New Orleans Mardi Gras Wedding

When Michelle and Evan reached out about their New Orleans wedding on Mardi Gras Day, I was stoked (to say the least). I have never ever photographed a wedding on Mardi Gras Day, because the couples never felt right – typically people who had never been to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, didn’t understand how the city both shuts down and comes completely alive in the same day, and had logistical expectations that weren’t possible (take it from a thirteen-year New Orleanian – you don’t wanna drive).

But Michelle and Evan were locals, who wanted to have their ceremony on the river at Crescent Park first thing in the morning and then join the legendary St Ann Parade. That’s my kind of wedding.

Michelle made her and Evan’s gorgeous floral costumes for the day – I can’t get over her headpiece PLUS the veil! A true Mardi Gras queen!

All of their family and friends were encouraged to show up in full Mardi Gras costume, and show up they did!

Michelle and Evan said their vows on the river and also under the river – I loved this touch!

Woohoo, they’re married!

After the ceremony, we walked from Crescent Park into the Bywater where St Ann’s begins. There were celebratory jello shots, there were hot breakfast sandwiches, there were hundreds of people in costume congratulating the bride and groom!

I loved photographing the costumes of all the people showing up to join the second line! What a wedding hack – having your ceremony, then joining a huge festive party that you didn’t have to plan!