête to remember — big or small. The weddings of 2022 are born of lessons learned over the past two years.

Our cuisine and cocktail trends offer up the most lavish ways to fortify and refresh your guests. Tips from photographers, gorgeous cakes and the hottest makeup, skincare and haircare products will leave no stone unturned as you plan your dreamiest Big Day. Now more than ever, staying flexible is key. Every wedding has a mishap and nearly every mishap ends up — eventually — being the funniest or most compelling story. We’ve all learned a thing or two throughout the past two years that translates to both wedding and life advice. Such as, to laugh off the small stuff (and most of it is small stuff), worry less about things and more about people, to be kind to ourselves and others and to celebrate everything — especially love.

May your wedding day and your marriage be filled with kindness, joy and love. Cheers!

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On Feb. 1, join us at the Hyatt Regency for the New Orleans Bride Magazine Bridal Show.

Meet the city’s top wedding professionals in a festive setting to plan your wedding. Visit brideneworleans.com for tickets, pricing and more information.

P.S. Visit Let Them Eat Cake (myneworleans.com/ category/letthemeatcake), the official blog of New Orleans Bride Magazine for more tips and trends, trunk shows and other events, plus advice, ideas, inspiration and interviews.

It’s all of the bridal buzz you can use, five days a week.

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BRID AL BUZZ

BUBBLES & BITES

Ideal for bridal parties, French Quarter CUSTOM EVENTS

restaurant Justine — owned by Justin and

Brechtel Hospitality, the owner and operator of Copper Vine, Fulton Alley and Vintage Rock Club, has

Mia Devillier — is now offering a private

launched Bonfire Events + Catering. Bonfire’s team of event specialists and culinary experts can provide

dining experience in its café dubbed

chef-designed menus by Amy Mehrtens (executive chef of Copper Vine) and sommelier-selected wines

Bubbles & Bites. Focused on brunch and

and beverages by Lydia Kurkoski (sommelier at Copper Vine) and Alex Vines (Bonfire’s mixologist). Bonfire

mimosas, the offering is popular with

Events + Catering partners with purveyors and craftsmen from the Greater New Orleans area and sources its

brides for bachelorette parties and bridal

ingredients from local farms and fisheries. bonfireevents.com— BY MISTY MILIOTO

luncheons. Accommodating up to 24 guests, Bubbles & Bites includes a DIY mimosa bar and Justine’s events team can customize the menu, table settings, bubbles and more.

These South Sea pearl drop earrings ($14,850) float within a halo of diamonds totaling 1.90 carats set in 18K white gold.

BRIDAL BAUBLE M.S. Rau, the French Quarter-based antique store (which also happens to be the largest antiques business in North America), has recently opened its new luxury jewelry boutique.

Designed by the Office of Jonathan Tate and the leading firm Truitt Brand Design, the renovated 8,500-square-foot space covers two floors of the gallery’s original building. Accessories include a one-of-a-kind brooch owned by Elizabeth Taylor, a 10-plus carat blue diamond ring and pieces by iconic jewelry houses like Van Cleef & Arpels and Cartier. The most exquisite gemstones and signed pieces are showcased in a custom-built glass vault room around which the boutique centers. rauantiques.com

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Justine can accommodate 30-35 guests for a more casual reception-style event. justinenola.com

REINVENTION

Nolé, the casual neighborhood restaurant on St. Charles Avenue, is reopening as a special events venue. In addition to offering culinary options catered by Mirepoix Event Catering (Copeland’s off-site catering company), Nolé has an open, 6,500square-foot floor plan suitable for weddings and receptions. The venue also provides everything from tables and place settings to service staff, full-service bars and an on-site coordinator to assist with every detail. Outside vendors for enhanced décor, tableware, catering and more are welcome upon approval. noleevents.com

NEW WEDDING VENUES With the recent closing of Cavan in Uptown, restaurateur Robért LeBlanc, of LeBlanc + Smith, announced the former restaurant will now center on events. Rehearsal dinners and wedding receptions are a primary focus. “We are pivoting at Cavan to focus on brides in particular because they love the interior of Cavan with so many great photographable spaces,” he says. “The pink hues and original plaster medallions and moldings, romantically lit by our original chandeliers and candles, make for a really romantic setting. We hope that brides look to LeBlanc + Smith as a complete solution where they can host casual welcome gatherings, formal rehearsal dinners, on-site weddings or even off-site catering across our Uptown, Garden District and French Quarter properties.” cavannola.com

P R ELUDE

BEAUTY

Less is More

These multitaskers will help perfect your skin for your Big Day and beyond

BY MIRELLA CAMERAN

Taking care of your skin, the largest organ in your body, is central to looking and feeling your best. Finding a routine that works for you will reap the most rewards in the long run.

Here are a few of the best products to consider.

Exfoliate smartly. The Peter Thomas Roth Pro Strength 10% PHA Exfoliating Clarifying Liquid also uses 5% glycolic acid and 0.5% salicylic acid to reduce congestion and increase brightness without drying out your skin.

To brighten the skin around the eyes and remove dark circles, Drunk Elephant’s C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream has quintuple the amount of vitamin C than most brightening eye creams and is balanced with cucumber to reduce puffiness.

For the softest, smoothest hands Necessaire Hand Cream uses marula oil, vitamins C and E, omegas 6 and 9, plus peptides to smooth out lines and rough spots.

Dermaplaning instantly reveals fresher skin while removing dead skin and peach fuzz. The DermaFlash Luxe is the beauty editor’s device of choice and a great at-home pick me up.

Retinol is not just for those concerned about aging. It can clear skin of blemishes, prevent fine lines and improve texture. The Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream combines the vitamin A derivative with hydrating ingredients such as squalane, shea butter and fatty alcohols to avoid redness and irritation.

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Any bride’s secret weapon is The INKEY List Succinic Acid Blemish Treatment.

Just a dab and any blemish is minimized in moments without any traces of dryness or redness. Keep it close.

Treat yourself to a weekly soothing mask. Epoch Yin and Yang Mask uses microencapsulated charcoal to draw out impurities, jasmine sambac to sooth and porcelain flower to nourish skin back to health.

Fenty Skin Instant Reset Brightening Overnight Recovery Gel-Cream is the real deal — it will repair overnight those pesky stressors from the day and ensure your skin is refreshed and renewed thanks to niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and aloe. It also smells like a vacation.

For brides with strapless, backless or skin-revealing dresses, try Rosen Apothecary Anti-Aging Retinol Body Lotion to smooth and reduce pigmentation for an overall glow.

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P R ELUDE

HAIR

Good Hair Days The best haircare products for 2022

BY MIRELLA CAMERAN

Bad hair days are a fact of life. Fortunately — if we choose wisely — ­ there is an arsenal of tools and products at our fingertips ensuring some good hair days, too. These all-stars will not let you down on the most important day.

Let your hair repair at night as well as your skin with Michael Van Clarke’s Deep Sleep Lifesaver which leaves air soft and restored.

It’s built-in sleep fragrance reduces anxiety and stress and even helps with insomnia.

When you don’t have time for a wash and blow, AVEDA’s Foam Reset Rinseless Hydrating Hair Cleanser will prolong the life of your locks by 72 hours, cleaning and refreshing the scalp and taming frizz and flyaways.

Orlando Pita Play WellBehaved Anti-Frizz Cream Serum is likened to a raincoat for hair. Lab tests show that the styling product can keep hair frizz-free in 85% humidity for up to 20 hours.

WOW has lived up to its name when it comes to frizz control but its WOW Xtra Large Bombshell Volumizer uses another innovative formula which pumps into a frothy, non-sticky foam without leaving any dry resins or salts. Its bamboo polymers are flexible, leaving hair naturally bouncy and full.

