Name: The Red M Studio
Price range: $$$

The funny thing about trying to elope to New Orleans is … no one lets you. When you choose the happiest celebration in the most fabulous town, everyone wants to come along for the ride. And that’s exactly how Jaci and Michael’s tiny elopement bloomed into a joy-filled gathering of their closest friends and family—affectionately dubbed their “not a wedding.” They found the perfect solution for keeping things intimate: exchanging vows in their own hotel suite. They brought in Minister Toya, who can always be counted on for a heartfelt ceremony, and she delivered a beautiful moment that fit them perfectly … meaningful and chill with a touch of magic.

Afterward, we wandered through the French Quarter, weaving our way past Halloween revelers and soaking up all the spooky-sweet vibes of an October 31st wedding day. We paused for a photo at the iconic Carousel Bar, and—because this couple loves their fur babies—were naturally welcomed by a resident French Quarter cat who seemed determined to be part of the celebration. It seemed like that cat just knew these were it’s people!

Our final stop was Arnaud’s, where even more of their favorite people joined them for a private dinner in their own dining space. Laughter and love filled the room as the newlyweds celebrated the start of their forever—vowing to stay together until they’re ghosts. Jaci and Michael’s not-a-wedding was everything New Orleans does best: warm, a little spooky, endlessly charming, and full of heart, a perfect for them wedding that they will be smiling about for years.