New Orleans Wedding, A Guide to Getting Married in The Big Easy

Complete, up-to-date information for getting married in New Orleans.

I am writing this article to clear up a lot of confusion regarding coming to New Orleans for your wedding.

#1. Almost everything the "national media" has been presenting is WRONG!
Pretty much every couple and their families have been telling me that everything they’ve heard on the national news is in NO WAY indicative of what New Orleans is really like. We’re not still underwater. The City is the cleanest it’s ever been, almost Disnyesque in comparison to the past. What crime does occur is usually in outlying areas, that, (like any large city) if you stay out of, will not affect you. The people are some of the friendliest you’ll ever meet, and the music scene is the best in the world.

#2. There’s a lot of inaccurate information out there.
I still have couples telling me that they thought that they could get their marriage license at City Hall on Saturday. You can’t! That office has been closed since the storm, with no opening date in sight. If you are coming into New Orleans from the Louis Armstrong Airport, the best office would be at 111 N Causeway Blvd. Metairie, La. If you are staying in the French Quarter (or even not) the best place to go to get your license is the Algiers Courthouse, 225 Morgan Ave. New Orleans, LA 70114. It’s an easy and free to pedestrian, ride across the Mississippi River to Algiers Point. Everything is walking distance, and there are some great local bars and restaurants for lunch.

#3. There are over 750 restaurants (not counting fast food) open in New Orleans!
From the "Mom and Pop" places to our famous 4 star restaurants, it’s never been easier to sample our world famous cuisine. These world renowned eateries are in dire need of your business. From Antoine’s to Broussard’s to Commander’s Palace, the entire alphabet of New Orleans tastes await you. The lines are short and the food, as always, is delicious!

#4 The Parks
Audubon and City Park’s are in great shape! They make for very romantic wedding venues, and are free for private ceremonies, as is Washington Artillery Park, across from Jackson Square.

#5. You can get your marriage license and get married the same day!
If you are from out of state, I, as your wedding officiant, can waive the 72 hour waiting period for your wedding. The marriage must take place in Orleans Parish, but you can get your license anywhere in the state, as it is a state license, and is good for 30 days. You must provide a birth certificate, local ID, and if it applies, a copy of your divorce decree. If you are from outside the U.S. a passport is sufficient.

On a personal note, I have been promoting the concept of "Patriotourism". I came up with the term to describe what I have witnessed here in New Orleans. So many people have told me that they have felt a duty to come to New Orleans to help in its recovery. And to those of you who feel this way, I would like to say, on the behalf of the people of New Orleans: THANK YOU, AND WE LOVE YOU!

Visit: www.RomanceinNewOrleans.com