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IGK Expensive Amla Oil Hi-Shine Topcoat has amla, sea kelp extract and sunflower seed oil, creating a magic combination for an in-shower treat to retain color and high-wattage shine.

When you need a quick fix turn to L’Oreal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths 8 Second Wonder Water. One bottle sells every minute because this thin liquid conditioner instantly hydrates and smooths hair in just eight seconds through lamellar technology.

Healthy hair is pretty hair, so protect yours from all your heated styling tools with Living Proof Restore Perfecting Spray which detangles and defends hair from breakage and up to 400°F of heat.

Finally, a lip gloss equivalent for your hair. John Frieda Precision Colour Refreshing Gloss is an easy, at-home application which boosts color and shine at the same time in different shades for blondes, brunettes, redheads and black hair.

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P R ELUDE

MAKEUP

High Drama

It’s your time to shine with makeup that amps up your Big Day glow

BY MIRELLA CAMERAN

The looks presented on fashion week runways around the world, reflect that we’ve been locked indoors for too long, bottling up our creativity. Now that we are finally in the world again, we are going all out with frosting, glitter, shimmer and shine. Adapt the trend with these makeup picks for up-to-date bridal beauty.

MAC Frost Lipstick is backordered thanks to its rich, buildable color in high pearl with a semi-lustrous finish. One of the brand’s most famous lipsticks, it has more staying power than its challengers.

Lady Gaga’s Haus Laboratories Eye-Lie-Ner is a super saturated pigment in matte black with a fine flexible tip to create its namesake’s dramatic looks, which will last a full day and night.

Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Foundation is often credited as being the best foundation ever made; its longlasting glow radiates otherworldliness without a hint of oiliness.

Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Lip Pencil is a breakthrough product deivering precision and staying power with creaminess, color and gloss. You might choose one shade to start, but you will be back for more.

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Glossier’s Futuredew lives up to the hype providing an instant spa-like glow that lasts for 12 hours for a barely there or fully radiant look.

America’s No.1 selling mascara, Too Faced Better Than Sex does it all in one stroke. It lengthens, thickens and curls for the most dramatic, better-than-falsies look.

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil has been an unmissable trend on all the catwalks. Used as pops of color as eyeliner on upper and lower lids, these pencils have won awards for their staying power in a super-creamy formula that looks like gloss for your eyelids.

Makeup by Mario Master Crystal Reflector is produced by celebrity makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic as a multipurpose highlighter for the finishing touch from lids and cheekbones to your upper lip and décolletage.

Rimmel Magnif’eyes Eyeshadow Palette Blush Edition creates the shimmery lids seen on the catwalks in 12 blendable shades for the perfect on-trend nuptial eye. Longwearing, crease-free and waterproof, this set retails at an unbeatable price point.

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P R ELU DE

INVITATIONS

Local Luxe Three classic stationery suites with contemporary panache

BY ANDY MYER PHOTOGRAPHED BY THERESA CASSAGNE

This oversized, heavy-weight ecru card stock features the couple’s custom cipher engraved in a lush gold ink. Sun gold-lined envelopes and matching engraved R.S.V.P. cards finish the look of this stylish, yet traditional suite, by Gem Printing, gemprinting.com.

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This elegant, letterpress suite contains a mix of tasteful fonts printed on heavyweight stock.

The delicate peachy-pink chinoiserie envelope liner is a memorable, surprise element that will undoubtedly stand the test of time, by Scriptura, scriptura.com.

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The Felicity Church invitation suite showcases custom watercolor paintings of the church, white roses, laurel leaves, a map of New Orleans and the couple’s chosen locations for their celebration on luxe cotton paper, by WalkingMan Studios, walkingmanstudios.com.

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Center Stage The wedding fashion forecast for 2022 feels smart, luxe and super sophisticated with looks that break tradition and embrace individuality.

Nods to regal style include princess ball gowns, visible corsetry, Regency-era poetic sleeves and sparkling tiaras. Detachable capes, trains and overskirts create transitional, two-in-one looks. Conservativewith-a-twist details like feathers, floral appliques, plunging necklines and sexy silhouettes are stylish trends for brides-to-be.

BY LISA TUDOR PHOTOGRAPHY BY THERESA CASSAGNE MAKEUP BY MEGGAN ORY HAIR BY MONIQUE MUNOZ SET STYLIST JAMIE LOMBARDINO MODELS LINDSEY BADON AND CORBIN CALDWELL FOR IMAGES MODEL + TALENT PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE CANNERY

Enzoanie "Philomina" mermaid lace gown and crystal drop earrings by Haute Bride at Linen Jolie Bridal

Heather grey "Lenox" tuxedo by Kenneth Cole at Rome’s Tuxedos

Sottero & Midgley "Kitara" gown and earrings by Bel Aire at James & B Bridal House

Michael Kors "Legacy" tuxedo from Jim’s Formal Wear at Bliss Bridal

Calla Blanche beaded lace sheath "Cozumel" gown and earrings by Heidi Hull Bridal at The Bridal Boutique

by MaeMe

Abella by Allure Bridals "Karina” diamond sparkle tulle gown with detachable overskirt and A’El Este "Deandra" crown at Pearl’s Place

‘‘Fleur de Lis" French Lace Ball Gown and detachable Jacket

by Monique Lhuilier at I Do Couture and Haute Bride Pearl earrings at Linen Jolie

Ike Behar Evening Dusk Blue single button "Lane" tuxedo by Ike Behar at John’s Tuxedos

Lillian West “Regina” off the shoulder leafy lace applique gown at Bliss Bridal and Haute Bride Pearl earrings at Linen Jolie

Green tropical weight wool tuxedo by Statement Italy at Tuxedos to Geaux

Georgia/ Young Couture "Max’"gown with detachable sleeves (not shown) and drop pearl earrings at Town & Country

Burgundy velvet shawl lapel tuxedo

by Ferrecci at Tuxedos to Geaux

Ines Di Santo silk "Hope" gown with detachable bishop’s sleeves at I Do Couture and Haute Bride Pearl earrings at Linen Jolie

DETAI LS

FLOWERS

Wild Things

Netural colors in bold, unfussy sprays and lush bouquets lend a modern edge to wedding florals

BY ANDY MYER

A stunning, textural bouquet containing Pink Mink protea, dried lotus pods, Madre Perla roses, bleached Italian ruscus, seeded eucalyptus, burgundy Hypericum berries, Magnolia foliage, Honey Bracelet, grevillea and sedgem, by Nola Flora, nolaflora.com.

A timeless, clustered bouquet showcasing ranunculus, rice flower, Spray roses, dahlias, stock and Butterfly ranunculus in a neutral color combination, by Kim Starr Wise Floral Events, kimstarrwise.com.

This bouquet features a beautiful collection of eucalyptus, Cymbidium orchids, Shimmer roses, Veronica tillandsia and ranunculus, finished with a Duchess satin ribbon, by The Plant Gallery, theplantgallery.com.

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CAKES White almond velvet cake paired with a praline vanilla buttercream, covered in white fondant with sculptural white fondant accents,

by One Fancy Cake, Instagram: @onefancycake

Smooth Operators

Fondant can take many forms and all of them make a bold statement

BY ANDY MYER PHOTOGRAPHED BY THERESA CASSAGNE

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Satsuma and almond cake iced with a cardamon buttercream in elegant, geometric design, by Bywater Bakery, bywaterbakery.com

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Almond cake with Italian cream, fresh seasonal fruit and a light raspberry puree, covered in various shades of blush, accented with rose gold veining and chocolate rose quartz-inspired abstract feathers, by Mad Batter Bakery, madbatterbakery.net

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A traditional white almond cake with buttercream, praline and strawberry sherbet fillings, covered in white fondant with a simple and timeless pearl dot detail, by Chosen Cakes and Caterers, Instagram @chosencakes

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CUISINE & COCK T AI L S

Let There Be Brunch Bring the celebration into the lovely light of day

BY AMY GABRIEL

B

runch is basically a good mood on a plate. It’s the happy place of both early birds and night owls, where sweet and savory sing in harmony. What better way to celebrate than when dessert makes perfect sense as a main course? A timelessly classic experience, consider forgoing an evening affair for daytime fare to remember.

