Suzanne & Chris | Married in France
When I get an enquiry asking if I travel aboard to photograph weddings my answer is always a resounding “YES!” Suzanne and Chris told me they were getting married in France, specifically, the beautiful Dordogne region of France. I’ve been lucky enough to travel with my camera to this region before, so I knew I was in for a treat and something special awaited me in the depths of those sun-drenched vineyards. Flying into Bergerac airport is always an experience, a throw back to earlier and more simple times. No giant coffee chains await you here. The basic airport is a world away from the Heathrow departure I had taken an hour before. Collecting the hire car and hitting the road with the windows down, rolling countryside soon passes and all my faith lies with the sat-nav to guide me to my unusually remote chambres d’hotes.
Château de Vieux Mareuil Wedding
Getting married in France is always going to throw up some challenges. Especially when you live in Dubai and have family and friends coming from quite literally all over the world. Suzanne herself is American by half a passport and Brazil makes up the other half. Their big day was meticulously planned by the wonderful Louise from Marry Me in France. Louise ensured everything was perfect from the initial planning stages to the day itself. It was an absolute pleasure to work alongside her. I was also privileged to be teamed up the the awesome Chris from Zen Film Works.
This hidden venue was spread over acres of land all surrounded by breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The main structure, almost castle looking, is an old medieval building on the edge of an ancient Roman road. It has been beautifully restored with refinement and authenticity. The mansion of the courtyard sits in the heart of a medieval park. Separated by the Scented Garden from the historical family home, the Courtyard’s House offers a beautiful view of the French landscape. At one point I scaled the roof to get a shot of Suzanne and Chris outside the quaint chapel with the picturesque landscape as a fitting backdrop.
The highlight for me had to be golden hour, when we got to spend some time creating portraits with the sun setting over the fields surrounding us. It truly was.. un très beau paysage.
LOOKING FOR A DESTINATION WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER?
Thinking of having a wedding abroad? If you like the look of these destination wedding photos I’d love to hear more about you, your wedding day plans and what you want from your destination wedding photographer.
