Location: Mareuil en Perigord, France
Setting: Ceremony – church, Reception – chateau
Season: Fall
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
The number of guests: 70
Wedding theme/style: Classic, glamour and chic.
In the enchanting Mareuil en Périgord, France, Amber and James celebrated their love in an exquisite September wedding at the luxurious Château de Chanet. With an intimate gathering of 70 guests and 18 close friends and family staying at the château for four unforgettable nights, this wedding epitomizes glamour and chic sophistication.
Amber and James share a passion for fashion and interior design. They embarked on a year-long journey of meticulous planning to create a wedding that mirrored their vision of elegance and timeless beauty. Their story is one of love, style, and unwavering attention to detail. It was beautifully reflected in their wedding celebration and meticulously captured by Olivia and Morgan from Alchemia.
The outdoor area of Château de Chanet, overlooking the scenic valleys and meticulously curated gardens, provided Amber and James with a stunning backdrop for their day. The heated pool, surrounded by lush greenery and expansive views, offered a luxurious spot for guests to unwind and set the stage for some of the most memorable and visually striking moments of their wedding day.
The morning of the big day began with serene excitement. Amber, in a luxurious white robe adorned with delicate feathers, sat gracefully as her makeup artist, flown in from England as the couple themselves, applied the final touches. The bride’s vision was crystal clear from the start, inspired by her extensive research on Instagram and Pinterest. She aimed for a black-tie wedding theme reminiscent of Old Hollywood glamour.
Amid the preparations, Amber’s exquisite taste became evident. A pair of stunning shoes lay ready—one set sparkling with rhinestones, the other elegantly draped in soft white feathers, both reflecting the style of the day. Nearby, a classic Louis Vuitton jewelry box, with its rich texture and timeless design, added a touch of vintage charm.
Elegance and glamour were the cornerstones of Amber’s bridal look. It perfectly embodied the allure that inspired the day’s theme. The voluminous white gown, adorned with layers of delicate tulle, created a graceful silhouette with a sniched waistline. The deep V-neckline added a modern twist to her attire. Her hair, styled in a sleek updo, highlighted her graceful neckline and allowed her cathedral-length veil to flow seamlessly.
James’ attire exuded traditional elegance with a modern twist. He wore a crisp white shirt and a meticulously adjusted black bow tie—a nod to the black-tie inspiration of the wedding. The setting of his preparations was a perfect blend of historical ambiance and modern luxury. The groom’s suite, adorned with a classic library and a traditional chessboard, provided a rich backdrop that echoed the Château’s grandeur.
The day was filled with touching family moments. The emotion was palpable as the bride and her father shared their first look on the wedding morning. As Amber walked to the aisle, her brother played the piano, creating a moving and memorable entrance for her and her father.
Amber’s aunt, who lives in France, played a significant role as the celebrant. She had worked closely with the local Marie to secure the picturesque Village Church, adding a special family connection to the day. Her intimate knowledge of Amber and James made the ceremony exceptionally personal and touching, transforming it into a beautiful celebration of love and family. This involvement and the stunning setting made the wedding truly intimate and unforgettable.
Amber and James’ wedding reception unfolded within the enchanting courtyard. The area, adorned with lush greenery and twinkling lights, created a magical atmosphere under the soft glow of the evening sky. Long tables were elegantly set with crisp white linens, accented by delicate arrangements of baby’s breath and greenery that perfectly complemented the natural stone walls of the Château.
Each place setting featured gold-rimmed glassware and classic white dinnerware, adding a touch of refined luxury to the intimate setting. A gourmet feast awaited the guests, featuring a menu celebrating both local flavors and the couple’s favorites. The dining experience began with a selection of freshly shucked oysters displayed in rustic galvanized tubs. A vintage-inspired mirror inscribed with a playful message inviting guests to grab a drink and join the celebration, enhancing the relaxed yet chic vibe of the event.
Amber and James made a grand entrance in a cherry-red vintage Mustang, setting the tone for their glamorous celebration. Alchemia Wedding’s photography transformed these moments into treasured memories. The duo’s skill in capturing the essence of each wedding shines through in their work, creating unique images capturing their personalities and the breathtaking setting of the venue.
Each ceremony we photograph allows us to treasure the magic of the moment, connect with remarkable individuals, explore new breathtaking locales, and encapsulate timeless memories for families to cherish for generations to come.
As night fell, Amber and James’ reception reached a peak of joy with the dazzling display of a champagne tower. The couple, radiating happiness, poured the first bottle together, their smiles illuminated by the soft glow of twinkling lights strung across the courtyard. Their first dance followed this moment, highlighting an evening with grace and emotion. The night photos were especially chic, with the high contrast enhancing the drama and sophistication of the setting.
Amber transitioned into a dazzling party look for the dancing. It was a chic, white fringe dress adorned with delicate feathers, which swayed gracefully with every movement. The sparkling rhinestone heels added a fun and flirty touch to her elegant wedding attire, allowing her to dance the night away with effortless style.
The celebration continued with a lively atmosphere that kept the energy high and the dance floor packed. The couple’s friends and family joined the festivities, creating an unforgettable party filled with laughter, music, and dance. Amber’s radiant smile and the couple’s glances of pure happiness were beautifully documented, turning each photograph into a timeless memory.
PHOTOGRAPHER Alchemia | PLANNING French Wedding Suppliers, Andrew Wright, Eléonore Laouilleau | VENUE Château de Chanet | CATERING Maison Dulou Traiteur | FLORALS Mrs Whiterose | DJ Julien Flamen | BAND Brigade Roaming Band | RENTALS Fabulous things
