What was meant to be an inspiration editorial at Château de Queille in France, very quickly (and lovingly) turns into a romantic elopement right before our eyes! Ambre and Romain didn’t think they they would ever have a real wedding because of money, the coronavirus pandemic + other private reasons. However, they were more than happy to participate in a photoshoot for the fun of the experience.
Knowingly, Rubijoy Wedding Planning, Pattie Fellowes Photography and the other artists behind this inspiration flipped the script – producing the day as if it were A + R’s real elopement! Vows were exchanged, and we blame it entirely on the captivating charm of the French countryside.
It’s incredibly romantic, captivatingly charming and all about to unfold right in front of our eyes…
Organza Wedding Dress
Our bride, Ambre, starts the dreamy day wearing this SKYE dress from Marielle Maury. The soft + romantic gown is made of organic silk crepe and silk embroidered with organic cotton for the bodice. The knotted organza top with its ample sleeves plays with transparency and softness…a dreamy fit for this Château elopement!
French Countryside Château
The floral style Sarah Menager uses for this romantic elopement is inspired by the stunning gardens of the Château. We love its wild nature – mixing in the whimsical beauty of natural gardens. The soft subtle contrasts of dahlias and roses make our hearts sing!
The 18th century Château is a tranquil and secluded place, surrounded by forests, meadows + a river. Perched on rocks, it overlooks breathtaking views! For good reason, it’s beautifully restored to maintain its history, but fresh + welcoming. Idyllic spot for a wedding in the French countryside!
A Wedding Dress with Movement
Annette Carr, the bridal hairstylist, creates a romantic boho updo for Ambre’s beautiful long red hair. For a beautiful contrast, delicate pieces of foliage + pink gypsophila are nestled throughout the style. And oh how this organza dress brings movement!
Romanesque Chapel Elopement
A + R exchange vows from their hearts at the 11th century romanesque chapel. It looks especially magical and warm while illuminated with candles!
Ambre reflects on the day and writes: After this never ending lockdown period, this romantic escape was like a dream. Even after 10 years together, a wedding had never been in our plans. However, we took the opportunity of this fantastic elopement to immortalize and celebrate our love.
All was organized as if it had always been there waiting for us to find the way of this romantic place. The team was excellent, they involved us in planning, from choosing the wedding dress to flowers and even our rings. They gave us lots of privacy on the day, as if they knew what was happening. We’re so grateful for this wonderful opportunity!
Picnic Reception on the Château Grounds
We are forever advocates of an outfit change, just like this lovely change to the HERA dress! Looking like liquid gold, the dress is made of 100% linen – natural and ecological as well as very refined. Perfect for this little post-elopement picnic celebration.
After dinner, the couple is served their wedding cake, by Marie Arvidsson. Here is a light lemon sponge with layers of fresh raspberry coulis + lemon curd with meringue crumbs. In true French countryside fashion, it’s decorated by seasonal lavender for a sublime sensation!
If you’re as captivated by the French countryside as we are, check out this Iranian-inspired wedding with a spectacular bespoke dress!
Katy Fendall Designs leaves us with this bit of video magic.
photography: Pattie Fellowes Photography // venue name: Château de Queille, Saint-Quentin-la-Tour, Ariege, France // planning: Rubijoy Wedding Planner // florals: Sarah Menager // wedding dress: Marielle Maury // bride’s ring: Bijouterie Mohedano // hair stylist: Annette Carr // makeup artist: Sarah Rees // groom’s ring: Bijouterie Mohedano // videography: Katy Fendall Designs // paper goods: Cléo Lebrun – Atelier d’art // cake: Marie Arvidsson // linen rentals: Marielle Maury // hat: Chapellerie Emona, Carcassone // jewelery: Distinctly Caitlin Designs