A Tropical Southern Wedding at Race & Religious in New Orleans, Louisiana

Mary Kate George and Brandon Graham booked their venue—Race & Religious in New Orleans—without ever visiting the space. But they were thrilled with their modern bohemian wedding, which was partly inspired by the bride's dress. It was a high-neck, halter-style gown with a low back and tropical-inspired lace, paired with simple drop earrings and sandals. Brandon wore a blue suit and a floral bow-tie (which also matched the groomsmen's pocket squares!). The couple wed outdoors, with guests sitting on either side of a rectangular pool. A vintage folding screen served as the backdrop, and lanterns lined the aisle. After the ceremony, which included a warming of the rings blessing, the newlyweds joined their guests for a traditional second line around a nearby park. "We even had cans of beer and personalized handkerchiefs to carry along the parade route," Mary Kate says. The bride and groom also held romantic parasols with lace details. While the parade was happening, the event coordinators and florists flipped the ceremony space for a Southern buffet- style reception. Limited seating around the property encouraged guests to mingle and spend time on the dance floor.  The minimal decorations included neutral-colored linens, arrangements of tropical leaves and flowers, votives and a photo display. The couple also reused the bridesmaid bouquets (greenery and king proteas) as centerpieces and bud vases. Overall, Mary Kate and Brandon wanted to give guests a “New Orleans experience”.  "Features like the second line immediately following the ceremony, the types of food and the manner in which they were served (including the Southern buffet and king cake), and the pool jump send-off at the end of the night (a right of passage at our venue) were all important and personal," they say.