May 04, 2015
Aimee was a lucky lady; she had the world in her hand"... or, as we say in New Orleans, the world was her oyster! She was beautiful, blessed to be born and raised in New Orleans, and was smart as well as motivated. After graduating from LSU, Aimee earned her advanced degree from Tulane and started working as a young professional in the New Orleans community"...but something was missing in her life"....she always dreamed of using her skills to honor and serve her country, so Aimee joined the Air Force as an Officer. While in the service, Aimee met a dashingly handsome young man, "A. J." He had a Ph.D. in Chemistry and they immediately hit it off; it was head-over-heels love at first sight! Both were in search for meaning and passion in their lives and they found them in each other. Within a few months, they decided to marry. Aimee had always dreamed of a fairy tale wedding in the heart of the romantic French Quarter, so she set out a plan to make her dream come true.
After looking at many lovely venues, the young couple fell in love with the ambience and charm of The Royal Sonesta's elegant Grand Ballroom as the perfect backdrop for their wedding and reception. The views of vibrant French Quarter life, the nearby stunning pool, patio terrace, and the lush tropical courtyard with orange trees and a beautiful candle-lit fountain all appealed to Aimee and A. J. When Aimee sampled the delicious food and wedding cake tasting, all made fresh in house, her mouth confirmed what her heart felt. Further, the Royal Sonesta offered them an all-inclusive wedding experience. Not only could they stay in a lovely suite, but also the wedding and reception could be held there, and a team of culinary chefs would organize the reception menu "from soup to nuts." They accommodated Aimee's dietary requirements, and they were even able to make the wedding cake of her dreams!
Aimee selected a traditional almond flavored wedding cake on a gleaming silver stand that was over-the-top beautiful adorned with fresh flowers to be arranged by Bee's Wedding & Event Floral Designs. In keeping with the Southern tradition, their wedding featured a groom's cake that reflected his personality and interests. A. J. loves the television sitcom, The Big Bang Theory, so his cake would be red velvet with a lightning bolt on top! Everything fell together when they consulted Eric and Carolyn Fredericks, the owners of Bee's Wedding & Event Floral Designs. They treated Aimee the way they were treated when planning their own wedding over thirty years ago. They were friendly and responsive to Aimee's unique vision of "rustic elegance" for her ceremony and reception and acutely aware that the pressures involved in a wedding can be frustrating and time-consuming. Decades of experience allowed them to focus on Aimee's desires and dreams with close attention to every detail. Eric offered a wide range of floral options and Carolyn's longstanding reputation for personalized event planning made for a joyful, beautiful and stress-free wedding. Aimee couldn't have been more pleased with the service she received. "After meeting with Eric, I instantly knew this was something he was passionate about and that I could trust him to make our day special. After sharing my dreams and vision with Eric, he made suggestions and everything seemed to flow. He took our ideas and personalities, and turned them into floral designs that people are still talking about. I knew that the flowers and the decor were my priority and putting my trust in Eric paid off; everything turned out perfect! Even my mother, who wasn't sold on the "rustic" part of my vision, cried when she saw it!" (504) 830-4031.
Aimee consulted with Dianna Thomas-Weber, owner of Salon D NOLA Beauty & Grooming Parlour, at 317 Burgundy Street, Suite 14 regarding how she envisioned her hair to be styled and her make-up done on her wedding day. She specializes in on site services that took the stress out of Aimee's special day. She and her talented team were scheduled to arrive at Aimee's suite the morning of the wedding and set to work with a beautiful "updo" for her bridesmaids and long flowing curls for her. (504) 581-3490.
Finally, the anticipation subsided as the big day approached and the young couple checked into their suites. Aimee really enjoyed staying in the elegant "Governor's Suite," one of the Royal Sonesta Hotel's 35 luxurious suites in The RClub, an elegant hotel within a hotel with private keyed access, personalized concierge service and an intimate lounge with complimentary cocktails and breakfast and an adjoining terrace. Aimee and A. J. enjoyed cocktails from the Oasis Pool Bar and visited the hottest jazz club in town, Irvin Mayfield's Jazz Playhouse, housed within the Royal Sonesta to imbibe in delicious cocktails and late night bites while listening to authentic New Orleans jazz. "We gathered there for drinks to give our guests a time and place to "meet and greet." This was a lovely place to sit back, relax, and enjoy some cocktails and cool jazz with our family and friends."
