A restaurant rooftop at sunset set the scene for the moment Arash proposed to Lauren. It was a moment made even more special by an accordion player—Lauren’s grandfather played, and he was a huge reason she is now music teacher! So, when searching for the right New Orleans wedding venue, Capulet’s romantic roof deck couldn’t have been more perfect for their ceremony and reception.
As Lauren searched for her gown, she thought she wanted something lacy. But after trying several on, none of them felt right. Then, while at Wedding Belles, Lauren tried on Raquel—the gown’s fern lace bodice and sleek skirt had her at hello!
Get more details from our sweet bride, whose first dance with Arash was to “La Vie en Rose”, below:
How did you guys get engaged?
“Arash completely surprised me! He said we were going to a Christmas party at a rooftop restaurant our friend owns. He said we’d go early to get there before the crowd and have a drink with our friend. Our friend left us alone on the roof while we shared a drink and listened to an accordion player. The sun was setting, and Arash started to tell me how much I meant to him, and before I knew it, he was on one knee. The accordion was such a special touch because my grandfather played and was a huge reason I became a music teacher. It couldn’t have been more perfect!”
wedding gown: Lea-Ann Belter Bridal Raquel gown via Wedding Belles | photographer: Jordan Blanchard Photography | full vendor list at bottom
How did you choose your gown?
“I thought I wanted a lacy gown like many that are trending now, but all of them felt like too much once I started trying them on. The girls at Wedding Belles found my simple, classic gown with small fern lace detail on the bust, and I was in love!”
Why did you decide to get married where you did?
“We loved Capulet’s roof deck, the beautiful open warehouse, and their amazing food and drinks! The romantic candle-lit vibe that our vendors created complimented it perfectly.”
One detail you couldn’t live without?
“The flowers were just incredible. I loved the orchids with the soft pinks. They made me feel beautiful!”
What was the most important aspect for you, in terms of planning your wedding?
“We really wanted our ceremony to reflect who we are as individuals and as a couple. We chose one of my favorite poems, and Arash’s grandfather speaking during the ceremony was the cherry on top.”
What was the funniest moment of your day?
“The rain! It rained all day, but it let up for a bit during the wedding, so we got to dance on the roof deck after dinner. It started lightly drizzling during our last dance.”
Where did you go on your honeymoon?
“Sedona! We hiked, went to wineries, and got our first couple’s massage. The red rocks are incredible, and we finally relaxed!”
Any tips for couples getting married?
“People will love to tell you their opinions and hopes for your wedding, but at the end of it all, it’s your day. Have fun and don’t blink!”
Lauren + Arash’s New Orleans Wedding Vendors
wedding gown: Lea-Ann Belter Bridal Raquel gown via Wedding Belles | photographer: Jordan Blanchard Photography | wedding planner: Alicia Horn Weddings | venue + catering: Capulet | videographer: Wedding Films Solutions | florals: Herbivore Floral Designs | wedding cake: Gambinos Bakery | Petit Fours: Chez Bakery | DJ: Stage 1 Music LLC | ceremony musician: Lulu Reeks | hair: Benjamin Ekes | makeup: About Face Nola, Lindsey Benoit | stationer: The Lettering Bee Co. | signage: Crum and Co. | rentals: Fleur de Lis Event Rentals
