Looking for info on how to elope in New Orleans City Park? Look no further! This post gives you all of the details and answers the most frequently asked questions about eloping or having a microwedding in city park.

Why do you recommend eloping in city park?

As an elopement photographer in New Orleans, part of my job is guiding my couples in creating the most perfect wedding day for them, & so often that includes helping them find an amazing location for their ceremony. Many couples love the oak trees we have in south Louisiana and see themselves saying their vows under the magnificent branches and swaying Spanish moss. I always love recommending eloping in New Orleans City Park, because the park is centrally located within the city and they make having a ceremony surrounded by beautiful landscape simple to plan.

Do I need a permit?

Yes. Elopement & microwedding permits are $250 and can be obtained by calling 504-488-2896 or by emailing the park’s director of special events, Julie LaCour, at jlacour@nocp.org. Here are all the details regarding the permit!

Where should we have our ceremony?

You can get married in many beautiful places in City Park such as the botanical garden, sculpture garden, and the Museum of Art. The elopement and microwedding permit mentioned above includes the Butler fountain for the ceremony and also allows photos on the iconic stone bridge. Interested in a location other than Butler fountain? Make sure to discuss this with the park during booking!

Pro Tip #1: Always consider an alternate location in case of rain. The weather in New Orleans can change quickly!

What do I need to bring to our New Orleans elopement?

No matter the location, you’ll need to bring your marriage license to sign, a pen, your ceremony permit (a copy on your phone is fine), yourselves, and your officiant! I am always happy to help my couples find an officiant to marry you – just ask! For more information on how to obtain a marriage license in Orleans Parish, click here.

How much does it cost?

Ceremony permit: $250
Marriage license: $27.50
Officiant: $300-400

What time of day is best?

For the best lighting, I recommend planning your ceremony right after sunrise or during the two hours before sunset. This is recommended for the majority of outdoor New Orleans elopements, no matter the location.

Pro Tip #2: Allow more time than you think you may need at your ceremony spot and consider scheduling in a few extra minutes to have a private moment for just the two of you after your ceremony. You don’t want to feel rushed on your wedding day.

How many guests are allowed at a city park elopement?

The elopement and microwedding permit allows 20 guests max.

Is a secondline band permissible?

Yes. A a secondline band can celebrate your elopement with you. However, amplified music via a speaker, DJ booth, etc, is not allowed.

What else is there to do in City Park?

You can visit the botanical garden, sculpture garden, or NOMA. You could rent bikes, take a ride on a super silly swan paddle boat, or have a just married picnic by the lake complete with champagne and cheese and charcuterie.

Pro-tip #3: Hire a few amazing vendors to set up your picnic and provide provisions to take your celebration to the next level!

Will you photograph my elopement?

Of course! To inquire about your elopement, CLICK HERE!

Relevant links for your planning purposes!

New Orleans City Park Microwedding & Elopement Policy
How To Obtain A Marriage License in New Orleans
Must-know Planning Tips for Your New Orleans Wedding
Should You Have a Small Wedding? 5 Things to Consider