How Much Does a Wedding in a French Chateau Cost?
For those dreaming of celebrating their wedding in France, the idea of organizing a destination wedding from abroad can seem daunting. Finding a wedding venue that takes care of everything, from the wedding dinner to the music, is often the best option.
Here is a detailed cost breakdown for a destination wedding in a French chateau in Loire Valley, which included pre-wedding events in Paris and a lavish honeymoon.1
Wedding Cost Breakdown: French Chateau in Loire Valley
Wedding Overview
| Guests | 50 guests |
| Duration | 4 days in September 2023 |
| Region | Loire Valley |
| Country | France |
| Wedding Planner | Included in the price of the venue |
Venue and Core Wedding Costs
The couple booked an all-inclusive venue in the Loire Valley that provided everything they needed for an amazing wedding experience.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what was included in the $85,000 package:
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodations (45 guests, 3 nights, 4 days) | $85,000 |
| Brunch (2 mornings) | Included |
| Light breakfast (last morning) | Included |
| Dinners (3 nights, including the wedding night) | Included |
| Open beer and wine bar (2 nights) | Included |
| DJ and harpist | Included |
| Firework show (10 minutes) | Included |
| Florals and decor | Included |
| Horse and carriage | Included |
| Wedding planning fee | Included |
| Outdoor dining (wedding night) | Included |
| Photographer (2 nights) | Included |
| Videographers (2 nights) | Included |
| Archery (daytime activity) | Included |
| Gratuities for vendors | Included |
| Shuttle bus (local train station) | Included |
Additional Wedding Costs
Beyond the all-inclusive venue package offered by the French chateau, the couple had a few extra expenses to make their wedding and pre-wedding events perfect:
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Extended videography of the full wedding | $3,000 |
| Hair and makeup (bride and friends) | $1,210 |
| Second wedding shoot in Paris (2 days after the wedding) | $770 |
| Wedding dress (including alterations) | $4,600 |
| Extra dresses (dinners, bachelorette, etc.) | $2,500 – $3,000 |
| Groom’s attire (suits, shoes, accessories) | $2,000 |
| Bachelorette party (15 pax, in Paris: private sunset cruise and clubbing) | $2,000 |
| Paris accommodations for guests (5 nights, pre-wedding) | $3,000 |
| Extra off-site accommodation at the wedding venue | $660 |
| Honeymoon (4 weeks in South of France, Monaco, London) | $15,000 – $20,000 |
| Custom rings | $12,500 |
| Dance lessons | $600 |
Breakdown of Specific Wedding Expenses
Videography
The couple opted for an extended cut of our wedding video, costing an additional $3,000. This included a 17-minute highlight reel and a full-length 3-hour cinematic cut with all the special moments.
Hair and Makeup
For hair and makeup, the couple spent €1,100 (approximately $1,210) covering trials, transportation, services for the bride, mother of the bride, and two others, and an early morning session for a photoshoot in Paris.
Wedding Dress and Attire
The wedding dress, including alterations, cost $4,600. Additional dresses for various events added up to $2,500 – $3,000, while the groom’s attire was around $2,000.
Pre-Wedding and Bachelorette Events
The couple hosted a bachelorette party in Paris, costing $2,000. This included a private sunset boat cruise and clubbing, with accommodations at a luxury hotel using credit card points.
Accommodations
The couple spent $3,000 on Airbnb accommodations in Paris for the wedding party and family. Additional off-site accommodations near the venue cost $660.
Honeymoon
The couple’s honeymoon was a luxurious 4-week trip through the South of France, Monaco, and London, costing between $15,000 and $20,000.
Rings
Custom rings cost the couple $12,500, including a custom set for the bride and a custom band for the groom, incorporating heirloom family diamonds.
Dance Lessons
Dance lessons cost $600, ensuring that the couple was ready for their first dance as newlyweds.
Read on: Find more information about the cost of a wedding in a French chateau here!
More Destination Wedding Cost Breakdowns
While the costs of a destination wedding can add up quickly, the result is an unforgettable event for you and your guests. To help you better budget for your destination wedding, check out our collection of wedding cost breakdowns here.
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