Madeleine and Guillaume grew up an ocean apart. Their unlikely first meeting happened on a flight from Stockholm to Copenhagen when the two sat next to each other on the plane. They struck up a conversation and the rest was history. 

Because of being an international couple, Madeleine says that “any place would, in a way, have become a destination wedding.” So, after some searching online, they decided to hold the wedding close to the groom’s family in Vallery, France at Château de Vallery. 

The French chateau has a large host of amenities and a background dating back to the Renaissance, making it a top-rated destination for weddings and receptions. Between its architectural stylings and storied history, Chateau de Vallery allowed Madeleine and Guillaume to create a ceremony of fairytale proportions. 

“We fell in love with the place and the team running it immediately,” says the couple. “Patrice, the owner of the castle, is an extraordinary person and welcomed us as if we were part of the family.” 

After choosing the venue, the bride and groom-to-be made a decision that allowed them to add a personal touch to the day: being their own wedding planners. They were in close contact with their vendors and got to know each one individually, from the florist, Baptiste Pitou, to the photographer, Sylvain Bouzat. 

“When you get to know each other, you have full faith that they understand your vision,” the bride and groom say. This gave them the freedom to enjoy their wedding day without stress. 

But, Madeleine and Guillaume’s personalization of their French chateau wedding wasn’t just for themselves. Together, they created several DIY projects to the benefit of their guests. 

“We made our own website to ease logistics for our guests,” they say. “We included guidance on travel options to the destination (closest train station, phone numbers to taxi companies, and car rental websites) so there were no travel issues.” 

In the end, the bride and groom created a ceremony perfect for themselves, their friends, and their families, having learned a lesson about doing what you can to accommodate those joining in on your special day. 

“If you have a destination wedding, help your guests with the logistics,” the couple says. “They will highly appreciate it!”

Vendors: Photographer: Sylvain Bouzat; Ceremony/Reception Site: Château de Vallery; Florist: Baptiste Pitou; Stationery: Lettering by GRG; Cake: Entre Mets & Fragrances; Hair & Makeup: Agence 07; Gown & Groom’s Suit: Karim Design Copenhagen; Bridesmaids Dresses: By Malina; Ceremoniste: Aude Abadie; Videographer: BAHFILM; Music Group: Pepper Club the Band; Recommended by: World’s Best Wedding Photos