Planning a wedding in France feels like a dream : the châteaux, the vineyards, the food, the light, the romance… it’s no wonder so many international couples choose France for their destination wedding.
But there are a few things you probably don’t know yet… and they can make a big difference in how smoothly (and beautifully) everything unfolds.

Here are 10 things most foreign couples don’t know about getting married in France, but absolutely should.

1. A legal wedding in France is almost impossible for non-residents

Here’s the truth:
If you are not a French resident, the civil ceremony in France is extremely complicated — you must stay in the country for at least 40 days before the wedding.

That’s why most international couples do the legal ceremony at home and plan a symbolic ceremony in France.
The good news? Symbolic ceremonies are deeply personal, emotional, and infinitely more flexible.

2. France has stunning wedding regions, and each one has its own vibe

France isn’t just Paris and Provence.
International couples are often surprised by how diverse the country is. Every region offers a different mood:

Provence - lavender fields, golden light, olive trees
The French Riviera - palm trees, luxury villas, turquoise sea
Southwest France - authenticity, vineyards, warm colors
Loire Valley - breathtaking châteaux
Bordeaux - wine estates & elegant architecture
Normandy - coastal cliffs and dramatic skies

Choosing the right region is half the magic.

3. French weddings rarely start early, and the lighting is different

French ceremonies often start in the late afternoon because of traditions, temperatures, and the natural rhythm of the day.

This affects photography beautifully: the light is softer, more romantic, and perfect for portraits.

If you want those warm, glowing photos you see in magazines?
You’re in the right country.

4. Wedding vendors book out early (especially photographers)

France is one of the most popular wedding destinations in the world.
Top wedding vendors, especially photographers, videographers, and planners are often fully booked 12 to 18 months in advance.

If you want someone whose work you truly love, don’t wait.

5. French vendors almost always speak English (at least in weddings)

One of the biggest fears foreign couples have:
“Will language be a problem?”

Don’t worry.
French wedding vendors are used to international clients.
Most professionals like photographers, planners, venues, florists, speak very good English and know the expectations of foreign couples.

6. France is more relaxed than you might think (especially in the South)

International couples sometimes expect a strict, formal vibe.
In reality, weddings in France (especially in the South) feel:

warm
welcoming
relaxed
joyful
family-oriented

If you want a wedding that feels both elegant and effortless, France delivers.

7. Weather is rarely as bad as people fear

France is blessed with mild weather, even unpredictable regions like Normandy or Brittany have their charm.

But couples don’t always know that the best light for photos can be on cloudy days. Cloudy French skies = soft, romantic, timeless images.

And the South? Sun nearly all year.

8. Hair & makeup artists in France prioritize natural beauty

If you want:

glowy skin
soft waves
elegant, chic makeup

French artists are experts in the effortless, natural, timeless look.

Very different from the heavy glam styles of other countries.

9. French wedding timelines look different

No, you’re not imagining things — the rhythm is unique.
Typical French timeline:

Long morning preparations
Ceremony in the afternoon
Cocktail hour (“vin d’honneur”) that can last 1–2 hours
Dinner with multiple courses
Dancing into the night

As your photographer, I adapt to this flow so every part of your story is captured beautifully.

10. Wedding photography in France has its own aesthetic

This is one of the best part of getting married in France. The style here tends to be:

luminous
elegant
editorial
authentic
emotional

If you dream of fine art tones, colorful imagery, and natural emotions, France is the perfect place !
And it’s exactly how I photograph weddings.

Thinking of getting married in France?

If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding filled with beauty, emotion, and timeless imagery, I’d be delighted to help guide you.

→ Get in touch to start planning your French wedding photography

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10 Things international couples don’t know about getting married in France