1. city park
City Park is over 170 years old and hosts some of the oldest oak trees in the world. One of those is the McDonaugh Oak, which has been around for more than 800 years. This location is perfection with the romantic moss draping from the trees, the cathedral like branches, and wide open spaces. Rain or sunshine, this location will tick off all of the wants for your venue list!
The Botanical Gardens in City Park are also separate from the day to day. I've enjoyed capturing many happy moments here. There are a few areas within the gardens to explore. The Conservatory of the Two Sisters houses some rare and exotic plant species, but also has these amazing giant doors that create a lovely frame.
Humid greenhouse for the succulents and dessert dwelling fauna.
In front of the Conservatory of the Two Sisters
It is very Zen inside of the Japanese Garden area.
Mid-day ceremony at the Tree of Life.
2. Tree of Life
Planted in the 1700's, this beauty has seen many years and weathered many storms. The Tree of Life is truly a sight to see in person. You will be overwhelmed by how magnificent it really is up close!
Very fun groom posing for the camera at the Tree of Life, during a rainy Valentine's Day.
A kiss during golden hour at the Tree of Life.
Fall elopement, closer to sunset at the Tree of Life.
Intimate Golden hour ceremony at the Tree of Life in New Orleans.
Bride and groom pose in the roots of the Tree of Life at Audubon Park.
Ceremony at the Tree of Life at Audubon Park in New Orleans.
3. Pharmacy Museum
The Pharmacy Museum is a lovely historic venue that can host intimate ceremonies and larger ceremonies. The ladies at the museum go out of their way to make sure you get the most out of your day while here. There are so many cool things to see and experience. If you like history, you will get happily lost meandering throughout. What also makes this a great spot, is the fact that it sits in the French Quarter, among popular hotel stays and restaurants. So if you're wanting to be super close to your reception and staying arrangements, you have to check out the Pharmacy Museum.
4. Vessel NOLA
The ceiling to the Vessel was modeled after a ships hull. This spot has been around since the early 1900's and started as a small Lutheran church. The high ceilings and the large windows are my favorite things about Vessel! That and the food of course.
5. Court of Two Sisters
The Court of the Two Sisters has long been in the French Quarter since the 1800's. It has been many things throughout history, but since the 1960's, its been a restaurant. They serve great food and the courtyard is so pretty and unique! I suggest really getting the down low on where you and your guests will be standing during the ceremony, because they will operate and serve food in the areas around it. Another tip: let the coordinator know that you would like to choose placement based on lighting. Sometimes, no matter what, the shadows can be harsh under the archway. If you have a few guests, try getting a spot by the fountain.
