Weddings

Venue Spotlight: Why Race & Religious Is One of the Most Unique Wedding Venues in New Orleans

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There’s nowhere else like it.

Nestled in the Lower Garden District of New Orleans, Race & Religious feels like stepping into a curated story—one told in layered textures, centuries-old walls, flickering candlelight, and lush Southern foliage. It’s moody, romantic, and full of character in the best way.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding day that feels both intentional and wildly unique, this venue might just be the one.

What Makes Race & Religious So Special?

This isn’t your average wedding venue. It’s made up of two historic 1830s townhomes, a tropical courtyard, a pool, and a guest house, all connected by candlelit corridors, brick archways, and wrought-iron balconies. Every corner is photo-worthy, but more importantly—it feels like New Orleans in all the best ways: soulful, bold, and unforgettable.

What you’ll love:

  • Weathered brick, painted shutters, and layered patina for the dreamiest editorial backdrops
  • Indoor + outdoor flow (perfect for moody portraits, courtyard dinners, or poolside cocktails)
  • Space for your wedding party or family to stay on-site—hello, built-in memories
  • That golden Louisiana light hitting the courtyard? Pure magic.

The Vibe: Artful, Intimate, and Unapologetically New Orleans

Race & Religious is for couples who care about details, story, and soul. It’s not a blank canvas—it’s a bold one. And when you lean into that texture (literally and figuratively), the result is unforgettable.

I’ve photographed everything from vibrant, flower-filled celebrations to more pared-back, editorial elopements here. The venue adapts, but it always gives mood. The kind of mood that makes your wedding feel more like an art installation than an event.

A Photographer’s POV

From a creative lens? Race & Religious is a dream. The variety of light, tones, and textures means your gallery will be dynamic and full of depth. There’s always a hidden corner, a sunlit doorway, or a shadowy staircase just waiting to be turned into art.

Whether we’re sneaking away for portraits on the balcony or shooting dinner tables under strings of café lights, every image tells a story that feels deeply personal to this place.

Planning Notes

  • Ideal for: Intimate weddings, stylish elopements, or full weekends with your favorite people
  • Guest Count: Can host up to ~150 guests comfortably
  • Pro Tip: Consider staying on property with your partner or your wedding party—waking up in the space adds another layer of intimacy to your story
  • Weather plan: Tent the courtyard if needed or create cozy indoor lounges—it works beautifully either way

Thinking About Getting Married at Race & Religious?

If you’re drawn to soulful spaces, historic beauty, and that distinctly New Orleans energy—this venue is something you’ll fall in love with immediately. Whether you’re local or planning a destination wedding in New Orleans, Race & Religious offers a backdrop that’s both striking and deeply heartfelt.

And if you’re looking for a photographer who knows how to capture all that layered beauty in a way that still feels like you—I’d love to connect.

Vendor List

COORDINATOR – Just Married Ya’ll
PHOTO – Bri Nicole Photo Co
VENUE – Race and Religious
CATERING – Black Pearl Catering Co
HMUA – Glam on Location LLC
FLORIST – LKB FLoral Design
DRESS – Pronovias
SHOES – Badgley Mishcka
DJ – Omega Sound
Second Line – Knock AZ Brass Band
Bar- Carnival Events LA

Kelsey + Matthew — thank you for letting me be part of your story. Your day was a beautiful reminder that love, when done your way, really is the most magical thing.

Looking for a New Orleans wedding photographer who feels like a storyteller with a camera? Let’s connect.

To me, photography is about preserving the feeling of a moment—not just how it looked, but how it felt. Inspired by nostalgia, connection, and the emotion tucked into the in-between, I photograph with intention—on digital, film, and Polaroids—creating timeless imagery rooted in your story. Based in Nashville, serving NYC and destinations wherever your love takes you.

Hi, I’m Bri—a NYC and Nashville-based wedding photographer capturing love in its most honest, artful form. I document weddings, elopements, and couples with a balance of presence and ease, using a documentary approach that allows space for real moments to unfold, while gently guiding when needed.

Editorial, documentary, intuitive art for the moments you’ll feel forever

Meet your photographer

A visual record of your love—honest, artful, and entirely you. A blend of documentary storytelling and editorial imagery that feels like flipping through a memory you never want to forget. From intimate weddings in the heart of the city to wherever your story takes us next.

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