Some weddings are a reflection of more than just a couple’s love—they’re rooted in the places and traditions that shape who they are. For Anika and Tim, that place was the Champagne region of France. Tim grew up nearby, and with a shared love for the outdoors, celebration, and (of course) champagne, the choice to wed at the stunning CHÂTEAU COMTESSE LAFOND was as effortless as it was meaningful. Captured beautifully by RACHEL PIETRI, their destination celebration was the perfect blend of simplicity, elegance, and soul.
Their love story began in London in the late summer of 2019, only to be tested just a few months later when Tim moved abroad for work. What was meant to be 18 months turned into three years of long-distance during the pandemic—making their reunion and eventual wedding all the more powerful.
Before tying the knot in France, Anika and Tim legally married in London. Still, they chose to have a first look in Champagne—an intimate moment that allowed them to take it all in, just the two of them. Tim surprised Anika in a crisp white tuxedo, a striking and unexpected look that added a unique twist to their day.
Anika and Tim’s destination wedding in Champagne France was a glorious celebration which brought guests from all over the world together.
PHOTOGRAPHER’S THOUGHTS
“Anika and Tim’s destination wedding in Champagne France was a glorious celebration which brought guests from all over the world together to attend a highly sophisticated weekend. Some stand out elements for me were the Brides choice of bridesmaids dresses in Royal Blue which I absolutely loved, as well as the Grooms’ white suit jacket – not something I get to photograph often! Anika + Tim’s outdoor ceremony at the Chateau Comtesse Lafond was so dreamy, and was followed by a Champagne drinks reception. I was able to take some gorgeous sunset portraits of the couple which the Chateau Comtesse Lafond providing the perfect backdrop.
The couple chose to host a candlelit dinner down inside the Chateau’s wine cellar, which was the perfect nod to their wedding destination choice, and following the meal (which lasted several hours – this was France after all!), Anika changed into a fun party dress ready to cut their chou pastry wedding cake (known as a Croquembouche or Pièce Montée in French). Finally, the day concluded with a surprise firework display in front of the Chateau and a huge dance party back down in the wine cellars complete with glow sticks, which I thought was the perfect accessory to dance the night away and made for some really cool photos!” RACHEL PIETRI, photographer.
At the heart of it all was a love that had already weathered time and distance, ready to step into forever.
Their ceremony was heartfelt and deeply personal, officiated by two close friends with words shared in both French and English. As the sun warmed the courtyard of the château, a live band played a stripped-back version of “Can’t Help Falling in Love”, setting a romantic tone as Anika walked down the aisle. The simple elegance they envisioned came to life in every moment—from the heartfelt vows to the quiet smiles exchanged between them.
The setting of CHÂTEAU COMTESSE LAFOND added a layer of timeless charm to their celebration. Surrounded by vineyards and old-world grandeur, it was the kind of venue that effortlessly paired refinement with a sense of ease. Just as Anika and Tim had hoped, it was close to family and full of character—making it the perfect place to gather their loved ones from around the world.
After the wedding, the couple extended the joy with a two-part honeymoon: first exploring the volcanic peaks and turquoise waters of Hawaii in October, then traveling to Cape Town in December. From snorkeling with turtles to sipping wine in the sunshine, their post-wedding adventures echoed the spirit of their wedding day—relaxed, joyful, and rooted in love.
Anika and Tim’s wedding was a gentle reminder that true elegance lies in authenticity. Every element, from the location to the live music to the languages spoken during the ceremony, was a nod to their story and their values. And at the heart of it all was a love that had already weathered time and distance, ready to step into forever.
Surrounded by vineyards and old-world grandeur, it was the kind of venue that effortlessly paired refinement with a sense of ease.
THE VENUE
Nestled in the heart of Épernay along the prestigious Avenue de Champagne, CHÂTEAU COMTESSE LAFOND is a storybook estate steeped in elegance and French charm. Surrounded by lush vineyards and historic architecture, the château offers a refined and romantic setting for celebrations of all kinds—especially weddings. Its iconic turrets, manicured gardens, and grand reception rooms provide an enchanting backdrop for ceremonies, while the onsite Champagne house adds a touch of sparkle to every toast. With its blend of timeless sophistication and modern hospitality, Château Comtesse Lafond captures the essence of luxury in the Champagne region.
