The Wedding Report, a research company that tracks and forecasts all aspects of weddings, recently published its 2016 first quarter wedding report. According to the data, more couples are looking to plan smaller, more intimate weddings. In fact, 80 percent of people surveyed by The Wedding Report think smaller weddings are becoming more on trend than larger weddings.

The report suggests a few reasons behind the change from larger, more flamboyant festivities. First, it says couples are looking for a way to assure they spend more time having fun dancing and spending quality time with friends and family. With a smaller guest list, the couple has more time to thank everyone for coming and still have time for themselves.

Another reason for the trend change, the report states, is couples are realizing that with a smaller guest list they are able to devote more of their budgets to the wedding professionals of their dreams. From floral artists to the hottest wedding planners, even a couple’s favorite venue can now all be a part of the Big Day.

Lucky for New Orleans brides, the city is full of gorgeous venues able to accommodate everything from the largest parties down to the most intimate affairs. These venues are a great fit for a small soirée that still packs Big Easy punch.

The Ace Hotel

600 Carondelet St, New Orleans

(504) 900-1180

http://www.acehotel.com/neworleans

Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights

318 Royal St, New Orleans

(504) 552-4311

http://www.bevolo.com/

Brennan’s

417 Royal St, New Orleans

504-525-9711

brennansneworleans.com