Planning a Paris destination wedding is a dream come true, offering an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. The City of Love offers stunning venues, from lavish Palace hotels to historic châteaux, perfect for any style and guest count. You can expect a predominantly English-speaking vendor base and world-class catering that showcases the finest French culinary traditions.
We know that planning a wedding, especially from afar, can present challenges. But with careful organization and the help of a top-notch local wedding planner, your fairytale nuptials in France are well within reach.
Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate elopement or a grand ballroom affair, our Ultimate Paris Wedding Guide is your go-to resource. We cover everything from local laws and budget tips to finding the perfect venue and hiring the best wedding planner. You’ll also understand how to identify, evaluate, and hire key vendors (photo, video, live band, beauty services, and more) who match your style, speak fluent English, and add positive vibes to your big day.
Our popular guide (updated for 2024) is overflowing with tips and insights and will transform your wedding planning journey into a joyous adventure. It’s structured in chapters for your convenience. While reading it from top to bottom is recommended, feel free to use the drop-down menu below to skip to the most relevant sections if you’re in a rush. Ready to get started?
8 Essential Tips for Planning Your Dream Wedding in Paris, France.
Make your entire day incredible.
Planning your dream wedding in the City of Love is a fun and delightful journey. Still, it can sometimes feel overwhelming unless you stay organized, adroitly navigate the local Paris wedding scene, and prioritize based on what matters most to you. Here are eight tips to get you started and avoid common mistakes.
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Tommy Parker
1. Enlist an experienced local wedding planner.
Hiring a top-notch English-speaking Paris wedding planner (or coordinator) is non-negotiable. She’ll make life easier and prevent costly missteps by helping navigate the local wedding scene, language barriers, and French customs. Here are excellent reasons to invest in the best planner you can afford:
- A well-connected local planner has presumably worked at the finest Paris wedding venues and will recommend fantastic options to suit your preferences and budget. She’ll typically set up multiple in-person wedding venue visits so you can visualize your celebrations and make an informed decision.
- Expect her to present high-quality, established, and vetted wedding vendors—and possibly even leverage her connections to get you better value.
- Unless you speak French fluently, she’ll double as a translator;
- Time is money. You’ll need a lot of time and patience to plan the perfect wedding in France, including activities and entertainment for your guests, accommodations, party favors, and hiring a seasoned vendor team. Your planner will manage such tasks, so you don’t have to.
- We’re not big fans of “Plan B.” However, weddings never go exactly according to plan. That said, only an influential Paris event planner has the Rolodex and the capability to handle last-second travel delays, weather contingencies, vendor cancellations, etc.
2. Determine the perfect time of the year to celebrate your dream wedding in Paris, France.
Most people advise getting married in Paris sometime in spring or fall when the City experiences milder temperatures and fewer tourists. Then again, there are no hard rules, and your decision ultimately comes down to a combination of factors:
- Availability of Parisian wedding venues and vendors;
- It’s considerate to give guests advance notice to budget for Paris weddings, book flights and accommodations at affordable rates, request time off from work, make special arrangements for kids and pets, and obtain visas, etc.;
- Consider the best time of the year to experience your honeymoon destination.
3. Research, visit, and book your Paris wedding venue. Start early.
No wedding venue means no date. No date, in turn, prevents you from confidently moving forward in the planning process, including hiring talented vendors, arranging accommodations and activities for guests, and sending out invitations.
Paris offers spectacular Palace Hotels and nearby historic castles to suit almost any style, guest count, and budget.
Still, your choice of venue sets the tone for the wedding festivities and will affect your experience. Start early and give yourself ample time to complete this critical step before moving on.
Visiting multiple potential Paris wedding venues in person is a fantastic idea; it allows you to make a more informed decision. Expect the following benefits:
- Understand a venue’s spaces and layout and visualize your party;
- Evaluate the professionalism and attentiveness of the catering and events team;
- Identify potential hidden costs and surcharges, allowing for more realistic budgeting;
- Schedule tastings to compare the quality and presentation of catering options. It’s also an excellent opportunity to discuss menu choices.
4. Understand the legal marriage requirements in France.
France has specific legal requirements for marriage, including the residency requirement. While you can always have a symbolic wedding ceremony in Paris and complete the legally binding paperwork back home, it is a good idea first to familiarize yourself with French legal requirements.
