Europe Weddings

When you literally can’t stop staring and it’s only photo #1, you know you’re in for a treat ahead. And that’s exactly what we have here. From Greg Finck’s gorgeous pics to all the beauty that Haute Wedding crafted at Villa Ephrussi De Rothschild, it’s a feast for the eyes. Oh and we can’t forget Airsnap’s film. Give yourself a gift today and indulge in this gem immediately – and thank me later :)

[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/222674626 600 338]

From Greg Finck… Saint-Jean Cap Ferrat is the perfect location to tie the knot on the French Riviera. Ideally located between Nice and Monaco, this small peninsula just calls for summer laziness, turquoise seas, and an easy breezy lifestyle. That’s the location that had been chosen by Sherry and John, for their glamorous and chic wedding. A fabulous spring day, perfectly planned by Haute Wedding at the splendid venue La Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild.

The day started with bridal preparations at Le Grand Hôtel de Saint-Jean Cap Ferrat, a fabulous palace hotel on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. An elegant stationery suite had been designed by Ceci New York, reflecting the glamorous mindset of this wedding. A stunning Galia Lahav gown and some René Caovilla heels perfectly enhanced Sherry’s natural and effortless beauty, while the groom had chosen a black tuxedo and a bow tie for timeless elegance.

Sherry and Kohn’s first look occurred on the hill overlooking the reception area at Villa Ephrussi, before a moving ceremony surrounded by their closest family and friends. The cocktail hour then took place in the gardens of La Villa, with fine food and wine by Helen Catering. The day finally ended with an elegant outdoor dinner and a splendid table design. The culmination of a fabulous summer day on the French Riviera.

Photography: Greg Finck Photography | Videography: AIRSNAP | Event Planning: Haute Wedding | Floral Design: Herve Frezal | Wedding Dress: Galia Lahav | Stationery: Ceci New York | Bride's Shoes: Rene Caovilla | Jewelry: Arazi Diamond | Catering: Helen Traiteur | Hair + Makeup: Olga Stylist | DJ: Jamie L. Stout Photography | Groom's Attire: Black Lapel | Wedding Venue: Villa Ephrussi De Rothschild | Live Music: Capella String Quartet | Rentals: Deco Flamme

I’m downright jealous of Julie Paisley. What I would give to spend a day surrounded by this beauty. And then to capture it for eternal obsessing? Even better. Next best thing though to experiencing this lavender field fabulousness in person? Our gallery of gorgeousness that I’ve found myself knee deep in for the past several hours. From the stunning landscape to the details of this dress and florals, it just gets better and better and better…. get in on all the goodness with me right this way…

From Julie Paisley… I will never forget this day. It was seriously like a dream. The smells of the lavender, the sounds of the bees buzzing, the warm sun as it set behind the mountains, it was like a painting and so surreal. A foraged untamed bouquet designed by Janna Brown was the perfect fit with the flowing and delicate gown by Emily Riggs Bridal. The backdrop of the Abbey could not be more perfect to show off the lavender in bloom on that beautiful July day. France never disappoints but on this day it shined.

Photography: Julie Paisley Photography | Floral Design: Janna Brown Design Co. | Wedding Dress: Emily Riggs | Hair + Makeup: Camille Bonardi Hair & Make-Up Artist | Silks: Silk and Willow | Veil: All About Romance

Don’t be mistaken, this is an actual, REAL wedding, not a fairytale photoshoot. Between the chateau that resembles a castle and a Bride that’s as close to a princess as possible, it’s easy to be fooled. But nope, this is the real deal and Peter and Veronika’s pics prove it all. A Very Beloved Wedding planned and designed this celebration, inspired by the beautiful couple themselves and their love for movies, travel and impressionist art, creating an absolute masterpiece. See their happily ever after play out in front of us right this way!

From A Very Beloved Wedding… The couple is the inspiration. KC and Dan met almost six years ago. They are both constantly on the move, always on the go to discover world’s beauty. They complement each other in every way: KC thinks big and Dan thinks of how to get there. They grow together more and more each day of their relationship and with their wedding they celebrated this unique bonding, together with their dearest friends and family. KC and Dan’s French destination wedding is a dream of romance, filled with pastel colors, memorable, unique, artful, and fun, in the perfect scenario: a unique Chateau in the middle of inconsistent nature and artful history. The couple takes their inspiration for beauty in romantic, dreamy movies, in impressionist French art, and in their numerous travels. The world inspires them. Their wedding is therefore a mirror for romance, beautiful dreams, history, art, beauty, originality, and magic. The color palette includes touches of gold, dusty rose, soft pinks, antique pinks, shades of French lavender, wood, stone, fruits, different shades of white and creme, and Monet greens.

Photography: Peter & Veronika | Videography: Record You | Event Planning + Design: A Very Beloved Wedding | Floral Design: A Very Beloved Bloom | Wedding Dress: JLM Couture | Stationery: Honey Hue Paper Co | Bride's Shoes: Stuart Weitzman | Jewelry: T Gluck | Bridesmaids' Dresses: BHLDN | Groom's Attire: Ermenegildo Zegna | Groomsmen's Attire: The Black Tux | Wedding Venue: Chateau Saint Loup | Bridal Boutique: Ania Bridal | Decoration Rentals: A Very Beloved Wedding | Groom's Bowtie: David Donahue | Groom's Cufflinks: Liverpool FC | Groom's Shoes: Magnanni | Groom's Watch: IWC (Gift From Bride) | Make-up + Hair: Trine Juel | Music: Aurora Party Band

Once upon a time, Polina and Dimitri traveled to France for a destination wedding straight out of a fairytale. From the Jimmy Choo glass slippers that would make Cinderella jealous to the bride’s gorgeous ballgown to the fireworks finish, this day is worthy of a royal “I do.” And with Le Secret d’Audrey behind the lens, you’re getting the royal treatment with the most beautiful photos!

