By Travel with Kate, on June 25, 2015

Extravagant venues for a Paris wedding

A destination wedding is high on the list for many couples looking to celebrate their nuptials. Mexico, Hawaii, and Costa Rica are popular destinations for weddings away from home. But what about France, and in particular, Paris, the most romantic city in the world?

Paris is full of adorable boutique hotels and charming venues perfect for celebrating with family and friends. The challenge is deciding between them; I know because I'm getting married there soon myself. For those looking for a truly extravagant fete, here are three particularly outstanding venues for the occasion.

Yachts of Paris

The River Seine weaves its way through the great city of Paris. Boats put along through the water all day long, passing iconic sites such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, the Musee D’Orsay, the Conciergerie, the French Statue of Liberty, the Eiffel Tower, and more. Twilight is a particularly magical hour as the lights in the city glow against ornate buildings painted with the orange and pink rays of the setting sun.

Yachts of Paris is a luxury boat company that charters cruises along the Seine and specializes in celebratory events and banquets. For a wedding, one can have her (or his) entire ceremony and reception while floating on the river. Some of the boats are decorated and furnished like lavish hotel ballrooms and lounges.

I also have been impressed with how versatile this company’s offerings are; the outfit has boats to accommodate parties from two guests to 800. Meals offered include brunch, lunch, and dinner.

Le Jules Verner

What screams Paris more than the Eiffel Tower? Nothing. So, for a Parisian wedding, it may be fitting to have your wedding reception inside of the Tower, on the second floor with an enchanting view of the City of Light.

Le Jules Verner restaurant features contemporary French cuisine by Michelin-starred chef, Alain Ducasse. A set menu with multiple courses and wine pairings can make for an extremely memorable evening.

The large glass windows and chic interior set the scene. I can just imagine the thrill of sipping champagne on my wedding night inside the Eiffel Tower as it lights up at night. The thought is enough to spark goose bumps.

Versailles, France
Image courtesy of Tourism Media
 

 

Chateau de Vaux Le Vicomte

Before there was Versailles, there was the Chateau de Vaux Le Vicomte, the very castle after which Versailles was modeled. Only a one-hour drive from Paris, this chateau comprises 1,200 acres of manicured gardens, two stylish restaurants, and simply jaw-dropping architecture. The castle itself is surrounded by a moat. And the sheer scale of every element of the property, from the high-ceilinged and marble-floored salons to the sprawling gardens, would make any bride swoon.

I only can imagine the stunning pictures and the whimsical experience that would come from having your own wedding on the grounds of this palatial manor. Private events are held regularly at the chateau, weddings included. One of the owners told me that almost any size wedding can be accommodated here, from the tres petite to the tres grande.

Personally, the candlelight soirees piqued my interest. On Saturday evenings during warmer months, the grounds of this 17th century masterpiece are illuminated only by candlelight, making for an enchanting experience. And if you wanted to include the chateau in your trip itinerary without making it the official venue on wedding day, the grounds are open to the public throughout the year.

Where have you dreamed about getting married and why?