Truly capturing the “laissez les bon temps rouler” New Orleans spirit, Erin and Patrick got married at Pavilion of the Two Sisters in City Park. Both Erin and Patrick grew up in New Orleans, and they even got engaged in the City Park gardens. Their wedding came complete with an authentic, horn-powered dance band, classic taffy sticks for wedding favors, and a second line to end the night. Photographer Maile Lani captured every sweet moment from Erin and Patrick’s big day, from their first look in the gardens to the couple dancing the night away with all their family and friends.

The Couple:

Erin and Patrick

The Wedding:

Pavilion of the Two Sisters, New Orleans, Louisiana

My friend had a heart charm made that was engraved with my mother’s handwriting recycled from old cards. One side had my name and the other had “Mom.” I pinned it on my bouquet and carried it with me all day. I now wear it as a necklace.

My mother died when I was young so I really wanted to carry her with me on one of the most important days of my life. I originally wanted to wear her dress but it did not age well. Instead, my stepmother sewed my veil from her veil. It was beautiful. I also wore my mom’s pearls that my dad gave her on their wedding day.

There were several memorable parts of the day: reading the letter from my now husband while getting ready, our first look in the gardens, our ring bearer sprinting down the aisle, saying our vows, and the second line ending the reception. The day truly exceeded our expectations.

Growing up in New Orleans, City Park was a large and warm part of our childhoods. My husband knew that I had always wanted to get married there, and he proposed in the gardens. I love the beauty of the park with the gorgeous gardens, oak trees, and happy memories. We lucked out with perfect weather so our guests could enjoy the beauty of the grounds as well.

We really wanted everyone to have as much fun as we knew we would and embody the New Orleans “laissez les bon temps rouler” spirit. A band was one of our top priorities and the Boogie Men did not disappoint. From song one until the second line, everyone stayed on their feet.

Let the good times roll! We love everything about Erin and Patrick’s quintessential wedding. For more New Orleans wedding inspiration, take a look at this enchanting New Orleans wedding at Besthoff Scullture Garden.