[iframe http://www.youtube.com/embed/vmSSoPPFPIs 600 338]

Polina and Dimitri traveled to the beautiful grounds of the Château de Chantilly in France to celebrate their wedding with royal style together with their 60 closest families and friends! Polina wanted to experience an extraordinary celebration, so she hired Olga, from Wedding in France to dream up some ideas on how they could make her wedding fit for a King and Queen. From the venue, to the dress, Polina’s dreams started to become realty. One original idea the planner had: each dish for the reception was one served at a royal wedding ( like starter was from marie Antoinette wedding, main dish from Louis XVI,…) and to end the evening with a fireworks show. As a photographer, a chateau wedding is just the perfect setting for the most romantic and epic photos.

Photography: Le Secret d'Audrey | Cinematography: BKTFILMS | Event Planning: CTH EVENTS PARIS | Wedding Dress: Dior Bridal Salon | Venue: Château de Chantilly | Venue: Château de Chantilly

Let’s all just go ahead and add “prance around at a French chateau” to our bucket lists right now. One look through these perfect pics by Peter & Veronika and that’s all you’re going to want to do anyways. But how can you take that bucket list item and bump it up a few extra special notches? Have said chateau be the site of your engagement shoot. Pretty amazing, right? Soak up all this fairytale fabulousness right this way!

From Peter & Veronika… Larina and Ross, both living in Hong-Kong, decided to have their dream wedding in the South of France. We scheduled their destination engagement session a day before their Big Day. We found the amazing French Chateau Pichon Baron as a backdrop for the engagement session. France has so many incredible venues and chateaux for your wedding day so it is really difficult to choose one.  Even the road from Bordeaux to Chateau Pichon Baron is called “Les Route Des Chateaux”. When the scans from Richard Photo Lab popped up in the mail we were beyond happy with the results! Larina’s beautiful dress with stylish heels and Ross’ outfit perfectly matched with the chateau and its surroundings. 

Photography: Peter & Veronika | Location: Chateau Pichon | Scans: Richard Photo Lab

Nestled in the French Riviera, Chateau Diter played host to the dreamiest destination wedding designed by Laly Rose with planning by AAVA Wedding. See the full gorgeous evening under the stars and twinkling chandeliers all captured by Love Story.

From the Event Planner…Shula and I met a few years ago when I worked on her brother’s wedding that took place in Villefranche-Sur-Mer. Shula and her fiancée (at the time) were based in London but had fallen in love with the French Riviera. At the top of their agenda was a space that would cater for their 250 guests who would be arriving from all over the world. Shula had decided that she wanted her wedding to be curated with a sweet and romantic theme at the heart of it. Both modest people, Shula and Kenny wanted an elegant and sophisticated reception with no expense spared on the comfort and care of each and every one of their guests. The emphasis was put therefore on the finer details that would make for impeccable comfort and enjoyment for their guests at every point throughout the occasion. Besotted with each other, Shula and Kenny opened up their love to us and we were able to share in their magnificent and moving ceremony under the marquee in the gardens of the stunning Chateau Diter. The reception after was held in the secluded cloister gardens, followed by dinner below crystal chandeliers in the 400sq foot tent, which was designed exclusively for their wedding. Not even the clouds that had posed a gentle threat at the close of the ceremony could have disturbed the wonderful moments shared under the stars. This wedding, even with the weight of a very large logistical operation to manage and coordinate (with more than 120 staff involved) and militarily precise planning, ran exceptionally smoothly. This was a wonderful achievement that we were able to share with really beautiful people.

Photography: Love Story | Catering: David Guez | Wedding Venue: Chateau Diter | Decoration / Design: Laly Rose | Planning: AAVA WEDDING | Video: Love Story

Hi, gals! We’re so excited to intro you to Ashley, our newest Blogger Bride! You’re gonna love her edgy style and globetrotting adventures — especially if you’re planning a destination wedding or have a short engagement! That’s right – she’s going from engaged to bride in five months! 

Oh hi, Brides-to-be! I’m so excited to be Style Me Pretty’s newest Blogger Bride. My name is Ashley and I’m the founder of Everyday Pursuits, a lifestyle and fashion blog based in Los Angeles. EDP is a place where you can find REAL daily discussions on fashion, beauty, travel, entrepreneurship, and relationships.

My fiance, Andy

Speaking of relationships my fiance, Andy, and I are pumped to finally make this thing official. Andy and I met at work a little over 5 years ago and I knew from the second he walked in for his final interview that I was going to be with him. It all started with a gchat convo about the office Spotify playlist and a few awkward lunch “dates.”

Fast forward 4.5 years later in Barcelona when he got down on one knee to ask me to marry him! Our European engagement was SO us and to be honest, I totally knew it was coming. Read more about our engagement story on Everyday Pursuits.

Funny enough I had planned a Paris photoshoot (right after our Barcelona stop) before I knew we were getting engaged, so these pics from Katie Donnelly ended up being pseudo engagement photos although I have some GRAND plans for real ones!

Short Engagement

This all happened in August and we’re currently planning our wedding for March 2018 in Los Cabos, Mexico. Nothing like a 5-month engagement! After doing some initial venue research, we realized that destination was the way to go to create a magical weekend experience for our guests. If you’re thinking destination, check out my recent post on where to start your hunt and tips for nailing down your ultimate destination venue.

Because of the weather in Mexico we decided to do a shorter engagement vs. extending our wedding planning to accommodate a spring 2019 celebration. I’m the kind of person who thrives on being busy and LOVES planning, so I know 5 months will be just enough time to make it all happen.

Next up: a week of firsts! We have our kick-off meeting with our planner, Amy Abbott, I’m going dress shopping soon (eek – I want to try them all!), and we’ve got to get those save the dates out!

Can’t wait to share this process with you on SMP and EDP.

