3 Reasons to Have a Destination Wedding in France
You and your partner have decided to have a destination wedding, rather than a local celebration? Great! The next decision to make is usually which country or region to get married in. How should you decide? Throw a dart on a map? Spin the globe and fly to wherever it lands? Whilst these approaches are all possible (but certainly not recommended), let’s take a closer look at France and the top 3 reasons to have a destination wedding in the country of l’amour.
For many couples, the decision of where to tie the knot is almost as important as the vows themselves. France is a prime wedding destination for international couples. Its timeless charm and captivating romance put it among the top wedding destinations globally. Whether it’s an intimate chateau gathering in the countryside or a chic ceremony in the heart of Paris, France offers something for every couple.
Here are three compelling reasons why you should consider a destination wedding in France.
1. Create Unforgettable Memories in Breathtaking Locations
Location, location, location. When it comes to choosing a wedding location, the location makes all the difference.
France is home to some of the most stunning and iconic wedding venues in the world. Imagine exchanging vows in a centuries-old chateau surrounded by the lush vineyards of the Loire Valley. Or saying “I do” in a grand salon in Paris followed by a romantic evening boat cruise on the Seine. These are the kinds of unforgettable memories that a destination wedding in France can offer.
A local wedding venue, on the other hand, is no match for France’s scenic beauty. And they are oftentimes equally expensive as wedding venues in France.
“Our latest attempt at scouting a local Los Angeles wedding venue (that met our exacting standards) was over $40,000 USD for 125 guests. Holy smokes. No way. At least not for something in my “back yard”. For that amount I expect something exceptional, and my own neighborhood isn’t it.”
A wedding in France also allows you to combine the ceremony with a honeymoon or a vacation for your guests. Exploring the historic streets of Paris, tasting the exquisite wines in Bordeaux, or strolling through the lavender fields of Provence makes your wedding not just an event, but an experience that you and your loved ones will cherish forever.
2. Simplify Your Guest List and Enjoy a More Intimate Celebration
Weddings can be expensive, especially when you have a large guest list.
One of the hidden benefits of a destination wedding is that it naturally limits the number of attendees, allowing you to focus on those who matter most. Instead of inviting 150+ people—many of whom you may not even see regularly—you can have a more intimate celebration with your closest family and friends.
“My fiancée has a very large family, so that means a domestic wedding will definitely cost a lot of money. No ifs or buts. We don’t like that – would you like the idea of feeding and gifting 150+ people, of which 100 we won’t see regularly, and up to 30 possibly ever again? So we arrived at our decision to elope, either to Paris or the French countryside – and to also invite only our closest family members. That comes to about 10 people, perhaps up to 20 in total. But I really don’t see it getting any bigger than that.“
For instance, if you are drawn to the idea of a French countryside wedding, consider a chateau in Loire Valey, the South of France, or the Ile-de-France region, just a couple of hours from Paris. These locations offer the perfect balance of accessibility and exclusivity.
Hosting your wedding in such a romantic setting, with a guest list of just your nearest and dearest, ensures that the day is filled with personal connections, meaningful interactions, and a relaxed atmosphere.
3. Elevate Your Wedding with French Elegance and World-Class Services
France is synonymous with elegance, luxury, and top-tier service—all essential ingredients for a memorable wedding.
Whether you choose a chic Parisian venue or a rustic chateau in the Loire Valley, you’ll have access to some of the best wedding planners, caterers, and florists in the world. These professionals are experts in creating sophisticated events that reflect the refined taste and high standards that France is known for.
Moreover, a destination wedding in France allows you to tap into the country’s rich cultural heritage. From classic French cuisine to stunning floral arrangements inspired by the local landscape, every detail can be customized to create an atmosphere of timeless romance.
And since planning a wedding from afar can be challenging, hiring a local wedding planner ensures that every aspect of your big day is meticulously taken care of, leaving you free to enjoy the experience without the stress. France has some of the world’s best and most professional wedding planners, many of which speak English fluently and deal with couples from abroad frequently.
Your Destination Wedding in France
France offers a dream backdrop for your wedding, combining breathtaking scenery, intimate celebrations, and unparalleled elegance.
Whether you’re drawn to the allure of Paris or the charm of the French countryside, a destination wedding in France will be an experience you—and your guests—will never forget. So, why not say “I do” in one of the most romantic places on earth?
After all, as Audrey Hepburn famously said, “Paris is always a good idea.”
Next Steps
Read more about France’s most beautiful wedding chateaus, or start by browsing our catalog of wedding venues in the South of France.
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