Polly and Michael celebrated their wedding in the French countryside at Chateau de Varennes. The couple let the breathtaking scenery of the historic estate take center stage and hired Wedding Factory to take care of the details. The result is a stunning day filled to the brim with classic romance and gorgeous florals by Un Ete a La Campagne. To reduce stress, Polly and Michael trusted the professionals they hired and “turned up and enjoyed a wonderful celebration.” And what a spectacular celebration it was and we’re thrilled to share the beautiful images captured by Kylee Yee Photography.
What made the wedding special and unique?
Having spent much of my childhood in France and also both being fascinated by the beauty of Chateaux across France, we loved the idea of being married at a French Chateau. So many locations in England are picturesque but due to numbers you tend to just be in the grounds of beautiful stately homes rather than enjoying the property itself. There was no comparison when we realized we could take over the stunning Chateau de Varennes for a weekend and have a reception in the stunning orangery. It really was very French and romantic. We followed the wedding with a pool party the next day which meant a second chance to celebrate with your guests.
Tell us about the gown and where/how you found it!
My dress was Mori Lee by Madeline Gardner. Two weeks before the wedding I bought a second dress to wear in the evening by Madison James. The best thing I did was have two dresses as I enjoyed dancing the night away in a lighter dress for the party.
What were some touches added to make the wedding personal?
To be honest, we are both very time-poor and we wanted someone to do as much as possible for us. Thankfully we had a wedding planner and we are fairly relaxed. We also trusted those around us to do a really good job as they are specialists in what they do. Much of the day was put together by someone else and we turned up and enjoyed a wonderful celebration. I chose a color scheme, approved some details via Skype and that was it!
What was the most memorable part of the day?
We had our first dance outside under fairy lights surrounds by our guests who all had sparklers. It honestly was magical; who knew the simplest of detail would be the most romantic!
Tell us how you met and became engaged.
I bought the house behind the pub Michael owned and one night went in for a drink with a girlfriend. Many wines later he asked me out and of course I said no! 6 weeks later we went on our first date. Michael planned to propose on a beach in Thailand but he didn’t get that far. He proposed at home after a romantic meal a month earlier. Thankfully so as I’m not sure he would have managed the flight keeping the ring a secret!
Photography: Kylee Yee Photography // Wedding Planning: Wedding Factory // Florist: Un Ete a La Campagne // Day of Stationery: Lilac and White // Venue: Chateau de Varennes // Dresses: Morilee & Justin Alexander // Groom Suit & Groomsmen attire: Suit Supply // Bridesmaid Dresses: TFNC London // Hairstylist: Bulle D’Hair // Make-up: Annette Thornton