A wedding in France is the dream—romantic châteaux, breathtaking vineyards, and that effortless elegance the French do so well. But while planning a destination wedding in France sounds like a fairytale, there are a few surprises couples don’t always anticipate.
Before you start envisioning your Champagne tower and sunset portraits in a lavender field, here are five things no one tells you about getting married in France—and how to make sure your wedding day is as magical as you imagine.
1. You (Probably) Can’t Legally Get Married in France
One of the biggest surprises for couples planning a wedding in France? The legal side is trickier than you think. Unlike some destination wedding spots where you can show up with your passport and get married, France requires at least one of you to be a resident for 40 consecutive days before the civil ceremony.
What This Means for You:
💍 Most couples have a symbolic or religious ceremony in France and take care of the legal paperwork in their home country first.
🏛 If you do want a legal wedding in France, consider a civil ceremony at your local town hall (mairie) and then have your dream celebration in France.
Pro Tip: Check out France’s official government site for up-to-date legal marriage requirements.
2. French Wedding Timelines Are More Relaxed—But Vendors Book Up Fast
French culture embraces a laid-back, slow-living philosophy, and this extends to weddings. Unlike the U.S., where vendors reply within 24-48 hours, don’t be surprised if it takes a few days (or longer) to hear back from a venue or planner.
What to Expect:
📅 Patience is key—French wedding vendors operate on a slower timeline but deliver incredible results.
📌 Many venues and vendors book out a year or more in advance, especially in popular regions like Provence, Bordeaux, and the Loire Valley.
📝 Contracts may be in French, so hiring a bilingual planner or translator can be a game-changer.
Pro Tip: Lock in your venue and key vendors (photographer, planner, caterer) as early as possible to avoid last-minute stress.
3. French Wedding Receptions Are an All-Night Affair
If you’re picturing a traditional 5-hour reception, think again. French weddings are an all-day, all-night celebration, and it’s common for dinner to last several hours—followed by dancing until sunrise.
What This Means for You:
🥂 Dinner is an event in itself, often with 4-7 courses and long, leisurely toasts.
🎶 Dancing doesn’t start until midnight—so be prepared for an epic late-night party.
🍰 The traditional wedding cake? No towering tiers here—expect a croquembouche, a pyramid of cream-filled pastry puffs.
Pro Tip: If you love the idea of an elegant but relaxed dinner, embrace the long meal—but if you want to keep things moving, discuss timing with your planner.
4. Some of the Dreamiest Venues Are in Remote Locations
That secluded château in the countryside? Absolutely breathtaking—but it also might be miles from the nearest town (or hotel).
Things to Consider:
🚗 Guest transportation—Many rural venues don’t have Uber or taxis readily available.
🏨 On-site accommodations—Some venues offer guest lodging, but if not, you’ll need to book a block of rooms nearby.
🛤 Road access—Smaller villages and countryside estates may have winding, narrow roads that require shuttle services.
Pro Tip: Check out this list of the most breathtaking château wedding venues in France to start your venue search.
5. The Weather Can Be Unpredictable—Even in Summer
Yes, France is known for its gorgeous weather, but don’t assume a summer wedding means sunshine all day.
What You Need to Know:
☀️ South of France (Provence, Nice, Riviera): Hot and dry in summer, with occasional Mistral winds.
🌦 Paris & Loire Valley: Warm but can be rainy, even in peak season.
🍇 Bordeaux: September and October can be ideal for vineyard weddings, but summer can be humid.
Pro Tip: Have a rain plan! Many venues offer indoor alternatives, but if not, consider renting a stylish tent or marquee.
A wedding in France is an experience unlike any other—elegant, immersive, and unforgettable. While there are some logistics to navigate, with the right planning (and the right team of vendors!), your French wedding will be nothing short of magical.
Looking for a photographer who captures your wedding in an editorial yet documentary style? Let’s connect.
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