Chef Amy Mehrtens of Bonfire Events + Catering sees this trend as increasingly popular with modern couples. “A daytime brunch reception is superior to an evening affair because it is so much more versatile,” said Mehrtens, noting the opportunity for fun action stations like omelets, bananas foster and crêpes Suzette flambé. “There’s an air of fun and lightness that you don’t see with other meal periods.”

In terms of wowing your guests with your visual choices, Sarah Hall, president of Joel Catering & Special Events, notes that brunch events are often more photo-friendly. “Starting earlier and having that brunch vibe is going to give you the pictures that you want all day long,” said Hall. “If you host your wedding outdoors, you can’t see flowers and decor at night in the same detail that you can in the daytime and all of that fabulous detail isn’t as noticed.”

For those hoping to trim costs, Christian Pendleton, general manager of Brennan’s, says brunch can lend itself to a more budget-friendly reception.

“Guests are usually less likely to eat and drink as much during the day so it tends to be less expensive,” said Pendleton. “Additionally, because the

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brunch ends earlier in the day, you can continue the celebration for a full day with family and friends following the meal.”

Pendleton presents this as a worthwhile option for destination weddings or groups with a lot of visiting guests. “It allows time for more events to follow that can highlight the uniqueness of a city,” said Pendleton. “So many wedding guests find themselves attending multiple evening weddings so the day events present an opportunity to share something new and different to impress friends and family.”

As an additional way to tighten up the budget, Emmeline Johnston, concept director with Bonfire Events + Catering, notes that expectations for entertainment are different during the daytime. “At a brunch wedding, guests do not expect a band or DJ with dancing,” said Johnston. “This allows the host to bring focus elsewhere like the ceremony with a beautiful jazz trio, or more intimate conversations with friends and family.”

Further, she sees brunch as an excellent way to get your top choices of location and food. “Right now, the most appealing reason for a brunch wedding could be a couple’s preference for a specific venue or caterer,” said Johnston, who recommends interactive ideas like frittata stations, crêpe bars, donut walls and mimosa bars. “Wedding professionals are booked due to rescheduled weddings from COVID and looking at a brunch time wedding means that you could get the venue or caterer you want and ... for a more affordable price!”b

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DETAI LS

CUISINE & COCK T AI L S

MOCKTAILS Providing your booze-free partygoers something hip to sip.

Those who choose not to imbibe can still have a mocktail experience that looks, tastes and feels celebratory.

Alex Vines, mixologist for Bonfire Events + Catering, suggests going all in on the aesthetic. “Because the alcoholic component is absent, you should have as much fun as possible with these drinks; get creative with different color combinations and go overboard with garnishes,” said Vines, giving examples like club soda with a flavored syrup in a wine goblet topped with cucumber, berries and mint leaves. “The keys to a good mocktail are taste and presentation. If it doesn’t taste good, then what’s the point?”

Cocktail Color Story Creating a sip experience to please ‘palettes’

BY AMY GABRIEL

S

electing signature wedding colors is Nuptials 101. But considering a color story that extends all the way from your peonies to your Pimm’s Cups takes your festivities to an exciting next level. When planning your bar selection, creating custom cocktails or considering sips that correlate to a color theme is sure to be a hue hit with your guests.

Quinn Richard, owner of Cocktail + Creative, sees a color-forward cocktail approach as a way to elevate the guest experience. “You’re creating a sensory experience that will make your wedding different from anyone else’s,” said Richard, who suggests having a shared conversation with your florist and caterer to achieve the best overall look. “The nuance of the drink color palette and the flowers and the menu all coming together is the beautiful part.”

He reminds that a colorful cocktail won’t get the reaction you want if it doesn’t have flavor appeal. “Your focus is on color, yes, but you’ll want to have a unique flavor profile so your guests can experience something completely original at the same time.”

Richard suggests fresh fruit juices for a splash of color and inventive ideas like an orange carrot Ramos Gin Fizz, green matcha margarita or a crimson beet-infused Manhattan. “That’s where the fun comes in. You start with a creative and bold idea and then wow the guests with the flavor.”

Braithe Tidwell, wine and beverage director at Brennan’s, encourages

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you to play on color and tonal themes while incorporating New Orleans classics. “We find that local cocktails are a great way to spark conversation amongst guests,” said Tidwell, suggesting a darker Old Fashioned or richer Sazerac for winter and a light, bright French 75 for spring. “Anytime you can tie in local, seasonal, cultural or colorful concepts into all the parts of your event you create a really memorable experience and share a true sense of place.”

Sarah Hall, president of Joel Catering & Special Events, contends that you don’t have to break the bank to achieve a coordinated aesthetic with your beverage service.

“If you can’t go all out with customized cocktails, you could do something simple like an eye-catching bar cart to play up the visual energy,” said Hall, who provides additional ideas like galvanized bins filled with mini cans of champagne or wine, as well as bottles of local beer with labels to match your color theme.

She also suggests larger format concepts displayed in glass beverage dispensers atop the bar for impact, like a rosé sangria with fresh fruit surrounded by floral accents and greenery. “A drink doesn’t have to be for every single one of your guests and a pretty drink in a pretty color with simple styling isn’t going to break your budget.”b

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LOCATIONS

Marché

Lovely Locales

These New Orleans venues offer tons of amenities to simplify the planning process

BY MISTY MILIOTO

hen it comes to wedding planning, the details can easily become overwhelming. Thankfully, these New Orleans venues offer a bevy of packages and services — many with their own event coordinators — to ensure that every detail is perfect.

W

Louisiana caviar canapés, a deluxe antipasto display. With the Premium Beverage Package, guests will have access to professional bartenders mixing up classic cocktails typically not found on banquet bar menus. rosysjazzhall.com

THE BALCONY BALLROOM

SOUTHERN OAKS

At the Balcony Ballroom, couples have access to elegant open spaces, a new high-end lighting system with customizable projections and cuisine that is tailor-made to accommodate an array of dietary needs. The Just for Hue package includes everything but the wedding cake, such as custom color combinations; a private bridal suite; gourmet cuisine (including passed hors d’oeuvres); a fully stocked premium bar; a DJ with a touring-quality audio system; elegant florals; impeccable service; a design specialist; a honeymoon to-go box filled with chocolate-covered strawberries, champagne, wedding cake and various sundries; and much more. balconyballroom.com

From event coordination and decor to food and drink, Southern Oaks creates a seamless, effortless experience. Enjoy a wedding ceremony beneath the grand live oaks, followed by a reception that includes delicious cuisine, exceptional service and distinctive Southern ambience. Southern Oaks also provides personalized music, police security, personal attendants to assist the bride and groom, candlelit centerpieces and decor, private dinner for the bride and groom, a to-go box of hors d’oeuvres and champagne, an open bar and hand-passed desserts. southernoaksweddings.com RIVERVIEW ROOM

ROSY’S JAZZ HALL

Offering a number of different menus and beverage packages, Rosy’s Jazz Hall is a beautiful choice for a wedding reception venue. Go with the New Orleans Wedding Reception Four option, and Rosy’s Jazz Hall will provide its most extensive menu including dishes like grilled lamb chops,

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Located on the fourth level of the Jackson Brewery Millhouse on the French Quarter riverfront, the Riverview Room is an ideal location for weddings and receptions. Floor-to-ceiling windows and five terraces provide exceptional views of the Mississippi River, Central Business District and the French Quarter. Packages include a three-hour reception with full

