New Orleans Wedding Traditions We Don’t Do Anymore!
Weddings in New Orleans are famous for their music, food, and culture. From lively second line parades to jazz-filled receptions, this city knows how to celebrate love. But not every old custom has survived the test of time. As a New Orleans wedding photographer for more than 30 years, I’ve seen which traditions faded away and which ones couples are keeping alive. Here are a few New Orleans wedding traditions we don’t see much anymore:
1. The Wedding Cake Pull (Almost Gone)
Once a staple of Southern weddings, the wedding cake pull involved charms hidden inside the cake with ribbons attached. Each bridesmaid (or guest) pulled a ribbon to reveal a charm symbolizing her future—like prosperity, travel, or true love. While some couples keep this for nostalgia, most brides today prefer modern cake designs or a fun groom’s cake.
2. Throwing Rice After the Ceremony
Traditionally, guests tossed rice as the newlyweds left the church, symbolizing prosperity and fertility. But with concerns about cleanup (and the well-being of birds), couples now lean toward bubbles, flower petals, or even sparkler exits instead. Rice tossing is one of those wedding customs in New Orleans you’ll rarely see anymore.
3. Formal Receiving Lines
Generations past expected a receiving line where the bride, groom, and parents greeted every guest in order. Today’s couples find it too formal and time-consuming. Instead, they greet friends naturally on the dance floor or during the reception.
4. The Money Dance
Once common at Cajun and Creole weddings, the money dance (pinning bills on the bride or groom during a short dance) is fading fast. Most modern couples prefer honeymoon funds or creative gift registries instead.
5. Bouquet & Garter Toss
The bouquet toss and garter toss used to be a wedding highlight, but many New Orleans couples skip it now. Brides often find it outdated or prefer to keep the dance floor energy flowing with the band or DJ. I am seeing way more party time during a reception, which I love because the energy doesn’t fade!
Keeping Tradition Alive in New Orleans
Even though some traditions are fading, New Orleans always finds a way to keep its celebrations unique. From brass bands and Mardi Gras Indians to king cake wedding cakes, couples continue to honor the spirit of the city in modern ways.
Every wedding here is a blend of old traditions and new ideas, and that’s what makes photographing them so exciting. The truth is, while some customs disappear, New Orleans weddings will always be rooted in culture, music, and joy.
