It has been a dream of mine to capture a European wedding for a long time, and I was honored to be Yvonne and Nico’s destination wedding photographer in France. Yvonne and I met while both studying photography at Massachusetts College of Art & Design, so being able to capture this special day for her and Nico was truly unforgettable. The wedding day was intimate, intentional, and filled with cultural significance and traditions. Guests traveled from around the world to celebrate Yvonne and Nico! 

Yvonne and Nico first met and now live in Hong Kong. Wanting to honor both families’ traditions, they planned two weddings: their 2023 celebration in Hong Kong, which reflected the bride’s heritage, and this 2024 wedding in Brioude, France. This French celebration, set in Nico’s hometown, was a beautiful homage to his culture, blending old-world elegance, timeless French charm, and sophisticated details.

Destination Wedding Photographer for France Wedding

The day began quietly at La Sapinière, a gorgeous countryside hotel. The bridal party got ready, shared gifts, and prepared for the tea ceremony at the groom’s parent’s home. This traditional tea ceremony, with its cultural customs and gift exchanges, brought together family and the wedding party in a meaningful way. They shared their favorite whiskey before getting dressed for the ceremony.

The ceremony took place at the Basilica of Saint-Julien de Brioude, a church that you can see from the groom’s parent’s home. The church was built between the 11th and 13th centuries, and honors Saint Julian, a 4th-century martyr. Known for its colorful stonework and medieval frescoes, it’s a significant Romanesque pilgrimage site in France’s Auvergne region. The ceremony was conducted entirely in French, adding to the authentic atmosphere. Following the vows, the couple exited the church under a shower of lavender, a tradition in French weddings. Photographing the lavender toss outside of the church as the recessed out was such a fun celebration and one of my favorite moments from the day!

Documentary Style Destination Wedding Photographer

The couple hopped in a vintage car to be transported to the venue in style. There are actually only two of these vintage cars that exist in the world so this was extra special!  The cocktail hour was held in a beautiful garden at Château de la Grange Fort and guests could retreat into the chateau when needed. The atmosphere was relaxed, yet very sophisticated as they enjoyed company, champagne, and appetizers from the catering team. 

It was important for Yvonne and Nico to let their guests have time to connect and get to know one another. I enjoyed being able to step back and take a documentary-style approach to capture guests as they mingled and connected. It was incredible to see people from all over the world come together to celebrate this couple. It was truly special to witness all the love they were surrounded by.

Wedding Reception at Château de la Grange Fort

Dinner was a four-course Michelin-star culinary experience with a curated menu paired with fine wine and champagne. It was incredible! Guests were treated to a surprise presentation of a cheesecake before the dancing began at 1 am. The evening kicked off with their first dance and a father-daughter dance, followed by a lively after-party complete with homemade limoncello and late-night ramen noodles.

When I asked Yvonne for advice for other couples planning a destination wedding, she emphasized the importance of investing in quality vendors. She mentioned that while there may be budget options, they often don’t provide the same level of service. Photographs last a lifetime, and trusting your photographer is essential. I felt incredibly honored to be chosen to document their wedding day and deliver beautiful photographs they’ll cherish forever.

Kerri McWade Photography is ready to travel for your destination wedding! Inquire today to get started planning and guarantee you have gorgeous images from your wedding day!

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Vendor Team 

Photographer: Kerri McWade Photography

Bride Getting Ready: Hotel Sapiniere Brioude

Venue & Accommodations: Château de la Grange Fort

Hair & Makeup: Sapphire Shen

Chef & Catering: Dorian Van Bronkhorst & L’Atelier Yssoirien

Dress: Marianne’s Bridal

Church Ceremony: Basilique St-Julien, Brioude

Invitations & Calligraphy: Be One Letter

Jewelry: Artsy Fine Jewellery

Cheese Cake Chef: Fromagerie Souchal