Ashley

Good morning, lovelies! We have an oh-so-exciting announcement for you today. Our friend Greg Finck, is hosting a workshop from May 21-24, 2018, in Paris – and we’ll be there with some incredibly talented people! In celebration of the news, we’re taking a look at the enchanting images captured at last year’s Alice in Wonderland inspired workshop, which all came together with the help of Branco Prata Studios, Rime Arodaky, Bella Belle, Laetitia C. Fleurs d’Atelier, and more.  Just TRY not to get ridiculously excited for 2018’s workshop after watching the video from last year, captured by Pascal Délé.

[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/233956329 600 338]

From designer Sofia Ferreira of Branco Prata Studios… Time has the importance one gives it, and what we do with time is infinitely more important. This is a reflection about the perception of everything that surrounds us and also a deliberation on how we see and interpret reality. There are different realities and we are the only ones responsible for the reality we choose to live in. We must never obliterate the importance of our five senses and what they display in regards of the reality we choose to live in.

This workshop is an alternate reality, and as in Alice’s Wonderland fable, everything is immeasurable! The world – your reality – is ready to be explored and questioned. In our interpretation of the tale, Alice is bold, fearless, and adventurous. Also agile, cunning, and communicative. She loves to explore the unknown, embrace new realities, and often questions everything that surrounds her.

Her journey begins with curiosity. As Alice ventures into the forest, the sound of her footsteps becomes deafening. The trees seem to close the way and the movement of her body blend in with the gentle breeze. “What is this place that I feel so drawn to? Where is this rabbit hole taking me?” At the same time, Alice feels frightened but with an enormous desire to follow the path that is taking her to a whole new world, to a whole new reality. This is the first visual impact of Wonderland. Alice immediately perceives a new reality, a parallel universe, where everything she sees is bright and vivid and more euphoric than any person could ever imagine. It’s a marvelous imaginary realm, a world of fantasy or illusion. Welcome to Wonderland, dear Alice.

Photography: Greg Finck Photography | Cinematography: Pascal Delé Filmaker | Floral Design: Laetitia C. - fleurs d'atelier | Cakes: T Bakes Atelier | Stationery: Crème De Papier | Shoes: Bella Belle | Hair + Makeup: Camille Bonardi Hair & Make-Up Artist | Calligraphy: Nice Plume | Bespoke Dresses: Rime Arodaky | Crown + Headpieces: Heart of Gold Design | Event Design + Concept: Brancoprata | Greg Finck Workshop: Greg Finck workshops | Location: Les Domaines De Patras | Table Top: Cañigueral | Tabletop: Cañigueral

The thing that really sets my heart a pitter patter is the true meaning of marriage. As much as I adore a gorgeous wedding, it’s what comes after that really counts, which is why anniversary sessions like this one in France that celebrate a love refined over time absolutely steal my heart. Julie Paisley Photography captured this beautiful couple on their seventh anniversary – the gorgeous photos say it all.

From Julie Paisley Photography… When you are in the wedding industry, it’s easy to forget to that you need pictures too. Lauren and Tim are talented wedding photographers and have become some of my dearest friends over the past few years. When we traveled together to France to teach a workshop a few months ago, Lauren asked me to do an anniversary session to celebrate their 7 years of being married. Of course I said “YES” right away. I mean, these two are nearly perfect and made my job so easy.

As a wedding photographer, I shoot couples at their happiest on the best day of their life. A wedding brings so much joy, but lately I’ve been finding that shooting anniversary sessions is such a wonderful experience. There is something so special about a couple who has been together for several years. The “newness” has worn off and the level that they connect on is different than it was on their wedding day. They’ve been through good and bad, happiness and sadness, and their love is still powerful but different. Marriage needs to be celebrated all the time, not just on the day you say “I do”.

Photography: Julie Paisley Photography | Floral Design: Oleander | Dress: BHLDN | Hair + Makeup: Janelle on Location

Tropical greenery and Paris might not seem like the most likely of duos but as Fete in France explains, these two are no style strangers. And they work well together… really, really well. Need some visual proof? Look no further than this styled shoot created by Fete in France, with amazing florals by MADAME Artisan Fleuriste; Parisian elegance meets tropical chic and to say I’m obsessed would be an understatement. Sandra Aberg’s pics have it all and are my new go-to source to feel inspired – see for yourself right this way!

P.S. Happy 10th birthday to our Little Black Book! We love you so and your talents? Unbelievable. Case in point: this masterpiece right here…

From Fete in France… When you think of Paris, tropical greenery doesn’t immediately spring to mind. But Paris has a fascination with all things exotic, and if you know where to look, you’ll see that the tropical theme that’s having a moment right now was also all the rage in Paris – about 100 years ago. We picked two iconic places, the Luxembourg Garden and the Hôtel d’Evreux on the famed Place Vendôme, which offered the perfect backdrop of classic Parisian elegance mixed with the Parisian take on tropical decor.

​Feathery palms, romantic lilypads, bright kumquats, combined with lace and touches of gold are a great way to incorporate the tropical theme into a more elegant setting.

Photography: Sandra Aberg Photography | Videography: BKTFILMS | Event Design + Planning: Fete in France | Floral Design: MADAME Artisan Fleuriste | Wedding Dress: Rime Arodaky | Cake: Synies | Ring: Heirloom | Hair + Make Up: Trine Juel | Venue: Potel et Chabot | Earrings: Vintage 1950's Custom Jewelry | Model: Tout Talent | Paper Goods: Studio French Blue calligraphy + design | Rentals: Vaisselle Vintage | Rentals: Options

Heaven is a blush colored villa in the French Riviera and if you need any proof look no further than these insanely gorgeous images captured by Greg Finck plus a film by JC Pieri. Pastel hues and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean come together in this destination affair designed by Lavender & Rose with overflowing blooms by Wayne Riley Flowers. So clear that favorites list all, because this gem is guaranteed to be your #1.

