New Orleans Charm: Crafting Your Wedding Invitations

New Orleans stands apart, a tapestry of cultures and traditions shaping its identity over centuries. From Spanish and French colonial influences to vibrant African and Caribbean roots, this melting pot has given rise to a distinct architectural style, culinary scene, and artistic expression.

TL;DR

• Incorporating iconic New Orleans elements into your wedding invitations adds a personal touch and sets the celebratory tone.
• Essential components include iconic imagery, Mardi Gras colors, local vernacular, and textures evoking the city’s historic ambiance.
• New Orleans boasts a flourishing community of talented local artists and designers specializing in custom wedding invitations capturing the city’s essence.

Understanding New Orleans’ Unique Charm

The historic French Quarter, with its wrought-iron balconies, colorful buildings, and cobblestone streets, exemplifies the city’s enduring charm. The iconic St. Louis Cathedral, with its towering spires and intricate facade, serves as a stunning backdrop for wedding portraits. Meanwhile, the lively music scene, with its soulful jazz and lively brass bands, adds an infectious energy to the atmosphere.

Essential Elements of a New Orleans-Themed Wedding Invitation

Iconic Imagery

The fleur-de-lis, a stylized lily representing the city’s French heritage, is a popular motif. Other iconic symbols like streetcars, jazz instruments, and wrought-iron details can add a touch of New Orleans flair.

Mardi Gras Colors and Motifs

The vibrant colors of purple, green, and gold, associated with Mardi Gras, can be woven into the color scheme. Incorporating masks, jesters, or other Mardi Gras-inspired motifs can add a festive touch.

Local Vernacular and French Phrases

New Orleans has a unique vernacular reflecting its French and Creole influences. Incorporating phrases like “laissez les bons temps rouler” (let the good times roll) or “cher” (dear) can add an authentic touch.

Choosing the Right Materials and Textures

Linen or Parchment Paper

These materials have a timeless, elegant feel and can mimic the aged texture of historic documents, adding vintage charm.

Handmade Paper

Handmade paper with subtle imperfections and a tactile quality can evoke the artisanal spirit of New Orleans’ vibrant arts scene.

Letterpress or Engraving

These printing techniques create a raised, tactile impression, adding luxury and sophistication.

Typography and Color Schemes

Script Fonts

Elegant script fonts mimicking flowing French calligraphy can add romance and sophistication.

Vintage-Inspired Typefaces

Typefaces with a vintage or antique feel can evoke the historic charm of New Orleans’ architecture and cultural heritage.

Vibrant Color Schemes

Embrace bold and vibrant shades of purple, green, gold, and rich jewel tones reflecting the city’s lively spirit.

Local Artists and Designers Specializing in Wedding Invitations

Scriptura

This local stationery studio is renowned for exquisite letterpress and foil-stamped invitations, often incorporating New Orleans-inspired motifs and calligraphy.

Penny Pinkerton Design

Penny Pinkerton’s designs celebrate Southern charm, featuring intricate illustrations and hand-lettering evoking the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Alexa Pulitzer

With a fine arts background, Alexa Pulitzer creates stunning watercolor and hand-painted invitations capturing New Orleans’ vibrant colors and energy.

Printing and Production Options in New Orleans

Letterpress Printing

Letterpress printing is a traditional technique creating a raised, tactile impression, adding luxury and sophistication. Local printers like Boxcar Press and Cypress Press are renowned for their letterpress work.

Foil Stamping

Foil stamping involves pressing metallic foil onto the paper, creating a shimmering, eye-catching effect. This technique is often combined with letterpress or engraving for an opulent look.

Digital Printing

For more modern or minimalist designs, digital printing can provide high-quality results with a quick turnaround. Local print shops like Printworks and Pelican Printing offer digital printing services.

Etiquette and Customization Tips

Timing

If planning a Mardi Gras-themed wedding, consider sending invitations well in advance to allow guests ample time for travel arrangements and accommodations during the busy festival season.

Customization

To enhance the guest experience, consider including a map of New Orleans landmarks or a list of recommended local attractions and restaurants. This thoughtful touch will help guests immerse themselves in the city’s culture.

Wording

While incorporating local vernacular and French phrases adds authenticity, be mindful of your guest list and ensure the wording is easily understood by all attendees.

Where to Find Inspiration and Resources

Local Stores and Boutiques

Visit local shops like Perique Lagniappe, Fleurty Girl, and Hazelnut to find unique materials, embellishments, and accessories to incorporate into invitations.

Online Galleries and Blogs

Platforms like Style Me Pretty, Green Wedding Shoes, and Junebug Weddings feature stunning galleries of New Orleans-themed weddings and invitations, providing endless inspiration.

Local Wedding Expos and Shows

Attend local wedding expos and shows, where you can meet with local vendors, view their work in person, and gather ideas for your invitations.

By immersing yourself in New Orleans’ rich cultural tapestry and drawing inspiration from its iconic elements, you can create wedding invitations that truly capture the essence of this captivating city. Whether opting for a bold, Mardi Gras-inspired design or a more subtle, vintage-inspired aesthetic, your invitations will set the stage for a celebration uniquely yours, infused with the charm of the Big Easy.