How to Plan a Wedding in Provence: A Step-by-Step Guide

Provence is one of the most enchanting regions in France to say « I do. » With its rolling lavender fields, golden vineyards, sun-soaked stone villages, and slow-paced charm, it’s no wonder so many American couples choose Provence for their destination wedding.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step to plan your dream wedding in Provence — from selecting the right venue to organizing local vendors, managing guest logistics, and choosing the best time of year. Whether you want an intimate celebration or a multi-day event in a countryside estate, this region is made for unforgettable moments.

 

Why Choose Provence for Your Wedding?

Provence offers a unique blend of elegance, rustic charm, and Mediterranean sunshine. Here’s why it’s a top wedding destination:

  • Iconic natural beauty (lavender fields, olive groves, vineyards)

  • Mild Mediterranean climate

  • Historic bastides and stone farmhouses for venue options

  • Excellent local cuisine and world-class rosé wine

  • Authentic French countryside charm with luxury hospitality

From Avignon to Aix-en-Provence and the Luberon Valley, Provence is the perfect region for a romantic escape.

 

Step 1: Choose the Right Time of Year

The best months to get married in Provence are May through October. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • May & June: Lush greenery, pleasant weather, fewer tourists

  • July: Lavender in full bloom — iconic photo ops, but it’s hot

  • August: High season; beautiful but more crowded and expensive

  • September: Ideal for vineyard weddings during the grape harvest

  • October: Quieter, golden landscapes, cooler evenings

Avoid November to March if you’re looking for outdoor celebrations — many venues close for the winter.

 

Step 2: Select a Venue That Fits Your Style

Popular venue types in Provence include:

  • Private Villas: Great for intimate weddings and weekend stays

  • Mas Provençal (farmhouses): Rustic-chic charm, perfect for laid-back celebrations

  • Châteaux: For classic elegance and a fairytale setting

  • Vineyards & Domains: Great for wine lovers and panoramic views

Work with a wedding planner to shortlist venues that match your aesthetic, guest count, and budget.

 

Step 3: Consider the Logistics (Especially for Guests)

Provence is accessible but requires some planning:

  • Nearest airports: Marseille (MRS), Avignon (AVN), Nice (NCE)

  • Accommodations: Book room blocks in local hotels or rent entire properties

  • Transportation: Arrange shuttles or private drivers for wedding day and guest excursions

Provence weddings often span a whole weekend — including a welcome dinner, wedding day, and a farewell brunch. Your planner can help coordinate the full experience.

 

Step 4: Source Local Vendors You Can Trust

A Provence wedding requires a talented team who understands your vision:

  • Caterers: Expect Provençal menus with olive oil, tomatoes, lamb, and rosé

  • Florists: Local blooms like lavender, peonies, olive branches, and wildflowers

  • Musicians: Live jazz, acoustic guitar, or a traditional French band

  • Photographers: Familiar with the light and architecture of Provence

  • Hair & Makeup: Professionals who can create natural, elegant styles that withstand heat

If you’re planning from the U.S., vendor selection is one of the most challenging aspects. That’s where our Essential Pack can be invaluable:

✅ You fill out a form with your preferences
✅ We send back 5 handpicked vendors per category (venue, caterer, florist, etc.)
✅ All vendors are French Wedding Planner–certified
✅ You manage the bookings yourself — no stress, no guesswork
✅ One-time fee: $500

 

Step 5: Choose Your Ceremony & Reception Style

Whether you’re planning a religious, symbolic, or civil wedding, Provence offers stunning locations:

  • Ceremony under olive trees or a floral arch

  • Reception in a courtyard with string lights and long wooden tables

  • Dancing under the stars to the sound of a live band

Your planner will help you personalize your ceremony, find the right officiant, and coordinate all decorative details.

 

Step 6: Add Provençal Touches to Personalize Your Day

To make your wedding feel truly local, consider incorporating Provençal elements:

  • Lavender confetti or bundles as favors

  • Rosé and pastis as pre-ceremony drinks

  • Local cheeses, tapenades, and figs during cocktail hour

  • Vintage 2CV or Citroën for your getaway car

  • Provençal linens and ceramic tableware

These little details add personality and immerse your guests in the culture of southern France.

 

Final Thoughts

Planning a wedding in Provence is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With the right support, you can enjoy the beauty, cuisine, and soul of this region without the stress of managing everything alone.

Whether you choose full wedding planning, a premium vendor booking service, or the Essential Pack, French Wedding Planner is here to help you craft a day as effortlessly beautiful as the landscape itself.

👉 Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable wedding in Provence.

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Planning a Destination Wedding in France? Let’s Make It Unforgettable.

If you're an American couple dreaming of getting married in France, we’re here to make it easy, elegant, and entirely personalized. At French Wedding Planner, we specialize in creating unforgettable destination weddings across Paris, Provence, the French Riviera, and the Loire Valley. From luxurious châteaux to seaside villas and historic venues, we design and coordinate weddings that reflect your unique story and style.

Use the form below to get in touch. We can’t wait to help you plan the French wedding of your dreams.






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