Two brides' first look in the courtyard at the Eliza Jane, New Orleans.

Dominique and Valerie got ready at one of New Orleans’ most vibrant hotels, The Eliza Jane. The two traveled all the way from Florida to celebrate their love. The hotel is located in the heart of the Crescent City on Magazine Street downtown. With a luscious courtyard, vintage-styled rooms and a library, the venue made for a fun, quirky place to get ready for these two brides.

Their morning was spent with only their closest family and friends. With just one look out of the bridal suite window, you could feel the lively streets of the French Quarter singing. It was a cool, sunny day in December. The quarter is forever stuck in time, making it a timeless setting for any wedding day. We spent the morning running around the hotel together taking the most dreamy photographs.

Silhouette bridal portrait in a French Quarter hotel in New Orleans

Dominique and Valerie decided to get ready separately, saving that special moment for a beautiful location. We decided we had to do their first look in the hotel’s open-air courtyard. The walls are exposed brick and concrete covered in lush green. It was an emotional first look, genuine smiles and relief to be reunited with your best friend on your wedding day. I could not resist a few creative portraits of the happy couple, plus some fun family formals.

We ended the afternoon with exploring the hotel’s library and French 75s at the bar. Dominique is a lover of words, an English teacher. The couple instantly lit up gazing upon the rows and rows of books. It was a candid, sweet moment on their wedding day. You could feel the authenticity. I love and encourage the couples I work with to plan for that slower, intentional time on their wedding day. This day only happens once, and where is the fun in a packed, stressful timeline. Take a second to play checkers and giggle together, why not?