How to Plan a Wedding That Doesn’t Suck (And Has a Brass Band)

Let’s face it—most weddings blur together. Polite claps, dry chicken, awkward slow dances, and a DJ who peaked in 2003. But if you're tying the knot in New Orleans, your big day deserves better. At The Howlin’ Wolf, we believe weddings should be bold, soulful, and unforgettable—especially if there's a brass band involved.

Here’s how to plan a celebration that actually reflects you—not your grandma’s Pinterest board.

🎺 Start With a Second Line (Or End With One. Or Both.)

In New Orleans, nothing says “we just got married!” like a second line parade. It’s a joyful, horn-blasting, napkin-waving march through the streets that turns your wedding into a full-blown spectacle. We’ll help you book the brass band, secure the permit, and even wrangle the umbrellas.

Pro tip: Your guests will never forget dancing behind you as the band belts “Do Whatcha Wanna” down the block.

🎤 Skip the Banquet Hall. Book a Venue With Soul.

The Howlin’ Wolf and The Den are where music lives and memories are made. Ditch the generic ballroom and celebrate in a venue with actual character. Whether you want a full-blown concert vibe, an intimate cabaret, or a wild late-night afterparty, we’ve got a space (and a sound system) that slaps.

You’re getting married in New Orleans. Don’t do it in a beige room.

💃 Burlesque BEAUTIES

What’s more “you” than a surprise burlesque act? At The Wolf, we’ve got the hook-ups to add some real flair to your reception—think showgirls, swing dancers, or even a tarot card reader if you want to get mystical between cocktails.

🍻 Local Beer, Specialty Shots & No Lukewarm White Wine

Our bar doesn’t play around. With 25+ beers on tap (and over 100 in the can), local breweries like NOLA Brewing and Abita are always flowing. Want to create a signature shot in honor of your new last name? We got you. Want a Champagne tower and a beer bucket? Also doable.

🍴 Bacon Cheddar Beignets (Yes, They’re Award-Winning)

Our in-house catering isn’t just delicious—it’s legendary. Especially those cheddar bacon beignets with chipotle crema that won Best Savory Beignet at Beignet Fest. Build your menu around them. Add sliders, wings, dirty rice, or go full-out with a late-night food truck court. Your guests will thank you with full plates and happy tears.

🎧 DJs, Bands, Karaoke, or All of the Above

We host live music for a living, so trust us when we say: your wedding playlist will not suck. Whether you want a DJ spinning bounce remixes, a live funk band, or karaoke that gets rowdy, we’ll make it happen.

💡 Make It Personal, Not Predictable

Forget the traditions that don’t speak to you. Have a midnight cake cutting. Write your vows as a duet. Walk down the aisle to Trombone Shorty. Or don’t walk at all—dance.

At The Howlin’ Wolf, we help couples throw the kind of wedding that actually feels like them—rowdy, romantic, a little offbeat, and a whole lot of fun.

Ready to Ditch the Drama and Throw the Party of a Lifetime?

You bring the love. We’ll bring the brass, the beignets, and the beat.

📞 Contact Us🎷Let’s make wedding magic, New Orleans-style.