How to Plan Your Destination Wedding in France

Destination Wedding is a double dipping dream; getting married to the love of your life and doing so in a far away location. Paris, Loire Valley, Provence-sigh…but how do you do this? How does one organize a wedding in France without knowing the language, perhaps never seeing the venue and paying for it in a foreign currency? 

That’s what I want to explain here. And this is what I can do for you and I love doing!

So, if you’ve read my blog on getting married in France (link) you will have learned that you can’t get the official married status here in France unless you, your parents or your fiance(é) live here in France, have a residence here in France or are French. 

What you can do is have a symbolic ceremony or the reception for your marriage with family and friends. In other words, a lovely party with a view of the Eiffel Tower or at the many chateau venues scattered throughout this beautiful country.

But you don’t speak French! Most Americans don’t speak French and no one really has any expectations that visitors to France speak French. Luckily there are English speaking wedding industry people…like me!

The first thing to do is send me an email. This gets the ball rolling to discuss your date, vision, possible guest count and budget. Once we have had this initial meeting, I get to work on my end finding venues that appeal to you and your partner.

Next, we lock in the venue and date. There is a lot to consider, so keep in mind weather, the month of August, for example, when Europe goes on vacation, flight costs and your guests’ time off. Many want to come for your wedding but extend their stay and do some touring. 

There is no rule that says you can’t organize your destination wedding yourself, but what I have found is that Americans have different expectations of response time, motivation and communications of French organizers and this creates a lot of frustration. You’re so far away, you can’t go and knock on their door. And, let’s not forget the time zone details! Culturally there are differences and demanding something is not going to make it so with a French planner.

So, it is much easier for my brides to discuss their wedding plans with a fellow anglophone and American who understands what they want, but just in France, far far away:)

When I work with people whether for a party or a photo shoot, I develop friends and connections and this is what makes it great for you. I already trust people and their work so you can relax knowing that my recommendations and contacts such as a makeup artist or videographer will do their best for you.

Since I am a wedding floral designer, planning, designing and flower decor for the wedding overlap and I have found I love helping, problem solving and suggesting to my wedding clients. So, you've found a sort of one shop stop. (Don’t ask me for the translation for this.)

Planning from a far with someone on the other side can really be huge! It reduces your stress, it helps you enjoy the planning and it accommodates your budget because someone is looking out for you. Think of me as the wedding concierge:)

Drop me a message and let’s get started. We want to plan about a year in advance so if you’re thinking of 2023, now is the time. Dates are filling.

Contact me and say bonjour!