Wondering how to elope in the New Orleans French Quarter?
This blog post runs down the most frequently asked questions and gives you all the information you need to make your wedding plans! Have a question that isn’t answered? Drop me a line!
Why should we elope in the French Quarter?
The French Quarter is the most iconic part of New Orleans and our oldest neighborhood. Many visitors choose to stay in the French Quarter, which makes eloping in the same neighborhood very convenient. With gorgeous squares, colorful houses, a myriad of bars and restaurants (for post-ceremony drinks and dinner!), a view of the Mississippi River, and an incredible amount of history, the French Quarter is a wonderful option for your elopement ceremony.
Where can we elope in the French Quarter?
There are several different options for your ceremony in the French Quarter, and I’m happy to talk through each of them with you to find the perfect fit for your day. Here are just a few:
Jackson Square: Referred to as the heart of the French Quarter, Jackson Square is a pedestrian park located between the Mississippi River and the St Louis Cathedral. Getting married in the park requires a permit and a fee based on the amount of guests.
Pirate’s Alley: Just around the corner from St Louis Cathedral, Pirate’s Alley is a colorful street perfect for a small ceremony. It’s a pedestrian-only area, so no need to worry about traffic. It is an extremely “New Orleans” vibe and there is no cost associated with getting married here!
Beauregard-Keyes House: One of my favorite places, the Beauregard-Keyes House is located in the residential part of the French Quarter near Esplanade Ave. Built in 1826, it was the home of famous New Orleanian author Frances Parkinson Keyes and is now run by a foundation in her honor. Many couples choose to get married in the adjacent Rose Garden, an absolutely gorgeous feature of this home.
Do we need a permit?
For Jackson Square, yes. You’ll need to place a request through the City of New Orleans and pay a fee depending on the size of your party. Learn more here.
What time of day is best?
I always recommend either early in the morning or an hour or two before sunset for the best lighting. Please note that Jackson Square is open from 930am-6pm.
What do I need to bring?
Yourselves, your marriage license, and an officiant! Click here to learn more about obtaining a marriage license in New Orleans. I’m also happy to give you my personal recommendations for wonderful officiants – just send me a message.
How much does it cost to elope in New Orleans French Quarter?
Marriage license: $27.50
Location fee: $0 for Pirate’s Alley, $250+ for Jackson Square
Officiant: $200-$250
Photography: $600-$1200
Will you photograph my elopement?
Yes! I absolutely love photographing elopements. Learn more about my elopement coverage here and get in my inbox!
WONDERING HOW TO ELOPE IN NEW ORLEANS DURING COVID-19?
READ MY POST ALL ABOUT WHAT’S CHANGED – AND HOW YOU CAN ABSOLUTELY STILL GET MARRIED!
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