Not all brides are like New Orleans brides. I was struck by this notion recently while second-lining on a blissfully cool evening en route to a friend’s wedding reception. The happy couple had just declared their “I Dos” and along with the rest of the bridal party, family and friends, I shimmied to the sounds of the brass band and waved my handkerchief — a keepsake from my own wedding. No ma’am, in other cities, parasols, go-cups and after-parties featuring comforting late-night bites from Lucky Dog just aren’t done. Big Easy brides were raised on crawfish and Mardi Gras and not only get to infuse their nuptials with lively local traditions, but also can pick-and-chose from a host of rituals born in the South. From cake pulls to bourbon burying and beyond, on page 110, we’re offering up a list of Southern-style snapshot opps, plus the freshest in wedding photography trends.
The most important day of your life is no time to toy with humidity that’s so high and mighty, it could wilt a magnolia tree, so on page 32 we’ve polled the pros to get tips to keep your makeup as flawless as Beyonce’s sister and part-time New Orleanian Solange during her fall 2014 minimalist wedding at the Marigny Opera House. Crescent City couples looking to take cues from the funky soul singer can rejoice, as neutrals are the hottest color theme for every aspect of your nuptials. This issue celebrates creamy ecru invitations, pretty pale pearls and frosty gems and bridesmaids dresses in every snowy shade on the spectrum, so flip through for inspiration and ideas that’ll wow whether your taste skews traditional, romantic, rustic, whimsical or très moderne.
Inspiration is easy to find in a city that, while so steeped in history, tradition and the flavorful mix of cultural influences, it still manages to delight and surprise with its openness toward that which is innovative and modern — as long as you don’t mess with our right to late night revelry. It’s in this spirit that, in addition to a dazzling lineup of stories that will ensure your wedding is exquisite, memorable and — most importantly — fun, we’re unveiling a crisp new look for New Orleans Bride. We hope you enjoy the Summer/Autumn 2015 issue and its makeover. We recommend perusing it over beignets and café au lait, naturally.
P.S. New Orleans Bride Magazine is partnering with Brides Against Breast Cancer, a non-profit organization that contributes to programs for cancer patients and their families, for its National Tour of Gowns Charity Bridal Event and Trunk Sale on June 21 at the Royal Sonesta Hotel. Enjoy refreshments, entertainment, giveaways and find your dream wedding gown while supporting a worthy cause. Visit bridesagainstbreastcancer.org for tickets and information.
In January, we launched “Let Them Eat Cake,” the official blog of New Orleans Bride Magazine. From tips and trends to trunk shows and other events, plus advice, ideas, inspiration and interviews, LTEC offers all of the bridal buzz you can use five days a week. The fashion, fun, flowers, fabulous photos and more will make planning your Big Day a breeze.
Macaroon purveyor Sucré opened a French Quarter location this year, complete with a charmingly appointed second-floor restaurant. Salon by Sucré is the perfect place for your bridesmaid ask party, showers and bridal party planning meetings. Afternoon tea includes finger sandwiches, savory pastries, an assortment of tea and of course, macaroons. An ever-changing dinner menu of small plates is also available and wine and cocktails keep conversation flowing. Salon by Sucré, 622 Conti St., shopsucre.com.
The New Orleans Bride June Bridal Show is at 6 p.m. on June 10, at the Hyatt Regency. Talk to the area’s top wedding professionals while sipping champagne. The new Groom Room is a gathering spot just for the guys. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.