Saturday, June 27, 2009

Let's Party in New Orleans


My work with Bride’s Night Out, Inc. might keep me based out of Los Angeles, but my heart and soul will forever be in my hometown New Orleans.

It has been four years since hurricane Katrina devastated the city. Surviving the greatest natural disaster in the United States was just the beginning; convincing people that New Orleans is no longer dangerous was going to be the hard part. As a result, the city has launched a national advertising campaign to address the issue and rejuvenate the tourism industry.

Now, New Orleans is alive and thriving and I’ve witnessed it firsthand. From Bourbon Street in the French Quarter down St. Charles Ave., where I grew up and my parents still live, to Lake Pontchartrain, the city is back in full swing. The quarter is looking better than it has in years; people are gathering around Jackson Square to listen to music and watch the artists, the retailers have a renewed spirit and food favorites are even more delicious.

Feeling the passion to support New Orleans’ economy and share the city with my friends, I planned my destination wedding week, produced by Bride's Night Out, Inc., with the ceremony taking place on July 7, 2007. My goal was to showcase all of what New Orleans has to offer which would ensure my guests would have an amazing time.

The city definitely played a very large role in our wedding. Upon arrival, out of towners were greeted at the airport by my friend Robert dressed in New Orleans inspired garb with warm pleasantries to boot. In hotel rooms, guests found goody baskets with some local staples – Zapp’s potato chips, pralines, local newspaper, New Orleans magazine, Kentwood Water, selection of fresh fruit, and a welcome letter with the schedule of wedding festivities.

The schedule outlined the 7 wedding events including:
July 4th Pre-Party with Cocktails at the International House Hotel and Fireworks at the Riverwalk Marketplace
July 5th Welcome Jazz party at Harrah’s Hotel
July 6th Bridal Shower and tea at the Windsor Court Hotel
July 6th Groom’s Luncheon at La Cote Brasserie and tour of the National WWII Museum
July 6th Seafood Rehearsal Party at the Pelican Club Restaurant
July 7th Wedding Ceremony, Sit Down Wine Pairing Dinner, and Reception at Emeril’s Delmonico with music by Rebirth Brass Band, James Singleton, Johnny Vadacovich and others.
July 8th Day After Brunch at Brennan’s Restaurant

I was amazed at how many of our friends and family made the trip but I’m so happy they did. For most of them, this was their first time back to the Crescent City since the hurricane. It was great opportunity for everyone to experience New Orleans’ rebirth, enjoying the music, food and celebration.

My company Bride’s Night Out, Inc. continues to provide the best “insiders” party packages to New Orleans for bachelor and Bachelorette parties, renewal of vows and destination friend trips. For more details contact parties@bridesnightout.com.

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