After enjoying fantastic food and lively conversation on Thanksgiving day, Philip and I hopped a plane for New Orleans! Luckily, we were there to film a very intimate gathering: Kendall & Patrick’s betrothal ceremony and the dinner-dance that followed. The couples’ families gathered at Kendall’s grandmother (Gigi’s) home to celebrate the official commitment between Kendall & Patrick to enter into an “official” period of engagement before their May wedding in Highlands, NC.
If you’re anything like us, you’re asking yourself “What, exactly, IS a betrothal ceremony?” We wish we could have included the minister’s beautiful explanation of this old tradition, but alas, we must resort to paraphrase. For centuries, going all the way back to the time of Abraham, “getting hitched” was a two-part process. The first was a formal agreement to enter into marriage, or become betrothed. Couples still practice this today, but in a much less formal fashion, which we call “engagement”. Part two of the marriage process was the formal ceremony which is what we’re most familiar with in our culture: the wedding. In the words of the minister, “In those days, no one became married without first becoming betrothed.”
Gigi’s grand New Orleans home was the perfect setting for such a familial celebration. With its huge staircase, historic charm, and Gigi’s personal and artistic touches, the living and dining room were easily transformed into the perfect candlelit backdrop for the night’s festivities. Kendall looked gorgeous in her mother’s wedding dress, while Patrick sported family-heirloom cufflinks. The Joe Simon Trio kept the family dancing to New Orleans-style jazz tunes. The entire evening felt like a romantic scene from the 1920s!
AND this was our first time working with the fun and talented crew that is Pure 7 Studios. We had such a great time shooting alongside Ryan & Lindsey, whileErica kept us all organized and smiling! We’re so happy to call you friends, and thank you immensely for introducing us to Sucre. Mmmmm…
Patrick & Kendall: you and your families are so incredibly genuine and lovely. We’re so happy you found us! Your betrothal ceremony was one of our most memorable, favorite events we’ve filmed. Thanks for your hospitality in New Orleans and we are sincerely excited about your wedding weekend in Highlands in just a few months! Keep loving each other as you do so well!
“Moon Waltz” by Brian Reitzell, Dave Palmer & Roger Neill // “Way Down Yonder in New Orleans” by the Joe Simon Trio
Venue: Gigi’s home in New Orleans, LA
Officiant: Reverend Don Frampton
Ceremony Musician: Steven Blackman
Reception Musician: Joe Simon Trio
Floral Design: Urban Earth Studios
Photographer: Pure 7 Studios
Chef: Patrick Kearney
Cake: Royal Cakery
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ryan - OMG!!! i love what you guys have done, so fantastic! we miss you guys dearly & hope to reconnect soon : )