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open bar, food service, a private dressing room for the bride and groom, a wedding coordinator, waitstaff in formal attire, and tables and chairs. riverviewroom.com THE CANNERY

The Cannery is located in the heart of Mid-City featuring 12,000 square feet of modern space. The Cannery offers customized menus, beverages, a wedding suite with a private meal for the bride and groom, a champagne toast with the wedding party, a state-of-the-art sound system and more. cannerynola.com THE CHICORY

The Chicory

The Chicory marries New Orleans’ enchanting Old-World charm (think exposed beams, brick walls and gas lanterns) with modern amenities (such as a wedding suite and balcony) with space for up to 400 guests. Wedding experts are available to make the day extra special, along with personal attendants and a private room for the couple, passed hors d’oeuvres, a buffet and an open bar. chicoryvenue.com LATROBE’S ON ROYAL

Latrobe’s on Royal offers distinctive space that allows for weddings ranging from romantic and sultry to lush and exotic, or traditional or trendy. Choose from a seated dinner, a cocktail party reception and more. The on-site team of award-winning chefs will expertly produce the menu while the in-house planning and design experts take care of every custom detail. Several beverage service options also are available. latrobesonroyal.com MARCHÉ

Southern Oaks

Located in New Orleans’ historic French Market, Marché is a stunning event venue with both indoor and outdoor spaces (including balconies) offering gorgeous views of the French Quarter and Mississippi River. Marché can accommodated weddings from an intimate 50-person dinner to a reception for up to 300 guests. The special events team will ensure every step of the planning process goes smoothly. As part of the Creole Cuisine Restaurant Concepts family, Marché also provides top-notch cuisine, including custom menus. marcheneworleans.com NEW ORLEANS BOARD OF TRADE

Founded in 1880, the New Orleans Board of Trade is a unique wedding venue in New Orleans.

Designed to mimic a small Parisian park, the open court features a fountain surrounded by several planters and pink flagstone pavers. The venue can accommodate 200 guests for wedding ceremonies, 80 guests for a seated dinner and 150 guests for a reception. Enjoy elevated service and delicious menus from Geoffrey Rhode, culinary director of Pigéon Catering & Events. neworleansbot.com b Riverview Room

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P HOTOG RAPHY

Maile Lani Photography

Captured Moments

Consider these trends when booking your wedding photographer in 2022

BY MISTY MILIOTO

W

e spoke with a few local wedding photographers to get the scoop on current trends and make the most of your photography budget.

Since the photos (and associated memories they recall) last long after the actual wedding day, it’s important to find the right photographer for your needs. Here’s what you need to know.

CATHERINE GUIDRY PHOTOGRAPHY

When Catherine Guidry was studying to be an architect, she found an interest in photography when she was given an assignment to photograph buildings and objects. It wasn’t until she started photographing people however, that she really found her passion. She shot her first wedding in 2008. “I knew I had found my artistic love and would spend the rest of my life dedicated to making images that can become legacies,” she says.

Since then, Guidry has photographed more than 500 weddings, been featured in publications nationwide and traveled throughout the country photographing weddings. Moving forward, she plans to accept a limited number of clients, averaging about 25 weddings per year.

Guidry, who photographs in tandem with her husband, Brad, says that her photography style is traditionally romantic, timeless and emotional with

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a modern twist. “We approach photography from both an aesthetic and experiential point of view,” she says. “We create images they will love for a lifetime, telling the true and authentic story of who they are as people. In addition, we make an experience that feels real to the day, pulling them as little as possible for posed photos. Wedding photography for us is a song and dance between making the best images and the best experience. Because I am a hybrid photographer (using both digital and film mediums on a wedding day) my goal is to have all of the images feel the same, resulting in a bright, airy and film-like finish.”

When a couple is looking to hire a photographer, Guidry encourages them to first choose an aesthetic they love and then pick the person or team they connect with who can create those images consistently. She also suggests that couples request a full wedding album to review, have a final meeting with their photographer one to two weeks prior to the wedding day to discuss the overall timeline and photo requests, and then to simply let go so that the photographer can capture authentic moments.

The most recent trend in wedding photography that Guidry has noticed is that brides and grooms are focusing more on the guest experience, intimate moments and elevated aesthetics. “Wedding sizes have gone down as there

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Catherine Guidry Photography have been more concerns for travel and sharing physical space,” she says. “As a result, those who are in attendance have been the friends and family closest to the client. Weddings feel very meaningful in these settings and have allowed the couple to do things like host sit-down dinners, share toasts on the wedding day, and present lovely favors and experiences. Budgets are being stretched to accommodate less people, which means more luxury and intimate experiences for the ones who are there.” catherineguidry.com MAILE LANI PHOTOGRAPHY

Catherine Guidry Photography

Maile Lani first began photographing weddings purely by accident.

After accepting a job to photograph a couple’s Renaissance wedding, she decided it was the career she wanted to pursue. That was in 2009, and, since then, she has shot hundreds of weddings. While she used to shoot 40 to 50 per year, she now limits her work to 10 to 15 weddings per year.

Lani mainly shoots with Nikon cameras, but she also sometimes uses antique film, a Polaroid and toy cameras. “I have an assistant with me at every wedding that helps me with my equipment, and, if it is a larger wedding, then I’ll have a second photographer as well,” she says.

In terms of trends, Lani has found that many couples now simply want to spend time with their friends and loved ones. “Weddings are becoming more like fun parties instead of scripted events,” she says.

“I’ve also noticed a lot more house plants styled into decor.”

Lani considers her photographic style to be along the lines of romantic journalism. “I want each wedding album to be a genuine representation of the couple’s actual wedding day,” she says. “It’s important to document things in a way that evokes feelings of nostalgia and warmth when my couples go back through their photographs.”

She suggests that couples always hire a wedding coordinator so they aren’t having to worry about details on the Big Day. “Also do a hair and makeup trial before the wedding, and don’t be afraid to tell the stylist what you want changed,” she says. “You want to make sure that you feel like yourself on your wedding day, because that’s how you’ll feel the most confident and look the most happy in photos.” mailelaniphotography.com GRIS GRIS PHOTOGRAPHY

Gris Gris Photography

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Traven Stout first began taking photographs as a child after watching his mom document the world around her, and he always knew he wanted to do the same. He shot his first wedding in 2013 for a friend, and he became a professional wedding photographer in 2015. Since then, he has shot nearly 150 weddings; he typically books about 20 per year.

Stout, who describes his photographic style as “candid/documentary,” employs an assistant to help with lighting gear or a second photographer for double coverage. “My clients are typically looking for someone who specializes in candid photography, someone who is laid back and chill,” he says. “My clients typically don’t like to do all of the traditional stuff, which is cool with me. I’m happy to go with the flow and just document the day.”

In terms of trends, echoes that couples are having smaller weddings, while splitting up the wedding ceremony and reception. “Folks opting out of the big wedding for safety concerns,” he says.

His best advice for couples on their wedding day is to simply enjoy the moment. “Don’t get caught up in the things that aren’t important,” he says. “Weddings are about two people coming together and making vows to spend the rest of their lives together, celebrating that with all of their loved ones, and all of the human complexities that mesh together within these circumstances. I’ve noticed that [couples] who focus more on this, tend to enjoy themselves a little better than the [those] who focus on the little things. Your wedding can still be amazing if you let it be.” grisgrisphotography.com b

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MUSIC

A WARM RECEPTION

Strike a Chord Tips for making your wedding sing REBECCA FRIEDMAN

G

reat tunes — or musical misfires — can make a wedding unforgettable. We asked local industry experts how to ensure your wedding begins and ends on a high note.

DON’T (NECESSARILY) STAND ON CEREMONY

When it comes to ceremonies, music can set the stage for magical moments.

