When Cyndel and Brenna decided to tie the knot, they knew they wanted something extraordinary. “Since I was a little girl, I have always dreamed of having a destination wedding,” Cyndel says. With an eye for the unique and a desire for adventure, they found their perfect venue at the stunning Chateau Challain in Loire Valley, France, where they exchanged vows in December of 2023.

A Venue Straight Out of a Dream

The couple’s journey to Chateau Challain began with a glowing recommendation from a friend who had wed there just a year prior. “When we started looking for a venue, I asked her opinion on the venue, and she highly recommended it,” Cyndel says. The venue’s owner, Cynthia, quickly put Cyndel at ease, assuring her that she was in good hands. “Trust your instincts,” Cyndel advises future brides and grooms. “Take the time to talk to your vendor and get a sense of their company culture.”

Embracing French Traditions

One of the most delightful aspects of their wedding was the incorporation of local traditions. The couple opted for a traditional French wedding cake, which Cyndel described as “a new experience for us,” but they were thrilled with the result. It was a sweet nod to the country that hosted their special day.

Smooth Sailing for Guests

Planning a destination wedding often comes with its logistical challenges, but Cyndel and Brennan worked closely with Cynthia to ensure their guests had a seamless experience. “Everyone was able to book their flights into Comme des Garçons (CDG) airport, and either took the train or a rental car to the Chateau itself,” Cyndel explained. With proper planning, their loved ones felt welcomed and at ease as they celebrated together.

A Reception to Remember

While the planning process usually comes with its fair share of surprises, Cyndel and Brennan experienced a pleasant one. The reception room exceeded their expectations. “I sent a photo of the vibe I was going for to my wedding planner, and she blew me away,” Cyndel said, still in awe of the enchanting atmosphere. “The details, the candles, and the mood created were breathtaking.”

Personal Touches and Inclusivity

The couple’s personal style shone through in their wedding colors of emerald green, black, and silver, which beautifully complemented the winter setting. They opted for handwritten vows, which added a heartfelt touch to the ceremony. To foster a sense of inclusivity, all guests stayed at the Chateau, creating opportunities for bonding. “Dinner the night before was held at a family-style table with everyone sitting together,” Cyndel shared. “Every moment was created to allow the guests to feel close and as a part of our day.”

Budgeting Wisely

Cyndel also offered valuable advice on budgeting for a destination wedding, emphasizing the importance of staying on track. “A destination wedding can add up when you start looking at flights and accommodations on top of the wedding budget,” she cautioned. Their savvy approach included building a wedding savings account and utilizing a travel credit card to earn points for their hotel and flight expenses.

Vendors: Photographer: In Love Photography; Wedding Planner: Cynthia Nicholson; Venue: Chateau Challain; Florist: Mister Brett Events; Stationery: Truly Engaging; Hair & Makeup: Kristi Grimm; Gown Designer: Martina Liana; Groom’s Clothing Designer: Calvin Klein; Bridesmaids Dresses: Birdy Grey