Keeping in mind that regulations change over time, our understanding is as follows:
Residency requirement: At least one individual in the couple must reside in France for at least 30 days before the wedding day. After 30 days, a certificate of non-impediment can be obtained from the local Mairie (city hall).
Civil ceremony: In France, only civil marriages typically conducted by the mayor at the Mairie are legally recognized. A religious ceremony with no legal standing can optionally be held after the civil ceremony.
The publication of marriage banns must be posted at the Mairie (of the town where the marriage will occur) for 10 days before your Big Day.
Both individuals in the couple must provide the following (translated and authenticated with an Apostille) documents:
- Passports;
- Birth certificates (less than 3 months old for French citizens or less than 6 months old for foreigners);
- Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill, rental agreement);
- Certificate of non-impediment;
- Affidavit of law;
- A prenuptial agreement (if applicable) prepared by a French notary;
- Divorce or death certificates (if previously married).
5. Hire the best wedding vendors you can afford based on prioritizing what matters most to you.
Whether you use a wedding budget calculator or lean on the expertise of your local Paris event planner, staying organized and prioritizing what’s most important to you will prevent unnecessary stress.
The amount you’ll spend on your wedding in Paris depends on factors such as the size of your guest list, style and decor preferences, chosen vendors, travel expenses, menu choices, and more.
Some couples may allocate more for a dazzling couture wedding gown or the best destination wedding photographer possible. In contrast, others may invest disproportionately in French cuisine and wine. Again, others may prefer spectacular entertainment, including a world-class live band and performers.
You get the point—prioritize spending and focus on those elements of the wedding that are most important to you and your family.
6. Send out your wedding invitations early.
You must send out invitations for a destination wedding in Paris, France, much earlier than for a local one. The idea is to give your friends and loved ones the maximum time possible to make travel arrangements, book accommodations, and request time off from work.
We recommend sending out save-the-date cards at least one year before your wedding and following up with formal invites four months before the marriage. Providing your guests with an overview of envisaged pre and post-wedding activities is considerate and a welcome gesture.
7. Simplify communication with an informative wedding website.
A high-quality website is even more important for destination weddings than local events. It’s ideal for communicating all necessary information about your Parisian celebrations, including the venue location, accommodation & travel recommendations, event schedules, dress codes, a link to your wedding registry, and more.
It simplifies RSVP management and allows you to share your love story and build excitement for your Big Day. Think of your website as a centralized hub to communicate relevant real-time updates.
8. Enjoy the process and your experience.
Remember to relax and enjoy the actual process of planning a wedding. This point may sound cliché but don’t get stressed over the inevitable challenges. Unforeseen issues will arise, so maintain a flexible mindset.
Have fun practicing the first dance, extend your stay when you visit Paris to interview vendors and evaluate venues and tasting menus, try fabulous hotels, and work out to get in the best health and shape possible.
Getting Married in Paris, France: Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers quickly and easily.
Here’s where you’ll find answers to common questions couples have about weddings in Paris.
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Cathey + Bawb
What are the legal requirements for getting married in France?
Regulations change over time, so please take our grain with a small grain of salt:
The Residency requirement: either you or your partner must reside in France at least 30 days before the official wedding date. After 30 days, a certificate of non-impediment can be requested from the local city hall.
Civil ceremony: in France, only civil marriages conducted by the mayor (or his representative) at the so-called Mairie are legally recognized. A religious ceremony with no legal standing can be held after the civil ceremony.
The publication of marriage banns must be posted at the Mairie (of the town where the marriage will occur) for 10 days before your wedding date.
Both of you must provide the following (translated and authenticated with an Apostille) documents:
- Passports;
- Birth certificates (less than 3 months old for French citizens or less than 6 months old for foreigners);
- Proof of residence (e.g., utility bill, rental agreement);
- Certificate of non-impediment;
- Affidavit of law;
- A prenuptial agreement (if applicable) prepared by a French notary;
- Divorce or death certificates (if previously married).
Do I need a wedding planner for my Parisian destination wedding?
While not mandatory, hiring a local wedding coordinator experienced in destination weddings can help you navigate the French wedding scene, coordinate with local vendors, and handle French language barriers. She’ll make life easier and prevent costly mistakes.
Good Paris event planners will recommend excellent venue options for your preferences and budget. They will set up in-person venue visits and present and negotiate with top-notch vendors.
How long in advance should I start planning my destination wedding in France?
