An opulent bridal experience in the South of France

This Douce Provence-inspired shoot captured by MICKAEL COURTOIS reveals an opulent and subtle bridal experience, celebrating the intimate and distinguished union of Axelle and Valentin, two young adults in love with simplicity, love and fashion. Working with wedding planner LA PHOCÉENNE EVENTS, this "Douce Provence" shoot is illustrated in every element, from the gown and bridal jewelry to the stationery, color palette, floral arrangements, set design and photographic shots.

Taken at the REFERENCE MASTERCLASS run by Provence wedding photographer CHRISTOPHE SERRANO and Provence wedding planner WEP BY STEPHANIE FAYOLLE, the overall atmosphere of the shoot evoked an 'old money' feeling. Where luxury blends harmoniously with warm conviviality. Our aim was to weave an authentic story through photography, faithfully conveying the love that unites Axelle and Valentin, and their shared passions.

Choosing HÔTEL CRILLON LE BRAVE created an authentically intimate, family atmosphere. Situated at the top of a hill, the hotel offers a private village where guests can enjoy the peace and quiet. After a ceremony at Crillon-le-Brave town hall the couple had a photo shoot in the picturesque village streets. Axelle, who wanted a haute couture dress, chose a DAALARNA creation. The symbolism of wheat and deckchairs reveals a profound meaning, dear to the hearts of our bride and groom: that of "quiet luxury".

Afterwards, the newlyweds invited their nearest and dearest to a sweet, poetic and intimate dinner. A long banquet table heralded authentic conviviality, embellished with details precisely evoking the beauty of Provence. White and green floral arrangements, designed by FLORÉSIE, adorned the table, while a tablecloth by MAGNOLIAS ON SILK and romantic tableware added an elegant touch. Stationery by CRÈME DE PAPIER added to the poetic, upscale atmosphere.

For their second wedding day, the newlyweds chose CHÂTEAU LA TOUR VAUCROS, an authentic and majestic venue. Whilst respecting the tradition and simplicity of their Crillon wedding, they were also passionate about couture and gastronomy. For their second day, we wanted to capture this passion. The shoot revolved around haute couture, with shots mixing editorial with fine art.

The details of the Château were of paramount importance in creating an authentic atmosphere for the day. The stonework and wrought-iron furniture evoked a Provençal setting where "quiet luxury" was omnipresent.

The day ended with a most grandiose nuptial dinner! BE LOUNGE installed a glass roof to welcome the bride and groom and their loved ones, while FLORÉSIE created a surprising installation. Green floral pendants, in keeping with the year's trends, added a touch of elegance. The Pantone peach fuzzy hue for 2024, romantically and boldly combined with tableware and stationery, highlighted current trends. Knots, a major trend for 2024, were also in the spotlight.

The team tell us, "For the day, we designed an original flatlay, different from the usual fine art flatlay. At the request of Charlotte, the wedding planner, a black veil, a symbol of luxury, was added under the stationery to inject movement. The stationery, signed Creme de Papier, was arranged in a non-uniform fashion, and the ALBE magazine added a sensitive artistic touch, reflecting the refined tastes of our bride and groom."