Depending on the couple, that might mean a string trio and Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” or a DJ playing the “Star Wars” theme. Anything goes these days — it just needs to be done well.

According to Chris Jones, manager of popular wedding venue Felicity Church, most couples choose a string-based trio or quartet for the processional and interlude music, with many adding a brass band to second line guests out of the ceremony space. That said, Jones has also seen plenty of exceptions to the classical standard, like instrumental renditions of Imagine Dragons hits, or brides walking down the aisle to the “Jurassic Park” theme.

Jones advises couples to consider their budget. If ceremony music isn’t a high priority, that money might be directed elsewhere. But if you’re like the bride Jones recalls who always dreamed of having a harp play her down the aisle, it may be worth the expense.

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Every couple has a different vision for their reception, ranging from a laid-back instrumental vibe to a nightclub-worthy dance party. It’s important to first set the stage with the right marriage of venue and entertainment, whether a band, DJ, or “hybrid DJ” that combines elements of each.

“A lot of times people don’t take into consideration their venue,” says Susan Zackin, owner of Z Event Company. “They immediately just think, ‘I want a 12-piece band.’ If music is one of the most important things to you, you need to build around that.”

That means first finding a venue with good acoustics and ample space for the band and dance floor.

“If you hire a great band and stick them in a little room, they’re blowing everyone’s ears out and they sound terrible,” says Zackin.

Couples should also consider power and noise ordinances, particularly in historic venues where a thumping bass can disturb the plaster — and the neighbors.

When hiring a band, make sure they can play the music you want. Some couples opt for a DJ because they think bands can’t play contemporary hits, but the city’s top wedding bands can execute everything from hip hop to Frank Sinatra with style.

“Most of my clients want a variety of stuff,” says Michael Taylor, owner of wedding band The Phunky Monkeys. “You have Grandma who wants Motown, Mom and Dad who want ‘70s and ‘80s, and kids who want young stuff. And the band should do it well. Don’t say you can do ‘Uptown Funk’ and play it like a rock band or ‘Don’t Stop Believing’ and sound like an R&B band.”

Couples might hire a band they have seen perform previously to minimize surprises. That said, a wedding’s uniquely demanding logistics, timelines and etiquette mean that the cool band you saw at a bar might not be right for your reception. The ideal band will also try to work with your tastes. For The Phunky Monkeys, that often means learning several new songs for an event.

“We want to make sure we do what’s important for you,” says Taylor.

A DJ might appeal to couples who prefer songs performed by the original artist and can be a good bet if budget or space doesn’t allow for a band. As with any vendor, be clear about your preferences and make sure they fall within the DJ’s musical comfort zone.

“If you want nothing but a country DJ, I wouldn’t hire someone who just plays hip hop and techno,” says Donovan Calfee, main DJ of Calfee Productions and On Fire Entertainment.

Calfee cautions against being overly prescriptive with the song playlist, noting that the music you relax to at home might not translate well to a reception setting. According to Calfee, who works about 120 weddings a year, the DJ’s role includes responding to the crowd’s level of engagement and making adjustments that keep the fun flowing.

Calfee also advises couples to make sure the DJ will come equipped with a mobile hot spot and not rely solely on a venue’s Wi-Fi, which can make for some uncomfortably quiet moments if it cuts out. The same goes for using Spotify or YouTube for the first dance song — and being greeted instead with a commercial.

SOUNDTRACK FOR SUCCESS

New Orleans is full of talented players. However, what sets wedding winners apart are often professional skills like being punctual, prepared, and responsive , including solid “clock management” — the ability to adjust seamlessly when dinner runs late.

With many weddings, music is something guests may remember long after they’ve forgotten the or the placement of the centerpieces.

As Taylor says, “What you’re trying to do for the event is create a memory … a good time, something someone is going to cherish ... music is probably the biggest factor.” b

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TRANSPORTATIO N

MOTORCYCLE OR SCOOTER

Get a fleet of motorcycles or scooters to carry you, your beloved and your guests to your wedding.

Pick between classic Harleys or BMWs on the motorcycle side or hop on a Genuine Buddy scooter with your pals and fly through the streets. avenuescooters.com, eaglerider.com/neworleans TANDEM BIKE

Prove your commitment to fun, whimsy and teamwork by renting bikes on your Big Day. The American Bicycle Rental Company gets its bicycles made specifically for the wear and tear of the Big Easy’s streets, so that the beginning of your marriage isn’t too bumpy. bikerentalneworleans.com PARTY BUS

Getting There

A handy guide to New Orleans’ many options to get you and your guests to and from the wedding

Why not rent a party bus? Champagne chillers, accent and fiber optic lighting, flat-screen TVs, a mirrored ceiling and a dancing pole — gasp!

— in case you want to show off your moves) — are a few of the amenities. The buses range in size, running up to 28-passenger limits, and Royal Coach will meet all of your specifications. myroyalcoach.com, nopartybus.com GONDOLA – CITY PARK

D

on’t stress about how you’re going to make it to your wedding. With so many options for couples in New Orleans — whether you want to make it to your ceremony by land, air or sea — you can arrive in style. Each choice has its own charm and beauty and can be perfectly tailored to your wedding ceremony, so all you have to do is enjoy the ride.

LIMO

They’re ubiquitous to weddings for a reason — the luxury and comfort of a limo is tough to beat. Sip champagne and settle into the rich leather interior while a chauffeur gets you to your destination in style. americanluxury.com, bonolimo. com, limolivery.com ROLLS ROYCE

HORSE AND CARRIAGE

The classic New Orleans mode of wedding transportation, the horse and carriage, is the image of wedded bliss. Enter your ceremony as if you are in your own personal fairy tale. Royal Carriages has been a New Orleans institution since 1941 and provides several options to its guests. neworleanscarriages.com

A classic Rolls Royce or antique Bentley exudes vintage luxury and style and allows you to transcend time. Arrive at your wedding in true elegance and enjoy the plush leather seating while sipping champagne in VIP Transportation’s antique motorcars. viptransportationinc.net, alerttransportation.com PEDICAB

STREETCAR

Seat 40 to 52 of your guests in a classic New Orleans streetcar by chartering one from the city. You can create your own route, bring food and non-alcoholic drinks onto the streetcar and decorate it to your heart’s content. It’s a mode of transportation steeped in history but customizable to your goals. norta.com/business-center/ streetcar-charters

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Whether it’s your main means of transportation for your ceremony, a bachelor or bachelorette party visit to the French Quarter, or you put a coupon for a free ride in your wedding gift bag, these chauffeur-driven bicycles provide a fun means to explore the city and offer a quick getaway when necessary. needaridenola.com, neworleansbiketaxi.com

If you’re near City Park for your wedding, a gondola ride is a must. Glide through the smooth waters of the park and have a private, relaxing moment with your new partner in life and love. If you want to bring guests, the boat carries up to six. nolagondola.com YACHT

Charter a yacht and party all the way to the altar.

Watch the sun set and enjoy balmy breezes as you float through the waters of Lake Pontchartrain.

