Location: Provence, France
Setting: Chateau
Wedding season: Summer
How long did the couple plan the event: 3 years
Number of guests: 155
Wedding theme/style: Provence-chic, black-tie.
Ryan, a Harvard graduate, and Alexandre, originally from France, both made their way to Los Angeles for further studies, settling into the vibrant city life. Their paths crossed thanks to a suggestion from a mutual friend, leading to a memorable three-hour coffee date that laid the foundation for their future together.
Alexandre proposed to Ryan on a hike in the Santa Monica Mountains overlooking the Pacific Ocean. For their engagement, the couple exchanged watches, with Ryan gifting Alexandre a Vacheron Constantin watch worn by his father for two decades. Now they live in Venice Beach, California, with their twin 4 years old boys, Matan and August.
Capturing their day was Pinewood Weddings, whose work Ryan and Alexandre greatly admired. “We absolutely loved working with Levi and Eniko for our wedding in Provence,” the couple said, highlighting the unique style that perfectly captured their special moments: “They bring a warmth, depth, and perspective to their work that really sets them apart,” them shared, praising not only the stunning end results but also the enjoyable process of working together to immortalize their Provence wedding weekend.
For their wedding the couple chose Provence, which holds a special place in their hearts because they’ve held yearly reunions with their friends from America and Europe at Alexandre’s father’s villa in Menerbes. Their hope was to plan an event that celebrated not only their love, but all the people the helped get them to where they are.
The Chateau d’Estoublon became the chosen backdrop for their wedding. The couple rented the entire estate for a three day weekend celebration, with events in the front rose garden and surrounding areas. It became a grand gathering of friends and family from across the globe. Half of the guests traveled from America, turning the wedding weekend into an opportunity for European adventures.
On the first day, they hosted a welcome dinner. Alexandre dressed in a custom gray Alexander McQueen suit with silver details, and Ryan chose custom Armani cashmere pants and a silk shirt for this cocktail reception.
In the morning, the couple got dressed for their wedding day together. Alexandre wore a sharp Alexander McQueen suit and Ryan chose a sleek Armani outfit, both complemented by Christian Louboutin shoes. They helped each other with their ties and cufflinks, sharing a quiet moment before joining their twin boys for a family photo.
The wedding ceremony was an outdoor event with Jewish traditions. Under a white chuppah decorated with fresh greenery, Ryan and Alexandre exchanged vows and then took part in the Jewish tradition of breaking a glass, symbolizing both the fragility of life and the permanence of their union. The celebration transitioned into joyous dancing, with guests joining in a lively Hora, clapping and circling the couple in a display of community and happiness.
During the cocktail hour, guests mingled in the chateau’s gardens, shaded by complimentary umbrellas and surrounded by nature. They enjoyed drinks and casual conversations while a live band added a smooth jazz to the scene.
The couple celebrates simplicity in design and lifestyle, so their hope was to contrast the glamour of a French chateau with very natural and simple decor. Tables were arranged in the open courtyard, with elegant greenery and soft candlelight gracing each table.
Ryan and Alexandre shared an intimate moment to reflect on their commitment and the life they are about to start together. The gentle touch, the close embrace, and the soft glances between them shows their deep bond and the joy of their special day.
The reception started with a live band setting the stage, their vibrant music invited everyone to the dance floor. After, as per Jewish tradition, the couple was hoisted on chairs above the crowd.
When the sun began to set, came a moment for heartfelt and humorous speeches that was drawing smiles and tears. Guests enjoyed live music, food, and conversation under the stars, illuminated by the warm light of candles. The night continued with the couple sharing their first dance, a moment of intimacy and connection amid this grand celebration.
Advices from couple:
• To incorporate a celebration of your friends and family into the wedding. Weddings can often be heavily focused on the couple, but we found freedom and joy in making a lot of our wedding planning revolve around the amazing friends and family that would be traveling from around the world to celebrate with us.
PHOTOGRAPHER & VIDEOGRAPHER Pinewood Weddings | PLANNER Wedding by Mademoiselle C | VENUE Chateau Estoublon | FLORAL Arrosoir de Marrgaux | SUIT Alexander McQueen, Armani, Dior | SHOES Christian Louboutin | RINGS Cartier | CATERING Helen Traiteur | BAR Bar Events | STATIONARY Crème de Papier | RENTAL Be Lounge Officiel | BAND G.Star Events
