There are few places as effortlessly glamorous as the French Riviera, and for Cassie and Daniel, it was the perfect setting for their destination wedding. Captured beautifully by CHRISTOPHE SERRANO, and planned to perfection by AAVA WEDDING, their celebration unfolded at one of Pierre Cardin’s private residences overlooking Cannes Bay. With sweeping Mediterranean views, vibrant florals, and a seamless blend of modern elegance and timeless romance, their wedding was a true reflection of their love story.
The Proposal Story
Cassie and Daniel’s story began back in college, when they found themselves living on the same freshman hall. What started as a close friendship grew into something more by their senior year, when they officially began dating. Years later, Daniel planned a thoughtful and intimate proposal during a summer trip to Napa Valley.
Before dinner, he led Cassie to what he described as the hotel’s picnic area. There, a beautifully set table awaited with champagne and cheese. Without hesitation, Daniel dropped to one knee and asked her to marry him. Cassie said yes, and the two spent the rest of the evening savoring their moment—enjoying dinner, wine, and phone calls to family and friends. It was a proposal centered on intimacy, food, and wine, themes that would carry through to their French wedding.
Design & Setting
Set against the glittering backdrop of Cannes Bay, their venue—a private residence once owned by Pierre Cardin—was the epitome of Riviera glamour. The couple embraced a minimalist approach to their personal style, which provided the perfect contrast to the vibrant, colorful design woven throughout the day.
The florals by AAVA WEDDING featured a striking mix of pink and peach roses, vivid yellow blooms, and soft blue hydrangeas. Together, the hues created a refreshing, balanced aesthetic that perfectly matched the Mediterranean setting.
The wedding stationery by CRÈME DE PAPIER echoed the French Riviera’s charm, with watercolor details of fruit, flowers, and a hand-illustrated map of the area—a keepsake that reflected the joy and vibrancy of the Côte d’Azur.
What started as a close friendship grew into something more by their senior year, when they officially began dating.
The Bride’s Style
Cassie’s bridal look was a perfect fusion of romance and timeless elegance. She chose the Kate gown by MONIQUE LHUILLIER, a lace creation with a feminine silhouette that embodied the effortless beauty of the Riviera. A simple cathedral-length veil and white Prada slingbacks completed the look, offering a classic yet refined touch.
For the evening celebration, she opted for a bold change of style. At THE HAPPY ISLES Bridal boutique in New York, she had discovered a vintage, high-neck beaded mini dress—a playful and glamorous nod to Pierre Cardin, the venue’s former owner. This second look brought energy and personality to the late-night celebrations, ensuring Cassie could dance the night away.
Set against the glittering backdrop of Cannes Bay, their venue—a private residence once owned by Pierre Cardin—was the epitome of Riviera glamour.
Bridesmaids & Fashion
Cassie’s vision for her bridesmaids was one of individuality and expression. Her only request was that they wear pink, and the result was a stunning array of silhouettes and shades. From a hot pink Mac Duggal mini with a feathered hem to a flowing blush OSCAR DE LA RENTA gown with a dramatic cape, each bridesmaid looked unique while still creating a cohesive, fashion-forward palette.
Ceremony & Florals
The ceremony took place against the breathtaking backdrop of the Mediterranean, framed by an unforgettable floral arch. Designed with an abundance of roses, hydrangeas, and seasonal blooms, the arrangement cascaded organically in asymmetrical layers. The result was a romantic, whimsical focal point that blended seamlessly with the natural beauty of the French Riviera.
As an interfaith couple, Cassie and Daniel’s ceremony honored Jewish traditions, with thoughtful explanations of symbolic rituals such as the chuppah, ketubah, and breaking of the glass. Music enhanced the emotional tone: the processional was set to an instrumental of Beautiful Day by U2, Cassie entered to All of Me by John Legend, and the joyful recessional played to Stevie Wonder’s Signed, Sealed, Delivered.
Food, Drinks & Cake
Food was at the heart of Cassie and Daniel’s celebration. Guests were treated to a menu that highlighted the flavors of France, from a foie gras bar at cocktail hour to lavender martinis, zucchini flower appetizers, and local white fish. Late-night bites of mini Croque Monsieurs ensured no one went hungry as the dancing continued.
The cake was a visual and culinary highlight—a five-tier vanilla cake with strawberry filling, adorned with colorful florals to echo the day’s design. Guests also indulged in playful desserts like cookies and cake pops, extending the sweetness well into the evening.
Reception Design
The reception was a feast for the senses. From custom bar signs to a playful seating plan, every element shimmered with color and creativity. Tablescapes combined modern elegance with rich textures, echoing the Riviera’s luxurious yet relaxed spirit. The interplay of bold florals, refined details, and panoramic sea views created an atmosphere both striking and intimate.
A Celebration of Romance & Style
Cassie and Daniel’s wedding was a true ode to their personalities—modern, stylish, and infused with warmth. Every detail, from the interfaith ceremony to the Riviera-inspired menu, reflected their shared story. With CHRISTOPHE SERRANO’S artful photography and AAVA WEDDING’S seamless planning, the day came together as a radiant celebration of love against one of the world’s most iconic backdrops.
