Tucked away in the unspoiled beauty of Southwest France, the Dune de Pyla and its surrounding coastline provided the dreamiest setting for this intimate elopement editorial by KATY LUNSFORD. While Provence, Paris, and the French Riviera often steal the spotlight, this region offers something entirely unique—endless stretches of sandy beaches, dramatic dunes, and tranquil pine forests, creating a breathtakingly wild and romantic atmosphere.
For this stunning seaside celebration, a color palette of blush, sand, gold, and aqua was carefully chosen to reflect the natural beauty of the surroundings. The bride, Marine, embodied effortless elegance in a flowing blush gown by MYWONY, its soft hues mirroring the delicate tones of the sunset. Paired with sparkling BELLA BELLE sandals, her look was ethereal yet practical, perfect for strolling hand-in-hand across the sand. The groom, Sammi, embraced relaxed sophistication in a sand-toned linen suit, with rolled-up trousers—ideal for carrying his bride from the boat to shore.
The day began with a private sail aboard a traditional wooden ‘Pinasse’ boat with PINASSE LA PYLATAISE, gliding across the calm waters of Arcachon Bay. The couple arrived at a secluded sandbank, where they exchanged heartfelt, bespoke vows in the midst of nature’s quiet serenity. After their intimate ceremony, they set sail once again, crossing the bay to a candlelit dinner at the foot of the Dune de Pyla, Europe’s tallest sand dune.
A color palette of blush, sand, gold, and aqua was carefully chosen to reflect the natural beauty of the surroundings.
THE PHOTOGRAPHY
KATY LUNSFORD’S photography for this breathtaking editorial perfectly encapsulates the raw beauty and romance of the coastal landscape. With her signature fine art approach, she masterfully balanced soft, dreamy light with the untamed elements of the dunes and sea, creating a visual narrative that feels both intimate and cinematic.
Her use of natural light elevated every detail—from the golden glow of the setting sun reflecting on the sand to the delicate textures of the bride’s MYWONY gown billowing in the wind. Katy’s eye for composition allowed her to frame each moment beautifully, whether capturing the couple’s tender exchange of vows on a deserted sandbank, the quiet anticipation of their boat ride across the bay, or the opulent yet organic tablescape set against the wild dunes.
Katy’s portraits of Marine and Sammi feel effortless and authentic, highlighting their connection in a way that feels as natural as the waves rolling onto shore. She embraced the rugged textures of the landscape—windswept grasses, soft dunes, and weathered wood—allowing them to complement the romantic aesthetic of the shoot rather than compete with it. From intricate close-ups of gold-accented tablescapes and delicate calligraphy to sweeping, cinematic shots of the vast coastline, Katy’s photography tells a complete and immersive love story. Her attention to detail and masterful use of light and texture created a gallery that feels timeless, evoking the dreamlike atmosphere of an intimate seaside escape.
Katy’s use of natural light elevated every detail—from the golden glow of the setting sun reflecting on the sand to the delicate textures of the bride’s Mywony gown billowing in the wind.
INSPIRED BY…
Drawing inspiration from the coastal landscape, the florals by FABULOUS THINGS remained organic and refined. Classic cream roses were paired with wild grasses, evoking the natural beauty of the dunes. With design & planning by AWARD WEDDINGS, the tablescape blended rustic elegance with touches of luxury—ornate gold charger plates and delicate gold-patterned tableware added an opulent touch, while calligraphy menus and vows added a personal, intimate feel. Coral, shells, and earthy textures paid homage to the coastal setting, seamlessly merging nature with refined styling. A low table surrounded by plush scatter cushions created a cozy, intimate dining experience, enhanced by flickering candlelight, lanterns, and soft blankets for warmth as the evening cooled.
This editorial perfectly captures the essence of an intimate, nature-inspired wedding—where luxury meets raw beauty, and love takes center stage amidst the endless expanse of sand, sea, and sky.
While Provence, Paris, and the French Riviera often steal the spotlight, this region offers something entirely unique—endless stretches of sandy beaches, dramatic dunes, and tranquil pine forests, creating a breathtakingly wild and romantic atmosphere.
SUNSET
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Marine and Sammi toasted to their new chapter with champagne, feasting on freshly caught oysters while waves lapped gently in the background. Their elopement was a true celebration of love—wild, free, and deeply romantic—set against one of France’s most breathtaking landscapes.
