French weddings today are all about infusing contemporary style with long-held customs. Though some of the more dated traditions are pretty much defunct (thankfully, most brides are no longer forced to drink the mysterious contents of a chamber pot brought to them by guests during the pot de chambre ritual), there are still many lovely displays of France’s romantic history that modern couples choose to incorporate into their wedding day.
For instance, you’ll find elegant décor, local French food and wine, and a celebration that is not taken lightly when attending French nuptials. You can also expect hour-long “cocktail hours” and an all-night reception with over-the-top entertainment. In more ways than one, wedding fêtes in France are for the books!
To help highlight the common traditions that are practiced today—no matter if you’re a guest planning to attend a wedding in France or a couple with French heritage searching for more information—we called upon French wedding planners and designers Mylène and Geoffrey of White Eden Weddings for a complete breakdown of what to expect at a French wedding. Read on for everything you need to know—and don’t be surprised if you come across one or two things that make you say, “Je le veux.”
Meet the Expert
Husband and wife Mylène and Geoffrey are the destination wedding planners and designers of White Eden Weddings, located in Cannes. The couple specializes in organizing and coordinating weddings in the South of France.