It's the Saturday before Aimee & AJ's big day"....Aimee and her bridesmaids along with the bride and groom's mothers and family hopped on board the Steamboat Natchez for a fun filled bridal luncheon. She had a beautifully decorated table, delicious food, and New Orleans style music provided by Duke Heitger and the Steamboat Stompers. What a beautiful day to take in some of the historic sites along the banks of the mighty Mississippi!!
The wedding ceremony was celebrated in the beautifully elegant Grand Ballroom of the Royal Sonesta. After the vows were exchanged, guests went into a cocktail party with members of the Louisiana Philharmonic providing lovely background music, and then proceeded back into the gorgeously transformed Grand Ballroom for the reception. And what a grand reception it was! Many marveled at the delicious classic yet modern, imaginative reinterpretations of Cajun and Creole cuisine from the Royal Sonesta's hospitality chefs. The brunch included grilled veggies, fresh fruit and melons, an artisan cheese and caviar display, a house-smoked salmon display, beignets, pain perdu, blintzes, cheese grits, potato ladkes, an omelet station, a ravioli station, specialty cocktails, and a top-shelf bar! 300 Bourbon Street, (504) 586-0300.
Groovy 7, a fantastic band awarded "Best of the Knot" set the tone for their first dance with wonderful renditions of selected songs and reverence for their special moment. Rockin' Dopsie, Jr., an energetic zydeco rub board musician and vocalist who can turn a house upside down on a moment's notice, surprised everyone by playing a few songs for the bride and groom.
Aimee and A. J.'s wedding and reception were straight out of a storybook: joyful, and beautiful! The guests all seemed to enjoy a wonderful time dancing and socializing as they savored the delicious brunch and cocktails. Many claim it was the most memorable and exquisite wedding they had ever attended.
Kevin Elwell, Aimee's photographer with Creative Images Photography, said that it was a "quite memorable French Quarter wedding on a beautiful sunny day. The Bride looked amazing and there were many loving family members in attendance. The band was great and the bride and groom danced almost the entire reception! Everyone there had a great time!" (504) 888- 5990. creativeimagesstudio.com
Aimee and A. J. excitedly exited their magical fairy-tale wedding and reception in an elegant mule-drawn white wedding carriage while their guests tossed rose petals. Their carriage driver, dressed in a white tuxedo, was willing to take them wherever their heart desired. Snuggled together and feeling the afterglow of all the joy and love of their wedding celebration, they enjoyed touring the French Quarter in a warm embrace. A simply magical end to an enchanted evening was sealed with a kiss. Royal Carriages provided their first evening ride on their life journey. (504) 943-8820.
**************************************************************************
Brittany's Godfather introduced her to her handsome groom, Steve, while he was a senior in college and she was a junior. After seven years of dating, Steve proposed at a Zephyrs baseball game! Brittany is the executive director for the French Quarter Business Association and she is planning a wedding this summer in the French Quarter. After much consideration, Brittany will be exchanging vows with her groom at the small yet magnificent St. Mary's Catholic Church located at 1112 Chartres Street. Built in 1845, it is not only historic and beautiful, it is also where Andrew Jackson prayed and where Brittany's father and uncle served as altar servers when they were growing up. The church, museum, formal garden, and convent are open for self-guided tours Monday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm.
Brittany chose Broussard's, one of New Orleans dining's Grande Dames as the perfect place for her rehearsal dinner. The scenic and historic setting reflects our city's rich culinary tradition. The century old wisteria beside the fountain in their lovely French Quarter courtyard provides the ambience that guarantees the two families and their wedding party a memorable event. She found the staff at Broussard's to be very accommodating and their French and Creole inspired menu extremely enticing. Since she has many guests arriving from outside Louisiana, the staff suggested that she consider a welcoming cocktail party so that the young couple could meet and greet guests and have time to spend with them before the wedding reception. Brittany felt that Broussard's would be the perfect place to spend quality time with her guests. Broussard's is a fixture for fine dining since 1920, and is located at 819 Conti Street, (504) 581-3866.