If you’re up to it, have the captain of the ship officiate the wedding. The options are endless when luxury is your focus. neworleansyachtcharter. com, murrayyachtsales.com TROLLEY

Don’t worry, you can still ride off into the sunset in a classic Crescent City trolley even if your wedding isn’t on one of the town’s main streetcar lines. Limousine Livery provides refurbished streetcars free of both cable restraints and pesky tourists. What’s more, the renovated vehicle’s cushioned seats are an enormous improvement from the city’s current hardwood offerings, so you can cozy up and cool off next to your new spouse without fear of splinters or snags in your swanky attire. limolivery.com, nopartybus.com b

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DOUSSAN-C HI AN G

s

Bride: Anne Doussan Groom: Jason Chiang Date: April 10, 2021 Rings: Boudreaux’s Jewelers Gown: Rita Vinieris Reception dress: Monique Lhuillier Makeup: Sarah Walsh Hair: House of Hair Rehearsal dinner: Metairie Country Club Groom getting ready: Windsor Court Ceremony: St. Anthony of Padua Reception: The bride’s parents’ home in Old Metairie Photographer: Casey McMurray Photography; Second photographer: Mike Lirette Planner: Sapphire Events Decor and rentals: Love Good Rentals Invites: Scriptura Catering: Chef Sue Zemanick Florist: Kim Starr Wise Cake: Chasing Wang

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LASHG ARI- M ORAN

s

Bride: Ghazal Lashgari Groom: Stephen Moran Date: April 24, 2021 Ceremony location: Immaculate Conception Jesuit Church Reception location: Capital on Baronne Coordinator: Brooke Casey Weddings Gown: Justin Alexander, MaeMe Bridal Boutique Bridesmaids’ dresses: Birdy Grey Men’s attire: John’s Tuxedos Rings: Keith Miller Florist: Bella Bloom Florals Caterer: Marcello’s Cake: La Louisiane Bakery Photographer: KV Photography Videographer: Lonely Eskimo Productions; Red Feather Films Hair: Rachel Richard, Glow Hair & Beauty Bar Makeup: Meggan Ory, Makeup by Meggan Studio Music: Mobile Beat Entertainment Brass Band: Kinfolk Live painter: Stephanie Torregrossa Gaffney Wedding favors: Southern Candymakers pralines Invitations: GEM

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MURPHY-M I L L ER

s

Bride: Kelli Murphy Groom: Ross Miller Date: May 29, 2021 Ceremony location: St. Joseph Church Priest: Fr. Andrew Gutierrez Reception: The Balcony Ballroom Gown: Mae Me Bridal Boutique, Essense of Australia Collection Bridesmaids’ dresses: Dessy Men’s attire: Tuxedos to Geaux Rings: Ramsey’s Florist: Grow With Us Caterer: The Balcony Ballroom Cake: Maurice French Pastries (wedding cake, groom’s cake and praline favors) Photographer: The Crawfords Photography and Film Videography: Visual Society Inc. Hair: Lyndsay Talley, Up’sa Daisy Makeup: Lauren Rodas, Up’sa Daisy Music: D “ivine” Play (aka “D Play”) Transportation: Nicoll’s Limousine Guestbook artwork: PappionArt Favors: Wine by Coteau Ridge Winery (groom’s father); pralines by Maurice French Pastries; and hot dogs by Lucky Dogs

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Do you want your wedding featured in our magazine?

Contact Tiffani Amedeo at tiffani@myneworleans.com to find out how!

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SPONSORED

bridal resources 12 Seasons Catering & Mr. Mudbug 504-465-9770, catering@mmiculinary.com

Generations Hall 504-581-4367, sschulkens@aol.com, generationshall.com

MaryMac’s Doggie Retreat 504-354-8991, info@ marymacsdoggieretreat.com

Backyard Printing (& Secondline Handkerchiefs) 985-231-7789, Backyardprinting@ gmail.com, Backyardprinting.com, Secondlinehandkerchiefs.com

Fabulous Flowers LLC. 504-909-0253, fabulousflowers@cox.net, fabulousflowers.us

MS Wedding Events 405-473-8246, msevents700@gmail.com

Beth’s Florist & New Orleans Wedding Planners 504-455-2353, bethsflorist@gmail.com, bethsflowersonline.com Bleu, A blowdry bar 504-309-5999, emily@BLEUaBlowdryBar.com CANDID candiddesignrentals@gmail.com Chateau Golf & Country Club 504-467-1351, sales@chateaugcc.com Compass Point 504-366-1768, 985-969-4526, erin@ compasspointevents.com

Federal Ballroom New Orleans 504-587-2088, marketing@securitycenter. com, federalballroom.com Harvie Live Wedding Paintings 985-687-9106, info@harvieoilpaintings. com, harvieoilpaintings.com Haydel’s Bakery 504-837-0190, 504-837-5512, cakes@ haydelbakery.com, haydelbakery.com Higgins Hotel New Orleans 504-528-1944, higginshotelnola.com House of Broel’s Victorian Mansion and Gardens 504-522-2220, 504-494-2220, info@ houseofbroel.com, houseofbroel.com

New Orleans & Company 504-566-5011, RFunel@NewOrleans.com New Orleans Creole Cookery 504-524-9632, neworleanscreolecookery.com New Orleans Hampton Inn 504-293-1200, Garden District 504899-9990, Down Street 504-529-9990, neworleanshamptoninns.com New Orleans Marriott 504-553-5571, Beth.Tusa@marriott.com New Orleans Marriott Warehouse Arts District 504-613 2888, 504-258-3976, annelise.lopez@marriott.com

RZ Productions 504-975-0817, rzproductions.net Smile Doctors SmileDoctors.com, 800-864-1582 Stacy Marks Photography 504-237-2173, stacymarkswed@gmail.com Sheraton New Orleans Hotel 504-553-5571, Beth.Tusa@marriott.com Swiss Confectionery, Inc. 504-522-7788, mail@swisscakes.net, swisscakes.net The Bridal Boutique by MaeMe maemebridal@gmail.com, mae-me.com The Chicory 504-521-8055, jenna@chicoryvenue. com, chicoryvenue.com The Cocoa Bean Bakery & Café 985-345-2002, thecocoabeanbakery.org

NOCCI 504-888-7608, kwest@nocci.com, nocci.com

The Court of Two Sisters 504-352-3773, MMorantez@ courtoftwosisters.com

Intercontinental New Orleans 504-525-5566, Ihg.com

NOPSI Hotel, New Orleans cpage@NOPSIhotel.com, nmaxwell@nopsihotel.com

The Pearl Room 504-737-0604, mredsrestaurants.com

IRIS floral + event design studio irisfloral.com

Oak Wine Bar 504-302-1485, Oaknola.com

JHeŘ Luxury Event & Prop Rentals 504-435-7245, eventsbyjharden@yahoo. com, eventsbyjharden.com

Omni Royal Orleans Hotel 504-529-7022, omniroyalorleans.com

The Sweet Life Bakery info@nolasweetlofe.com, nolasweetlife.com

John’s Tuxedos 504-455-5353, johnstuxedos.com

Pearl’s Place pearlsplacebridal@gmail.com, pearlsplace.com

The Moore 504-737-1300, themoorevenue.com

Joe Gambino’s Bakeries 504-885-7500, email@gambinos.com, gambinos.com

Pontchartrain Hotel 800-708-6652, thepontchartrainhotel. com

Tuxedos To Geaux Tuxedostogeaux@gmail.com, Tuxedostogeaux.com

JW Marriott New Orleans 504-527-6752, Jamie.McGee@marriott.com

Rae Flowers Photography 504-914-5625, hello@raeflowers.com

Up’Sa Daisy Hair Salon 504-888-8466

‘KH’ Sugar Gallery 504-303-9454, Khsugargallery.com

Renaissance Photo NOLA 504-228-7508, renaissancephotonola. com, Renaissancephotonola@gmail.com

W New Orleans – French Quarter 504-616-0283, Kimberly.Bouysou@marriott.com

Eye Wander Photo 225-366-4567, eyewanderphoto.com

Kim Starr Wise Floral Events 504-315-5607, kimstarrwise.com

Rome’s Tuxedos 504-324-7227

Fontenot Fine Art 504-920-3140

Lagniappe-Life LLC 504-909-7186

Zlight Technology 504-322-4516, 504-430-9982, zlighttech.com

Royal Palm 504-644-4100, laroyalpalmfpc.com

Gabby Chapin Photography gabby@gchapinstudios.com

Limousine Livery 504-561-8777, info@limolivery.com

Gem Printing Co. 504-834-9580, 504-831-1762, gem@ gemprinting.com, gemprinting.com

