Some lovebirds opt for simplicity, whereas others adore the concept of more is more. The good news is neither is wrong and it’s entirely up to the couple, their personality, preferences and budget to decide how minimal or maximal they want to go on their Big Day. In this issue, we’re celebrating the less is more approach, but don’t worry, there’s also something for the more lavish among us.
Connoisseurs of grandeur proceed directly to page 48 for an absolute feast for the eyes in, “Let Them Eat Cake!” This styled shoot is fit for the former Queen of France herself, Marie Antoinette. It features some of the city’s top wedding pros (listed on the Resources page), set on the breathtaking grounds of Stella Plantation and populated by New Orleans’ “scandalous party queens” the Merry Antoinettes Mardi Gras krewe (Disclosure: I’m a member of the Merrys). This très chic shoot — which we think of as the inspiration for our daily “Let Them Eat Cake” blog come to life — imagines the full wedding day of our bride. Tea in the boudoir, a posh hunting party and champagne le déjeuner are just a few of the activities of our lady’s day, which with its gilded cake and elaborate 18th century gowns will provide inspiration to spare for your wedding. C’est magnifique!
The minimalists among us will go ga-ga over our “Easy Does It,” fashion story on page 55, a study in natural, effortless elegance. The vintage-inspired wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses in pretty pastels and tuxedos and suiting that would give Frank Sinatra a run for his money exude simplicity and grace. For the no-fuss bride whose mantra is “keep it simple,” it’ll be hard to pick just one. Luckily, you don’t have to and you have our permission to scoop up a dress for the ceremony, the reception and the after party.
Speaking of after parties, flip to page 100 to get the scoop on party food that will keep you and your guests energized and on the dance floor in “Good to the Last Bite.”
We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoyed creating it. It’s sure to provide everything you need to ensure perfection on the dreamy day you become queen for a day. Salut!
— Melanie Warner Spencer, Editor
P.S. Visit Let Them Eat Cake (www.myneworleans.com/Blogs/Let-Them-Eat-Cake/), the official blog of New Orleans Bride Magazine for more tips and trends, trunk shows and other events, plus advice, ideas, inspiration and interviews. It’s all of the bridal buzz you can use, five days a week.
Editor's Notebook
Bella Umbrella on Magazine Street has a parasol or umbrella to fit any bride or groom’s style or personality for second-line perfection. The Battenberg Lace strolling parasol has a wooden shaft and handle and loads of Victorian style. shop.bellaumbrella.com
On Jan. 11, join us at the Hyatt Regency for the New Orleans Bride Magazine Bridal Show. Meet more than 150 of the city’s top wedding professionals in a festive setting, sip champagne and sample fabulous food. Visit www.myneworleans.com/events for tickets, pricing and more information.