Brittany's reception will be held at Latrobe's on Royal, one of New Orleans' most architecturally significant buildings, providing a rich backdrop for her celebration of love. Completed in 1822, it is named after its architect, Benjamin Henry Latrobe, known as the "Father of American Architecture." His contributions include the U.S. Capital and porticos of the White House. The original stonework setting will add beauty to her special day and Chef John Besh's Catering Group has created the wedding menu of her dreams. 403 Royal Street, (504) 299-0601, latrobesonroyal.com
There are so many options in wedding services to consider in New Orleans"...
The French Market Corporation which offers six blocks of wedding and reception possibilities, from the well-known iconic areas to more private, intimate settings for ten or 300 guests. These include Washington Artillery Park, offering a panoramic view of St. Louis Cathedral on one side and the Mississippi River on the other side, and Jackson Square Amphitheatre located directly across from Jackson Square. Latrobe Park and Dutch Alley are perfect for smaller events, while the Farmer's Market Pavilion is suitable for large-scale events. Jeremy Smith, (504) 522-2621, Ext. 210.
Many brides wonder, "What could be more romantic than expressing your love aboard the Steamboat Natchez as the sun sets on the Mighty Mississippi?" This last authentic paddle wheeler is an icon of New Orleans and offers catering and entertainment options for bridal showers, bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners, weddings, and receptions. Captains can perform the ceremony or you may invite your own. Food is created fresh on board, and full packages include cakes, flowers and more. Breathtaking views of the beautiful city skyline while floating down the Mississippi River make for a memorable event. (504) 569-1431.
Shopping for that one of a kind special ring".... Brides should consider shopping at Maison Royale where exquisite jewelry featuring sparkling hand selected diamond wedding rings, rare gems and fanciful gemstones are found. The tremendous display is hand selected by Jack Adams, third generation jeweler from a renowned family of jewelers in New York. The elegant selection includes vintage, contemporary, and custom designs to best express one's personal taste. They have jewelry to complete any bridal ensemble as well as gifts and favors for the wedding party. Maison Royale, a New Orleans tradition, has been located at 501 Royal Street since the early 1960s. (504) 524-5045.
Tessa Makeup Artistry will ensure that any bride looks her best by serving her before and during her wedding for a flawless appearance all day long. Tessa is a licensed Esthetician as well as a media & bridal makeup artist who has trained at the renowned Award Studio in Burbank, CA and also trained and assisted under makeup artist and developer, Ashley Sievert. She treats each face as a unique canvas and her services include traditional makeup application, HD airbrush makeup, lash application, and even grooming for the Groom! (504) 676-8424.
Looking for a fun place to have a Bachelor or Bachelorette party? Bourbon Bandstand at 441 Bourbon Street has live music every night from 8pm and a deejay spinning great music to get your happy feet dancing along with a Master of Ceremonies before the live music begins. Their balcony offers a fantastic view of Bourbon Street revelry with two for the price of one cocktails Monday through Thursday and three for one cocktails on Friday and Saturday! You and your gal pals will enjoy dancing until dawn! (504) 266-2374.
The Bombay Club and Martini Bar specializes in handcrafted cocktails, specialty martinis, steaks, and seafood with jazz combos and cabaret seven nights a week. Chef Nathan Richard who has worked with James Beard award-winning chefs embraces the Bombay Club's British theme with a Cajun attitude and a passion for Louisiana specialties such as tasso, boudin, and andouille. The bar manager, Blake Kaiser, boasts an extensive selection of single malt scotches, ports, reserved bourbons, and premium cigars. He is a contributing member of the Museum of the American Cocktail and has showcased his skills at the Manhattan Cocktail Classic and our local Tales of the Cocktail. 830 Conti Street, (504) 577-2237.
