French Chateau Wedding near Paris

Lauren & Michael | 14.10.2023
Chateau de Courtomer, Normandy

Lauren & Michael’s Intimate Wedding at Château de Courtomer

Lauren and Michael, a wonderfully creative couple from New York, tied the knot in a stunning celebration at Château de Courtomer in Normandy. With Lauren’s background as an artistic director in fashion and Michael’s career as a design photographer, their wedding was a perfect blend of elegance, creativity, and personal touches.

They gathered about 20 of their closest friends and family to stay at the château for a full week, with another 40 guests joining them for the wedding weekend. It was a celebration of not only their love but also the beauty and charm of the Normandy region—a place they took great care to showcase to their guests.

Scroll down for more - including a candlelit rehearsal dinner and a ceremony in the Orangerie

Day one

Rehearsal Dinner

The weekend began with a warm and welcoming rehearsal dinner. Catered by a private chef who crafted custom menus for the couple, the evening was a celebration of local flavors, with everything—from the wine and cider to the fresh ingredients—sourced from Normandy. Earlier in the week, Lauren, Michael, and their guests had enjoyed a cooking class with the chef, making the evening even more special as they savored the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Guests enjoyed cocktails in the château’s elegant living and reading rooms before being invited into the dramatic candlelit dining room. Lauren and Michael’s vision came to life as the doors were opened to reveal the intimate space, adorned with the soft glow of over 600 candles. Audible gasps and murmurs of appreciation filled the air as guests were seated at two long tables for a semi-formal, family-style dinner.

The evening was filled with heartfelt speeches and laughter, setting the tone for the love and joy that would follow throughout the weekend.

Day two

The Wedding Day

The ceremony took place in the Orangerie, a beautiful, standalone room on the château’s grounds. Lauren and Michael exchanged vows in front of a grand fireplace adorned with lush florals and glowing candles. Their aesthetic—a mix of modern and classic—was reflected in the decor, which featured green and white tones with touches of pastel, natural wood, linen details, and minimalistic signage printed on fabric.

As the sun set, guests enjoyed a lively cocktail hour accompanied by a live band. The evening held a touch of magic as a rainbow appeared at the end of the cocktail, a beautiful and unexpected moment that seemed almost planned. Another delightful surprise came when Lauren’s father rang the château’s bell to announce dinner, a gesture that brought smiles and applause from everyone.

After a sumptuous dinner, the Orangerie was transformed into a chic lounge and dance space. Outside, guests gathered around braseros, while inside, they enjoyed a dessert buffet and drinks from the bar. Lauren and Michael danced the night away with their loved ones, with the celebratory spirit carrying on well into the early hours.

Day three

Brunch & Farewell

The final day brought a casual yet lively brunch, a perfect end to the weekend. Guests relaxed and reminisced about the festivities, enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the château grounds before bidding their goodbyes.

Personal Touches

Lauren’s wedding dress was a true reflection of her unique style—elegant and modern, with striking pleated fabric that made her look radiant. Michael’s tailored, formal attire complemented her perfectly, embodying his meticulous yet fun-loving personality.

The couple’s creative professions shone through in every detail of the wedding. From the lighting and decor to the personalized website they designed to guide guests through the region’s highlights, Lauren and Michael ensured their celebration was both thoughtful and visually stunning.
Their wedding was a testament to the power of collaboration, artistry, and love—a celebration that will remain in the hearts of everyone who attended.