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Updated Oct 14, 2024How to Get Married in Louisiana and Plan Your Wedding
We tapped pros for their expert advice.
If you're planning on having a southern wedding, Louisiana is a great location to tie the knot. Before you start looking for a venue and wedding pros, it's important to understand how to get married in Louisiana. This includes understanding marriage laws and knowing the best time of year to host your wedding.
Kristen Rauch, owner and lead planner of PK Weddings and Events New Orleans says what makes Louisiana so special is that it has something for everyone, no matter what you want your wedding to look and feel like. "Each area in Louisiana offers its own unique charm and wedding opportunities," Rauch says.
Continue reading to learn how to get a Louisiana marriage license, the best places to say "I do" and a step-by-step guide to help you on your planning journey.
In this article:
- How to Get a Marriage License in Louisiana
- Notable Wedding Locations in Louisiana
- How to Plan a Wedding in Louisiana Step-by-Step
How to Get a Marriage License in Louisiana
To get legally married in Louisiana you need to apply for a marriage license within 30 days of your wedding date, which you can do online. Make sure you print a copy to bring with you in person at the Clerk of Court's office. The fees differ depending on which parish you get married in. You'll also need to bring along a photo ID, birth certificate and social security number. A 24-hour waiting period between issuance and the wedding ceremony is required by Louisiana marriage laws so plan appropriately. If you're getting married in New Orleans, you'll need to get your license from the Orleans parish. If you're getting married in any other area you can go to your local clerk's office to get your LA wedding license.
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Notable Wedding Locations in Louisiana
Think about the kind of vibe you want for your wedding when thinking of Louisiana wedding locations. As for your Louisiana wedding venue, do you want to get married in a historic building with lots of friends and family or in a gorgeous garden surrounded by your nearest and dearest? You'll want to consider your budget, weather, and how many guests you plan on inviting. Here are a few top places in Louisiana to get married.
New Orleans
"It isn't just about the wedding—it's about the entire experience," Rauch says. "With its 24/7 entertainment, there's no need to worry about keeping your out-of-town guests entertained during their downtime. They can explore the city's vibrant culture, live music and nightlife on their own, turning your wedding weekend into a mini vacation." New Orleans wedding venues range from historic landmarks to modern, industrial-chic spots.
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Lafayette
"Rustic barns, charming gardens and traditional Cajun halls are abundant," Rauch says. "The people are warm, inviting, and full of Cajun joie de vivre (joy of living). There is a serenity in Lafayette for those couples who want an elegant affair with the touches of cajun food, music and flare."
Baton Rouge
From sprawling estates with lush gardens to venues with historic charm, you won't have a lack of options when it comes to wedding venues in this southern city. Consider the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens with its collection of stunning gardens and woodlands or The River Terrace at Shaw Center for the Arts overlooking downtown Baton Rouge and the Mississippi River.
How to Plan a Wedding in Louisiana Step-by-Step
Want to know exactly how to plan a wedding in Louisiana? Keep these specific considerations in mind.
1. Set a Budget
No matter where you get married, creating a wedding budget is an essential part of the planning process. The Knot Budget Advisor can help couples learn more about wedding costs in their marrying location based on data from real couples. Determining the amount you want to spend makes the rest of the planning process a little bit easier.
2. Pick the Right Vendor Team
"It is important to find the right planner and vendors for your wedding day. While considering your budget is very important, not every decision should be made based on price," Rauch advises. "You really want to have partners who will enjoy planning your wedding alongside you and understand your style and vision. Read their reviews in detail or find a planner that has valuable relationships in the community that can offer you options through their trusted partnerships." Use The Knot Vendor Marketplace to find your team of vendors, including a planner, florist, entertainment and more.
3. Weather
"Summers are hot and if you are thinking about an outdoor wedding, it will be hot and humid," Rauch explains. "Perhaps you would be best to consider an indoor/outdoor venue. We really don't consider rain as a problem because precipitation can happen anywhere any time of year. We always plan accordingly."
4. Consider Local Events
When getting married in Louisiana it's important to check your wedding date against the calendar of events in your marrying location. "Our festivals and special events are abundant such as New Year's Eve, Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest," reminds Rauch. "We have had wonderful weddings during these times, but they require extra advanced planning and are usually at a premium."
