A really special part of your wedding day is the moment you start getting ready with your nearest and dearest. These are the few hours you have with your closest family and friends, before setting off on your whirlwind day. The intimate moments: the butterflies, the emotions and the laughs that accompany a bride and groom while getting ready. The moments that you’ll want to remember forever. As a photographer I think the ‘getting ready shots’ can often be exceptional. In this article, I want to share some tips on what to look out for when choosing getting ready hotels in New Orleans .

After photographing a whole bunch of weddings in and around New Orleans, I’ve narrowed down some true gems that will help create utterly stunning shots of you and your wedding party while you prepare to embark on your romantic journey of a lifetime.

Let’s Talk Location

Thinking about location as a whole can really add some zest to your pre-wedding shots. It’s not only the room that matters! The location can play into your photos in ways that you’d never expect. Does the hotel have some unique backdrops that could lend themselves to interesting shots? What about the facade? Remember that photographers love to find all the stylish backdrops and settings to incorporate. Especially when it comes to those unique and captivating ‘first look’ shots. These will mostly be outside of the rooms, so being able to walk around and have fun within the hotel will allow for your photographer to really snap captivating shots.

Let’s Talk About Lighting

Lighting is a photographer’s main play point. A normal photo can be transformed into a work of art by illuminating it properly. For this reason, it’s essential to think about the windows in your ‘getting ready’ room. The ideal situation is a room with windows on either side. This allows for natural light to cascade abundantly onto you while you hop into your dress or suit. Often corner rooms are perfect for this. Make sure to ask for lots of windows when you book. Believe me, your make-up crew will thank you!

Let’s Talk About Style

Think about what kind of style you like, and pair it with an accommodation you love the look of. This really allows us to create some magic when it’s time for the camera to come out. Sensing what you prefer in terms of color pallet, furnishings, details or interior design of the hotel, will allow you to pick an option that you connect with. There are so many awesome hotels that can reveal elements of your own personal style and, at the same time, flaunt the unique character of New Orleans. Luckily I’ve done all the hard work for you – find inspiration in the hotels listed below and let’s get planning!

Here are some amazing getting ready hotels in New Orleans to add some spark to your wedding day:

1. The Hotel Peter and Paul

The Hotel Peter and Paul has a great location and sensational style. It’s a restoration of an old Catholic school and church, so the building’s design is historic, grand and super distinct from anything else you might have seen. Offering bespoke antique furniture, each room is individually paired with a carefully thought-out color pallet that will add luminance to your photo lookbook as you get ready for your momentous day. The communal areas are aesthetically influenced by 14^th-18^th century Europe but with a modern flair. They do charge a fee for photographing outside the rooms, but as it’s so tastefully curated – and the hotel has so much character – it’s worth the extra sum if the pocket allows for it.

2. The Chloe

This uptown 19^th century mansion, renovated into one of the best boutique hotels in New Orleans, oozes finesse with its glamorous interior design and remarkable attention to the finer details. Not to forget the exquisite art collection adorning the walls throughout the mansion! They say taste can’t be bought, but with a room in this hotel you might get close. It was designed by Sara Ruffin Costello and boasts an amazing pool that is a unique place to shoot photos or just assemble for a cocktail to calm the nerves. This exquisite location will make you feel like you are in a Wes Anderson movie and perfectly sets in motion your dreamlike wedding day.

3. The Maison de la Luz

One of the most spectacular 5 star hotels in New Orleans, the Maison de la Luz is the definition of decadence. It’s curated with rich coloring and full of ornate details that create a set for photography with absolute style. The suites themselves offer fantastic natural light and interiors that will make you melt. Every turn is exquisite, from the lighting fixtures to the dreamy stairwell that’s just asking to be posed on. This hotel is an absolute gem, and if you’re willing to spend a bit more on luxury – their guesthouse will leave you speechless.

4. Adjoining Historic Luxury Airbnb in the Marigny

This is one of the many fantastic getting ready Airbnbs in New Orleans. It is historic, great for wedding friends and family and offers beautiful interiors full of punchy colors. The whole Airbnb has real character which will reflect in your photos. This is a great place if you’re interested in finding a spot where you can rent the whole house. Just you and your tight circle of friends, enjoying the added privacy and independence to do things your way! You can have the most incredible time here, getting ready together in a great location close to the Quarter. The different color palettes beautifully matched throughout the Airbnb are bright and pop with joy. Definitely worth checking out!

5. The Hotel Monteleone

The Hotel Monteleone stands as a perfect choice if you are looking for a Hotel that can accommodate larger groups and you would like to be in the heart of the French Quarter for your wedding. With its timeless elegance and rich history, the hotel offers a refined and luxurious setting that sets the tone for a badass New Orleans wedding weekend. It’s important to ask for one of the more spacious rooms with large windows if you decide to stay her. Many of the rooms are beautifully appointed and provide an ideal backdrop for getting ready with your bridal party. The large Bridal suite offers ample space for hair, makeup, and attire preparations. Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, the hotel’s location ensures easy access to iconic New Orleans landmarks and picturesque photo spots, adding an extra touch of charm to your pre-wedding moments. The attentive and experienced staff at Hotel Monteleone are dedicated to ensuring every detail is flawlessly executed, making it an exceptional choice for crafting unforgettable memories as you embark on your wedding journey!

