Whether it’s a chic Parisian soirée, a sun-drenched celebration on the Riviera, or a fairytale château gathering in Provence, France offers a stunning array of options for destination weddings. To help couples navigate the process, we spoke with destination wedding photographer Sandra Åberg and wedding planner Amanda Costa Thompson, who recently collaborated on Lisa and Christian’s stunning wedding at Le Beauvallon in the South of France (pictured). Their expert insights will ensure your wedding planning journey is seamless and unforgettable.

1. Select the Perfect French Setting for Your Wedding

From the lavender fields of Provence to the glamorous coastline of the Riviera, France has something for every couple. “South of France has the French Riviera and some venues are located right on the water, which allows for the ceremony to have that beautiful azur ocean background,” says Amanda. She recommends iconic locations such as Villa Ephrussi, Cap Estel, and Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc for couples looking for a breathtaking seaside setting. For a château-style wedding, Amanda suggests Château du Tourreau or Château Martinay, which exude old-world charm amidst lush gardens.

Paris offers an entirely different kind of romance, with elegant venues such as the Shangri-La Paris, Hôtel de Crillon, and Château de Villette providing the perfect blend of luxury and history. For couples looking for a unique countryside retreat, Burgundy’s vineyards or Dordogne’s medieval villages can offer intimate and charming settings.

2. Navigate France’s Marriage Laws and Requirements

While France is a dream wedding destination, its legal requirements can be challenging for non-residents. “If you are foreign or live abroad, you can marry in France if you reside there for a month or if one of you has parents that live in France,” explains Amanda. Because of these requirements, many couples opt to legally marry in their home country before hosting their wedding ceremony in France. This allows for greater flexibility in choosing a celebrant and structuring the event as a personal and meaningful celebration.

3. Work with Local French Vendors for an Authentic Experience

Hiring local vendors can significantly enhance the authenticity of your wedding while also simplifying logistics. For example, local florists have a deep understanding of regional blooms and décor elements, ensuring a stunning, cohesive look that complements the setting. Couples can also get the authentic French experience by considering catering services from Michelin-starred chefs in Provence, artisanal patisseries in Paris for their wedding cake, or local vineyards in Champagne to supply the perfect celebratory toast.

4. Infuse French Culture into Your Celebration

A destination wedding in France should reflect your unique love story while embracing the beauty of the location. “We get to know our couples very well, which allows us to tailor the experience specifically to them,” says Amanda. “I truly believe that tailoring to enhance the surroundings is a beautiful way to create an ambiance that reflects the two of you.” Whether it’s incorporating local cuisine, designing custom décor, or arranging a vineyard tour for guests, personalization adds a special touch to the event.

To fully embrace French culture, couples can incorporate elements such as a traditional French wedding cake (croquembouche), a live accordionist for Parisian charm, or an apéritif hour with fine cheeses and charcuterie sourced from local markets. A private river cruise along the Seine or a rehearsal dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant can also elevate the overall wedding experience.

5. Capture the Elegance of France with the Right Photography

France’s natural beauty and historic architecture make it a photographer’s paradise. Sandra Åberg, known for her soft-romantic editorial style, emphasizes the importance of light and ambiance. “I love working with pastel palettes and ethereal light—elements that naturally highlight the charm of French architecture, gardens, and landscapes,” she shares. “The result is a set of images that feel luxurious yet deeply personal—perfectly in tune with the elegance of a French wedding.”

Sandra also highlights the importance of timing. “From scoping out hidden gem venues to timing the perfect golden hour, I thrive on crafting an experience that feels effortless and deeply meaningful.” Couples can expect a sneak peek of their wedding photos within a week, with a full gallery delivered within 1-2 months. She particularly recommends early morning or sunset shoots at locations like the Eiffel Tower, Château de Chantilly, or the lavender fields of Provence for the most breathtaking images.

6. Budget Smartly for a Luxurious French Wedding

Costs for a destination wedding in France vary widely based on location and vendor selection. “Some venues are bigger investments than others, and this varies all over France,” Amanda explains. However, she emphasizes that France offers options for a range of budgets, whether couples seek a lavish château experience or a more intimate gathering in the countryside.

For couples looking to maximize their budget, off-season weddings in regions like Alsace or the Loire Valley can offer stunning settings at a more affordable rate. Additionally, some château venues offer exclusive weekend rentals, allowing couples and their guests to fully immerse themselves in the experience.

France remains one of the most coveted destinations for weddings, offering an unbeatable combination of history, romance, and breathtaking scenery.

Vendors: Photographer: Sandra Åberg; Wedding Planner & Stationery: Amanda Costa Thompson; Venue: Le Beauvallon; Florist: Ro & Raff; Cake: Chris Raux; Hair & Makeup: DESSANGE Sainte-Maxime; Gown Designer: ANNA KARA; Event Design: GALA; Event Rentals: Jolibazaar Rentals; Band: Knights Club; DJ: Chris Stallion; Saxophonist: Jay Nemor