Kate & Andrew’s Elegant Garden Wedding in New Orleans

There’s something timeless about a garden wedding in New Orleans. The soft fragrance of blooming flowers, the historic oaks draped in moss, and the serene sounds of nature create an unforgettable atmosphere for couples who want to blend Southern charm with romantic elegance. For New Orleans wedding photographer Kate and Andrew’s celebration at the City Park Botanic Gardens was an absolute dream — filled with light, laughter, and the kind of beauty only New Orleans can offer.

The day began at Terrell House, a charming New Orleans bed and breakfast that offers the perfect blend of Southern hospitality and modern comfort. With its tall windows, antique mirrors, and wrought-iron balconies, it served as an elegant backdrop for the getting-ready portraits. Kate, surrounded by her bridesmaids, enjoyed a calm morning as makeup artist Amanda from Petal Salon worked her magic, enhancing Kate’s natural beauty with a soft, radiant look that complemented her gown perfectly.

Getting Ready at Terrell House

The morning at Terrell House was slow and joyful. Sunlight streamed through lace curtains, bouncing off gold accents and antique wood furniture. These are the kind of mornings that photographers dream of — full of genuine emotion and beautiful light. The atmosphere was relaxed, with Kate sharing heartfelt moments with her mother and bridesmaids while sipping champagne and listening to soft jazz. The choice of this location added a layer of warmth and intimacy to the story of their wedding day.

A Romantic Ceremony at City Park Botanic Gardens

The ceremony took place beneath the shade of ancient oaks in the New Orleans City Park Botanic Gardens. The gardens provided a natural, serene atmosphere — the kind of place where every photograph feels painterly and organic. As a New Orleans wedding photographer, I often look for settings that merge architectural elegance with nature’s beauty, and the Botanic Gardens deliver exactly that. The soft floral arrangements by Crystal Vase Flowers complemented the garden setting perfectly — white roses, hydrangeas, and lush greenery framed the aisle and altar in subtle sophistication.

Floral Elegance & Design Inspiration

When speaking with Kate about her vision, she said she wanted a “romantic garden theme with classic tones and a natural aesthetic.” The design by Crystal Vase Flowers was lush and timeless, featuring cascading greenery, ivory blooms, and subtle touches of blush. The ceremony arch was covered with vines and soft blooms, while the reception tables glowed with candlelight and floral runners.

Their planner, Maria Maginnis of InNola Events, coordinated the entire day with effortless precision. From timing every detail of the ceremony to managing lighting transitions and vendor coordination, Maria’s team ensured that every moment flowed seamlessly. Her touch elevated the event from beautiful to breathtaking.

Reception Highlights at the Gardens

As golden hour descended, the gardens transformed into a scene of candlelit magic. Guests dined under twinkling string lights, enjoying dishes prepared with a true New Orleans flair. The cake — a stunning three-tier creation by Haydel’s Bakery — featured hand-piped florals and a subtle metallic sheen that caught the evening light beautifully.

The couple shared their first dance surrounded by friends and family, the laughter and joy echoing through the garden as live music filled the air. Every photograph captured the balance between grand celebration and intimate connection — two souls celebrating their story in one of the city’s most iconic settings.

Why City Park Botanic Gardens Is a Photographer’s Dream

From a professional photographer’s perspective, City Park Botanic Gardens offers everything one could wish for: open shade for portraits, a variety of natural backdrops, architectural details, and pathways that glow beautifully at sunset. The textures of nature — the moss, the trees, the petals — work harmoniously with elegant attire, creating timeless imagery that tells a story of place and emotion.