I love a good speech. My job is to tell stories, and someone speaking from the heart about loved ones makes that process so much easier and the video even better. And I have got to tell you — Eben and Melissa’s family, as you can see in the highlight movie above, brought the heat.
The couple decided to come down to New Orleans as a destination wedding, with most of the guests from the New York area, with their history at Tulane being a big reason for their decision to hold the day in the big easy.
Eben and Melissa’s day started at The Eliza Jane Hotel in a very intimate morning without a big bridal party, just the immediate family that made this couple what they are today. Melissa had her two sisters and her mother assist her getting ready for the first look, and their vibes were perfect. Lots of laugh, not taking the day too seriously, but also celebrating in the little butterflies just before the two got to see each other for the first time.
Their first look was lovely, as you’d expect with these two, but I enjoyed most their vows that you can see in their teaser above. Very sweet words punctuated with juuuust the right amount of humor.
After the first look, it was on to the Civic Theatre, where Amanda Price Events and True Value Rental absolutely nailed the decor. It’s a big venue, and they filled it to the brim with lovely table settings and floral arrangements that lit up the whole room. Particularly cool was the presentation of the chuppah, which was lit perfectly by the top-notch lighting system provided by the venue.
The ceremony was quick but sweet, with personal details about the couple, before sending them off on a second line led by Knockaz Brass Band that roped through downtown and ended with a big kiss under the Civic’s sign.
The rest of the night was a rager. This was the most exciting horah I’ve ever been apart; basically everyone brought the energy of a tidal wave, and it went on for nearly 15 minutes. The rest of the night had a ton of dancing with D’ivine Play (D’Play Band) holding the crowd in the palm of their hand.
Overall, a fantastic wedding that brought the vibes of New York down to New Orleans.
- Venues: Civic Theatre, The Eliza Jane Hotel
- Planner: Amanda Price Events
- Photographer: Dark Roux Photography
- Hair & Makeup: AHB Hair & Makeup
- Florist: Pick-a-Petal
- Caterer: Black Pearl Catering Co.
- Baker: Bittersweet Confections
- Band: D’ivine Play (D’Play Band)
- 2nd Line Band: Knockaz Brass Band
- Rentals: True Value Rental
- Live Illustrator: Maria Saia Art
