hi, everyone. An introduction and a question

Lynxie

since I'm new to the board, I decided to say hello and give a little background info. My name's Chelsea, I'm planning a destination wedding in NOLA with my H2B Matt on september 17, 2011. I think we've decided on the creole queen as our venue -- after researching MANY others -- but we're still not 100%. I will probably refer every once in a while to "The Black Book" or "The D-Day Book" which is what the folder with over 100 pages of handwritten notes has been affectionately dubbed. Now to the point.

I was wondering if anyone knew what a good average would be for photographers in the area? I fell in love with the first one recommended to me, so I haven't gathered much information on this. His packages start at $1800. Does that sound right?

meganb1977

I have info on a photographer whose package starts around $800 for three hours and can give you more details if you'd like.  Also, I'm looking into the Natchez and would love to hear if you looked into that too, why you chose the Creole Queen.

Lynxie

hey megan,

I did look into the Natchez. I went with the creole queen for two reasons: one, they were very upfront with me. Both in their brochures, and when I spoke with them. The gentleman I spoke with initially spent a good hour on the phone with me, answering all my questions, then immediately had their wedding advisor contact me. The natchez on the other hand seemed to be...well, a little bit underhanded with how they priced everything. I found when going through their brochure that things that you would think we're included (IE: wine with an open bar) actually had a separate charge. Unless I was reading things wrong, which is entirely possible. 

I actually didn't even contact them, because the clincher was that Fi had been on both boats, and had not like the Natchez. That was kind of the clincher. I trust his taste. 

also, all of the preferred vendors they've recommended me to have been very helpful and very willing to take the time to discuss every aspect of their roles in the wedding. HTH. If you have any questions about contact, pricing, etc, let me know! 

And if you have a link to the photographer's portfolio, I'd love to look at it

NOLAbrideinDC

i think thats a good price for photographers. My photographer is  $2300 and tho others i researched where in that same range. Hope this helps! Good Luck!

Lynxie

thanks, NOLAbride  appreciate the input!

meganb1977

Hi Lynxie,

Unfortunately this photographer doesn't seem to have a web site...maybe that's one of the reasons he was cheaper!  I just have his name/#/address with a price list and good word of mouth from my boss, so I'm not sure if he has something he could e-mail or link you to...if you want to give him a call just let me know and I'll get the info for you this evening when I'm home with my wedding paraphernalia.

Thanks for the advice on the boats, I've been on the Creole Queen before (but not for a reception) and wanted to look at the Natchez since their packages seemed cheaper.  The way I read the Natchez' information you can have an open bar for so much per person OR have drink tickets, but the per drink prices did not add on top of the price per person for the open bar.  But I might have been wrong about that...I am putting together a lot of questions and it will be worth clarifying!

Lynxie

As I said, I could be totally wrong! If I am, you're right. they shave about 1000-2000 off the overall price. I haven't been on either, I'm basing everything off of pictures and Fi's opinion, so actually, an opinion on the overall look of the creole queen and the quality of their food would be awesome! You should for sure check out the Natchez, since as I said my main reason for ruling them out is personal taste. Who knows, you may absolutely love it! I know the creole queen is willing to do a complimentary tasting, maybe the natchez would do the same? that would allow you to check it out without dumping money!

heatheandrtyler

What is the decor like on the Creole Queen?

Lynxie

it looked to me to be a red/maroon/champagne motif. I can link you to the website if you'd like? I'm still waiting to see the room my reception would be in.

dandywarhol

Silly question, but you aren't concerned about seasickness for guests? 

Lynxie

dandywarhol- not so silly! I actually did consider that, but since we'll be on the river, it shouldn't be too bad. I'm also going to forewarn everyone, so anyone prone to it can prep as necessary. I'm also considering bringing along a goodie bag for anyone who didn't expect to end up sea sick, but did. 

Once again with Fi's opinion, the poor man has been in the navy for 17 years and gets horrendously sea sick every time they go out, but hasn't had any problem on any of the riverboats. 

hollybee92

Sandra O'Claire at Eau Photo is fantastic & packages start around $1500! I think Sam Gregory is around $1800 to start, and he works with Sandra a ton! They are both really good.

NOLAbrideinDC

Hi Hollybee: I am using samual gregory. The wedding day package is $2395. Just an FYI. I wish it was $1800! ha! but yeah. all those photographers are really really good!

Lynxie

thanks, ladies! Now I feel like I'm in the right range! I just got a final quote back from my guy (carlos pasos) and for EVERYTHING I want, it's going to be about $2500, that includes over 10 hours over 2 days, copyright free images, and multiple location shooting. The only thing we aren't getting is the wedding album, because...well, if I have the pictures I can make as many as I want! haha.