A Vibe All Its Own | New Orleans Wedding at Race + Religious
If we had to sum up this New Orleans wedding in three words, they’d be: elevated, eclectic, and unforgettable. Held at the iconic Race and Religious venue in New Orleans, Louisiana Katie and Derek’s wedding was one for the books. Everything from the fashion to the florals, and of course, the incredible wedding details we had the honor of creating for our couple was just out of this world amazing.
As a Nashville-based wedding photographer herself, the beautiful bride, Katie, knew what she wanted when it came to her wedding aesthetic. We were beyond flattered when she chose White Ink Calligraphy to design her custom invitation suite and day-of details. She brought such a fun, bold energy to the planning process, and her vibe translated beautifully into every design choice.
Bold and Fun Custom Wedding Invitation Suite
I’m just going to say it: this was our favorite invitation suite of the entire year! Every piece told a story, starting with the main invitation in bright, fun yellow that featured an illustration of an olive, which was an adorable nod to the bride’s sweet pup whose name is Olive. Personal touches like this are what take wedding paper goods to the next level, and this suite had plenty of them.
The RSVP card doubled as a vintage hotel key, complete with a sketch of the venue on one side and a QR code on the other for guests to easily reply. A blue card cut in the exact shape of the pool at Race and Religious was another favorite element of ours from this custom invitation suite. Each piece of the suite featured a different bright and bold color that had a tropical feel.
The final component was a green envelope with palm tree liner. Before ever opening the invitation, guests got a glimpse of what was to come with an illustration of alligator on the front, and stamps that provided subtle hints to the wedding’s Louisiana location. The entire suite was thoughtfully curated and unapologetically fun, just like the bride herself. It’s also such a wonderful example of setting the tone for a wedding and providing fun surprises for guests.
Bold Day-of Details with a New Orleans Twist
We kept the personality going strong with equally creative and unexpected day-of details. When you hear New Orleans, you think of Mardi Gras, and we wanted to lean into that a bit. To incorporate a little Mardi Gras flair, we used Mardi Gras beads for the seating chart. Guests found their tables by locating Mardi Gras beads hanging on the venue’s iron gate, with their name and table number attached to each strand. So NOLA. So FUN. This was such a hit and everyone wore their Mardi Gras beads all night!
NOLA Wedding Ceremony and Reception
This wedding was a tropical dream! After a stunning ceremony by a pool surrounded in florals and palm trees, guests gathered on the patio for cocktails. A fabric bar sign listed the different drinks available adding texture and movement to the space, which we love! This one tied the whole cocktail setup together with gorgeous florals sitting on top of the bar framing the fabric sign.
The tablescapes at the venue were just beautiful. The florals were stunning with pops of bright pink and orange. At each place setting were the playful menus we designed shaped like palm trees. Oyster Place Cards were also at each seat as a nod to local flavor and southern charm, adding an elegance to the setting.
From the smallest element to the biggest moments, every detail celebrated the vibrant spirit of New Orleans while staying true to the couple’s personal style.
At White Ink Calligraphy, we believe your wedding should reflect you. This wedding was a perfect example of what happens when a couple fully leans into their style and vision by choosing details that are both meaningful and fun. Bringing this wedding day to life in the vibrant city of New Orleans was such an honor and so much fun. We’re still not over it! Katie and Derek’s wedding is definitely one we will always remember!
Wedding Vendors:
Planning: Posh Occasions
Venue: Race and Religious
Rentals: Distressed Rentals | Luminous Events of New Orleans | Curated Events Nashville
Catering: Pigeon Caterers
Photography: Shannon McLaughlin
Videography: Martin Weddings
Florals: Theia Flowers
DJ: Alex Denmeade
Beauty: Flawless Bride and Beauty
Cake: Creme Confectionery
Second Line: Kin Folk Brass Band
Umbrellas: Bella Umbrellas
Cigar Station: Cigar Factory New Orleans
Rehearsal Dinner: Hotel Saint Vincent
Tin Type Photo Station: Gift Horst
Stationary: White Ink Calligraphy
If you’re looking to add custom, thoughtful touches to your wedding or event, we would love to help make your vision a reality. Reach out today to learn more about our full-service design offerings—we can’t wait to create something unforgettable for you!
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