[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/223741885 600 338]

A Nigerian wedding always is the guarantee of an explosion of colors! I met Adesuwa and Nick in London, approximately a year ago, and was immediately seduced by the project of their wedding. Adesuwa is from Nigerian origins, Nick is English and they both live in London. Their venue pick went to the amazing Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, which is French Riviera’s shining diamonds, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, from its hill in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Lavender&Rose took care of the planning and design of the day and did that perfectly as they are used to. Wayne Riley declined the color palette of the wedding (light green and pink) for the design of the tables and florals at church. It was one of these very special summer days on the French Riviera, and the wedding ended with the warm summer breeze, that only the French Riviera can offer.

Photography: Greg Finck Photography | Videography: JC Pieri | Event Planning: Lavender and Rose | Floral Design: Wayne Riley Flowers | Dress: Sassi Holford | Wedding Cake: Made In Cake | Stationary: Crème De Papier | Church: Holy Trinity Nice | Catering: Helen Traiteur | Makeup: OTS Beauty | Hair: Bridget at Diva Dolls | DJ: DJ Obi | Celebrity Performer: Davido Adeleke | Church Gospel Choir: Joyfully Gospel | Dinner Live Band: Lizzy & The Gentlemen | MC: Chante Cutter | Private Villa: Villa Ephrussi De Rothschild | Production: D&X Events | Rentals: Options

Paris is always a good idea…especially for honeymooners. It is the land of romance after all. But even if your next French getaway is not of the romantic variety (girls trip!), this guide is a must. Thanks to these travel tips from photographer Molly Carr, you will be staying, eating, seeing and shopping the City of Light like a pro wanderluster. Pick up tasty macarons at famous Lauderee, explore the bohemian beauty of Montmartre and instagram it up at the black and white steps of Palais Royal… or simply eat your way through the city thanks to this ultimate guide. I vote the latter.

From Molly Carr…Is there anywhere in the world more beautiful, more romantic, or more captivating than Paris? Whether it is your first time in the City of Light or your tenth, Paris is the absolute ideal destination for honeymooners. From the world-famous cuisine to the plethora of immaculate hotels to the charming streets and alleyways just begging to get lost hand-in-hand, Paris is truly the perfect place to be in love. Considering a Parisian honeymoon? Be sure to check out these tips before planning your getaway.

STAY

Ritz Paris:The legendary Ritz Paris finally reopened in June of this year, and clearly it was worth the wait. The hotel invested over €200+ million in the renovations which were led by interior designer Thierry Despont and his team of over 800 stonemasons, guilders, upholsterers, and painters who brought the hotel back to its former glory.

Grand Hotel du Palais Royal: A nearly perfect boutique hotel in the 1st Arrondissement, this lovely property offers five-star service in a dreamy location. I highly recommend booking a room with a terrace on the top floor with views of the famed Parisian rooftops and Sacre Coeur in the distance.

Saint James Paris: Designed like a family’s private home, this exquisite Relais & Chateaux hotel in the 16th Arrondissement is a favorite of the design blogging community. One look at the hotel’s imaginative decor and grand staircase, and you will understand why.

Hotel Caron de Beaumarchais: Located on one of my favorite streets in all of Paris, this pint-sized boutique hotel is utterly charming. Be sure to request a top-floor room with a view of the Parisian rooftops.

AirBnb: There are a plethora of amazing flats for rent on AirBnb in virtually all price points. My favorite neighborhoods to stay in are Saint Paul, Île Saint-Louis, Le Marais, and Saint-Germain-des-Prés – but as long as you are in Paris, you really can’t go wrong.

DINE

Laduree: The most famous patisserie in Paris. They have shops throughout the city but my favorite is their location on the Champs-Élysées. It is swarming with tourists and nearly always has a line outside—but it is so worth the wait. Not only are their pastries and teas amazing (they are known to have some of the best macaroons in the world) but the elegant interior is absolutely gorgeous and feels like you have stepped into Marie Antoinette’s jewel box. My favorite dessert is the Saint-Honoré Rose Framboise which is a luscious combination of fresh raspberries, rose-petal creme, custard, pâte feuilletée, raspberry compote, and rose fondant.

Le Comptoir du Relais: Originally recommended to me by a Parisian friend, this bistro has become the go-to for my husband and I on every trip to Paris. 

Frenchie: Unlike many buzzed-about restaurants, Frenchie completely lives up to the hype. Make reservations as far in advance as possible – the restaurant is tiny and the tables are hard to come by! 

Ralphs: A respite in the busy St. Germain neighborhood. On warm summer afternoons, a long champagne lunch in the beautiful Ralph’s courtyard is an absolute must. 

Mini Palais: The perfect place for a chic lunch al fresco, this stunning French Colonial-inspired restaurant is located inside of the Petit Palais. 

Le Grand Colbert: A gorgeous French brasserie that was featured in the film ‘Something’s Gotta Give.’  The food is traditional French cuisine but the mirrored interior is really what shines – it truly feels like you have stepped back into Paris of the 1920’s.

Mariages Freres: A beautiful tea salon in Le Marais reminiscent of Colonial India, it is a wonderful place to go for a chic lunch and to buy the most amazing loose leaf tea in the world (Casablanca and Marco Polo are my favorites).

Du Pain des Idees: Located in the trendy Canal St. Martin neighborhood, this boulangerie is thought by many (including myself) to be the best in all of Paris. 

Ritz Paris:The newly-reopened Ritz Paris is a must-see. Whether you enjoy drinks at the famous Bar Hemingway or tea in the stunning courtyard, this historic hotel truly lives up to its five-star reputation. 

Fromageries: The cheese in France is truly second to none, and three of my absolute favorite places to shop are Barthelemy, Fromagerie Jouannault, and 38 Saint Louis on Île Saint-Louis.

