Tips for Planning A New Orleans Style Wedding in Shreveport

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    New Orleans is the ultimate for a destination wedding in the south, but how can you re-create that "Nola" vibe in Shreveport?  This gateway city offers more than you think as a great southern wedding destination.  Listed below are some great ideas to create a perfectly N'awlins style Shreveport wedding.

Where to Take Engagement or Pre-Wedding Photos

Shreveport-Bossier Riverfront

R.W. Norton Art Gallery garden features

    Shreveport has a couple of spots that are great for those pre-wedding photo shoots.  Of course, the Boardwalk at the riverfront is an obvious fantastic backdrop.  However, there is one spot in the center of town that will remind you of City Park in New Orleans.  The R.W. Norton Art Gallery is surrounded by gardens which are open to the public for strolls and is a great place for photos.  There are many varieties of Louisiana flora mixed with wrought iron architectural details.


The Rehearsal Dinner

    The dining scene in Shreveport was greatly improved when Superior's Steakhouse opened.  The decor of this "Chicago" style steakhouse would fit in perfectly with a Nola theme.  Not only do they serve outstanding dry aged steaks of all cuts, but also fantastic fish and seafood and for dessert-bread pudding!  Their event spaces are perfect for large or small groups with a private bar for guests.  Ashley, their event coordinator, is ready and willing to assist with any planning needs, give advice and event provide floral arrangements.


Private bar for guests

New Orleans Shrimp
The private event space can accommodate large or small groups

Getting Ready for the Big Event

The lobby's piano and grand staircase are great for photos

    Where the bride and her bridesmaids get ready for the big day has become almost as important on the list of priorities and the bride's bouquet.  In Shreveport, I can think of no better place for the bride to have enough room and facilities to get ready than The Remington Suite Hotel and Spa.  This historic boutique hotel offer spacious suites which are perfect for the bride and her attendants.  The hotel also offers spa and salon packages for a day of beauty and pampering.  

The suite's living room is perfect for the bride and crew

    The hotel's fourth floor is home to four elegant suites--each uniquely decorated with a separate living room, fireplace and luxurious bathroom.  

Check out this video of the Penthouse bridal suite

Penthouse suites common area

    The fourth floor also sports a common area complete with pool table, ping pong table, two large dining tables, a full kitchen and a living area--perfect for the groom and his buddies to hang out prior to the big event.

Check out this Video of the fourth floor common area

Displaying the dress

The suites are perfect for a "First Look"

The Ceremony



    To save money, many modern brides are opting for a one-stop shop or having the wedding ceremony and reception at one venue.  While this may save money, it is not reminiscent of iconic Nola's St. Louis Cathedral.  Some beautiful churches in Shreveport include the Cathedral of St. John Berchman's, St. Mark's Episcopal and First United Methodist.

The Reception Venue

      When choosing a New Orleans themed venue in Shreveport, there is one choice that rises above the rest.  The Remington Suite Hotel and Spa is the ultimate choice for a Nola themed wedding. This historic boutique hotel situated in downtown Shreveport offers a unique experience.  The loft style of this hotel offers unique architectural details for memorable photos.  The industrial chic decor of the ballroom offers exposed brick walls, crystal chandeliers and a large adjoining rooftop--perfect for an onsite ceremony.  The length of the ballroom allows for guests to spread out throughout the space.

Extras

    Hiring a D.J. instead of a band is a smart move when planning a Nola style wedding.  Not only does it save all the expenses of hiring a band, but a D.J. is sure to play your favorite Nola jazz.

New Orleans style "Second Line"

Mother and Son Dance

Great spot for the bouquet toss

    A "Second Line" is a standard feature at any New Orleans wedding.  The newlyweds lead a parade, holding decorated parasols, while the wedding party and guests follow while waving handkerchiefs to the traditional Second Line song.

    Another Nola touch might be providing Nola themed take home goodie bags for wedding guests with such treats such as individually packaged Aunt Sally's Pralines, Zapp's potato chips, alligator shaped chocolates, Nola coffee, or Louisiana hot sauce.

Guest Room Block

    If you have out of town guests, a hotel room block is essential since Shreveport is a popular destination.  The guest rooms at the Remington Suites are outstanding, but if you have a large group, you may need more than the 22 rooms available.  The Hilton Shreveport Convention Center in downtown Shreveport offers great discounts for standard rooms and is only a short walk to the Remington.

    When New Orleans meets Shreveport, "Laissez les bons temps rouler" (Let the good times roll)!!!

Links:

Superior's Steakhouse

Remington Suite Hotel & Spa

Hilton Shreveport

Check out my playlist featuring Remington Suites tours

Buy Me a Coffee!

Mary deSilva is an artist, world traveler and travel writer.

Mary's Amazon Travel Books

Instagram: @MaryFDesilva

Facebook: @MaryDesilvaAuthor

Purchase Mary deSilva's Artwork

Wedding ideas


Location: Shreveport, LA, USA

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