The Southern Bride: Destination Wedding: New Orleans

It's official! In one year from today (actually 366 days, since 2012 is a leap year... but who's counting?!), Todd and I will be getting married! To celebrate the fact that we are finally a year away from our big date, I want to share this adorable New Orleans destination wedding. The church, Holy Name of Jesus on St. Charles Ave., is the same one Todd and I will be married in. The venue used by this couple is the New Orleans Board of Trade. It is a gorgeous venue in the french quarter with a little courtyard and fountain area, in addition to a ballroom like space that makes up the main venue. And, good news for future New Orleans brides -- its been renovated recently! Now, I will not be using the board of trade because I wanted to have a reception in Audubon Park, across from the Church.

The couple, Yvonne and Dan, were engaged in New Orleans. Since their families are spread out between California and New York they wanted to meet half way. The yankee couple, so to speak, opted to follow a number of New Orleans traditions: 3 hour buffet style reception, big band, and a second line celebration during the reception. Due to the short nature, they cut out a number of traditional wedding activities, such as cutting the cake, throwing the bouquet or garter, etc. They did however take swing dance lessons and performed a first dance to kick off the celebration. Being that every single guest was from out of town, having a fun-filled New Orleans style wedding was important. Yvonne and Dan chose to have a small guest list of close friends and family from all over the US and other countries.

Without further ado, I'd like to share this sweet couple with you all. Oh, and also....

ONE MORE YEAR TIL MY WEDDING!!

Okay, thats the last time.... until I have the need to shout it out again.