A Second Line Parade Brought New Orleans Inspiration to This California Wedding at Willow Ballroom

For their wedding at Willow Ballroom in Hood, California, Curissa Watts (28, Budget Analyst & Blogger) and Brandyn Thompson (29, Owner of DB Select, a sports training company) looked south for inspiration. "We had a southern-inspired wedding, driven by my grandmother’s New Orleans roots. We went for a very romantic décor featuring brass candles, pampas grass and greenery to mimic the French Quarter. We served a southern menu and surprised guests with a traditional second line parade led by a live brass brand. The goal was to bring New Orleans to Sacramento and I think we were successful in creating that experience for our guests," Curissa shares. 

Southern-inspired food was a key way the couple brought a New Orleans vibe to their California wedding. "When it came to our menu, we wanted to stay true to our southern theme. It was important that the food served at our wedding was delicious and full of flavor. We wanted our guests to truly enjoy their dinner and we succeeded with our catering choice. During cocktail hour, our appetizers were fried green tomatoes drizzled with spicy remoulade and shrimp and grits bites. Dinner featured a strawberry vinaigrette salad, buttermilk fried chicken, smoked beef brisket, cowboy mac and cheese, sweet potato puree, grilled vegetables and cornbread muffins," notes Curissa. Beyond food, the star of the show at this southern-inspired celebration was the traditional second line parade. "Without a doubt, my favorite moment of the wedding was the second line parade. The energy during that moment was overwhelming in the best way. As bride and groom, we marched down the side of the venue, with the brass band and our bridal party behind us dancing and celebrating our love. In front of us, we could see our guests, family and dear friends, cheering us on and welcoming us into a new chapter of our life. It symbolized us entering our marriage with the best support system and also setting the tone for a fun and exciting life together."