Once Upon A Time…A Couple Plans Their Wedding in France
In the heart of the United States, Eric and Michael, a couple who shared a profound love for history, art, and culture, embarked on a dream journey to plan their destination wedding in the picturesque region of Normandy, France. Their love story, intertwined with history and romance, was about to take an unforgettable turn.
Choosing the Ideal Location: After countless hours of research, Eric and Michael decided that Normandy was the perfect place for their wedding. The region's rich history, charming villages, and stunning landscapes captured their hearts. They both had a deep appreciation for the D-Day landings and the region's cultural heritage, making it an even more meaningful choice. They settled on Château de Bonnemare
Local Connections: With no prior knowledge of the region, Eric and Michael enlisted the services of a seasoned wedding planner based in Normandy. The planner's expertise in organizing international weddings would prove invaluable in navigating the local customs and finding the perfect venue. They worked closely with the planner to create a unique and authentic experience.
Guest List and Invitations: Eric and Michael put together a guest list that included close friends and family, totaling around 75 people. This would create an intimate and embrace them with all the people they want to share their day with. The couple's wedding invitations were designed with subtle nods to Normandy's history and culture, featuring sketches of the Mont Saint-Michel, the D-Day beaches, and the picturesque village of Giverny.
Incorporating French Heritage: The couple was determined to infuse their wedding with French culture. They arranged a pre-wedding tour of historical sites like the Omaha Beach and the Mont Saint-Michel for their guests, creating a meaningful connection between their wedding and the region's history.
Décor and Atmosphere: Eric and Michael envisioned a rustic yet elegant wedding. With the help of their planner, they sourced antique farm tables, vintage wooden chairs, and handmade French lace linens to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. They chose The Painted Bouquet for the ease with which they could communicate and a fellow American for their floral arrangements. A mix of local wildflowers and delicate blooms, added to the charm of the reception.
Wedding Attire: In the spirit of their destination wedding, Eric and Michael wore a tailored suits that embraced the casual elegance of the French countryside.
Ceremony and Reception: The wedding ceremony took place in a historic chapel in the village of Giverny, surrounded by lush gardens and the soft scent of blooming flowers. A local priest conducted the ceremony, blending American and French traditions. Their vows were a touching testament to their love and commitment.
The reception was held in an old French barn, where the walls were adorned with vintage photographs of Normandy's past, serving as a backdrop to a delicious meal featuring local Normandy cuisine, including Camembert and apple tarts.
Entertainment: A local jazz band played soothing melodies during the reception, which transitioned to an upbeat mix of American and French classics as the night went on, ensuring the dance floor was always lively.
Favors: For wedding favors, the couple gave their guests small bottles of locally produced Calvados, an apple brandy characteristic of the region.
Eric and Michael's wedding in Normandy was not just a celebration of their love, but also a cultural and historical journey for their guests, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Their destination wedding was a tribute to their shared passion for history, art, and love, etched forever in the landscapes of Normandy, France.
