Is an Elopement Package Worth It? All Your New Orleans Questions Answered
Is an Elopement Package Worth It? All Your New Orleans Questions Answered I have to admit, I love scrolling through
The New Orleans Elopement,
Designed for You.
Elope to Nola experts blending timeless photography with
all-inclusive planning and authentic New Orleans soul.
Your only job is to fall more in love.
If you love the romance, but not the fanfare...
an authentic New Orleans elopement or vow renewal is calling your name
For over a decade we’ve been the antidote to wedding stress. As the original all-inclusive elopement team in New Orleans we act as your local curators handling everything from permits and florals to custom timelines. The only planning you manage is getting dressed, getting your license and saying “I do.”
One Team. Everything Handled.
Because we are local experts, we offer more than just a service; we offer a cinematic photography experience that makes you feel completely at ease. From the first call to the final gallery, we’re your eyes on the ground and behind the lens, ensuring you get a day that feels relaxed & uniquely yours.
This isn’t just a wedding, it’s your soulful New Orleans moment. Simply book your flight, pack your rings and let us handle the rest.
Set sail into your forever with our All-Inclusive Boat Wedding Package, which is ideal for couples who want a unique destination wedding on the water.
Take in stunning views of the New Orleans skyline or peaceful coastal waves. We take care of the planning, vendors, and styling. You can simply relax and enjoy.
Celebrate just the two of you or bring along a few close friends. This intimate boat wedding feels personal & incredibly relaxing – like you’re worlds away from the city energy.
Enjoy a relaxed beach wedding without the stress. Our Biloxi Elopement Package gives you a beautiful, carefree ceremony on the Gulf Coast.
We take care of the planning, permits, and every little detail. You simply soak in the moment and the love between you.
Say your vows at sunset, walk barefoot on the sand, and keep it simple, sweet, and serene. Your dream beach elopement starts right here.
Which New Orleans Backdrop Fits Your Story?
Expertly curated locations for your all-inclusive elopement
The French Quarter
The Vibe
Historic, soulful and vibrant. Think cobblestone alleys, wrought-iron balconies and the sound of brass bands in the distance.
Best For
Couples wanting iconic NOLA energy, architecture and a short walk to a world-class celebratory dinner.
All-Inclusive Touch: We know the quietest times for the best light & less crowds in the French Quarter.
City Park
The Vibe
Ethereal, lush and timeless. Acres of manicured gardens, stone bridges and a peaceful escape from the city hustle.
Best For
Couples looking for a "fairytale" feel with greenery & winding lagoons. City Park boasts the largest concentration of stunning oaks in the USA.
All-Inclusive Touch: We handle the park permits and guide you to a truly magical experience.
The Tree of Life
The History
The Etienne de Boré Oak, planted circa 1740. Standing here is joining a story nearly 300 years in the making.
Best For
Couples seeking a ceremony connected to nature and a romantic "strength of the tree represents the strength of your marriage" symbolism.
All-Inclusive Touch: Permit is included in our package + we time your vows so sunlight filters perfectly through the massive branches.
Private Sailboat
The Vibe
Serene, exclusive and breathtaking. A private escape onto Lake Pontchartrain as the skyline glows in the distance.
Best For
Couples trading city streets for the tide. Total privacy with a front-row seat to a New Orleans sunset.
All-Inclusive Touch: We coordinate the charter, the nautical timing and the celebratory toast.
The Experience
Reflections from couples who chose an intentional, stress-free New Orleans elopement.
★★★★★
"Marcia is an excellent and confident communicator, artist, and local guide. I felt I could relax knowing she could handle everything. I’ve always felt I’m not photogenic, but our elopement was a dream. I felt happy and relaxed, and the pictures are amazing."
Karen Longenecker
★★★★★
"When our plans changed, eloping kept whispering to us. Marcia offered the perfect spot for our vow exchange. For those wanting a less stressful way to say I do, definitely say YES to iBay! Our photos came so quickly and they were perfect."
Mehgan Sapphire
★★★★★
"Marcia helped us plan our curated elopement down to the smallest details. Her local knowledge was invaluable—she even helped us choose the perfect time of day for photos amidst the busy New Orleans Halloween festivities. The photos came out absolutely stunning."
Jenny Richard
★★★★★
"From start to finish, the Ibay team was incredibly supportive. They captured our wedding day perfectly—composed with stunning color and lighting. They went above and beyond to make everything stress-free, coordinating with our vendors and keeping it relaxed."
Sage Williams
★★★★★
"Marcia and her daughter were awesome. Aside from the stellar photographs, we leveraged Marcia's network of other services. Through her, we connected with our officiant, baker, and florist that made our special occasion so magical."
