An Editorial Elegance at a French Château

Set against the sun-drenched hills of Provence, Erica and Alex’s wedding was a masterclass in effortless elegance and deeply personal celebration. Over the course of three unforgettable days, their love story unfolded in a romantic setting, an ivy-covered castle, blooming gardens, and candlelit dinners under the stars. From an intimate tea ceremony to a fashion-forward reception and a dreamy poolside brunch, every detail reflected their refined style and heartfelt values.

Location: Provence, France
Style: Elegant, romantic, timeless, provençal
Time of planning: 18 months
Number of guests: 80
Setting: Castle
Season: Spring

Alex and Erica’s story began in Thailand, where a simple first date over street food led to an unforgettable connection. Despite living oceans apart, Alex in London and Erica in New York, they maintained a long-distance relationship, reuniting in Paris and visiting each other every two months. Alex’s proposal was as spontaneous as their story’s beginning. On a yacht in Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay, after some charming persuasion, he surprised Erica with a ring. She said yes, sealing a love story built on adventure and an undeniable spark.

Location & Planning

The couple dreamed of a destination wedding that would bring their loved ones together from around the world. Their vision took shape after they were introduced to their wedding planner, Anne Laure Weddings. The South of France, a region deeply meaningful to them and one they visit every year, felt like the perfect backdrop, where their love story truly began. Determined to make the occasion unforgettable, they planned a three-day celebration that honored the effort of every guest who traveled.

Inspired by the best weddings they’d attended, Erica and Alex focused on the essentials, a breathtaking venue, incredible food, and a lively bar. The elegant Château de Sannes and the skilfull coordination from their planner, made the dream celebration come to life.

Welcome Dinner

The celebration opened with a heartfelt tea ceremony, shared in the company of their closest friends and family. More than just a symbolic gesture, the ceremony honored tradition while creating a warm, intimate space for both families to connect. It set a deeply emotional tone for the days ahead, fostering unity and shared joy that would carry through the entire celebration.

Right after, the couple hopped into their Porsche 356 Speedster from Voitures Passion and made a stylish entrance onto the castle’s grounds, where the welcome dinner was held. This grand gesture infused the natural beauty of the setting with a burst of energy, setting the stage for the celebrations in a bold and elegant way.

The dinner unfolded beneath white parasols, set against the venue’s rustic charm. Long banquet tables were draped in white linens and lined with white chairs. Each table was decorated with delicate floral arrangements by Gali M in soft shades of pink, peach, and coral, adding a romantic burst of color to the green lawn. String lights overhead added a gentle glow, creating a warm and relaxed atmosphere.

Surrounded by the inviting charm of the garden, Erica and Alex enjoyed relaxed conversations as they caught up with their guests. The welcome dinner served not only as a beautiful introduction to the venue, but also offered the couple a chance to connect with their loved ones ahead of the ceremony, easing the pressure of needing to divide their attention later and allowing them to be fully present in each moment.

Wedding Day

Bride's Fashion

Erica wore an ivory gown by Enaura that featured a softly sculpted neckline and delicate draping. The sleek side slit, delicately framed by a row of covered buttons along the bodice, added a unique touch to the classic silhouette. Erica paired the dress with a custom cathedral-length veil that cascaded effortlessly from her sleek up-do by Fanny Wong, adding a touch of softness to her look. Valentino pumps completed the ensemble.

The choice of minimalist intricate jewelry allowed the gown to take center stage, while a striking bouquet of white lilies, deep burgundy blooms, and cascading greenery, served as a bold contrast to the dress. Graceful and composed, Erica’s look was the embodiment of modern romance.

Groom's Look

Alex opted for a custom double-breasted black tuxedo, crafted in luxurious Loro Piana wool by Enzo Custom. His suit was complemented with polished patent leather Oxford shoes by Brunello Cucinelli. As a personal tribute, Alex tucked a handkerchief bearing a photo of his late father into his jacket pocket, a quiet, profound gesture that added heartfelt meaning to his ensemble.

First Look

The endearing moment of Erica and Alex’s wedding day unfolded beneath towering cypress trees, beside the shimmering waters of a pool. Surrounded by lush gardens and centuries-old trees, their first look felt like a scene from a fairytale. It was the first time they laid eyes on each other in the outfits they had so carefully chosen.