Ideally, you should start planning your destination wedding in France at least 12-18 months in advance, as this will give you ample time to secure the perfect venue and experienced vendors. It also gives your guests the opportunity to make travel arrangements, book accommodations, and request time off from work.
What is the best time of the year to get married in Paris?
Late spring to early autumn (May to October) is generally considered the best time for a wedding in France, as the weather is typically pleasant. However, your decision will likely come down to a combination of factors:
- Availability of venues and vendors;
- It’s considerate to give guests advance notice to budget for a destination wedding, book flights and accommodations at affordable rates, request time off from work, make special arrangements for kids and pets, and obtain visas, etc.;
- Consider the best time of the year to enjoy your honeymoon destination after your French wedding.
What are the costs of having my wedding in Paris, France?
The cost of a wedding in France will be driven by the venue, wedding vendors, guest count, travel, level of luxury, and style and decor preferences. Total costs may run as little as €10,000 for an intimate wedding or several hundred thousand (and more) for lavish affairs.
Catering can range from, say, €50 to several hundred Euros per person, depending on the venue and menu.
Your photographer’s quality and popularity drive the photography package’s costs. Other factors include the number of hours of wedding day coverage and what products (e.g., albums, prints, high-resolution images, etc.) are included. Expect to pay a minimum of €300 per hour and up to several thousand Euros for an entire wedding day.
Wedding planners in Paris, like anywhere else, can range from a couple of thousand Euros to 10-20% of your total wedding budget.
The rate for a Parisian beauty artist (hair or makeup) can vary widely depending on factors such as the season, the artist’s reputation, the duration (hourly vs. flat rate), and other package details. Expect to invest anywhere from €350-750 for an average professional and potentially a lot more for in-demand luxury or celebrity beauty artists.
There are many additional factors to consider, such as video, fireworks, transportation, wedding favors, accommodation, and flowers and decor.
What is the difference between a Paris officiant and a Paris celebrant?
A Paris officiant and a Paris celebrant are often used interchangeably. Still, they differ in their roles, responsibilities, and the types of ceremonies they perform. The Paris officiant has the legal authority to solemnize and perform marriages, whereas most wedding celebrants conduct personalized, non-religious ceremonies.
How do I make my intimate wedding in Paris decidedly French?
Incorporate quintessential French traditions, delicious food, and decor elements into your wedding to create an authentic experience. Work with local vendors and ask your Paris wedding planner for unique ideas that say “Paris.”
13 Incredible Luxury Wedding Venues in Paris Worth Considering.
From Palace Hotels to French Chateaux
The first important decision you’ll make is where (and when) to wed in Paris. No venue means no wedding date and no ability to lock down wedding vendors or send out invitations.
Your reception venue choice is a big deal and directly affects your style, vibe, capacity, and overall wedding budget.
The City of Lights is blessed with amazing places to host a luxury wedding. You should broadly differentiate among:
Palace Hotels, French castles (chateaux), and other exclusive Paris wedding venues.
The pictures with Laurent turned out so good. We even got to see a few same-day edits, which was awesome as we could share them with our families and friends. Laurent is patient and incredibly helpful. He went above and beyond in helping us get the poses right and ensuring everything looked perfect. He knew all the best photo locations. Highly recommended!
Tenny Thomas
Exclusive hotel wedding venues in Paris
Shangri La Hotel Paris
History, royal grandeur, and the City’s most spectacular Eiffel Tower views await at the legendary Shangri La Hotel Paris. A place of utter luxuriant beauty, this Palace Hotel offers reception (and wedding ceremony) spaces ranging from private Eiffel Tower rooftops to expansive, ornate ballrooms. The decorative and well-balanced historic Grand Salon is one of the prettiest ballrooms in Paris and is perfect for intimate celebrations. Alternatively, the elegant Salon Roland Bonaparte reminds a little of modern, upscale NYC ballrooms and can accommodate larger parties with a dance floor.
Ritz Paris
Centrally located overlooking “ritzy” Place Vendôme, the iconic Ritz Paris is synonymous with high society. The hotel was initially conceived to provide its distinguished clientele “with all the refinement that a prince could desire in his own home.” In fact, Hemingway once stated, “When in Paris, the only reason not to stay at the Ritz is if you can’t afford it.” Consider Salon Louis XV or Salon César Ritz for small-and-midsized weddings or your rehearsal dinner. For large celebrations, consider the splendid Grand Jardin for wedding ceremonies and Salon Vendôme for receptions.
