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Guest Post: Claire of Maison Bounon shares her top tips for planning your destination wedding in Provence, France
Hilltop villages. Endless rows of lavender. Olive trees. And golden, dreamy light found no other place in the world. I can only be speaking of Provence, France—one of the most romantic places and a perfect location for couples planning a destination wedding. But planning your dream destination wedding in Provence can be challenging, especially if you’re planning it from afar.
My dear friend Claire of Maison Bounon is a wedding planner for international couples in Provence. She grew up in Paris, lived in the States for a few years, and now calls Provence home. She has a heart for helping international couples plan their dream weddings in Provence. We collaborated on a summer shoot in Provence last year, and I can say this girl knows Provence and loves serving couples celebrating their wedding there.
She’s been kind enough to share her top tips for planning your destination wedding in Provence:
01. Visit the area in advance
Being far away when planning your destination wedding isn’t easy, so make sure to plan one or two visits to the area before your wedding day. Site visits will ensure you have the best feeling about the area and your venue (location is key!). During your visit, you can also book a tasting with your selected caterer and do a make up and hair trial. That way you can avoid any surprises!
02. Prepare for a multi-day event
With guests coming from all over the world, you want to make sure they enjoy your company, enjoy their stay in Provence, and that the whole trip is truly worth it for them. Ask yourself: What kind of experience do you want your guests to take away? Usually, couples plan for a 3-day celebration in Provence, including a welcome dinner, the wedding day, and a farewell brunch. That way, your guests can truly make the most out of their trip.
03. Hire a photographer based in Europe who is familiar with Provence
A European-based photographer who is familiar with Provence, has worked with inter-cultural couples, and is comfortable with destination weddings can easily work with a couple at their wedding in Provence. And hiring a photographer who also speaks your language is a no-brainer!
Hiring a photographer who’s familiar with Provence will also ensure you have your moments beautifully captured in a way that breathes the feeling of the South of France to life.
04. Be mindful of the weather in the summer
Summer in Provence gets very hot! If possible, select a wedding day in May, June, or September instead of July and August. Some venues even offer discounts for off-peak months—so it’s a win-win!
Also make sure there will be shade at the ceremony area or have fans, hats, and water for your guests and for you as a couple (you’ll be the ones doing the talking!).
And for a summer wedding, you can forget the long-sleeved dress—believe me, you’ll thank me later.
05. Hire a destination wedding planner based in Provence
A destination wedding planner based in Provence who is used to working with international clientele, can help with the language barrier, reduce your budget, guide you in choosing the right venue, and can recommend the best vendors. As a wedding planner myself, I can tell you that I’ll be there on your wedding day coordinating everything and making sure you have nothing to worry about!
A massive thank you to Claire of Maison Bounon for sharing these tips for planning a destination wedding in Provence.
More inspiration for your wedding in Provence:
Tour of Château d’Estoublon | Wedding Venue in Provence
