It goes without saying that I’m a sucker for a French countryside wedding! It seems that I’m not alone in my thoughts, as this charming French country wedding in Normandy was featured in Martha Stewart Weddings! So when Julia & Crawford reached out to me and shared their plans to gather their friends and family for a week long fête at an elegant château in Normandy, I jumped at the chance to make their wedding dreams come true!

As the comfort of their guests was of the utmost importance, the bride and groom welcomed everybody to the château with bags of goodies such as a bottle of bubbly, personalized cups that read “Cheers” and signature cookies that were designed to both look like the château itself and their lovable pooch Finn who served as the couple’s ring bearer!

Wedding day preparations began with the bride and groom surrounded by their wedding party. The bride’s gal pals donned matching pj sets while they beautified and the groom’s squad prepared with man’s best friend by their side.

The groom looked oh so dapper in his formal tux with white jacket and the bride’s signature hand made designer gown was a sight to behold. The bride actually worked with her dress maker to create a more personalized design! In between the couple’s first look and the ceremony, she secretly adorned her veil and a beautiful tulle train as an added surprise for her groom.

Guests were greeted with a glass of champagne as they took their seats for the ceremony in front of the château. The processional started with the beautiful bridesmaids dressed in hues of blush followed by the cutest furry ring bearer leading his oh so lovely bride down the aisle who walked arm in arm with her parents.

During the planning process, the bride and groom had asked that there be a secret spot so that they could enjoy some alone time before joining their guests for cocktails. A romantic table for two with flowers, champagne and some nibbles was placed in a hidden part of the garden for them to enjoy a quiet moment together!

Champagne and cocktails were served in the garden at the back of the château. Guests nibbled on passed hors d’oeuvres, lamb with Provençal herbs and a buffet of French cheese and charcuterie. While everyone was sipping and chatting and the couple posed for photos while the sun slowly set behind them. Finn even posed in front of the lens himself!

When it was time for dinner, everyone gathered in the main dining room. The dining tables were dressed with elegant ivory linens and blue knotted napkins allowed for a bright pop of color! Gold flatware flanked each guest’s dinner plate where a menu and place card marked their seat. Soft candle light along with the beautiful crystal chandeliers gave the entire space a warm and elegant glow.

Guests dined on foie gras, filet of beef and a variety of vegetarian friendly dishes, each course paired with its own selection of wine. For dessert a delicious buttercream wedding cake (Funfetti flavor!) was served alongside a tower of Croquembouche, the typical wedding dessert in France.

The fun continued with dancing and late night snacks of homemade ice cream and warm crêpes made to order. Everybody danced and partied late into the night; the perfect way to end a week long wedding celebration!

Looking to host your charming French country wedding in Normandy (or another region in France)? Get in touch!

Avec amour,

Jennifer

Photography by Hannah Duffy Photography