“Jonny you were everything we could have hoped for and more! You took amazing photos and were great to have around. So many guests commented how fab you were.”
Laura & Chris | Chateau de la Bourlie Wedding | France
Laura & Chris first met at a friend’s birthday and went on a few dates but things didn’t work out. After 2 years in the US Chris came back in the summer of 2014 and they met again at a friend’s wedding although Laura was off to work in Malaysia and Chris off to work in Poland. However, this time it was different and they had their first proper date at Cafe Rouge in Terminal 3 at Heathrow when Laura left to move to Malaysia. After lots of exotic travel and a very long distance relationship Laura moved to Dubai in summer 2016 and they got engaged in April 2017 in a resort in the middle of the desert on a group holiday with friends.
Why choose Chateau de la Bourlie as your wedding venue?
The dream was always to have a destination wedding. Due to living abroad we don’t get to see our friends and family anywhere near as much as we would like and therefore wanted a three day event so we could spend some quality time with our guests. It was also important that the venue could sleep all the wedding party so that we were all together. As soon as we saw Chateau de la Bourlie we knew it was going to be our wedding venue. It was the one- it had so many areas which were all so picturesque at the design of the building, interior and grounds is just gorgeous. It also meant that there was very little to do in terms of decorating which was handy!
Tell us about the wedding dress.
Initially I wanted something lacy with long sleeves, however, after visiting about 7 dress shops and realising that style didn’t suit I got dress fatigue and settled on Sassi Holford‘s Sienna dress. At the time I thought it was nice but it didn’t blow me away. However, once it was fitted I absolutely loved it and it is the most comfortable piece of clothing I own! I also bought the accompanying cape which completely transformed the outfit for the service. Treating myself to some peachy/orange Jimmy Choos to gave the outfit a splash of colour. They were also extremely comfortable and will get lots of wear for many years to come!
Chris wanted a relaxed and comfortable look so went for a navy Boggi blazer and white shirt, with grey trousers from Massimo Dutti. He then had cashmere tie and pocket square from a Viola Milano. Bridesmaid’s dresses & shoes were Asos.
What was your Chateau de la Bourlie destination wedding inspiration?
Due to living in Dubai we wanted green green and more green! Relaxed, simple, natural and great food and wine. We had lots of homemade details which were made by various friends and family. Our welcome sign was hand painted by one of my bridesmaids. Mum made all the confetti from roses in our garden and hand made lavender bags as favours. I drew a picture of each city we have loved in for our place names.
Advice for those planning a dream destination wedding?
Assign roles to your wedding party on the day so you can just enjoy yourself. Love every minute! Don’t get hung up on little details and enjoy yourself. Prioritize what is important to you then don’t fret about the other stuff. Book stuff early such as the venue and band. Be prepared to go over budget. If you have a planner don’t be afraid to set out clear expectations from the start and if they are not delivering say something.
Life as a married couple
Looking back on the day we chuckle that the bridesmaids went for it much more than the groomsmen! It was so lovely remembering how well everyone got on and enjoyed themselves. One moment that will last with us both forever was walking down the aisle and the time after the ceremony in the courtyard soaking it all up, and of course the dance floor
We’re really looking forward to life as a married couple. Building our new life together in Amsterdam will keep us busy and see us set for many, many happy years!
Chateau de la Bourlie Wedding Supplier Shout Outs
Wedding Planners: Marry Me in France. Make up artists: Jane Emerson: beaute.par.jane@gmail.com. Flowers: Lucy Williams: lucywilliamsevents@gmail.com. Rings: Cara, Dubai – designed by Chris. Catering Company: Chez Amis. Entertainment: Star Preacher: starpreacher@gmail.com. Cars/Transport: Citroen C2v: lagrangesteph@gmail.com
Like the look of these Chateau de la Bourlie Wedding Photos? Maybe you are planning to have the most epic of destination weddings?
Then hit me up via my contact page where you can book a call or fill in my contact form and check my availability.
