Crystal + Will’s gorgeous New Orleans wedding completely echoed the unique + spirited vibe of this truly one-of-a-kind city. Their ceremony took place in an authentic NOLA courtyard, just outside a historic pharmacy from the 1800’s and their reception was held at a bank-turned-event-space in the heart of the French Quarter. From the type of flowers they selected (roses + Bells of Ireland are two of their favorites) to the songs they danced to, everything was chosen with purpose and meaning and inspired a day that was a true reflection of who they are together. Here’s more from Crystal about their celebration:
Being from New Orleans, I’m no stranger to a good time – our relationship is very much like that, and we wanted our guests to experience that, too. We tried our best to include family + friends in as many aspects of our wedding and planning as we could, since they are so very important to us. My “something borrowed” was a handkerchief wrapped around my bouquet from my late grandmother, who I am a spitting image of. It was really important to me to have her there in some way. During our planning and the events leading up to the wedding, I referred to our day as “The Wedding of the Century.” I wanted a memorable, unique + once in a lifetime party that represented the start of our new life together, and I’d like to think our guests agreed!
Big thanks to Ariel Renae Photography for the stunning photography + congrats to Crystal + Will!
Processional: Pachabel's Cannon in D; Trumpet Voluntary by Clarke
Recessional: Rondeau – Mouret
First Dance: February Seven – The Avett Brothers
It's difficult to pick just one because the entire day was perfect. The ceremony was beyond beautiful, we were married in nature under an arch of flowers, outside of a historic pharmacy, in an authentic New Orleans outdoor courtyard setting (the minister was my husband's brother) and surrounded by everyone we love. The reception was amazing, thanks to a full dance floor and the most fun band ever (with my cousin on saxophone)!
But if I had to chose just one moment that sticks out, I'd have to say our second line parade in the streets of the New Orleans French Quarter was a unique and memorable way to end the night. As we paraded down the streets, lead by the brass section of our band, over 100 of our guests walked behind us, singing, cheering, waving their handkerchiefs in the air! People on the sidewalks stopped what they were doing to dance and cheer with us, to take pictures and some to ask what was going on, others didn't care and danced anyway! We ended the night with a "bang" and it is something none of us will ever forget!
Be organized and start early. The MANY details that need to be done can become overwhelming at times. I was lucky to have a groom whose occupation as a Project Manager helped me stay on task and able to organize the thousands of decisions needed to be made!
photography: Ariel Renae Photography // event design: Crystal Schouest Brooks (the bride) // planning: Crystal Schouest Brooks (the bride) // wedding dress: Designer - Amy Kuschel purchased from Wedding Belles and the Stationer // bride's shoes: Antonio Melani // hair stylist: hair from H20 Salon and Spa // makeup artist: hair from H20 Salon and Spa // groom attire: Bachrach of Nashville, TN and 615. 649.0781 // paper goods: Bella Figura // catering: Chef John Besh via Latrobe's on Royal // cake: Sucre // music: Souled Out // venue name: Ceremony at The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, Reception at Latrobe's on Royal New Orleans, Louisiana // floral design: The Plant Gallery // hairpiece: Veil was custom Chantilly Lace design by Jennifer Leigh (Purchased at Wedding Belles), Reception Hairpiece was Designed by New Orleans local Erica Salm Rench of ESR design (Purchased at Wedding Belles) // bridesmaid dresses: Lela Rose and Alfred Sung, purchased from Bridesmaids Inc, Jr. Bridesmaid floral dresses, purchased from Modcloth // reception candle design: Luminous Events // second line parade: Selby Second Line Services // photo booth: Boogie Booth // favors: Coozie, Cup, and Mardi Gras Bead designed by the bride // coozie: Personalized Drinkware // cup printer: Personalized Drinkware // mardi gras bead printer: Promotion Beads
Such a unique choice of venue and what a lovely wedding
Oh my! Such prettiness! Eeeeek!
xo
http://www.plumprettysugar.blogspot.com
thanks for wanting to share this one!!!! :) you guys are awesome!!!
Gorgeous photos. I love the advice to stay on task with all of the little details.
love :)
I love this! What a neat location!
Wow wow wow- the shades of pink in the bridesmaid dresses! I love this wedding… <3
Such a beautiful wedding!
This is such a cool place to get married in! WOW.
Gorgeous wedding! Who is the designer/what was the specific style number/name of your dress?
My dress was designed by Amy Kuschel – Pearl is the dress name – purchased from Wedding Belles in New Orleans.
Loved my dress!! The belt was purchased separately, wasn’t an original dress accessory :)
A stunning choice of venue, true rustic chic that sets the stage for a beautiful wedding
Nice n sweet wedding . Love it !!!
The bride’s wedding dress really caught my attention. Love it especially the back design and the belt!