Jackie and I have been chatting and keeping in touch for the last few weeks. I knew she didn't want posed photos but a few more organic portraits and lots of candids. We started in Armstrong Park for a private ceremony under the shade of the Southern Oaks. We then snuck out to get a cocktail because, umm...yeah they gotta do a toast! A few unexpected gratis, congratulatory shots later and off we went. Heading to Lafayette Square for YLC Wednesday in the Square free music get togethers. Perfect place to catch them being, well...them. 

Jason is so easy going. He just smiled and carried the backpack. Funny story: in all the weddings I have photographed in the French Quarter I have never had a destination wedding client be mistaken for a local. A cute, young couple tapped Jason the shoulder and asked if he could have one of the flowers sticking out the back, for his girlfriend. Jackie reaches in the bag to get one out and waits until she hands the flower to her, then she says "Oh I just got married. That is my bouquet." Of course the little couple was embarrassed but Jackie and Jason just laughed it off and made two new friends in the process.

On we traveled to Fahy's, a local's favorite Irish Pub in the French Quarter. And, another round of congratulatory shots. Not me. I'm not that lucky, nor could I hold the camera steady enough after one to get a sharp photograph. We said our goodbyes and headed back out to Claire's Pour House on Decatur. Another little secreet dive bar with the friendliest staff. 

And of course the yearly visitors who came in to see Claire, the owner, had to buy another round of shots. So, yeah, it's time to go so we head out the door. Not far up the street we run into the ladies who bought the last round of shots, the round that kicked Jackie into giggle mode. Just cute as hell! 

Before making it to our destination, we stopped along the way to take advantage of the sun setting, so we took some silly Mardi Gras mask photos. I did manage to get one portrait of Jackie that is serious. It rocks.

Oh, and remember, I said it was a secret elopement? Well, the cat almost got out of the bag before their trip. Jackie planned well by anticipating rain so she bought a neat black umbrella, nothing wedding, not even a wedding supply vendor. The package arrives at work and lo and behold the sender is weddings.com. Her officemates see it and start the drilling questions. She fooled them and ultimately they were able to surprise everyone.

Here's to Jackie and Jason for just having a good time with each other. 

Funny story. Jackie saw a penny in the street, grabbed it and then not paying a lick of attention strutted across the street, as you can see narrowly avoiding a truck mishap. Jason just shook his head as she explained that its an old Italian superstition that finding a penny on your wedding day is good luck. Apparently it was indeed.