Choosing a venue can be one of the toughest (and priciest) decisions you make while planning your wedding. Trust me, I know from first-hand experience…see The Unapologetic Guide to Being a Badass Bride for all the dirty deets.
There are plenty of beautiful venues to choose from in New Orleans, a city consistently rated a Top 10 wedding destination in the U.S. and one of my favorite cities to shoot in. Below, I’ve listed some of the dreamiest New Orleans wedding venues for swoon-worthy photos.
Marigny Opera House
This former church transports guests back in time with its bare concrete walls and massive arched ceiling. It feels like a forgotten place somewhere in another world. Very little decor is necessary to make this place pop. It’s no wonder Solange Knowles chose this venue for her own NOLA wedding. Whether you’re into a light, airy feel or a dark, moody vibe, this is the place for you. Just be aware there is a noise curfew, so you’ll need to wrap the party up early and head someplace that can handle late night crowds. Check out this wedding I photographed there.
Ogden Museum of Southern Art
Did you know Hogwarts is actually located in the warehouse district of New Orleans? I’m convinced this art museum is secretly Hogwarts, but keep that on the low! This venue has a classic feel in the main ceremony space and an edgy, abandoned feel in its hidden attic space, ideal for bride and groom photos. There are so many cool nooks and crannies for your photographer to take advantage of. Best for larger weddings, you won’t feel cramped in space with the amount of room Ogden provides. It’s the perfect venue for a loud and rowdy crowd. See for yourself here.
Ace Hotel NOLA
The Ace Hotel is truly a one-stop shop. It can serve as your room block, prep space, ceremony hall, and reception throwdown. Ace is conveniently located in the Warehouse District and had the funkiest vibe. With the suites, you have access to a rooftop porch, perfect for a private first look or bride and groom portraits. Enjoy brunch and coffee downstairs the next morning at Josephine Estelle and Stumptown coffee. Be warned, hipsters abound!
Il Mercato
If Italian destination wedding is your vibe but not in your budget, there’s Il Mercato. Seriously, around every corner is a photo op (even the bathrooms are gorgeous). Exchange vows in an outdoor ceremony in the open-air courtyard in front of a white stucco fireplace, then step inside for a candlelit dinner in the main room or sip a whiskey in the dimly lit library surrounded by books and original wood beams. Here’s some major inspo.
New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
I know, it sounds weird. A pharmacy museum? Just trust. While the inside is chock-full of all sorts of medicinal artifacts, the outside is overflowing with plants and New Orleans history. You’ll feel like you’re in the middle of the jungle resorting it up at an exclusive courtyard hotel. This intimate venue is perfect for boho brides and smaller groups, as long as you can adhere to their 10 p.m. curfew. Check it out!
While I’ve shot beautiful images at the above locations, I’m hoping to expand my horizons and shoot some weddings at venues on my Bucket List, including Capulet, Arts Estuary, Felicity Church, and the Civic Theater.
Still stuck? Feel free to reach out! Your photographer can be an incredible asset in helping you decide on a venue that’s right for you.
