Located on France’s Atlantic coast, Île de Ré and nearby La Rochelle offer an unforgettable setting with ocean breezes, charming villages, white sand beaches, and timeless stone architecture. This region is perfect for couples dreaming of a relaxed yet elegant seaside wedding. With its mix of nature, intimacy, and sophistication, it’s one of France’s best-kept secrets for destination weddings.
Where to Plan your Wedding in France? 
Everything You Need to Know! 
Why Get Married in France?
Is a wedding in France a good idea? Whether in Île de Ré / La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Paris, or the French countryside, France is synonymous with romance. Stunning architecture, world-class cuisine, and breathtaking scenery make it an ideal wedding destination.
From Bordeaux’s vineyards to Paris’s iconic streets and Provence’s lavender fields, France offers an unparalleled backdrop for your love story. A timeless blend of elegance and charm has made it a top choice for couples worldwide.
Planning a destination wedding can be overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it becomes a seamless and magical experience. As a bilingual wedding photographer with years of experience in France, I capture your special day beautifully while ensuring a stress-free process.
This guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect wedding in France, from top venues to legal requirements and essential vendors.
Tips for Planning a Destination Wedding in France
If you are planning a legally binding wedding ceremony in France, it is important to understand the legal requirements:
01
Choose the Right Season
Spring and summer are the most popular seasons for weddings in France, but fall offers beautiful colors, and winter can be wonderfully intimate.
02
Consider the Legalities
A legal wedding in France can be complex for foreigners. Many couples opt for a civil ceremony in their home country and a symbolic celebration in France.
03
Hire a Local Planner
A wedding planner who knows the area well can help coordinate vendors, venues, and logistics, making the experience stress-free.
04
Book Vendors Early
France is a popular wedding destination, so it’s best to book your photographer, venue, and other key vendors well in advance.
05
Embrace French Traditions
Consider incorporating French wedding traditions, such as a croquembouche instead of a wedding cake or a Champagne tower for a touch of elegance.
06
Plan for Sunset Portraits
The golden light in France is stunning, and scheduling time for sunset portraits can add a magical touch to your wedding album.
07
Arrange Guest Accommodations
If you have guests traveling from abroad, consider booking a château or a boutique hotel to give them a true French experience.
What Wedding Vendors You’ll Need for Your Wedding in France
Planning a wedding in France involves working with a variety of professionals to bring your vision to life. Some of the key vendors you may need include:
- Wedding Planner: A local planner can coordinate logistics, manage vendors, and ensure everything runs smoothly.
- Photographer & Videographer: Capturing every moment beautifully is essential.
- Venue Coordinator: If your venue provides in-house services, their coordinator will help manage the details.
- Caterer: French cuisine is one of the highlights of a destination wedding!
- Florist: A talented florist can transform your wedding space with stunning arrangements.
- Hair & Makeup Artist: Professional styling ensures you look your best on your big day.
- Entertainment: A live band, DJ, or classical musicians can enhance your reception atmosphere.
Legal Requirements of Hosting a Wedding Ceremony in France
If you are planning a legally binding wedding ceremony in France, it is important to understand the legal requirements:
01
Residency Requirement
At least one of the partners must have resided in France for at least 40 days prior to the wedding. Many international couples choose to have a civil ceremony in their home country before hosting a symbolic ceremony in France.
02
Civil Ceremony
Legal weddings in France must take place at the local mairie (town hall). Religious or symbolic ceremonies can be held afterward at a location of your choice.
03
Required Documents
These may include passports, birth certificates, proof of residence, and a certificate of celibacy, among others. It is best to check with your embassy or local authorities for the most up-to-date requirements.
04
Translations & Apostille
Documents must be translated into French by an official translator and may require an apostille certification.
Best Regions in France for a Destination Wedding
France offers a variety of stunning regions for a dream wedding. Three of the most popular locations are Île de Ré / La Rochelle, Bordeaux, and Paris, each offering a unique charm and setting.
