The most stunning of colours, at a fairytale castle with a wonderful combo of French and UK customs

We had met Ella & Harrison back in the UK in Dec 2023 for their pre-wedding shoot on a cold winter’s day and were so excited to hear of the plans for their wedding bringing together French and English families here in South West France. Plus Steffi at the venue had kindly welcomed us at Chateau d’Aix earlier in the year for a pre-wedding visit and so we were really excited to be back at this rustic old castle in the heat of summer for Ella & Harrison’s wedding, surrounded by the most amazing countryside and lovely people.

The whole team including Miranda (catering) and dog Taco(!) were again welcoming and simply wonderful all day. Ella had chosen the most vibrant, colourful bouquets and decor, provided by talented and eco-responsible florist Emma from Elk Creations. Lovely choice of perfume Penhaligon’s Empressa and a nice touch gifting her bridesmaids a small Eau de Parfum each in their goodie bags.

The girls had great fun getting ready – music, nibbles and a glass of bubbly or two, and with hair, make up and moral support provided by family and friends, including sister Alice, it was a very relaxed and stress-free morning.

Harrison, brothers Frazer and Zach, and groomsmen wore attire from House of Cavani – a perfect combination of style and comfort, given the August summer heat!

Back with the girls and time to get dressed. Ella opted for a figure flattering dress from family run designer wedding dress boutique in our original home town of Leeds; and chose a gorgeous colour palette for her bridesmaids. After a first look with her girls and with the addition of Elk Creations colourful bouquets the girls were ready to join the guests now waiting in the outdoor ceremony area in the hot sun.

The bridal party walked down the aisle to a song written by our very own talented groom which was played live by friends. A very personal ceremony by family member, Ann, was briefly interrupted by the threat of water guns at the point of asking the guests whether anyone had objection to the marriage. Confetti cannons and song by Hall and Oates, You make my dreams (come true), made for a great celebratory walk towards married life.

During cocktail hour, Boris from Portrait Caricature provided entertainment in the form of caricatures – also a magician he’s very talented and on the day drew some unforgettable drawings for the guests.

Jazz group Madame Leon from Toulouse played for the guests – covering great classics, a bit of soul and a few surprising modern numbers played with a jazz twist – they had a full dance floor even during dinner!

Baravan 47 provided the cocktails and bar service all day and through the evening from their stunning converted caravan – a really great look and lovely people. Dinner, speeches went down a treat with a combination of French and English language/ customs and a lot of laughter. Traditional Croquembouque, or piece montée as the French call it, for dessert. Sparkler entrance into the barn for the first dance, and the party was in full flow from the outset.