Kyle McGill
★★★★★
"When I say it was perfect, I mean perfect!! From the flowers to the cake to the officiant to the location to the absolutely beautiful pictures, this was the wedding of our dreams. Marcia is amazing, and I recommend eloping in New Orleans to everyone."
Melissa Senatore
I’m Marcia!
Your professional NOLA elopement planner, photographer and unofficial ‘Keep it Real’ specialist. I help couples ditch the stress and focus on what matters most, the two of you.
I’ve lived in this city all my life, and I still get goosebumps every time a brass band starts playing in the distance. Having captured elopements here for over a decade, I know that New Orleans isn't just a backdrop, it's a feeling. My goal isn't to just check the boxes off on your wedding day; it's to make sure you truly feel the heartbeat of the city I call home.
My all-inclusive New Orleans elopement packages for two cover everything from officiant and permits to florals, timelines and full photography coverage. Whether you’re tying the knot beneath the live oaks or wandering the French Quarter, I’ve got your back.
If you want a day that feels relaxed and real; complete with second line parades, world-class food and authentic moments… welcome to the Elope to NOLA family.
Our 5-star reviews aren’t luck! They come from years of experience, preparation and treating every couple’s day like it’s our own. I’d love to hear your story because I know it’s an incredible one!
With love and soul,
Marcia Ibay
Founder & Photographer
Your Path to a Stress-Free Celebration
From "What if?" to "I do" in three effortless steps.
Begin
01. The Vision Session
Let’s turn your ideas into a plan. We’ll check your 2026 date, explore iconic NOLA backdrops, and make sure we’re the perfect fit to tell your story.
Secure
02. Reserve Your Date
Once your retainer is set and the contract is signed, the weight is off your shoulders. Your date is locked, and our local expertise is officially at your service.
Celebrate
03. Arrive & Enjoy
We curate the timeline, florals, photography and logistics while you focus on each other. Simply show up, breathe deep & soak in your soulful New Orleans moment.
New Orleans Elopement FAQ: Packages, Planning & What to Expect
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It depends on the experience you’re after — from intimate weekday ceremonies to full-day destination-style celebrations. Most couples choose one of our curated New Orleans Elopement Packages; covering photography, officiant, permits, and more.
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You can legally marry here with a Louisiana marriage license or do a symbolic ceremony. There is a 24-hr waiting period, ask us about a waiver if needed. We'll help guide you.
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Most ceremonies are 10–15 minutes—short, sweet, and heartfelt.
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Most packages accommodate up to 25 guests, depending on the location. We’ll help you choose what fits best.
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Our packages include photography, officiant, florals, permits, and planning. See full details here.
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Wear whatever feels true to you—fun, formal, or anything in between. We love seeing personal style.
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Yes! We work with kind, experienced officiants who personalize your ceremony and handle the legal stuff.
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Yes! All you need is a Louisiana marriage license and the right documents. We’ve got you covered.
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Some locations (like parks or historic spots) do require permits. We’ll handle those if they’re part of your package.
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Most couples book 2–6 months out, but we’ve also planned in under 72 hours. Reach out when you’re ready!
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No worries—we always have a backup plan. Covered options, flexible timing and expert pivoting are part of the deal. We adjust!
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I’ll be in touch within 24 hours to set up a quick call, walk you through next steps, and answer your questions. Let’s connect.
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We think so! Booking an elopement package is worth it for couples who want to avoid the stress of managing multiple vendors, navigating venue logistics, and handling seasonal crowds on their own. We streamline the entire process by bundling high-end photography, an officiant and florals into one seamless experience. This allows you to bypass the planning headache and simply show up for an authentic, intimate ceremony in the heart of New Orleans. See the difference here.
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You don’t have to lift a finger—we manage everything from florals to permits to timeline so you can relax and enjoy the ride.
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We live here. We know the hidden gems, the light, and how to work around the city’s quirks. Better photos, smoother day, no stress.
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We prep ahead, stay calm, and adapt fast if needed. You’ll have a clear plan, a rain plan, and someone in your corner the whole way.
READ OUR INDEPTH GUIDES TO ELOPING
What Typically Happens at an Elopement? Your New Orleans Timeline Explained
The most common question I hear from couples is what their actual day will look like. People understand the logistics
Private French Quarter Elopement
The Secret to a Private French Quarter Courtyard Elopement Most couples who dream of a New Orleans elopement picture Jackson
Download Your Free Elopement Guide
Elope to Nola is a service by Ibay Photography.
Creating timeless experiences since 2014.
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