Picnic: In my opinion, this is by far the most romantic dining experience in Paris. Go to a fromagerie, stop at a market to buy a baguette, some fruit, and wine, then take your supplies to the Seine (I love sitting on the very tip of the Île de la Cite under the weeping willow) and do as the Parisians do and spend a few hours soaking in the magnificence of the city.

SEE

Musee D’Orsay: Although the Louvre is the most famous museum in Paris, my favorite is the Musée D’Orsay. I adore Impressionist art and it has by far the best collection I have ever seen. Plus, it is housed in a beautiful old train station, which itself is worth the price of admission just to admire.

Musee de la Orangerie: If you love Monet, this Museum absolutely cannot be missed. It has two circular rooms that are filled with 360-degree paintings of Monet’s beloved waterlilies. It truly must be seen to be believed.

Musee Rodin: This stunning former residence is filled with exquisite statues and art and is surrounded by one of the most beautiful gardens in Paris.

Place des Vosges: The most beautiful square in Paris surrounded by bistros, shops, and amazing architecture. On a sunny afternoon, grab a book and while away the day laying in the grass and gazing up at the Parisian sky.

Saint Paul Neighborhood: This adorable little village in Le Marais feels like you have stepped into the Paris of yesterday. The quiet, winding streets are also home to some of the best antique shops in the city.

Ile Saint Louis: A little island in the center of the Seine. It is beautiful, quaint, the ideal place for a leisurely afternoon stroll (with a scoop of the famous Berthillon ice cream in hand, of course).

Pont Alexandre III at sunset: Go to the most beautiful bridge in Paris at sunset and watch the sky change colors behind the Eiffel Tower. Then, stay as the sky turns to an inky blue and watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle over the Seine.

Montmartre: The bohemian neighborhood on the hill, artists such as Picasso used to call it home. It is quaint, romantic, and completely different from the rest of the city. Be sure to visit Sacré-Cœur, the beautiful white cathedral on top of the hill, and brave the climb to the top for an amazing view of the city!

Saint Chapelle: This stunning cathedral on Île de la Cite is a must-see. I have been to several evening orchestra performances here and they are always spectacular.

Covered Galleries: Paris is filled with beautiful covered galleries which initially designed as places for the aristocracy shop before the streets of Paris were cleaned up. They are absolutely stunning and filled with the most unique little shops, bistros, and bookstores – a perfect respite from the loud city streets. My favorites are Passage du Grand Cerf and Galerie Vivienne.

Place Dauphine: This beautiful little square on the western tip of Île de la Cite is one of my absolute favorite spots in Paris. Although it’s near some of the city’s biggest tourist attractions, it is somehow always quiet.

Palais Royal: Paris with a dash of Tim Burton’s whimsy is how I would describe the beautiful Palais-Royal. Come for the classic black and white striped pillars but stay for the (often forgotten) rose garden. Be sure to bring your camera, as Palais-Royal is one of my absolute favorite photography locations in the entire city.

Rue Montorguiel: A famous market street lined with restaurants, bakeries, fromageries, fish shops, wine shops, etc. Stop in E.Dehillerin for the best in French cookware – it’s the Barefoot Contessa’s favorite.

Explore: Simply pick a beautiful neighborhood (Marais, Saint Germain, Montmartre, Latin Quarter, there are so many to choose from) and get lost on the tiny little streets! Every street is gorgeous and magical, and some of my favorite memories are of the little shops, secret gardens, tiny bistros that I just stumbled upon. When you’re tired stop in a café, grab a cup of coffee, sit outside, and just watch the people go by.

SHOP

Claudie Pierlot: My go-to for fashion when I want to embrace my inner French girl (which is every day, merci beaucoup).

Repetto: For classic French ballet flats, Repetto is an absolute must.

Le Bon Marche: If you want to go to a Parisian department store, Le Bon Marché is my absolute favorite. Be sure to visit the famed food hall, and after, stop at Polaine Bakery and Cuisine de Bar for a tartine.

Merci: An incredible home goods and apparel store that many design enthusiasts refer to as the “French Anthropologie,” Merci is where I stock-up on porcelain kitchenware, gorgeous linens, and unique decorative objects. Be sure to visit the utterly charming (and seriously Instagrammable) Used Book Café on your way out.

The Kooples: An upscale French brand that is targeted towards hip, urban couples – The Kooples has a great selection of pieces that reflect the typical Parisian style.

Marais Neighborhood: The best boutiques in the city are in the 4th Arrondissement. The Marais is uber chic and the perfect place to get lost for the afternoon of window shopping and people watching.

Diptyque: Diptyque is home to my absolute favorite scents in the world. I buy their candles and perfume in bulk when I visit Paris, and their flagship shop in the Saint-Germain neighborhood is beautiful. Do Son is my perfume of choice, and Noisetier and Fleur d’Oranger are my go-to home fragrances.

Marche aux Puces de la Porte de Vanves: This flea market is the perfect place to find buried French treasures. From ornate Louis XVI mirrors to Hermes scarves, you never will know exactly what to expect, but can always expect to find something magical.

Photography: Molly Carr Photography

Wanting their wedding to feel like a watercolor painting, this couple chose a dreamy color palette with washed-out tones for their French countryside destination celebration at Chateau de Barbirey, planned by Marry Me in France. Between the perfectly adorned tablescape by Juane Pivoine, the illustrated invitation suite, and the softly lit photographs captured by Peter and Veronika, we’re enamored with the undeniable romance of this pretty palette and watercolor effect.

From the Bride… I had only been living in Los Angeles for three weeks, and Gideon had only been home from France for three months, but somehow our paths crossed at the highly unromantic dive bar, Kitbz Room adjoined to the infamous Canters Deli in Los Angeles. Gideon charmed me all night with tales of his French travels, and six months later, he joined me on a trip to Paris. That week in October proved to be one of the most magical and solidifying moments of our lives, and we’ve been inseparable ever since. Two years later, we decided say, “I Do,” in the beautiful country where we fell in love.