Big Easy Limos also offers "super stretch" limousines that carry ten passengers in comfort and style, an elegant 1957 Rolls Royce, and a twelve passenger Hummer. A bride and her groom can trust that they will be on time and enjoy professional service and a memorable ride. (504) 466-4477.
Consider these lovely options and more to make your special day as unique as the love it celebrates with a French Quarter wedding rich in history, tradition, charm, and elegance. Romance, after all, has always found its home in the French Quarter and is one of the many reasons that New Orleans is a top wedding destination.
After looking at many lovely venues, the young couple fell in love with the ambience and charm of The Royal Sonesta's elegant Grand Ballroom as the perfect backdrop for their wedding and reception. The views of vibrant French Quarter life, the nearby stunning pool, patio terrace, and the lush tropical courtyard with orange trees and a beautiful candle-lit fountain all appealed to Aimee and A. J. When Aimee sampled the delicious food and wedding cake tasting, all made fresh in house, her mouth confirmed what her heart felt. Further, the Royal Sonesta offered them an all-inclusive wedding experience. Not only could they stay in a lovely suite, but also the wedding and reception could be held there, and a team of culinary chefs would organize the reception menu "from soup to nuts." They accommodated Aimee's dietary requirements, and they were even able to make the wedding cake of her dreams!
Aimee selected a traditional almond flavored wedding cake on a gleaming silver stand that was over-the-top beautiful adorned with fresh flowers to be arranged by Bee's Wedding & Event Floral Designs. In keeping with the Southern tradition, their wedding featured a groom's cake that reflected his personality and interests. A. J. loves the television sitcom, The Big Bang Theory, so his cake would be red velvet with a lightning bolt on top! Everything fell together when they consulted Eric and Carolyn Fredericks, the owners of Bee's Wedding & Event Floral Designs. They treated Aimee the way they were treated when planning their own wedding over thirty years ago. They were friendly and responsive to Aimee's unique vision of "rustic elegance" for her ceremony and reception and acutely aware that the pressures involved in a wedding can be frustrating and time-consuming. Decades of experience allowed them to focus on Aimee's desires and dreams with close attention to every detail. Eric offered a wide range of floral options and Carolyn's longstanding reputation for personalized event planning made for a joyful, beautiful and stress-free wedding. Aimee couldn't have been more pleased with the service she received. "After meeting with Eric, I instantly knew this was something he was passionate about and that I could trust him to make our day special. After sharing my dreams and vision with Eric, he made suggestions and everything seemed to flow. He took our ideas and personalities, and turned them into floral designs that people are still talking about. I knew that the flowers and the decor were my priority and putting my trust in Eric paid off; everything turned out perfect! Even my mother, who wasn't sold on the "rustic" part of my vision, cried when she saw it!" (504) 830-4031.
Aimee consulted with Dianna Thomas-Weber, owner of Salon D NOLA Beauty & Grooming Parlour, at 317 Burgundy Street, Suite 14 regarding how she envisioned her hair to be styled and her make-up done on her wedding day. She specializes in on site services that took the stress out of Aimee's special day. She and her talented team were scheduled to arrive at Aimee's suite the morning of the wedding and set to work with a beautiful "updo" for her bridesmaids and long flowing curls for her. (504) 581-3490.
Finally, the anticipation subsided as the big day approached and the young couple checked into their suites. Aimee really enjoyed staying in the elegant "Governor's Suite," one of the Royal Sonesta Hotel's 35 luxurious suites in The RClub, an elegant hotel within a hotel with private keyed access, personalized concierge service and an intimate lounge with complimentary cocktails and breakfast and an adjoining terrace. Aimee and A. J. enjoyed cocktails from the Oasis Pool Bar and visited the hottest jazz club in town, Irvin Mayfield's Jazz Playhouse, housed within the Royal Sonesta to imbibe in delicious cocktails and late night bites while listening to authentic New Orleans jazz. "We gathered there for drinks to give our guests a time and place to "meet and greet." This was a lovely place to sit back, relax, and enjoy some cocktails and cool jazz with our family and friends."
