A Sweet Soiree

Northwest Florida Weddings Magazine brings a little more love to Louisiana

The vibrant culture, Cajun cuisine and cities seeping with history were reason enough for Northwest Florida Weddings Magazine to make its first trip to Louisiana. It just so happens that Baton Rouge-based N-Joy Weddings and Events hosted “A Wedding Soiree” at the gorgeous Renaissance Baton Rouge Hotel on May 2, and our magazine didn’t want to miss the chance to meet brides in this region.

In the summer and winter, N-Joy Events hosts large bridal expos, while the soirees are more intimate, personalized experiences.

“Every bride has their own tastes and preferences,” said Ashley Holden Rasco, owner of N-Joy Events. “Some love the hustle and bustle of the big shows, with the crazy contests and hundreds of people; but many love the soirees, because it’s more of a cocktail party, where you can sit back, relax and talk one-on-one.”

In true wedding fashion, the brides were greeted with the soothing, symphonic tones of a small orchestra. Their glasses of champagne were accompanied by hors d’oeuvres of local specialties, such as shrimp and grits.

Brides then chatted with the vendors and service providers in attendance, gaining insight into wedding planning and booking services for their special days. Vendors in attendance included bridal boutiques, florists, videographers, photographers, travel agencies, rental services, restaurants and more.

A unique aspect of the soiree that had many brides-to-be swooning was the beauty bar, which featured all things pampering, from makeup samples and body scrubs to massages and hairstyling.

To conclude the night, the brides played a version of your favorite elementary school game, hot potato, in which they tossed a bouquet. The last lady standing was the ecstatic winner of a four-day-three-night honeymoon to Jamaica.

Another giveaway commenced at our Northwest Florida Weddings Magazine table, where brides entered to win a feature of their wedding on our blog. We’re pleased to say that the winner will be announced very soon!

We enjoyed the wonderful hospitality we received during our first trip to Louisiana as well as the association with many beautiful brides. We highly recommend attending the Baton Rouge Bridal Show on Aug. 6 where you will find a plethora of vendors and swag bags including our magazine.

It turns out that the beignets weren’t the sweetest part of our May trip — that distinction belongs to the brides!