Weddings held in New Orleans are so deserving of jazz hands and maybe a few high kicks because they are that cool. And the pictures captured by NBP Images are also that cool. They tell the tale of a jazz-inspired love fest set amongst the awesomeness that is the Terrell House. And that love fest is the wedding that keeps on giving with even more to be perused in the full gallery. See it all right here.
From the Bride… Clay and I are both Texas natives, but it took meeting in the romantic city of Savannah, Georgia, while attending college for us to find each other and fall in love. His cowboy boots, shorts and John Deer green bicycle couldn’t be overlooked … how could I have not found myself smitten? On our first road trip back to Texas together, we decided upon an adventurous and impromptu stop in New Orleans, and it was the beginning of a love affair of a different kind for us both. It seemed all the things we shared a passion for could be found in this colorful city: art, music, history and food. It was the perfect place to bring our family and loved ones for our wedding. We knew the Garden District would be ideal, and a B&B would provide space for everyone to stay and showcase the cozy charm and feel of NOLA, while still being reminiscent of the Savannah we loved. We logged a lot of hours and scoured many options, but we knew the moment we crossed the threshold of the Terrell House that our decision was made. It was elegant in its southern charm, not to mention the hospitality that welcomed us with open arms. In order to set the mood, our friend Peter from Blackbird Press in Savannah did an outstanding job with the letterpress invites. They had an old world elegance with a garden-esque flair, which captured the spirit of our day.
Our ceremony was an intimate, loose blend of tradition. We incorporated the Quaker practice of having the ones you love circle you while exchanging promises and declaring your love and devotion. Our guests were invited into the courtyard, where the music and cocktails welcomed them. While everyone mingled, Clay and I met inside the house enjoying a quite moment together before joining hands and stepping outside together as one. At the right moment, we locked eyes and rang a little a bell (given to us by my mom) that indicated the start of the ceremony and an unforgettable evening to come. Our contact at the B&B was extraordinary! She kind enough to order flowers for us to design ourselves, so I took on the challenge of the bouquet, boutonnière and centerpieces. Another Savannah friend and chef, Michael Gottlieb, who had moved to NOLA to share his passion and gift for all things scrumptious, provided food. With his help, we arranged for a selection of southern, passed hors d’oeuvres with service and silver provided by our gracious host at the B&B. Clay’s mother and friend made some bunting, and we strung it with handmade doilies and a felt pennant found on Etsy to mark the celebrative atmosphere. Clay and I shared a panache for all things old and with a story. We had also searched antique stores for old brass instruments to set the tone and pay homage to the history of the city. Along the way we found some old wooden letter stamps with our initials, which we embellished with gold paint. We also, were fortunate enough to find some vintage music flash cards that guests could leave their wishes and advice on. Music on a budget was a huge challenge — but the city has many wonderful options and all one needs to do is stroll the streets in order to stumble upon endless talent. After many emails, we found a lead and were put in contact with a fabulous band. They were pleasant, punctual, talented and stylish … we couldn’t have asked for more! We danced, drank and ate our way into the evening and then took the festivities to the streets. Our guest left with old iron fleur de les finials that we’d found during a flea market trip and brushed up with a little antique gold paint. We took the apropos strands of gold beads in search of the best jazz in the city!
My best friend and a fellow SCAD alumnus, Nichole Barrali of NBP Images, was kind enough to capture our day and all of its magical moments, all while celebrating with us and looking stunning! She had the artistic vision to capture the best parts of the New Orleans we both adore, utilizing some of the iconic backdrops and scenes of the city: Preservation Hall; historic, hand-painted wall advertisements; local Lucky Dog stands and unparalleled architecture. She made our pictures not only stunning but also treasured memories and beautiful keepsakes.
Wedding Photography: Nichole Barrali of NBP Images / Wedding Venue: Terrell House in New Orleans, Louisiana / Flowers: DIY / Bouquet Wrap Fabric: A Vintage Pillow / Catering: Michael Gottlieb / Desserts: Sucre / Wedding Invitations: Peter Roberts of Blackbird Press / Bunting: DIY / Felt Pennant: Etsy / Wedding Dress: Designer Unknown via Kathi Rich Boutique / Groom’s Suit: Macy’s