This intimate exchange offered them a quiet pause from the day’s whirlwind, a chance to breathe, connect, and fully absorb the emotions they were feeling. In that serene, sunlit corner of the venue, time stood still and admired each other quietly.

By their side throughout the celebration was photographer Maya Maréchal, chosen by the couple for her refined editorial style that perfectly mirrored their vision. The result was a breathtaking collection of images that captured every meaningful moment of the three-day celebration. Each frame brimming with emotion and the radiant joy at the heart of Erica and Alex’s union.

Ceremony

The couple chose to embrace the natural surroundings of the castle’s manicured gardens, letting the lush surroundings speak for themselves. Cypress trees framed the aisle, creating a serene atmosphere, while elegant floral arrangements gently complemented the setting without overwhelming it. Clusters of white hydrangeas, delicate calla lilies, deep burgundy blooms, and cascading greenery were thoughtfully woven into the landscape.

Erica walked hand in hand with her father down the garden path, her cathedral-length veil trailing behind. This moment felt both grand and deeply personal. The ceremony itself was a reflection of the couple’s values, intimate, heartfelt, and simple. With no bridesmaids or groomsmen, the focus remained on what mattered most.

A close friend officiated the short but meaningful exchange, adding a warm, personal touch to the occasion. Having shared a private first look just moments before, Erica and Alex entered the ceremony grounded, connected, and ready to savor every second of their celebration. After the vows, the couple shared a cinematic kiss. This romantic gesture was met with joyful cheers and applause from their guests, echoing through the garden.

Cocktail Hour

During the cocktail hour, the gardens came alive with celebration. Guests sipped on signature cocktails by Léon Cocktail Bar, Negronis, Manhattans, and Martinis, set against a floral-adorned bar that mirrored the gorgeous arrangements of the ceremony. Well-dressed friends and family members gathered with white parasols in hand, enjoying gourmet canapés and lively conversation as golden light bathed the scene. A live jazz band, consisting of Peter Baran and Incanto, played from the stone steps, setting an upbeat rhythm.

Adding a touch of artistic flair, an illustrator Amandine Grimm captured the day’s stylish atmosphere in real time, sketching the unfolding moments. The painter’s table became a creative centerpiece of its own, delighting guests with this unique detail.

Reception

The reception took place outdoors, where the setting sun cast a warm light that made the crystal chandeliers glow even more. Long tables stretched beneath the trees, draped in white linens and framed by wooden chairs, creating a scene that was both grand and inviting. The couple chose neutral-toned floral arrangements, lush hydrangeas, delicate orchids, and cascading greenery, accented with seasonal fruits like pears and blackberries, adding a natural touch to the refined tablescape.

As Erica and Alex made their grand entrance into the courtyard, they were met with a wave of applause, cheers, and smiling faces. Once seated, guests were treated to a beautifully curated meal from Roland Paix. As the evening unfolded, heartfelt toasts filled the air. Surrounded by the people they cherished most, the newlyweds were glowing with pure joy.

To keep the energy high and their guests entertained, the couple made a quick getaway in their vintage car, only to return moments later with another unforgettable entrance. This time, Alex had changed into a striking white tuxedo, adding a fresh touch of style to the evening’s festivities.

The champagne flowed freely, cascading through the tower, as candles flickered and danced in the warm evening air. Glasses clinked, laughter echoed, and the soft murmur of joyful conversation wrapped the night in an atmosphere of celebration. Every toast, every smile, every heartfelt embrace honored the beginning of Erica and Alex’s new chapter as husband and wife.

Nighttime Celebration

As the party moved into full swing, Erica surprised guests once again by slipping into a stunning second look, a sleek, ivory halter gown with a dramatic open back and elegant high neckline. A lively set by Wildfire DJs created a warm and genuinely joyful atmosphere. Under the arched ceilings and moody lighting, the couple and their guests danced the night away.

Brunch

The final day unfolded in the most relaxed way, a sun-soaked brunch by the pool, nestled among the venue’s emerald-green trees. Guests lounged in swimsuits, sipping on refreshing drinks and soaking in the late morning light. Erica and Alex, effortlessly stylish even in their casual looks, mingled with loved ones. It was a slow, easy morning filled with laughter and dips in the water, a perfect farewell to a magical celebration.