Compass Point Events is a New Orleans wedding venue in Algiers Point, a historic neighborhood on New Orleans’ West Bank. While a lot of people don’t first think of the West Bank when they think of New Orleans, Algiers Point was the perfect place for Penelope and Russell’s lively, local New Orleans wedding.

A Compass Point Events Wedding

Did you ever arrive somewhere and feel like the outside world didn’t exist? That’s the feeling of walking into a Compass Point Events wedding. Ancient trees shade the courtyard between historic cottages. At night, the market lights strung in the trees above it give the scene a touch of magic. 

Capturing candid moments at this venue is a joy because no matter where you are, the beautiful surroundings don’t distract from the relationships coming alive in the photos. A couple could be cuddling on the antique furniture in a cottage or welcoming friends onto the dance floor. The venue highlights them instead of overwhelming what really matters. All in all, the space manages to feel like a world apart but still cozy and welcoming.

One of the coolest parts of any Compass Point Events wedding is the dance floor. The black and white tile is the perfect place to dance the night away. The checker pattern also makes for a unique and beautiful backdrop for reception photos. As Penelope and Russell’s photos show, even in the rain, guests want to live up the moment together on the dance floor. 

Although a Compass Point Events wedding typically takes place outdoors, you can rent the cottages for prep. Couples and their guests can even opt to stay there overnight. This is a great way to soak up every moment with your closest people on your wedding weekend.

Compass Point Events is located in the Algiers Point neighborhood, an underappreciated gem that is just across the Mississippi from the French Quarter. A charming ferry runs between the neighborhoods. Although Algiers Point is quieter than the bustling French Quarter, there’s plenty to keep you and your guests busy. Algiers Point has been home to some musical icons of New Orleans, including the late Dr. John. The area is so rich with musical history that the Algiers Historical Society offers a walking tour that explores the area’s storied jazz musicians.

Polaroid Wedding Photos

A Compass Point Events wedding has so many historic features in a setting that’s not overly formal, making it a perfect opportunity to take some Polaroid wedding photos. Polaroid photos have been popular for guest books in recent years, but they’re amazing for portraits and capturing candid moments throughout the wedding day. 

Polaroid wedding photos have a nostalgic quality that suits a New Orleans wedding venue like Compass Point Events. They have a sense of warmth and joy that suits a wedding. Polaroid also provides immediate, tangible keepsakes. The focus stays on your connections with your people instead of trying to pose for the perfect portrait.

Penelope and Russell’s Lively New Orleans Wedding

Penelope and Russell’s Compass Point Events wedding was a joy to photograph because it was so distinctly local. This born-and-raised New Orleans couple did everything they could to make the New Orleans wedding experience authentic.

Not only do Penelope and Russel actually live in Algiers just a few blocks from Compass Point Events, but they’re also world travelers who have been together for eleven years. Their wedding day was also Penelope’s birthday, making it a double celebration! You’ll notice dollar bills pinned to Penelope’s dress – a New Orleans birthday tradition.

This wedding was full of personal touches. The custom invitation suite celebrated the Algiers Point neighborhood down to the last detail. At the reception, the couple made their entrance in Russell’s grandfather’s antique car. It made for some memorable portraits!

Penelope and Russell wanted their guests to feel like they were at “the best backyard party ever,” and they succeeded. The night was filled with the couple’s favorite margaritas, incredible local bands playing swamp pop and brass, and some uninvited torrential downpours (classic southern Louisiana).

The rain and the guests’ responses to it were actually one of the most memorable parts of the day. Even though it rained nearly the entire day, including during the first dance outdoors, Penelope and Russell were unbothered. Their choice of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” as a first dance song did end up having an unintended element of humor.

Since Penelope and Russell live so close to Compass Point Events, they ended the raucous night with a quiet, romantic walk home. 

Would you like to see more weddings like this one? Check out this Margaret Place micro wedding!

Thank you to all the vendors who made this day possible:

Venue/Food/Florals: Compass Point Events

Hair/MakeUp: Make Up Meltdown

Cake: Haydels

Margaritas: Superior Grill

Reception Band: Lost Bayou Ramblers

Brass Band: Young Pinstripes

Photobooth: Anything Pose (Vintage Camper)

Invitations/Koozies: Stationery Stylist (Fergie Lewis)