Location: Loire Valley, France
Setting: Castle
Season: Summer
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
Number of guests: 25
Wedding theme/style: Luxury, fairytale, romantic.
A surprise weekend getaway to a coastal town in a home state took an unexpected twist for Shuer. During a private dinner at a secluded beachside spot, Aiden led her to a gazebo overlooking the ocean at sunset. As the sun dipped below the horizon, Aiden knelt and asked Shuer to spend a lifetime together. With a heartfelt “yes,” Shuer knew this was the beginning of their lifetime adventure.
Their weekend wedding took place at the enchanting Chateau Challain in the heart of France. They envisioned a royal celebration with Victorian elegance and storybook romance, inspired by classic films and historical periods.
With its stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings, the castle provided the perfect backdrop for their luxurious day. Every detail was tailored with a bespoke approach, allowing the couple to relax and enjoy every moment.
On the wedding day, Shuer looked every bit the fairytale princess. She wore a stunning gown from Top Bridal Paris, with delicate lace details and a flowing train, and chic Jimmy Choo shoes. Shuer’s hair was styled in soft waves, and her makeup by Sophie was natural and radiant. Her bouquet was a simple yet elegant arrangement of white flowers, perfectly complementing her look. A special moment was when Shuer’s mum helped her get ready; the emotions between them were very powerful.
Aiden chose a modern, cream-colored suit for its unique and elegant style. His boutonniere was a single white rose, matching Shuer’s bouquet. Personal touches, such as his engraved cufflinks, added a sentimental touch to his attire. Aiden spent the morning surrounded by his best friends, which created a wonderful start to the big day.
The ceremony was held under the gazebo in the gardens of the chateau. The planner, Iris Wedding Paris, focused on creating an elegant and simple theme with a white color palette symbolizing purity and timelessness. White floral arrangements adorned the venue, reflecting the couple’s fairy-tale vision. As the couple said their vows, guests tossed white petals into the air, creating everlasting memories.
After the ceremony, Shuer and Aiden enjoyed a romantic carriage ride with a white horse through the picturesque grounds of the chateau. This intimate moment allowed them to savor their first moments as husband and wife, surrounded by lush greenery and historic architecture. The serene ride, beautifully captured by their photographer Wim Vanhengel, was a perfect moment before joining their guests who were waiting for them in the castle’s elegant ballroom.
For the evening celebration, Shuer changed into a stunning gown featuring layers of delicate tulle, giving her a whimsical and elegant look. The dress had sheer, flowing sleeves and a black waistband that added a modern twist to her fairytale style. Aiden complemented her perfectly in a classic black tuxedo with a white shirt and a black bow tie.
The reception hall, with its soaring ceilings and warm candlelight, was transformed into a vision of all-white elegance. White flowers, linens, and soft candlelight created a serene and luxurious atmosphere. This monochromatic scheme set a stunning contrast to the rich, ornate details of the castle’s interiors, enhancing the exceptional romantic vibe.
Guests enjoyed a delightful dinner, followed by heartfelt toasts and the couple’s first dance. The evening’s highlight was the cake cutting in the chateau gardens, accompanied by a spectacular fireworks display. The sky lit up, perfectly celebrating their joy and happiness, marking the beginning of their happily ever after.
Advice from the couple:
• Hiring a planner for a destination wedding in France can greatly alleviate stress and ensure a smooth and magical experience. Entrusting a professional with local expertise can streamline the planning process, from selecting the perfect venue to coordinating with vendors and handling logistics. With a planner’s guidance, we could focus on enjoying the journey and creating unforgettable memories.
VENUE Chateau Challain | PLANNER & DESIGN Iris Wedding Paris | PHOTOGRAPHER Wim Vanhengel | FLOWERS Mister Brett | MUAH Sophie MUA Paris | BRIDE’S SHOES Jimmy Choo | DRESSES Top Bridal Paris
