I thought I'd kick off 2012 with this absolutey fabulous New Orleans wedding I photographed in August. New Orleans is a wild city, full of history and culture. I always say that if you want an international experience nationally, go to New Orleans.

Everywhere you look you are surrounded by art in all forms, whether it be the old spanish architecture with its wrought iron balconies, or the echos of street jazz and blues musicians, or the savory aromas of deeply flavorful creole and cajun cooking. This is a city where French language and culture infiltrates every day life while leaving behind that stuffy french attitude and replacing it with that famous southern kindness and hospitality.

Courtney grew up on a 20,000 acre 4th generation family farm in the heart of Louisiana but you would never have guessed it by how beautiful and graceful she is. She is always smiling.

Aaron, an honored Iraq veteran and fireman is the life of the party and seemed to make friends with every face he came in contact with. He is a perfect gentleman and, just like Courtney, has a compassionate heart for people.

Courtney and Aaron's love story is made of perserverance, loyalty, and passion. It has the making of a perfect hollywood film. These two not only love eachother but pour out love to everyone around them... even us hired photogrpahers, blessing us with a HUGE thank you basket packed to the brim with local products and foods!

I felt as though Courtney and I had known eachother for years and her faith and trust in me fanned my creative flame.

Ceremony- Church of the Immaculate Conception New Orleans

Reception- MILA Downtown New Orleans

Dress- Martina Liana with custom side detailing

Make-up- Kim Porche

Floral Design- Bella Blooms

Band- Kinfolk Brass Band

Videography- Bridefilm 

dad's 1st look

beautiful mother of the bride

a moment seconds before walking down the isle

upon exiting, a celebratory live jazz band greeted them

 The French Quarter- nothing is as photogenic as this place.

For the resception, Courtney's vision was to turn their favorite restaurant MILA in downtown New Orleans into a fairytale-like Louisiana swamp with succulents, moss and knarled trees while still keeping that old world Louisiana charm.

Come 12am - Courtney and Aaron along with thier guests formed a "second line" parade (a New Orleans tradition) danced across Canal street and straight down Burbon street through the heart of the French Quarter. Apparently it is custom for bystanders to join in the second line parade and pretty soon you have a massive mob of people dancing (and sweating) like crazy. I can still feel the bass drum thumping in my my chest!

It was utter chaos... amazing, exciting chaos!! 

The parade led us to Irvin Mayfields Jazz Playhouse, where Grammy winner Irvin himself was performing.

Of course, with their luck, Courtney and Aaron were invited on stage to be serenaded by Irvin. 

What is a visit to New Orleans without stopping at the world famous Cafe Du Monde in the French Quarter for some late night coffee and beignets. 

It was the PERFECT ending to a most eventful and memorable evening.

This wedding had me on my toes! But I greatly enjoyed partying until 2am with these fine people.

It was such an extraordinary wedding. One that I will always cherish being apart of.

 Thank you Courtney and Aaron. You two are as authentic as they come.