6. The Pontchartrain

The Pontchartrain will captivate you from the outset. Its beautiful facade and characteristic features are so eye-catching that you can’t help but stop and take it in! The interior of the hotel is equally enchanting. A blend of rich and romantic color schemes, sumptuous textures and old school touches, the Pontchartrain is a perfect blend of art deco and modern design that is New Orleans to the core. The aesthetic in this hotel is just perfect for a photographer and there will be limitless ways to incorporate elegance into your getting ready shots. 

7. The Eliza Jane

Once a printing house and bitters factory, the Eliza Jane is historic and creates a beautiful facade to border your experience. There are amazing spots for photography inside the lobby, the garden courtyard or even the literature-themed lounge. The rooms are warm, stylish and neat, with a muted color scheme that creates a subdued richness to pair with the exquisite gold finishings. This hotel is great for larger groups as there are beautiful, spacious rooms to get ready in as well as the stunning areas outside the rooms to play with too.

8. The Virgin Hotel, New Orleans

This hotel is very modern and hip with interesting and stylish communal areas. The pool and rooftop area is bright, fun and totally chic – a great place for your photographer to shoot you and your posse. There are interesting artistic elements throughout the hotels, boasting a very contemporary touch. Bright and breezy rooms with modern finishings and stylish decor – everything here feels fresh and fun! Plus they can cater for big groups and are located in a fantastic part of town which makes them one of the best hotels to get ready for weddings in New Orleans.

9. Hotel St. Vincent

Situated in the lower garden district of New Orleans, this hotel is full of beautiful 19^th century architecture and open green spaces. It’s an optimal choice for a photographer to shoot using the iconic features of the hotel as well as stylish retro rooms with a modern twist. The rooms are not huge, but they are stylish and funky with patterned feature walls and eclectic furnishings! The surrounding areas are perfect for photographs too, offering ornate filigree facades as you take the steps up to the entrance of the hotel. There’s also a luxurious pool area lined with palms and beauty, making the photography opportunities endless in this hotel.

10. Artist Ellen Macomber’s Home

Our third AirBnB on the list oozes New Orlean’s trademark charm. This house is an absolute party – but an elegant one … the crisp white paint job creates a perfect canvas for the kaleidoscopic color accents used throughout the house. The stainless glass mosaic at the entrance is a stunning example and provides a beautiful light in the hallway that’s ideal for capturing some unique getting ready photos. While this house is a stunning example of a New Orleans-style fever dream there are countless other beautiful properties throughout our city. I urge you to spend some time looking through what’s on offer until you find somewhere that really meshes with your wedding party’s vibe. I’m always around for recommendations as well, so if you want to brainstorm, just reach out!

11. The Macarty House

This Bywater bohemian mansion with a private pool was once a BNB. The owners are now focused on hosting private events and weddings. Hosting 8 rooms each with its own private bath, It’s perfect for your full wedding party to rent for the weekend. The house has a unique collection of artwork by local artists, a huge backyard, off street parking, a lovely front porch and light filled balcony. The location is perfect for accessing the Bywater, one of the more fun and funky neighborhoods close to the French Quarter. Best thing about it, tons of natural light and a gorgeous balcony!

12. The Frenchmen Hotel

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate spot to kick off your wedding day festivities, The Frenchmen Hotel is where it’s at. Tucked right into the heart of New Orleans’ buzzing Frenchmen Street, this place is pure magic. Think old-world charm meets modern chic, making it the perfect backdrop for getting ready with your squad. The rooms and suites are super cool, they have some really modern decor and the balcony is drenched in natural light that’ll have you looking like an absolute goddess. And don’t even get me started on the charming courtyard – hello POOL it’s begging for a post wedding dip. So, if you’re down for a touch of luxury, a dash of history, and a whole lot of good vibes, go ahead and book The Frenchmen Hotel. Your wedding day deserves this kind of awesome start!

13. The Derbes Mansion

If you’re seeking the epitome of New Orleans living, look no further than The Derbes Mansion, now under the ownership of a dynamic couple with an unparalleled passion for authenticity and sophistication. Stepping inside, you’ll be captivated by the transformation – every room has been meticulously updated, boasting a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and timeless charm. From the opulent foyer to the serene bedrooms, the new decor exudes an air of refined comfort. And that’s not all – a recent addition includes a pretty incredible pool area that redefines relaxation. The Derbes Mansion is more than a venue; it’s a testament to the history of New Orleans, making it an enchanting haven for those with an appreciation for the character of the city combined with modern charm!

Now that you know where to get ready for your wedding day! Get in touch now and let’s chat about bringing your vision to life.