Wedding Flowers at Arnaud's

Arnaud’s is a masterclass in New Orleans maximalism, featuring ornate moldings, crystal chandeliers, and patterned wallpapers that act as a rich, historic backdrop. The design challenge here is restraint; flowers should frame the history of the space rather than attempt to mask it with contemporary volume.

We know this venue well from our work here, and we find that the most successful designs lean into the restaurant’s existing “Old World” palette of gold, dark wood, and cream.

The Spaces

Main Dining Room

This is the heart of the establishment, defined by its high ceilings, white tablecloths, and prominent columns. The room is symmetrical and formal, requiring a disciplined approach to floral placement.

• What works: Low, lush compote arrangements that allow guests to see one another and the architecture. If you want height, use very thin, airy stands that disappear into the room’s vertical lines.
• Skip: Heavy, monolithic tall arrangements that block the view of the crystal chandeliers.
• Watch out: The room’s acoustics and layout mean tables are often positioned close together; keep the “footprint” of your centerpieces narrow.
• Budget hero move: Focus your floral spend on two large, statement floor installations at the base of the main columns to create a natural “altar” or entryway.

Private Dining Rooms

Each of these rooms has a distinct personality, often featuring striped or floral wallpapers and historic mantels. They are intimate and require a more residential approach to floral design.

• What works: Mantel “clouds” or asymmetrical greenery that crawls up one side of the fireplace. Bud vase clusters work well on the smaller round tables often used in these spaces.
• Skip: Large-scale installations that make these cozy rooms feel cramped.
• Watch out: Wallpaper patterns can be “busy.” Stick to monochromatic or tonal floral palettes (like all whites or varying shades of rose) to avoid visual chaos.
• Budget hero move: A single, lush mantel arrangement creates a massive impact in a small room and serves as the primary backdrop for photos.

Jazz Bistro & Richelieu Bar

These spaces are more casual and atmospheric, with a focus on the New Orleans “spirit.” The decor is already quite dense with memorabilia and dark wood.

• What works: Small, punchy “cocktail” arrangements with architectural blooms like ranunculus or anemones.
• Skip: Anything delicate or wispy that will get lost in the dim lighting and lively atmosphere.
• Watch out: Space is at a premium on these tables, especially once drinks and appetizers arrive.
• Budget hero move: Use bud vases in grouped “trios” to cover more surface area without the cost of full centerpieces.

What Works at Arnaud’s

• Low-profile arrangements are non-negotiable for seated dinners here. The low-hanging chandeliers and intimate table settings mean anything over 12 inches tall will likely be moved to the floor by the waitstaff.
• Tonal color palettes that harmonize with the venue’s gold trim and dark wood. Deep burgundies, creams, and antique golds feel at home here; bright neons or ultra-modern “pop” colors often feel disconnected from the environment.
• Mantel installations are the venue’s greatest floral asset. Because the floor space is often tight, utilizing the vertical real estate of the historic fireplaces allows for a “wow” moment without sacrificing guest comfort.
• Reflective vessels like polished brass, gold mercury glass, or silver compotes. These catch the light from the chandeliers and mirrors, adding a layer of glow to the table.
• Greenery with structure like Italian Ruscus or Smilax. Avoid “wild” or “weedy” textures; Arnaud’s is a formal environment that calls for clean lines and intentional placement.

Budget Guide

Arnaud’s provides so much character on its own that even an “Essentials” budget feels premium when the pieces are placed strategically.

Tips

• Check the wallpaper in your specific private room before choosing your flower colors to ensure they don’t clash with the patterns.
• Prioritize the mantels for your ceremony backdrop if you are hosting both the ceremony and reception in one of the private rooms.
• Plan for a French Quarter load-in which means tight streets and limited parking; ensure your florist is experienced with the logistics of Bienville Street.
• Repurpose your ceremony flowers from the mantel or floor to the cake table or bar to maximize your investment in these historic spaces.
• Avoid tall candles if they sit directly under the crystal chandeliers; the heat can damage the fixtures, and the venue may have restrictions.