Heartfelt Elopement at the French Quarter Wedding Chapel
The French Quarter of New Orleans is the perfect place to elope. It’s vibrant and whimsical with endless gems to discover. Edwin and Kathy turned their New Orleans elopement into a three-week road trip from L.A. With their cute pup Klee in tow, they tied the knot at the French Quarter Wedding Chapel. Their day was one of the most heartfelt I’ve gotten to photograph.
The French Quarter Wedding Chapel
The French Quarter Wedding Chapel is a really unique experience. Firstly, it’s the easiest way to elope in New Orleans. Judges haven’t been able to officiate weddings for a while in Orleans Parish. The French Quarter Wedding Chapel offers a streamlined alternative to finding a venue and officiant.
The chapel itself is one-of-a-kind. When you walk in, one of the first things you’ll notice is the money hanging from the ceiling. It’s a tradition for marriers to sign a dollar bill and hang it up after their ceremony. A colorful assortment of vintage chandeliers hangs over the pews. It’s the perfect space for an elopement in the sense that you don’t need to bring any decor to get an unforgettable aesthetic.
Wedding packages at the French Quarter Wedding Chapel range between $350 and $4,900. The chapel has capacity for up to 50 guests, but that’s if people don’t mind getting cozy. It’s more comfortable for a smaller group.
An Elopement Rooted in Family
Edwin and Kathy’s elopement at the French Quarter Wedding Chapel stands out among all the elopements I’ve photographed. New Orleans wasn’t just any destination for this couple. Edwin’s father was born and raised here. Unfortunately, he passed away before he could take Edwin for a visit. You can see in some of the photos that Edwin could feel his father close throughout the day. I still tear up when I think about it!
To get the most out of their trip, Edwin and Kathy chose to elope a few days after Mardi Gras. They got to experience Mardi Gras for the first time but also got to experience the city when all the parades are over and things are a little more low key.
The day before their elopement, Edwin and Kathy saw a brass band playing in the Quarter. Edwin asked if they’d be willing to come to the French Quarter Wedding Chapel the next day for their elopement. They agreed!
On their wedding day, Edwin and Kathy got ready together at their hotel. They didn’t have any guests. I felt extra honored to be part of such an intimate day as their photographer. I even got to sign their marriage license as a witness!
Right after the ceremony, we took to the streets and celebrated! The brass band joined us for a second line around the French Quarter. I could see the feelings hitting Edwin in that moment. He married the love of his life in his dad’s hometown. The brass band music took the emotions to the next level.
Favorite French Quarter Spots
Edwin and Kathy got a little mix of everything on the day of their French Quarter Wedding Chapel elopement. We took photos throughout the French Quarter. This neighborhood is a favorite photo spot for locals and tourists alike thanks to the charming architecture and vibrant colors. The pink and green house that Edwin and Kathy posed in front of is an especial favorite for engagement and wedding photos.
After the second line, Edwin and Kathy took a break for beignets at Café Beignet. These sugar-powered pastries are a New Orleans classic. If you ask me, they give any wedding cake a run for its money. They’re also a heap of messy fun. Someone always ends up in stitches when the sugar flies.
Finally, we ended the day at the Court of Two Sisters. This restaurant on Royal Street is legendary for its Creole cuisine. If you’re thinking of visiting, check in to see if you can catch some live jazz.
I left Edwin and Kathy’s elopement feeling like I’d made life long friends. I’ll carry this experience in my heart throughout my life.
Would you like me to photograph your New Orleans elopement? I’m a wedding photographer ready to document your favorite moments with photos that make your heart melt. Inquire with me!
Thank you to these French Quarter businesses for hosting us: