Helen Laville Waller and Raymond Louis Acurso were both looking to meet someone special when they matched on a dating app. Helen was drawn to Ray right away, because rather than trying to impress her with a line, he simply introduced himself like a gentleman. Though they were in Washington, D.C., their first date unfolded in true New Orleans fashion–afternoon drinks turned into dinner at a popular dive bar. After that date, they knew they wanted to know one another better, and soon they were a couple.
Two years later, Ray made reservations at one of the fanciest restaurants in D.C. He had intended to propose during dinner, but Helen was growing suspicious and Ray wanted to surprise her. A week before this dinner, the two had a Thanksgiving meal together at one of their favorite restaurants; Ray caught Helen off guard by asking her to marry him right then and there! Helen joyfully said yes, and the two began planning a wedding in her hometown.
The couple welcomed their family and friends the evening before the wedding with a party at Parkview Hotel, where Martin Wine Cellar had put out a beautiful catering spread. This elegant, intimate gathering set the tone for the celebration to come.
On October 18, 2025, Helen and Ray were married at her parents’ home, which was decked out in white and burgundy accented with splashes of pink. The home has always been a special place to bring the family together, making it the perfect place to say “I do.” As the couple was pronounced husband and wife by Reverend John Pitzer, they each wore the wedding bands of the grandparents after whom they are named.
The celebration continued with a reception focused on the couple spending quality time with their guests. The newlyweds decided to forego a first dance, opting instead to enjoy unscripted moments with the people that matter most to them. Everyone raved over the menu created by Lisa Tannet; the roast beef, shrimp cocktails, and creme brulee stood out as crowd favorites. The wedding cake, a carrot cake by Bittersweet Confections, ended the evening on a sweet note.
Given their family-focused wedding, it’s no surprise that Ray and Helen’s choice of honeymoon destination was also influenced by their family lineages. Both have Irish ancestry but had never been to Ireland. It was the perfect opportunity to spend two weeks exploring the country that had long held their imaginations.
After an unforgettable trip, Helen and Ray returned to their home in D.C. Ray works in emergency management, and Helen works in local government.
Reception Décor: Krystal Touchard at Element
Ceremony Music: Rachel Auerbach violinist and Phillip von Maltzahn cellist, through New Orleans Classical and Jazz
Wedding Gown: Voeux Couture in Washington, D.C.
Groom’s Attire: Hall Madden in Washington, D.C.
Engagement Ring: Sholdt ring from Brian Gavin Diamonds Bride’s Wedding Band: Sholdt ring from Brian Gavin Diamonds Groom’s Wedding Band: Brian Gavin Diamonds
Florist: Steve Baker
Invitation: Scriptura
Caterer: We All Asked for You
Photographer: Kelbert McFarland
Hair: Fiat Lux Studio
Makeup: Fiat Lux Studio
Music: Doreen’s Jazz New Orleans