It's the Saturday before Aimee & AJ's big day"....Aimee and her bridesmaids along with the bride and groom's mothers and family hopped on board the Steamboat Natchez for a fun filled bridal luncheon. She had a beautifully decorated table, delicious food, and New Orleans style music provided by Duke Heitger and the Steamboat Stompers. What a beautiful day to take in some of the historic sites along the banks of the mighty Mississippi!!
The wedding ceremony was celebrated in the beautifully elegant Grand Ballroom of the Royal Sonesta. After the vows were exchanged, guests went into a cocktail party with members of the Louisiana Philharmonic providing lovely background music, and then proceeded back into the gorgeously transformed Grand Ballroom for the reception. And what a grand reception it was! Many marveled at the delicious classic yet modern, imaginative reinterpretations of Cajun and Creole cuisine from the Royal Sonesta's hospitality chefs. The brunch included grilled veggies, fresh fruit and melons, an artisan cheese and caviar display, a house-smoked salmon display, beignets, pain perdu, blintzes, cheese grits, potato ladkes, an omelet station, a ravioli station, specialty cocktails, and a top-shelf bar! 300 Bourbon Street, (504) 586-0300.
Groovy 7, a fantastic band awarded "Best of the Knot" set the tone for their first dance with wonderful renditions of selected songs and reverence for their special moment. Rockin' Dopsie, Jr., an energetic zydeco rub board musician and vocalist who can turn a house upside down on a moment's notice, surprised everyone by playing a few songs for the bride and groom.
Aimee and A. J.'s wedding and reception were straight out of a storybook: joyful, and beautiful! The guests all seemed to enjoy a wonderful time dancing and socializing as they savored the delicious brunch and cocktails. Many claim it was the most memorable and exquisite wedding they had ever attended.
Kevin Elwell, Aimee's photographer with Creative Images Photography, said that it was a "quite memorable French Quarter wedding on a beautiful sunny day. The Bride looked amazing and there were many loving family members in attendance. The band was great and the bride and groom danced almost the entire reception! Everyone there had a great time!" (504) 888- 5990. creativeimagesstudio.com
Aimee and A. J. excitedly exited their magical fairy-tale wedding and reception in an elegant mule-drawn white wedding carriage while their guests tossed rose petals. Their carriage driver, dressed in a white tuxedo, was willing to take them wherever their heart desired. Snuggled together and feeling the afterglow of all the joy and love of their wedding celebration, they enjoyed touring the French Quarter in a warm embrace. A simply magical end to an enchanted evening was sealed with a kiss. Royal Carriages provided their first evening ride on their life journey. (504) 943-8820.
**************************************************************************
Brittany's Godfather introduced her to her handsome groom, Steve, while he was a senior in college and she was a junior. After seven years of dating, Steve proposed at a Zephyrs baseball game! Brittany is the executive director for the French Quarter Business Association and she is planning a wedding this summer in the French Quarter. After much consideration, Brittany will be exchanging vows with her groom at the small yet magnificent St. Mary's Catholic Church located at 1112 Chartres Street. Built in 1845, it is not only historic and beautiful, it is also where Andrew Jackson prayed and where Brittany's father and uncle served as altar servers when they were growing up. The church, museum, formal garden, and convent are open for self-guided tours Monday through Saturday from 10am to 4pm.
Brittany chose Broussard's, one of New Orleans dining's Grande Dames as the perfect place for her rehearsal dinner. The scenic and historic setting reflects our city's rich culinary tradition. The century old wisteria beside the fountain in their lovely French Quarter courtyard provides the ambience that guarantees the two families and their wedding party a memorable event. She found the staff at Broussard's to be very accommodating and their French and Creole inspired menu extremely enticing. Since she has many guests arriving from outside Louisiana, the staff suggested that she consider a welcoming cocktail party so that the young couple could meet and greet guests and have time to spend with them before the wedding reception. Brittany felt that Broussard's would be the perfect place to spend quality time with her guests. Broussard's is a fixture for fine dining since 1920, and is located at 819 Conti Street, (504) 581-3866.
