Planning a wedding abroad is a dream for many American couples — and France, with its timeless beauty, world-class cuisine, and romantic charm, is one of the most sought-after destinations. But planning a destination wedding in another country comes with a unique set of challenges. That’s where expert guidance makes all the difference.
In this comprehensive guide, we walk you through every step of organizing your dream wedding in France, with tips tailored specifically for U.S.-based couples.
It's no wonder that weddings are such a cherished and treasured tradition, and that they continue to capture our hearts and imaginations year after year. The preparations for a wedding can be extensive and take a significant amount of time and effort. Choosing the perfect wedding dress, coordinating the venue and catering, selecting flowers and decor, and creating the perfect playlist are just a few of the many details that go into planning a wedding.
Why France is the Perfect Destination for Your Wedding
From Parisian rooftops to vineyard estates in Provence and sun-kissed villas on the French Riviera, France offers a wide variety of breathtaking venues. Couples choose France for:
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Its romantic atmosphere
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The diversity of landscapes
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Rich cultural heritage
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World-class food and wine
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Elegant châteaux and historic venues
Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate elopement in Paris or a grand château celebration in the Loire Valley, France offers something truly unforgettable.
Step 1: Choose Your Region in France
Each region has its own charm. Here are a few popular choices for American couples:
Paris
Ideal for chic city weddings, elopements, and iconic photo opportunities (hello, Eiffel Tower!).
Provence
Think lavender fields, vineyards, rustic villas, and golden light. Perfect for outdoor summer weddings.
French Riviera
Glamour, seaside views, and sun-soaked luxury in Saint-Tropez, Nice, or Cannes.
Loire Valley
A fairy-tale setting with the most stunning French châteaux and rich history.
Normandy & Bordeaux
Lush greenery, coastal charm, and wine country romance for a more authentic French experience.
Step 2: Understand the Legal vs. Symbolic Ceremony
Legal Ceremony in France
To legally marry in France, one of the partners must reside in the country for at least 30 consecutive days before the wedding. Most American couples opt to do the legal ceremony in the U.S. and a symbolic ceremony in France.
Symbolic Ceremony
A symbolic ceremony allows for total freedom — choose your location, celebrant, and style with no legal constraints. It looks and feels exactly like a wedding, minus the paperwork.
Step 3: Hire a Wedding Planner in France
Planning a wedding remotely involves:
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Navigating language and cultural differences
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Vetting vendors
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Coordinating timelines across time zones
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Handling contracts, logistics, and guest experience
A local wedding planner ensures a seamless process from day one. At French Wedding Planner, we specialize in helping American couples create unforgettable weddings across France with total peace of mind.
Step 4: Book Your Venue Early
Popular venues (especially châteaux) book up 12 to 18 months in advance. Once you know your guest count, preferred date, and region, venue sourcing should be your priority.
Step 5: Curate Your Dream Vendor Team
In France, you’ll need to source:
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Venue
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Catering
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Photographer & Videographer
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Florist
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Hair & Makeup Artist
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DJ or Live Band
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Transportation
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Officiant (for symbolic ceremonies)
Your planner can help you build a trusted, English-speaking vendor team that matches your budget and aesthetic.
Step 6: Think About Your Guests
Help your guests have a smooth experience:
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Share hotel blocks and local travel info early
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Create a bilingual wedding website
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Plan welcome events and group transportation
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Offer help with cultural etiquette (dress code, timelines, etc.)
Step 7: Don’t Forget the Details
Small touches make a big difference:
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Welcome bags with local treats
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Champagne sabrage
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French menu with wine pairings
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Custom signage in French & English
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Lavender toss instead of rice
Step 8: Enjoy Your Day
With the right team by your side, your destination wedding in France will feel effortless and magical. Relax, soak it in, and savor every beautiful detail.
