English weddings in Paris, a “shabby chic” spirit

Agathe Benhamou organizes high-end weddings (on average 500 euros per person) for British, American, Australian and Canadian clients, who dream of getting married in the French capital. The creator of the Wedding Paris agency even organized the wedding of an athlete, whose identity remains confidential, in a castle, with crystal tents, for a budget of around 700,000 euros. But what are these foreign couples looking for, looking for a more distant destination to say “I do”? Zoom in on these romantic and elegant getaways in the heart of the French capital.

A unique framework to unite. “English-speaking brides and grooms are looking for exceptional locations such as castles for a princess wedding, Parisian palaces with gilding or even the Baccarat museum, for chic and intimate weddings (up to 60 people)“, specifies the wedding planner. Among the other rooms popular with foreigners in Paris: the France America lounge, the Shangri-La, the castles of Baronville and Bouffémont, which are particularly attractive. In addition, you can organize an outdoor ceremony, in a garden, around a cocktail.

Extensive decor and long tables. In terms of decor, couples appreciate volume. “We focus on a rich and elegant decor with pink, peach colors, but not too much greenery” specifies Agathe Benhamou. The bride and groom are also used to long tables with candlesticks, and generally choose flowers such as roses, peonies, as well as ranunculus in winter. “We also like to work on the play of light by offering candles or a pretty starry sky with a tent. Finally, we adapt the stationery to the colors and theme of the wedding, particularly with invitations, menus and place cards.” adds the wedding planner.

What is Shabby-chic style? For a change of scenery, the British organize a wedding on the theme “country side“, in the countryside, with a “Shabby-chic” decor, explains Agathe. “This is a very chic vintage decor, which can take place in a manor, with an outdoor ceremony and lots of greenery, wooden chairs, all in a very cozy and refined setting…” This particularly retro decor can also be seen in the cars of the newlyweds, who then drive in white convertibles, or Bentley S1 or S2.

The influence of royal family marriages. The weddings of Kate Middleton and Prince William, her sister Pippa, and recently, that of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have made the whole world dream. And many future brides are planning romantic weddings, starting with the princess-style wedding dress. “We are moving more towards covered dresses, with a long train“, like Meghan Markle’s boat neck dress.”We’re moving away from the bobo style, this time with more sophisticated dresses. There are models in princess, mermaid or lace style. What’s also very trendy is to wear two wedding dresses like Meghan and Kate: one more traditional for the ceremony, and the second for dancing.declares Agathe Benhamou. Finally, the trend for wedding cakes, like those enjoyed by the Duchess of Sussex’s guests, is leading couples to call on Lenôtre and Synie’s pastries, which offer beautiful creations. British couples appreciate French traditions such as choux pastry or macaroons, which they even offer as gifts for their guests. But for wedding cakes, they particularly like those filled with red fruits.

British bride and groom traditions. If the spouses unite in France, they do not leave their customs aside. The bridesmaids’ outfits are chosen with care (different shapes, but the same color), and their role is essential on the big day with the young bride.

Finally, contrary to our habits, the “rehearsal dinner“, the rehearsal dinner which takes place the day before the wedding, is essential in the organization of British weddings. “During this cocktail where loved ones are well dressed, families get to know each other over a refined dinner.”specifies Agathe Benhamou.