We knew we wanted a small and intimate wedding with close friends and family, so a chateau in the countryside sounded perfect! We thought to ourselves, you only live once, right? We started our search and landed on a beautiful 17th century castle located in the Burgundy region of France, Chateau De Barbirey. From the hundred-year-old cobblestone streets to the French blue shutters on all 36 windows, this location seemed like a true fairytale.

Taking into consideration the beautiful landscape and dreamy façade, we decided to have our theme and tone complement this beautiful establishment. We wanted our wedding to feel like a watercolor painting, something dreamy, with washed-out tones such as pale pink, cream, French blue, and accents of gold. However due to the natural beauty of the chateau, it didn’t need much pizazz.

Throughout the weekend in Burgundy, we consumed endless amounts of rosé and croque monsieur while sweating profusely from the thick humidity of the summertime. We witnessed thunder and hail storms throughout the entire wedding day, but when the ceremony began, there wasn’t a cloud in the sky. Even the church bells rang as Gideon and I placed our rings on each other’s fingers. No matter how many little issues we encountered along the way, the magical storybook wedding we had fantasized about came true that day. France will always have a special place in our hearts, and the magical moments we shared with family and friends that day will forever live on.

Photography: Peter & Veronika | Event Planning: Marry Me In France | Floral Design: Jaune Pivoine | Wedding Dress: Marisa Bridals | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Catering: Katherine Frelon | Venue: Chateau de Barbirey | Photography Assistance: Floretally

I cannot imagine a wedding that captures the magical essence of winter more than this one right here. The couple, who live in Abu Dhabi, enlisted the help of the Haute Wedding team to create a glamorous, snowy celebration at a picturesque French Alps chateau, Courchevel. Photographed by Le Secret D’Audrey, get lost in this alpine wedding, with even more awaiting you in the film below by Airsnap.

[iframe http://www.youtube.com/embed/Lm6HhfE1I1k 600 338]

From Haute Wedding… K and A have known each other since they were two years old, and over their adult years, their relationship blossomed into a beautiful love story that many people can only dream of. K and A live in Dubai, grew up in the UK, and chose to marry in the fairytale setting of Courchevel with the snowy mountains, chic hotels, and endless miles of skiing surrounding them. The ceremony was held on a beautiful terrace overlooking the ski slopes. Fairy lights, candles, and snowfall made this twilight ceremony absolutely magical! The black-tie dress code was up to par with red-carpet glamour, with guests dressed to sheer perfection. The reception at the authentic chalet restaurant, with huge windows and exposed beams, boasted excellent French cuisine, top-notch service, and a unique mountain setting that winter weddings are made of!

The Bride and Groom prepared for the big day surrounded by their dearest loved ones. The Bride put on her custom gown inspired by Elie Saab and just dripping in Swarovski crystals, then she delicately buttoned up her gown and put on her beautiful Sarah Jessica Parker satin bow shoes. She had a moment with the women closest to her before she revealed the dress to her Bridesmaids. Their faces lit up as they ran into the room to celebrate together. Easy to say it was the perfect morning in the ladies suite. Meanwhile in the Groom’s suite, all of the guys were cheering to the good years and all of the new adventures yet to come. Straightening their bow ties and buttoning their tree-stamped cuff links, these gentlemen came prepared. After swapping a few stories, all the guys patted the Groom on the back – he was off to finally see his Bride for the first time. The Groom was overlooking the white mountain side, past the snow covered chalets and over the quiet town in a moment of calm before the big day when his Bride walked up quietly. He turned around to see his gorgeous Bride gleaming as bright as her gown! They shared those few precious minutes together as they prepared for their forever moment.

From the Bride… Alex and I met at an early age – two and four to be exact! We have been family friends for over 20 years, but it wasn’t until our parents decided to set us up romantically that we actually got to know each other. That was over six years ago. Since then, I have moved to Australia for one year to study, followed by London to join Alex in the city, and now we are living in the Middle East! We chose Courchevel 1850 due to our love of skiing, the snow, and the beautiful alpine setting. Genepi on tap was also an added bonus! It is also a contrast to where we live now in Abu Dhabi.

Our wedding was faultless from start to finish, thanks to Haute Wedding. It was a logistically difficult venue to access, however what we saw as a challenge, we turned into an adventure. We were surrounded by friends and family at a picturesque venue, snow on cue during our vows, elegant flowers, candles, fabulous jazz band, and French food and wine to die for. All readings and speeches were both emotional and light hearted and words that we will treasure forever. We have been so lucky to capture all of this thanks to Audrey Paris and Airsnap, with our timeless photos and videos.

Despite the formal black tie dress code, our wedding was relaxed and laid back. We wanted to make all guests feel comfortable, focusing on happiness and love rather than the formality of the wedding. We did this by allowing guests to bring alcohol into the ceremony, choosing upbeat modern songs during the ceremony, hiring an MC who made everyone cry with laughter (also a very close family friend), and offering a round of Genepi to get guests in the mood for a lot of dancing!

This magical day was followed by another seamless, magnificent day spent at Le Cap Horn. The food was outstanding, the weather was cold but sunny, and everyone was in high spirits.

Living in Abu Dhabi and getting married in Courchevel sounds like no easy task, however Monica and her team made the whole process an enjoyable and seamless one. Monica was always on hand to answer any queries and provided only the best suppliers. Thank you again, Monica, for finding us our dream wedding venue and creating such a memorable and magical wedding.  We really appreciate the amount of effort you put into making our wedding the “wedding of the year” and “an unbeatable wedding” ( quoted by our friends, not us!).