🌊 Île de Ré & La Rochelle (Charente-Maritime, Nouvelle-Aquitaine)
🍷 Bordeaux (Gironde, Nouvelle-Aquitaine)
If you dream of a wedding surrounded by vineyards and rolling countryside, Bordeaux and its Gironde region provide an idyllic setting. The region is home to some of France’s most beautiful château wedding venues, perfect for those who appreciate fine wine, history, and breathtaking scenery.
🗼 Paris (Île-de-France)
Known as the “City of Love,” Paris offers unparalleled romance, iconic landmarks, and elegant venues. Whether you prefer a luxurious hotel, a historical palace, or an intimate garden wedding, Paris is a top choice for couples seeking sophistication and timeless beauty.
Top venues in Île de Ré & La Rochelle
Île de Ré & La Rochelle, with their sandy beaches, sunlit villages, and timeless coastal charm, offer unforgettable wedding venues. Here are some of the most beautiful locations to consider:
Hôtel de Toiras (Saint-Martin-de-Ré)
A luxurious 5-star boutique hotel overlooking the harbor.
Château du Petit Mazurié
A serene countryside estate offering a refined, romantic setting just minutes from the coast.
Villa Clarisse (Saint-Martin-de-Ré)
A refined private villa perfect for intimate weddings and portraits in a garden courtyard.
Top Venues for the Perfect Wedding Reception near Bordeaux
Gironde, with its picturesque vineyards, charming countryside, and historic châteaux, offers incredible wedding venues. Here are five of the best:
Château Gassies (Latresne)
A beautifully restored 18th-century estate with panoramic views of Bordeaux. The elegant Charles X reception hall accommodates up to 150 guests, and the property provides overnight accommodations for up to 39 guests in its suites and gîtes.
Château Soulac (Juillac)
A secluded 17th-century estate overlooking the Dordogne River. Originally a 14th-century monastery and chapel, it offers stunning backdrops, including two barns and a spacious grassed terrace for outdoor ceremonies.
Château Lagorce (Haux)
A fairytale château featuring a picturesque lake, private chapel, and options for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies. The estate offers a magical ambiance with a blend of historical architecture and natural beauty.
Château de la Couronne (Marthon)
A stunning 12th-century estate with lush gardens, expansive grounds, and luxurious interiors. It accommodates up to 39 guests and provides an elegant destination for a truly memorable wedding.
Château Pape Clément (Pessac)
A luxurious wine estate offering an elegant and intimate setting. Known for its grand architecture and beautifully manicured gardens, it provides a sophisticated backdrop for wine lovers seeking a refined wedding venue.
Top Venues for a Dream Wedding Reception in Paris
Paris is home to some of the most enchanting wedding venues, from historic mansions to luxurious hotels. Some top choices include:
The Ritz Paris
A glamorous and iconic setting for an opulent wedding.
Shangri-La Hotel
Overlooking the Eiffel Tower, this venue exudes romance and sophistication.
Hôtel de Crillon
A historical palace with stunning interiors and exceptional service.
Musée Rodin Gardens
A magical outdoor venue surrounded by art and history.
Le Meurice
A refined venue with a mix of classic Parisian elegance and contemporary design.
Capturing Your Dream Wedding in France
Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and finding the right photographer ensures that every moment is preserved beautifully. A wedding in France deserves to be captured with elegance, authenticity, and artistry.
As a bilingual wedding photographer based in the Southwest of France and available throughout France, including Île de Ré & La Rochelle, Bordeaux, Paris, I specialize in documenting love stories in a way that feels natural and timeless. With experience working with international couples, I understand the importance of communication, cultural nuances, and making the photography experience seamless.
My approach blends documentary storytelling with refined portraiture, ensuring that your wedding album reflects both the grand moments and the quiet, intimate ones. From the joy of getting ready to the romance of your first dance, I’ll be there to capture every meaningful detail.
Planning a wedding abroad can be overwhelming, but having a photographer who understands both English and French—and who knows the best locations, lighting, and moments to capture—makes all the difference.
