A Complete Guide to Renewing Your Vows in New Orleans

If New Orleans already has a piece of your heart—or if you’re curious why it should—this guide is for you. I’m Marcia, local photographer, planner and your built-in hype woman for vow renewals that feel personal and real. Think cobblestone corners, warm gas lanterns, dreamy spanish moss oaks and photos that make you smile years later. Even if you are planning a vow renewal from across the country, I’ll show you why New Orleans is the perfect place to renew your vows. And yes—you’ll get tips for travel, locations, photography and celebration ideas along the way.

Why Renew Your Vows in New Orleans

The city sets the mood without trying. Old-world architecture, hidden alleys and oak trees with a mind of their own (not kidding!) – it’s romantic without feeling staged. Couples pick NOLA because it feels alive, a little mischievous and full of personality. You’ll find pockets of quiet even on busy days: a tucked-away courtyard, a balcony with a view or a slice of the river at sunset. We lean into spaces that match your energy, then build a curated plan around the light, the location and your story.

What happens when a simple anniversary trip to New Orleans turns into a surprise vow renewal in a quiet alley? It was a moment of shock and joy that sparked a new tradition for a couple who will now renew their vows every single year. See their vow renewal story here!

When to Plan Your Vow Renewal

Spring and fall bring the best light and comfortable temps. We don’t recommend June – Aug unless we select an indoor option. It’s so humid during these months even at sunrise and sunset! Winter is calmer, surprisingly charming and with fewer crowds in popular spots.

Sweet spot months: March–May, late September–November
Weekdays: Quieter locations, more flexibility and easier obtaining permits
Festival weeks: Fun, but plan around crowds and timing

Choosing the Right Location

From the oak canopies of City Park to secret corners in the French Quarter, there’s a backdrop for every style. We’ll match you with a spot that fits your pace and the kind of photos you want to frame.

French Quarter: Historic facades, galleries, courtyards, hidden pockets
City Park / Tree of Life: Dramatic oaks, soft light, classic New Orleans
Riverside & rooftops: Skyline moments without the fuss
Sailboat on the lake: Ceremony on the water at golden hour

Quick note on logistics: Some locations need permits or timed access. I’ll handle guidance and help you keep it simple.

Planning the Ceremony

Most vow renewals are short and meaningful—ten to fifteen minutes with personal vows and a few moments to breathe it in or to say your own personal words to each other. Want to include your kids or a small circle? Easy. Just the two of you? Also perfect.

Officiant: Warm, genuine and super personal
Style: Classic, playful or simple exchange of words
Extras: Musician, letter reading, toast after vows or singing to each other (we’ve seen it all!)

Look & Feel

Wear what feels like you. Heirloom dress, short white classic, linen suit or even a floral showstopper—there’s no wrong choice. Warmer weather calls for breathable fabrics and a backup handkerchief. Florals can be styled to match the vibe—clean and modern or lush and romantic.

Lightweight fabrics for warm months
Low, comfortable heels for walking the Quarter
Keep hair simple and secure on breezy days

Capturing the Day

Photos carry the story—how you look at each other, how the city wraps around you and the laugh that surprises you. Golden hour gives soft, cinematic light. Sunrise vow renewals are magic!

Best time: 2 hours before sunset through golden hour
Routing: Ceremony first, then a fun walk for portraits
Delivery: Private online gallery with hand-edited images + print release

“Our vow renewal was intimate, beautiful and somehow still felt like New Orleans. Marcia handled the details so we could just be present. The photos are beyond anything we hoped for.” — H & T

Celebrate After the Vows

Keep the glow going. Book a tucked-away dinner, sip something great on a rooftop or bring in a musician for a private serenade. Out-of-town couples can turn it into a mini-moon with slow brunch crawls or historic walks.

Romantic dining, private rooms, chef’s tastings
Live music for that unmistakable New Orleans feel
Low-key cocktails or sweet cake-cutting moments

Travel Tips for Your Renewal

Where to stay: French Quarter for character, Garden District for quiet, Marigny and Bywater for the MUSIC!
Getting around: Mostly walkable, quick uber rides between neighborhoods
Mini-moon: Add a day trip or slow brunch crawl

Need a curated list of where to stay, where to renew your vows and hair/makeup artists? I’ll send a guide once you book—places that feel just right for vow renewals and vendors that rock!

FAQ

Do we need a license?: No, vow renewals are symbolic.
How far in advance should we book?: A few weeks to a few months works. Last-minute plans are possible.
What’s included?: Photography, officiant guidance, florals, simple permit help, timeline and vetted recommendations for extras.
Can we include kids or a few guests?: Yes. Couples-only or intimate gatherings under 25 guests are ideal.
What if it rains?: We have light backup plans: covered spots, flexible timing and recommend clear umbrellas that photograph beautifully.

Want even more visual inspo? Here’s what I’ve been pinning lately:

About Me

Hi, I’m Marcia. Over 11+ years and 360+ celebrations later, I help couples say “I still do” in corners of the city that feel iconic and intimate. I keep the day calm and meaningful while letting New Orleans do its thing. If you’re curious about packages or want to chat through a date, start here and we’ll take it from there.

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Next Steps

Ready to renew your vows in New Orleans? Tell me your dream and I’ll shape the day around it: light, locations and photos you’ll want everywhere. If you want to start the convo, text me your date at 504-292-4856. I can’t wait to hear your love story!

Packages start at $2900. Book a Call!