It’s the end of August and we find ourselves at La Cannonerie – in the middle of the Cognac vines of Charente-Maritime surrounded by beautiful countryside as far as the eye can see. Our venue is a beautifully restored former cognac estate, the domaine including an impressive courtyard, a pretty loggia providing cover, party barn, pool and guest cottages.

 

For Mike and Sophie, the perfect place to escape for their wedding and to share their love of France, good wines and food in this beautiful location with their friends and family.

 

   

 

We joined Sophie in her cottage with bridesmaids Karen, Chloe and Sarah and mum Lizz. Hair and Make up for the girls was done by professionals Angélique and Elodye. Mary, Mike’s mum, joined the girls for a celebratory glass of fizz as they were getting ready. We made time to take photos of Sophie’s details, wedding sandals from Paradox, London and her dress all the while capturing interactions between the girls.

 

      

 

Mike and his groomsmen looked the part with their stylish attire from Peter Posh. Ready with plenty of time to spare allowed for a limited edition cognac (or two) by artisans Raymond Bossis.  

 

   

   

 

Back to bride preparation, what a stunning gown! Sophie’s choice was a Phoenix design from Confetti & Lace bridal shop in Leeds. Beautiful seasonal bouquets and flower decor were created by Shelley at The Petal Drop based in Cognac and Bordeaux regions.

 

   

 

   

 

Sophie walked down the aisle with dad Graham, to Beautiful Crazy by Luke Combs.

 

   

 

Celebrant Alison and the couple coped amazingly with the heat (as did their guests). Alison presented a unique and caring ceremony for Mike & Sophie, which included a couple of readings by their witnesses and presentation of a gift for the couple. We included one of the readings in their wedding photo book – a gorgeous and fun poem about how Snoopy (Sophie) had met her Woodstock (Mike) and their early years together.

 

 

 

After the confetti throw, it was time for apéro and canapés (much appreciated given the heat) plus VIP and guest photos ensuring a mix of formal and candid.  

 

During the afternoon Sophie & Mike had arranged a wine tasting session by Jesse Knight from Man vs Wine.  His knowledge and enthusiasm and great selection of wines in such a lovely environment, added to the experience.

 

 

 

 

On the day coordination and catering was by Rosie and her talented team from Party in France. The wedding breakfast took place under the Loggia providing cover from the sunshine and yet retaining an outdoor dining experience.

 

   

 

Traditional wedding speeches resulted in lots of laughter and many genuine expressions of love for the couple. It was a nice touch that Mike involved all his groomsmen with a personal letter – a touch of humour and also representing their heartfelt friendship.

 

      

 

The couple had really wanted some ‘golden hour’ photos in the vineyards surrounding the venue.  Great except the clouds had covered the western skyline leaving little in the way of sunshine. With a little magic (!), a Godox flash and Magmod gels we recreated the sun.

 

   

 

Next stop everyone to the party barn where an elegant ‘pyramide au macarons’, made by Sylvie at SNpatisseries, was presented to the couple and their guests – a great finish to their meal and to start the evening reception. 

 

   

 

Mike and Sophie opened the dance floor with Just the way you are by Billy Joel and the evening’s entertainment by live band Popcorn Factory Orchestra, kept the dance floor busy.

 

 

Congratulations Mike and Sophie – all the best for the future!

 

To find out more about how we can work with you for your wedding contact us HERE

 

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