Why We Love It: From live music seven nights a week to free-flowing beverage service to mouthwatering Cajun and Creole cuisine, NOLA attracts newlyweds-to-be seeking a fun, laid-back atmosphere for their big day. "There is no hard-and-fast waiting period for couples to tie the knot here, and at times, our pricing can be much lower than larger cities," says Kim Sayatovic from Belladeux Event Design. Heavily influenced by French and Spanish architecture, there are endless stunning backdrops throughout New Orleans to choose from for your wedding photos. Not to mention that since the climate is subtropical nearly year-round, there's always lots of (free!) blooming flowers and lush greenery to enhance your event decor.
Where to Get Hitched: The Audubon Tea Room is a nonconventional venue located in the Garden District, across from a beautiful park with 100-year-old oak trees. All proceeds go toward feeding and housing the animals at the Audubon Zoo. "I had my wedding reception there, and I cannot speak highly enough about the staff and food," Sayatovic says. Insider tip: add the patio to your contract to accommodate a large number of guests.