Loews New Orleans Hotel 504-595-5320, noheleadcoordinator@ loewshotels.com, loewshotels.com/ new-orleans/meetings/weddings

Royal Restrooms Corporate 800-969-7434, 912-655-1996, royalrestrooms.com

David’s Bridal 504-770-6333, davidsbridal.com Diamonds Direct New Orleans 504-383-3900, oliviah@diamondsdirect.com Dickie Brennan & Co. Restaurant directory: 504-274-1958, Palace Café: 504-523-1661, Dickie Brennan’s Steakhouse: 504-522-2467, Bourbon House: 504-522-0111, Tableau: 504-934-3463, Stephanie Aubrey, Sales Manager, 504-274-1806, Aubreys@dbcno.com Dillard’s Bridal Registry 504-833-1075, dillards.com Eau Claire Photographics 504-432-7879, eauclairephotographics.com English Turn 504-392-2200, englishturn.com, Jessicak@englishturn.com

I Do Bridal Couture 225-361-0377, ramsey@ idobridalcouture.com

Royal Sonesta New Orleans 504-553-2205, rsnosales@sonesta.com

The Plant Gallery 504-488-8887, theplantgallery.com kenny@theplantgallery.com

HON E Y MO O N Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa

Bottoms Up

These beverage-focused honeymoons will quench your thirst

BY BECCA HENSLEY

S

omeone once said that being in love makes you thirsty. In that case, a honeymoon ought to quench your craving, buoy your mood, wet your whistle and debut a life abundant with toasts and clinked glasses. With that in mind, we offer up an imbiber’s compendium to liquid-y retreats, both alcoholic and otherwise.

WHISKY IN SCOTLAND

Wee drams, bagpipes, the Loch Ness monster, kilts and whisky made in the green, glen-abundant Highlands define your tippling honeymoon to discover the five Scottish regions responsible for scotch whisky. In romantic Speyside, home to pear- and vanilla-intoned whiskies made near the River Spey, you can also fish for salmon, bike and hike. Immerse in the terrain as you paddle down it with Spirit of the Spey. This canoe lover’s whisky tour, an outdoors enthusiast’s favorite way to nip, finishes in a yurt with tastings and storytelling. For an atmospheric stay, historical Craigellachie Hotel seals the deal, featuring charming rooms and more than 900 whiskies stored behind the bar. Or, consider a bespoke Celtic itinerary designed by Brendan Vacations, where local hosts deliver insider experiences, including sharing the secrets of master distillers and private dinner tastings.

COFFEE IN COSTA RICA

Honeymoon the holistic way with crystals — and coffee. With views of the

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Nicoya Peninsula, atop a mystical quartz mountain, The Retreat facilitates the fine art of disconnecting with phone- and TV-free rooms and verdant nature. Selenite crystals anchor each suite, but for a real buzz, hurry to the on-site organic coffee farm, an ideal place for coffeeholics to indulge their passion. Sip coffee to the chorus of chirping birds, while you learn how crystal-energized soil and crystal-infused spring water can improve the quality of coffee. After time spent in the hideaways romantic salt water pools, trekking through the surrounding jungle or yielding to Ayurvedic treatments in the Vida Mia Healing Center & Spa, experience some of Costa Rica’s other coffee “hot” spots — such as Espiritu Santo, a farm in Naranjo, just outside San Jose. They offer a seven step tour, which focuses on all aspects of the coffee process, including harvesting, roasting and the nation’s famous chorreador brewing method.

TEQUILA IN MEXICO

You and your boo don’t dream about Mexican beaches. Rather, you imagine yourselves tromping through the state of Jalisco’s dusty red soil and profuse agave fields. You want to see the UNESCO-recognized town of Tequila (and its environs), a region rife with succulent-brimming terrain and artisan distilleries. More than that, you hope to participate in a harvest. You long to chop out the agave’s heart (called a pina), watch it get roasted, see the distillation process and taste the final, smooth-as-silk

One&Only Nyungwe House

locally as black gold for the impact on the economy, the locale produces a chocolate that borrows from the terroir. It exudes a berry-infused, subtle spiciness — ideal for hot chocolate.

Near Quito, partake of Metropolitan Tours Journey to the Origin of Chocolate in the Amazon, a two-day experience, which includes a visit to a working cacao farm, birdwatching and a dip in an Andean thermal spring spa. Pamper yourselves at Casa Gangotena, a Relais & Chateaux member boutique hotel, where the Junior Suite with balcony room overlooks a wondrous garden and the Virgin of Quito atop a hill.

CURAÇAO IN CURAÇAO The Retreat

Like a hint of what to expect when you visit the tropical island of Curaçao, its namesake aquamarine-hued, bitter orange-flavored liqueur mirrors the color of the sea. Forty miles off the coast of Venezuela, a diving mecca, friendly Curaçao reflects its Dutch history with bonbon-colored row houses that may remind you of Amsterdam. Boasting nearly 40 palm tree-dotted beaches and some 70 bucket list dive sites, the island tends to attract outdoorsy types. But it also draws cocktail fans, yearning to know how that spirit that turns their Mai Tai blue gets made. Join a ToursByLocals expedition, which not only presents the island’s highlights, but also organizes distillery tours to attractions such as Landhuis Chobolobo, set in a 19th-century house. Fully bespoke, these led-by-residents forays, allow honeymooners to get an insider’s spin on Curaçao (and any destination where the company offers its program).

Be coddled at the beach-sited Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort, where the one bedroom suites feature balconies with views as blue as the cocktail you’re drinking.

TEA IN RWANDA

High altitude, moisture-rich climates and slopes for cultivation contribute to stellar tea crops. All this comes together in Rwanda’s rainforest jungle, where the fertile organic soil completes the recipe for bumper crop tea. Stay on a tea plantation at One&Only Nyungwe House, where treehouse-style suites lie among the myriad green expanses of the Gisakura Tea Estate.

Honeymooners can pick, dry and brew tea, learning all about its various flavor profiles via the resort’s unique tea ritual experience. Between cuppas, you and your true love can trek with a guide in search of monkeys and chimpanzees or luxuriate in the Nyungwe Forest-sited spa with a massage a deux. Don’t leave without letting the staff set up a private dining table in the tea plantation. Expect a field-to-plate menu with dishes, such as pesto pasta, made with — what else? Tea, of course.

Jose Cuervo Express

product. The high point of this honeymoon, however, happens as you chug through the landscape aboard the Jose Cuervo Express (aka: The Tequila Train). Ensconced in its new Elite wagon, a train car with panoramic windows, you’ll relish its sought after tequila tasting experience as much as the vistas. Do visit the Beckmann Gallardo Cultural Center, a museum dedicated to the history and arts of the region. Base at characteristic Hotel Solar de las Animas, a stylish lodge with a gastronomic focus.

CHOCOLATE IN ECUADOR

Claiming top status as artful chocolatiers thanks to its abundance of sustainable small producers, Ecuador’s Amazon is believed to be the birthplace of the cacao tree. Supplying some of the world’s highest-quality cocoa beans, which are known

CHAMPAGNE IN FRANCE

Bubbly snobs know it’s only Champagne if it comes from Champagne, that bucolic region just 45 minutes from Paris.

