Pitot House helps couples say a quick I Do

For one day, Pitot House can be your wedding chapel.

Over the years I have been invited to swanky weddings (translation: thousands of dollars), destination weddings (translation: thousands of dollars on beaches in faraway places), breakfast weddings, luncheon weddings and black-tie dinner weddings. All had certain things in common: months and months of planning; the groans of fathers of the brides; the tears of mothers of the brides; and the chagrin of bridesmaids required to wear, shall we say, truly unusual outfits.

How many times, we wonder, did the idea (even the vocal suggestion) of just eloping come into the pre-nuptial conversation between a prospective bride and her groom?

So for those in a similar situation who are trying to avoid all the stress and tears of what should be a joyful event, here’s an only-in-New Orleans kind of idea. It’s different, for sure. But think about this.

On Saturday, November 10, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., the Louisiana Landmarks Society, owners of Pitot House on Bayou St. John, is offering the use of its fabulous Creole Colonial style plantation-style home for one-stop wedding and commitment ceremonies. They’ll take care of all the details in what has to be one of the more unusual fund-raising events ever.

For a cost of $500 or $750 (depending on the time slot), Landmarks will provide everything necessary for a memorable ceremony — but only for 11 couples and only for one hour each. So if you’re in the market for a wedding, commitment ceremony or vow renewal, here’s a way to have an event you’ll always remember. And you’ll be helping to save a vital part of New Orleans history at the same time.

Here’s what you get for the money. Each couple can invite 20 guests to their 45-minute seated ceremony, which is followed by a champagne toast. In addition, Landmarks will also provide:

• A non-denominational wedding officiant
• Wedding backdrop
• Ceremony chairs
• Photography service (with option to purchase additional copies)
• Bridal bouquet for duration of the ceremony (yes it’s just a loan; you have to give it back)
• Two oversized cupcakes for the couple

Interested? You’d better hurry, as only a few slots remain. For more information or to book your hour-long special event, e-mail infor@louisianalandmarks.org or call 504-482-0312.

Sharon Litwin is president of NolaVie.