Photography: Le Secret d'Audrey | Cinematography: AIRSNAP | Event Planning: Haute Wedding | Floral Design: Jasmine Fleurs | Wedding Dress: Susanna Rachel Bridal Couture | Invitations: Lilac and White | Ceremony Venue: Cap Horn | Reception Venue: Chalet De Pierres | Shoes: SJP | Rings: Cara Jewellers | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Susanna Rachel Bridal Couture | Makeup: Sophie Killian | Hair: Jennyfer Hillyard | DJ: UK DJs Abroad | Suit: Roberto Revilla | Celebrant: Haute Wedding | Ceremony Music: Jazz Events | Transportation: YZ taxi | Tent: Gonflable Events | Accommodations: Saint Roch | Accommodations: White Hotel 1921 | Accommodations: Le Lana | Carpet + Fairy Light Netting: Animation Services | Cuff Links: Mulberry | Rentals: Options | Second Day Venue: Cap Horn

I had the pleasure of visiting Paris for the first time last month and immediately fell in love with the city – and this engagement session captured by the talented Amanda Wei Photo is taking me right back to the romance of those cobblestone streets. The gorgeous Bride-to-be absolutely glowed, with thanks to Harold James, as she walked hand-in-hand with her love around some of Paris’s most beautiful and iconic sites. From the Eiffel Tower to a majestic chateau, there’s so many pretty moments to see in this gallery!

From Amanda Wei Photo… The world is far from lying when they say that Paris is one of the most romantic places in the world. Even with the gritty street art, gloomy weather, and cigarette smoke every where you turn, the cobble stone streets, petite cafe store fronts, and never-ending, jaw-dropping architecture of Paris will sweep you off your feet.

Our clients, Jessie and Shuning who are getting married at Auberge du Soleil next April, decided to have a destination engagement session in Paris, and we couldn’t be more thrilled about it! We split their session into two days to get the most out of France that we possibly could. On day one, we wandered through Paris, starting at the world famous Eiffel Tower. We began just before sunrise to beat the crowds and to capture the beautiful soft pink light, and man, was it worth it! We carried on and went to the Pont Alexandre III, which is a stunning bridge crossing over the Seine that is elegantly decorated with gold statues and old black street lamps. Continuing on our stroll through Paris, we stopped by the Louvre Museum, wandered through Les Deux Plateaux with its fun black and white pillars, passed by Notre Dame, and found ourselves wandering through tiny side streets loaded with shops, cafes, and gift stores.

Just in the nick of time before the rain overtook Paris, we ended our first session at one of our favorite locations on the side of the Seine. People were scattered along the river that runs through Paris like the vain of romance every day, just enjoying each others company, some with a bottle of wine, a baguette, or a bit of cheese. It was amazing to see how this simple place surrounded by such beauty could be the source of encouragement for so much love, chivalry, and romance.

After a stunning countryside drive about an hour south of Paris, we arrived at this magnificent chateau for day two of our session! The view of the front entrance was so incredibly breathtaking, we were all so thrilled about the day that was ahead of us, and it was only just the beginning. We spent a good couple of hours strolling through the chateau with our jaws dropped, pit-stopping every now and then along the way to shoot. Each room had its own unique style and elegance, which created the perfect setting for a unique engagement session! After covering all of the locations possible inside, it was time to head out to the garden. (It was also time to get a golf cart!) The Chateau de Vaux le Vicomte was so incredibly massive, majestic, romantic, and well-manicured! We kept day-dreaming about attending parties that were hosted there way back when… Could you imagine?! It was such a beautiful day casually strolling through the chateau that we pretended was our very own private palace, photographing such an incredibly sweet, fun and loving couple, Jessie and Shuning.

Thank you again for taking us on such an amazing adventure! We absolutely love destination shoots and can’t wait for the next one! Paris, you stole our hearts.

Photography: Amanda Wei Photography | Hair + Makeup: Harold James

I’m betting the thought of eloping has crossed your mind a time or two—I totally considered it! And if I had done it, this is the exact scene I would have dreamed of. A charming chateau in France, a simply elegant tablescape and loads of blooms. Crafted by Firefly Events and Wanderlust Wedding, for Sylvie Gil‘s annual workshop, there’s plenty of inspiration for the taking—right here.

From Teissa at Firefly Events… Our bride and groom met at a secret black tie masquerade ball in Burgundy. They saw each other from across the room and were instantly drawn to one another. They spent the rest of the evening together and decided then and there to elope. They snuck away to a nearby abandoned chateau and tied the knot just the two of them. The next day they sent word to a few of their closest friends to join them in an intimate celebration. Sylvie’s yearly workshop is a fine art photography retreat in a luxurious 18th century Chateau in Burgundy, France. This year she hosted seventeen photographers for one week of intensive, hands-on styling workshops, business classes, and photography practice with industry experts.

Photography: Sylvie Gil Photography | Floral Design: Floresie | Cake: Apoline Cake Design | Cake: Nine Cakes | Shoes: Bella Belle | Jewelry: Bekah Anne | Rings: Susie Saltzman | Hair & Makeup: Little Miss Make Up | Calligraphy: Plume Calligraphy | Grooms' Attire: The Black Tux | Business Class: Shanna Skidmore | Furniture Rentals: Options | Gowns: Costarellos | Gowns: Vera Wang | Gowns: Claire Pettibone | Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Lingerie: Claire Pettibone | Lingerie: Odile de Changy | Macarons: Muriel Arcos | Masks: Curious Fair | Paper Products & Gifts: Yonder | Planning & Design: Firefly Events | Production Design: Wanderlust Wedding | Rentals: Vaisselle Vintage | Rentals: Orchidee De Soie | Ring Boxes: The Mrs Box | Tabletop Ceramics: Hortense Montarnal | Workshop: Chateau de Varennes

The morning light is magical in Paris on its own but add in a seriously stunning bride-to-be and a gown by Claire Pettibone and this, my dears, is what dreams are made of. Jacqui Cole captured the stylish scenes that are stealing our hearts, and these pics are bound to be filling up our Pinterest boards in 3, 2, 1…

From Jacqui Cole… In the morning, as the sun is rising and before the masses have woken, the streets of Paris are untouched and so serene. The aim of this editorial is to visualize what is would be like for a couple eloping in this magical city. The inspiration for this elegant Parisian shoot is centered around the whimsical Claire Pettibone gown. The sheer fabric looked breathtaking in the morning light of Paris. The soft, lush florals added a true feminine touch. A delicate hint of purple added depth to the neutral hues while also giving a subtle nod to the French locale. Hair and makeup for the bride centered on her natural beauty – a glowy, natural palette was used for the makeup and her hair was left relaxed and down to effortlessly blow in the morning breeze. Joy Proctor’s stunning Bella Belle shoes were the perfect finishing touch!

