Houmas House & Gardens is perfect backdrop for Moore-Callender nuptials

Chris Callender used his birthday party as a ruse to pop the question to Elise Moore and most of the guests were in on the secret, even her mom. Margie had fireworks set to go off the minute Elise said yes but when they went off, some fell over and shot into the crowd of guests.

“They caught some plants on fire and popped the giant balloon,” says Elise. “It was a bit of a s*#t show, but it was our s*#t show and we loved it!!!”

There were no explosions – other than hearts bursting with love – when the two exchanged vows before their friends and family at Houmas House & Gardens April 3. Pups Cookie and Karma served as “flower dogs.”

Although both grew up in Baton Rouge and had lots of friends in common, they didn’t meet until attending LSU. From that moment on, Elise and Chris “just clicked.”

“There was undeniable chemistry,” says Elise. “We just felt like we had been friends forever.”

“She was really good at breaking me out of my comfort zone,” says Chris. “I thought she was beautiful and she laughed at all my dumb jokes.”

Elise is the daughter of Margie Moore and Wesley Moore; Chris is the son of Martha and David Callender. Aside from both teaching Acro Yoga, Elise owns her own retail business within The Royal Standard in both Baton Rouge locations as well as in Lafayette. She also sells Mary Kay. Chris sells industrial motors for his family’s company, Nemsco, and operates a website selling his “Magic the Gathering” cards.

“It was the best day of our lives,” says Elise. “We felt so much love from everyone that cares so much for us, and love for each other. Months later we’re still soaking in and reliving the night!”

Helping make it all happen: