When it comes to destination weddings, the appeal of exchanging vows at a private villa, château, or aboard a luxury yacht is undeniable. These venues offer unparalleled exclusivity, intimate settings, and breathtaking backdrops that elevate the wedding experience to new heights. However, while these non-traditional venues can be magical, they also present a unique set of challenges. 

Focusing on private estates, villas, chateaux and yachts, the wedding planning company, OFFICIALÉ unlocks access to the Italian Lakes, French countryside, the Dubai Harbor and the Hamptons Marina. Who better to consult than the founder and principal planner of OFFICIALÉ, Deborah Kugler? Kugler gives us her insider, expert knowledge on the benefits and challenges of planning a wedding in villas, chateaus, and on yachts.

Benefits of Villa, Château, and Yacht Weddings

Exclusivity and Privacy

One of the primary advantages of holding your wedding at a villa, château, or yacht is the privacy these venues offer. Unlike hotels or public venues, where other guests or events may overlap, these private spaces allow couples and their guests to feel entirely secluded and intimate. As Kugler explains, “There is a growing desire for couples wanting to experience the luxury of intimacy and exclusivity when it comes to weddings and romantic experiences in general.” Whether you’re nestled in the hills of the Italian Lakes or sailing through Mediterranean waters, these venues offer unmatched intimacy.

Photo by Lisette Gatliff 

A Sense of Home

Villas and châteaux, especially in locations like the French countryside or the Italian Lakes, provide an inviting atmosphere. The ability to “make the villa their own home away from home,” as Kugler describes, is one of the major draws of these venues. Guests have the freedom to wander the grounds, lounge in luxurious common areas, and relax in a personalized space without the limitations imposed by more traditional venues. This freedom creates a relaxed atmosphere where guests can connect in a setting that feels more like a grand family gathering than a formal event.

Breathtaking Settings

The beauty of villas, châteaux, and yachts often lies in their natural surroundings. Whether it’s the rolling vineyards of a French estate, the serene waters of the Hamptons Marina, or the open sea of a private yacht, these venues provide stunning backdrops for ceremonies, receptions, and photo opportunities. Dream Yacht Worldwide, a leading sea-vacation company that offers private and cabin charter experiences in destinations across the globe, highlights the allure of a yacht-based wedding. “Whether it’s navigating to a quiet beach, an intimate dinner under the stars on the deck, or a morning group swim in an empty cove, a charter yacht experience ensures that a getaway feels uniquely personal.” However, to make a wedding on the seas successful, Kugler notes that it’s important to partner with a planning team that has relationships with yacht management groups as many (like Dream Yacht Worldwide) do not offer planning services in-house.

Photo by Ioana Porav Photographer

Challenges of Villa, Château, and Yacht Weddings

Logistical Complexities

Planning a wedding in these unique locations often comes with logistical hurdles. Yachts, for instance, require careful coordination, especially when it comes to space and movement. “Once the yacht sets sail, everything you should need for the day must be on the vessel,” Kugler notes. Unlike land-based venues, where last-minute deliveries or adjustments are possible, a yacht wedding demands meticulous preparation, from décor to catering. 

Similarly, villas and châteaux may be located in remote areas, adding transportation challenges for both guests and vendors. Ensuring timely delivery of flowers, rentals, and even the wedding party itself can become complicated when dealing with long travel times or restricted access.

Seasonal Limitations

Both yachts and land-based venues are subject to seasonal availability and weather conditions. Yachts, for instance, can only be chartered during certain times of the year due to maintenance and favorable sailing conditions. Villas and châteaux, particularly those in Europe, may also close during off-peak seasons, limiting availability. Additionally, unpredictable weather can pose a challenge, particularly for outdoor ceremonies and receptions, requiring backup plans to avoid disruptions.

Budget Considerations

Luxury comes with a price tag, and these types of venues are often more expensive than traditional wedding settings. However, the exclusivity and customization they offer can justify the cost for couples seeking a one-of-a-kind experience. Kugler emphasizes the importance of balancing vision, season, and resources: “Resource is the means with which you are prepared to make your desire a reality.” Whether you’re working with a larger budget or considering DIY elements, it’s essential to factor in the higher costs of such exclusive venues and tailor your plans accordingly.

While planning a wedding at a villa, château, or aboard a yacht presents unique challenges, the benefits of intimacy, exclusivity, and unparalleled beauty are hard to match.

To help inspire your wedding stationery and tablescape decisions, we’re sharing a recent photoshoot directed by the one and only Deborah Kugler. Find the result of her collaborative work with some of New York’s fine wedding vendors below:

Vendors: Planning, Creative Direction, Menu + Place Card Design & Butter: OFFICIALÉ; Photography: Heather Pauline Photography; Botanicals and Produce Styling: Sahola Flowers; Lighting: Grace Puffer; Raw Linen Menus: Luxe + Linen; Invitation Suite: Cotton & Bow; Wine: Lamborghini; Venue Inspiration: Villa D’Este