Jess and Ollie’s wedding at CHÂTEAU CAZENAC, beautifully captured by Magnolia Rouge Vendor MICHAEL MANN, was a celebration of love, laughter, and carefully curated details. With the stunning Dordogne countryside as their backdrop, the couple wanted a wedding that felt authentically them — relaxed, elegant, and full of cherished moments. PAMELA HARMEY their talented wedding planner, ensured that each element flowed seamlessly, creating a weekend-long experience that both families and friends would remember for years to come.
How They Met and the Proposal
Their story began during the pandemic, meeting through mutual friends, and was marked by cozy park dates and long weekends playing Jenga over wine. Ollie’s humor and charisma quickly captured Jess’s heart. The proposal, intimate and private, took place in Melbourne, allowing Jess to celebrate surrounded by family — exactly the way they envisioned such a personal milestone.
The Venue: Château Cazenac
Choosing CHÂTEAU CAZENAC was effortless. Jess and Ollie fell in love with the venue’s combination of historic charm and immaculate renovation. Its grounds, elegant interiors, and dog-friendly policies allowed them to celebrate with their beloved black labrador, Teddy, who quickly settled into château life. The venue’s staff, Adam and Marion, made the couple feel completely at home, setting the tone for a relaxed yet refined celebration.
Getting Ready and First Look Moments
Jess’s morning was a serene start to the day, filled with champagne, heartfelt notes from her bridesmaids, and the excitement of preparing with her mother. The first look with her dad and brother was tender and meaningful, a quiet moment before the ceremony’s emotions unfolded. Meanwhile, Ollie and his groomsmen enjoyed a morning kayaking along the Dordogne, returning ready for a day of celebration.
Style and Florals
Jess envisioned a wedding that was timeless and classic. Her A-line gown with lace detailing and cathedral-length veil perfectly complemented the day’s understated elegance. The bridal party’s chocolate-brown dresses added warmth, while the florals — crisp white blooms and eucalyptus — brought minimalistic charm with a nod to Jess’s Australian roots. LES FLEURS executed these arrangements beautifully, adding effortless greenery and texture that harmonized with the château’s historic beauty.
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour
The ceremony was intimate and deeply personal, with readings by close friends, personal vows, and thoughtful acknowledgments of each member of the bridal party. Celebrant Alison captured the couple’s personality perfectly. Guests enjoyed an elegant cocktail hour with champagne and canapés, accompanied by a live acoustic band, all while overlooking the Dordogne valley bathed in sunlight.
Reception and Celebration
The reception blended elegance with energy. A long outdoor table allowed for shared conversations and captured the perfect photo opportunities. THE ROVERS provided a roving musical set during dinner, keeping everyone on their feet, while two incredible MCs guided speeches and toasts with charm and humor. Dinner, a stunning array of local wines from Guy Boursot in Calais, and a dessert table capped off the night in true French fashion. The couple’s playful entrance from the Juliet balcony was a highlight, marking the start of a reception full of laughter, dancing, and connection.
A Honeymoon to Remember
After the celebrations, Jess and Ollie escaped to Greece for nine unforgettable days. From exploring Milos and Paros to breathtaking helicopter rides over Santorini, their honeymoon was the perfect continuation of a celebration marked by beauty, adventure, and love.
A Lasting Impression
Jess and Ollie’s CHÂTEAU CAZENAC wedding was a perfect blend of timeless elegance, personal touches, and joyful celebration. MICHAEL MANN’S photography captured the romance, intimacy, and beauty of the day so exquisitely, preserving memories that will be treasured for a lifetime.