So, why not surprise your soulmate with a stunning suite gainfully equipped with a phone, which sports a button labeled: “Champagne, please?” At Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa , an elegant refuge, you’ll have a dedicated Champagne Concierge, capable of arranging exclusive tastings at top Champagne houses — such as Bollinger, located nearby. With design inspired

by Napoleon Bonaparte and his era, the hotel showcases it original 19th-century trading post, a station frequented by the kings of France — not to mention Napoleon himself. What can you do besides quaffing? Soar above vineyards in a hot air balloon, spa, eat at Michelin-starred restaurants and bike through the countryside like characters in a film. b BRIDENEWORLEANS.COM |

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C HE C K L I S T

Check It Twice There’s a lot that goes into wedding planning, so don’t feel bad if you’re having a hard time keeping track of it all. Use our handy checklist to stay organized ILLUSTRATION BY SHAINA ANDERSON

10-12 MONTHS TO GO

__ You’re engaged! Make sure you celebrate with your fiancé, friends and family. __ Nail down the basics. Where are you getting married? Who’s paying for what? What is your budget? How many guests will be there? __ Alert the wedding party. Decide who you want in your wedding party and ask them as soon as you can. __ Pick the date. Check with your family members and wedding party before you make a final decision so there are no huge time conflicts. __ Find a wedding planner. If you’re going to use a wedding planner, find one in the early stages. He or she will make all the craziness more manageable. __ Book your ceremony and reception location. Where you get married will affect a lot of your planning decisions, so reserving a place should be at the top of your to-do list.

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__ Insure your ring. Your engagement ring is special, but it’s also expensive. Make sure you get it insured, just in case. __ Book officiant. Make sure your preferred officiant has your wedding date on the calendar. __ Write thank you notes for engagement gifts. You will most likely receive a few gifts right after your engagement. Send a thank you note for each gift within three months of receiving it. __ Take engagement photos. Book a session with a professional photographer so you have a few nice photos of you and your fiancé for save-the-dates, newspaper announcements and more. Some photographers will include an engagement shoot with a wedding package. __ Pick your colors. Think about your wedding colors and the overall look of your day. Are you going for a classic look or trendy? Vintage or glamorous? Your color scheme will guide you through other big decisions, such as the bridesmaids’ dresses and the groomsmen’s ties.

6-9 MONTHS TO GO

2-3 MONTHS TO GO

__ Interview and select vendors. Make sure you book the “big ticket” items, such as the photographer, the caterer, the florist and the entertainment, early.

__ Mail out the invitations. Double check with the post office that you have enough postage. Many wedding invitations require more than one stamp.

__ Send out save-the-dates. The typical rule on sending save-the-dates is six months before your wedding, but send them earlier if you’re inviting a lot of out-of-town guests so they can book flights.

__ Solidify the catering menu. Whether you’re doing heavy hors d’oeuvres or a sit-down meal, verify the final menu.

__ Go dress shopping. You need an appointment at most wedding boutiques, so call a few of your favorite stores to set up a time. __ Register. Register at two or three stores. Choose items at a variety of prices so everyone can find something they can afford. Add more gifts than you think you need so your friends and family have some options. __ Think about the rehearsal dinner. It’s customary that the groom’s parents host the rehearsal dinner. Talk to your future in-laws about possibilities. __ Schedule transportation. Book a limo, trolley or another form of transportation to shuttle your wedding party from the hotel to your ceremony location. Decide whether you need transportation for your guests to get from the reception to the hotel at the end of the reception. __ Plan your honeymoon. If you’re going out of the country for your trip, make sure you and your fiancé have up-to-date passports. __ Figure out your rentals. Rentals depend on the location of your wedding, but if you’re responsible for common rental items such as chairs and plates, make a list of everything you need and where you’re going to find each item.

__ Schedule your hair and makeup team. Find a good hair stylist and makeup artist to help you and your bridesmaids get ready for the day.

ONE MONTH BEFORE

__ Send your wedding party an itinerary. Make sure your family and friends know where and when to be for the wedding day so everyone shows up at the right place at the right time. __ Enjoy a facial. Everyone reacts differently to facials. If you’re planning on getting one, schedule it a few days before your wedding, or do a trial run months before. __ Get your marriage license. Head to the Orleans Parish Marriage License Office in Benson Tower (1450 Poydras St., Suite 407) for your marriage certificate. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:15 a.m. until 3:15 p.m. Visit ldh.la.gov for requirements. __ Set up your second line. If you’re planning to second line at your wedding, you’re going to need a permit. Call the City of New Orleans One Stop Permits & Licenses at 658-7100 to schedule everything 15 to 20 days before your wedding day.

__ Book a block of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests. If you’re not familiar with the hotel, ask a hotel representative to show you a room and don’t forget to inquire about a group rate.

__ Practice your hair and makeup. It’s best to practice with your hair stylist and makeup artists ahead of time so there are no surprises on the big day. Plan your trial run for a day you want good hair, such as your bridal shower or bachelorette party.

__ Order bridesmaids’ dresses. If your bridesmaids live far away, give them plenty of time to buy their dresses and get them fitted.

__ Finalize the guest list. Send a final headcount to your caterer and any other vendor who needs the number.

4-5 MONTHS TO GO

ONE WEEK BEFORE

__ Buy wedding bands. Shopping for wedding bands is usually less stressful than shopping for an engagement ring, but carve out a time when you and your fiancé can go look together.

__ Double check with your vendors. Touch base with everyone one more time to remind them where to go and to answer any last-minute questions they might have.

__ Finalize the rehearsal dinner. Once you’ve decided on the location, book your rehearsal dinner.

__ Remind friends and family of their responsibilities. Assign duties to your wedding party or other loved ones. Who is the contact for the photographer? Who is making sure all guests get a favor?

__ Reserve a wedding night hotel room. Where are you staying for the wedding night? If you’re not leaving for your honeymoon immediately after the reception, decide where you want to stay for the night. __ Get your dress fitted. Your wedding dress is one of the most important dresses you will wear in your life, so it should fit impeccably.

Many brides plan up to three fittings. __ Decide on attire for the groom and groomsmen. Talk to your fiancé about what he wants to wear and what will match your overall color scheme. Keep the time of day in mind when researching options. __ Check in with your vendors. Make final decisions with your vendors and update them on new wedding information, such as when they should arrive. __ Order your wedding cake. Taste a few cakes before you decide on your final choice. Talk to your fiancé about a groom’s cake if he wants one.

__ Get a manicure and pedicure. This can be a great bonding experience with your bridesmaids, mom and future mother-in-law. __ Put together a welcome package. If you have a lot of guests traveling for your wedding, ask the hotel if you can put a welcome basket or bag in their hotel room for when they arrive.

THE WEDDING DAY

__ Find a way to relax. Whether you go for a run or read a book in the morning, find a way to keep stress to a minimum. __ Make sure you eat something. Brides always say, “I never had time to eat anything!” Give yourself some time during the reception to have a bite. __ Have fun! You’ve made it through all the planning, now it’s time to celebrate. Enjoy your first day as a married woman. b

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L AG NIAPPE

Sizzle Sauce

Wedding favors with a local twist add pizzazz to your nuptials

BY MISTY MILIOTO

W

hen it comes to wedding favors, giving something with local flavor is always a good idea. When favors are personalized, it can really add a special touch to your reception. A cute option is personalized Tabasco sauces from Louisiana’s own Avery Island. Choose from miniature 1/8-ounce bottles (144 bottles for $100 or 500 bottles for $250) of Tabasco brand Original Red Sauce with your names, or wedding logo or art, and, once the proof is approved, your delivery will arrive in

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four to six weeks. Or, personalize gallons ($55.90 each) of your favorite Tabasco brand Pepper Sauce flavor (Original Red, Green Jalapeño, Chipotle, Cayenne Garlic, Habanero, Sweet & Spicy or Buffalo Style). The gallons can accommodate up to 20 characters for personalization. Shelf life for both the miniature bottles and the gallons is 12 months from the date of production (except for the Sweet & Spicy flavor, which is six months). countrystore.tabasco.com b

STUDIO TRAN PHOTO