Brittany's reception will be held at Latrobe's on Royal, one of New Orleans' most architecturally significant buildings, providing a rich backdrop for her celebration of love. Completed in 1822, it is named after its architect, Benjamin Henry Latrobe, known as the "Father of American Architecture." His contributions include the U.S. Capital and porticos of the White House. The original stonework setting will add beauty to her special day and Chef John Besh's Catering Group has created the wedding menu of her dreams. 403 Royal Street, (504) 299-0601, latrobesonroyal.com
There are so many options in wedding services to consider in New Orleans"...
The French Market Corporation which offers six blocks of wedding and reception possibilities, from the well-known iconic areas to more private, intimate settings for ten or 300 guests. These include Washington Artillery Park, offering a panoramic view of St. Louis Cathedral on one side and the Mississippi River on the other side, and Jackson Square Amphitheatre located directly across from Jackson Square. Latrobe Park and Dutch Alley are perfect for smaller events, while the Farmer's Market Pavilion is suitable for large-scale events. Jeremy Smith, (504) 522-2621, Ext. 210.
Many brides wonder, "What could be more romantic than expressing your love aboard the Steamboat Natchez as the sun sets on the Mighty Mississippi?" This last authentic paddle wheeler is an icon of New Orleans and offers catering and entertainment options for bridal showers, bachelorette parties, rehearsal dinners, weddings, and receptions. Captains can perform the ceremony or you may invite your own. Food is created fresh on board, and full packages include cakes, flowers and more. Breathtaking views of the beautiful city skyline while floating down the Mississippi River make for a memorable event. (504) 569-1431.
Shopping for that one of a kind special ring".... Brides should consider shopping at Maison Royale where exquisite jewelry featuring sparkling hand selected diamond wedding rings, rare gems and fanciful gemstones are found. The tremendous display is hand selected by Jack Adams, third generation jeweler from a renowned family of jewelers in New York. The elegant selection includes vintage, contemporary, and custom designs to best express one's personal taste. They have jewelry to complete any bridal ensemble as well as gifts and favors for the wedding party. Maison Royale, a New Orleans tradition, has been located at 501 Royal Street since the early 1960s. (504) 524-5045.
Tessa Makeup Artistry will ensure that any bride looks her best by serving her before and during her wedding for a flawless appearance all day long. Tessa is a licensed Esthetician as well as a media & bridal makeup artist who has trained at the renowned Award Studio in Burbank, CA and also trained and assisted under makeup artist and developer, Ashley Sievert. She treats each face as a unique canvas and her services include traditional makeup application, HD airbrush makeup, lash application, and even grooming for the Groom! (504) 676-8424.
Looking for a fun place to have a Bachelor or Bachelorette party? Bourbon Bandstand at 441 Bourbon Street has live music every night from 8pm and a deejay spinning great music to get your happy feet dancing along with a Master of Ceremonies before the live music begins. Their balcony offers a fantastic view of Bourbon Street revelry with two for the price of one cocktails Monday through Thursday and three for one cocktails on Friday and Saturday! You and your gal pals will enjoy dancing until dawn! (504) 266-2374.
The Bombay Club and Martini Bar specializes in handcrafted cocktails, specialty martinis, steaks, and seafood with jazz combos and cabaret seven nights a week. Chef Nathan Richard who has worked with James Beard award-winning chefs embraces the Bombay Club's British theme with a Cajun attitude and a passion for Louisiana specialties such as tasso, boudin, and andouille. The bar manager, Blake Kaiser, boasts an extensive selection of single malt scotches, ports, reserved bourbons, and premium cigars. He is a contributing member of the Museum of the American Cocktail and has showcased his skills at the Manhattan Cocktail Classic and our local Tales of the Cocktail. 830 Conti Street, (504) 577-2237.
Big Easy Limos also offers "super stretch" limousines that carry ten passengers in comfort and style, an elegant 1957 Rolls Royce, and a twelve passenger Hummer. A bride and her groom can trust that they will be on time and enjoy professional service and a memorable ride. (504) 466-4477.
Consider these lovely options and more to make your special day as unique as the love it celebrates with a French Quarter wedding rich in history, tradition, charm, and elegance. Romance, after all, has always found its home in the French Quarter and is one of the many reasons that New Orleans is a top wedding destination.