Photography: Jacqui Cole Photography | Event Planning: Jennifer Fox Weddings | Floral Design: Floraison | Wedding Dress: Claire Pettibone | Shoes: Bella Belle | Hair + Makeup Artist: Onorina Jomir Beauty | Invitation Suite: Oh Honey Paper Co | Ring Box: The Mrs Box | Silk Ribbon: Orchidee De Soie

What do you get when you combine the magic of the South of France with the most adorably in love couple and the talents of Jessica Rose Photography? The most magical engagement session ever! Head to The Vault for a virtual getaway to France where you’re sure to fall in love with these two cuties and their adorable love story!

From Jessica Rose Photography… We met in Vancouver, Lyndsay, a local vintage clothing shop owner, and Bret, a sports professional, and I already couldn’t wait to shoot their destination engagement shoot in southern France. There is something so special about capturing a couple that you connect with so deeply, as I did with these two. So much so that on the day of the shoot, we (my husband who was working as my assistant, and I) started shooting with them early in the morning as the sun rose, then the 4 of us spent the bright hours of the morning sipping espresso and eating croissants together. By the time the sun started lowering we drove to this sweet town nearby and kept adventuring through the streets and fields. I believe that the best images come out of that deep comfort with each other, when clients become friends and all nerves fade away and couples relax into purely themselves. It’s an honour to capture and a joy to be part of!

Photography: Jessica Rose Photography

Elegant yet casual, this intimate wedding was the emotion-filled end to Emilie and Bryan’s week long celebration in Provence with 25 of their most beloved. Some of France’s finest came out to create the romantic evening, including Wanderlust Wedding, Laetitia C. Fleurs d’Atelier, JD Filmmaker, and Jonathan Udot. Its simple beauty will inspire any destination Bride, so you won’t want to miss a single second of the video below.

[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/221748450 600 338]

From Wanderlust Wedding… Emilie and Bryan decided to get married in the heart of Provence, in a private villa in Gordes. They rented the villa for a full week and had their 25 guests fly in from the States. They wanted an intimate wedding with their closest family members and friends. Jonathan Udot beautifully captured this day full of emotions and laughter. Emilie and Bryan wanted an elegant yet laid back wedding. We chose crystal glasses, silverware, delicate blooms by Laetitia C., and candles for the tablescape with a family style meal by Citron Pavot. The wedding was like an extension of a holiday with the people they love most joining them for an emotional day.

Photography: Jonathan Udot | Cinematography: Julien Duthe | Event Planning: Wanderlust Wedding | Floral Design: Laetitia C. - fleurs d'atelier | Wedding Dress: Carol Hannah | Stationery: The Little Blue Chair | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Catering: Citron Pavot Traiteur | Calligraphy: Lichen Ink | Rentals: Options

One Groom hails from the USA and one from Brazil, so when it came time for them to plan their wedding weekend, they wanted to choose a neutral space for both families. Chateau Talaud in Provence, France – which holds a special place in Mario’s heart – was the ideal choice, with its charming accommodations, rolling vineyards, and delicious food. Jeremy Ferrero Photography captured the beautiful weekend, planned to perfection by Et Voila Weddings, and we’re officially obsessed.

From Jeremy Ferrero Photography… Mario and Aj’s wedding in Château Talaud was one of my best moments as a wedding photographer. To share their love and to make this day magical, their families and friends came to Provence from Brazil and the US. When two best friends are soulmates and want to get married in magical Provence, which they love so much, this is what you get.

From the Groom… Mario and I (AJ) have a very multi-cultural background – I am from the US, Mario is from Brazil, and Mario lived in Paris for 6 years. We come from very different backgrounds but have always found chemistry in our balance. When it was time to plan our dream wedding, we knew we wanted to embrace our backgrounds and to host an event that would welcome our global families. With my family all in the US, and Mario’s family all in Brazil, we decided to chose a “neutral” location so no one would feel disproportionately accommodated. Having loved his six years in France, the country – specifically the South of France – has always been a very special place for Mario. With beautiful scenery, delicious wine and food, and a relaxing culture, we knew all of our family and friends, both young and old, would love to experience the area. Therefore, making the decision to have the wedding in Provence was an easy one to make.

When visiting venues the year prior to the wedding, we were immediately struck by Chateau Talaud. The grounds are stunning and full of history. It is a multi-faceted space, with a gorgeous gate, a stunning arch, a pool, and vineyards. While the chateau has a level of grandeur, the space maintains substantial warmth to make all the guests feel at home. We wanted our decor to embrace the region, thus we went with a lot of lavender, olive, and green herbs. Between the chateau and the decor, we were thrilled to host our families and friends in the heart of Provence. And the photos perfectly captured the grounds and us on our special day! Through Jérémy’s art and execution, the aesthetic of the day will last us a lifetime!

Photography: Jeremy Ferrero | Event Design: Et Voila Weddings | Event Planning: Et Voila Weddings | Floral Design: Delphine Tollari | Ceremony Venue: Chateau Talaud | Catering: Marrou | Hair + Makeup: Nadine Saint Denis | Men's Attire: Brooklyn Tailors | Ceremony Officiant: Caroline Roux | Film Processing: Carmencita Film Lab | Light Letters: Ligh Up Letters