The picturesque, romantic "Tree of Life", appearing to be dripping with greenery, provides the perfect amount of shade under the New Orleans sun for a modern, destination wedding. 

Blake and Ryan met 12 years ago as Freshmen in high school and have been inseparable since. It's clear that the foundation of their once, teenage love has blossomed into a mature, compassionate, and inspiring partnership. Somehow the two manage to run two wedding businesses and still have a sparkle of love in their eyes. 

It's no secret that planning a wedding is a stressful undertaking - and it's no different for a wedding professional (Blake and Ryan own not one, but two wedding businesses in Arizona). After months of planning a traditional wedding for all their guests and trying to please everyone but themselves, the stress just became too much. Blake and Ryan decided to plan  dream wedding with close friends and family at a get away location, the romantic Tree of Life in New Orleans (To read more about Blake's decision to change her wedding click here: Why I Decided to Cancel My Big Wedding).

I met Blake a little over a year ago when we collaborated on a wedding editorial for publication in Arizona. I was overjoyed to be there for such a sweet and giving woman, to ensure she felt no stress on her own wedding day.

The wedding day started at an apartment in the Garden District with champagne, bridesmaids gifts and bridal beauty. The bride and groom decided on a first look in the beautiful courtyard onsite. 

The ceremony took place under the tree of life, finalized by a jumping of the broom. Jumping the broom is a tradition symbolizing sweeping away of all the negative enegery to make way for all things that are good to come into your lives. Jumping the broom is also a call of support of the union from the community, family and friends. Immediately following the bride and groom shared a celebratory champagne toast in Audubon Park with their guests. 

Festivities kicked off at the innovative and delectable  New Orleans restaurant, Coquette. The reception, in true New Orleans fashion, was relaxed and soulful. Many toasts of happy wishes were given to the couple, followed by the best fried chicken you've laid eyes on, dancing and love.

I wish you two every happiness as your journey continues!

#NolansInNola