Four Seasons George V, Paris
Largest among all Parisian palace hotels, the legendary Four Seasons Hotel George V stands for uncompromising luxury and should be near the top of any serious list, whether your wedding is intimate (e.g., Salon Régence) or grand (e.g., Salon Vendôme). Imagine kicking off your celebrations overlooking the Eiffel Tower from the terrace of the Penthouse suite with a finely chilled French Champagne in hand. Absolutely gorgeous bridal portraits, anyone? Well, that’s just getting started. Expect eye-catching floral couture envisioned by celebrity florist Jeff Leatham (his in-house design team) and Michelin-star culinary delights.
Hôtel de Crillon
Constructed in 1758 and overlooking Place de la Concorde, Hotel de Crillon may be the world’s most majestic hotel. Renovated in 2017, the historic landmark combines contemporary amenities and vibe with elegant French splendor. Crillon works best for small and midsize luxury weddings with a reception capacity of around 100.
Hôtel Plaza Athénée
When you’re after one of the most exclusive Parisian luxury hotels, Hotel Plaza Athénée deserves serious consideration—only recommended for a healthy wedding budget. An experienced wedding planner is obligatory.
Peninsula Paris
One of the premier Palace Hotels in Paris, the Peninsula stands out for exceptional service, ballrooms, and service. Only recommended for a healthy wedding budget, and a wedding planner is a must.
Le Meurice
Le Meurice is a luxury hotel in the heart of Paris, near many of the city’s historic landmarks, such as the Louvre. The venerable hotel offers splendid event spaces and an experienced catering team to help you plan and execute a memorable wedding. With its elegant interiors, world-class cuisine, and excellent service, Le Meurice provides a romantic and exclusive setting for your special day.
Le Bristol Paris
Le Bristol is another “Palace” Hotel centrally located in Paris. Expect elegant event spaces and opulent rooms, exceptional dining, and the highest level of service for your wedding.
Magnificent French castle wedding venues near Paris
Chateau de Villette
Located approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) northwest of Paris, this stately 17th-century French castle offers the ideal setting for romantic, luxurious celebrations. Expect the most fabulous bridal suite imaginable to go with magnificent grounds & gardens. Consider a grand entrance by helicopter and conclude the evening festivities with a dazzling fireworks show. An experienced wedding planner is obligatory.
Vaux-le-Vicomte
Located approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles) southeast of Paris, this 17th-century baroque castle is straight out of the movies (in fact, it is a popular choice for Hollywood). You decide whether to have your wedding ceremony in the château’s opulent interiors or stately gardens. Consider a grand entrance by helicopter and conclude your evening festivities with a stunning fireworks show. A super-healthy wedding budget and a seasoned event planner are a must.
Château Bouffémont
Situated approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) north of Paris, this dreamy 19th-century French castle presents a more affordable alternative to Vaux-le-Vicomte and Villette. We love its spacious bridal suite with a massive terrace overlooking the countryside. A local Parisian wedding planner is highly recommended.
Other premier places around Paris
Palais Garnier (aka Opéra Garnier)
The Palais Garnier, also known as the Opéra, is an architectural masterpiece and a Hollywood favorite; it can be privatized for upscale weddings. Located in the 9th arrondissement of Paris, the opera house will WOW your guests and anyone who sees your photos afterward.
Hôtel Le Marois
Also known as France Amériques, this 19th-century mansion is located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris. Expect charming interiors, including historic salons and a pretty garden.
The Most Important Wedding Vendors to Consider for Your Big Day in Paris.
Bring your wedding vision to life
To ensure your Paris wedding runs smoothly, you’ll want to work with experienced, English-speaking vendors. Here are some of the most important vendors to consider for your destination wedding in France.
My wife and I cannot say enough great things about Vincent. We wanted an editorial-style photoshoot in Paris to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary. Vincent and the “Kiss Me in Paris” team did not disappoint. Vincent was wonderful to work with (and a lot of fun!); he patiently provided instructions, resulting in spectacular pictures. He went above and beyond to ensure our experience was everything we imagined. We highly recommend Vincent to anyone and everyone who loves photos + fun + Paris. Merci beaucoup Vincent!
Steve Grandjean
Professionals worth investing in.
Wedding Planner
Enlisting the services of a top-notch English-speaking Paris wedding planner (experienced in planning destination weddings) should be your top priority. She’ll make your life easier and prevent costly mistakes by helping you navigate the local wedding scene, language barriers, and French customs. She can set up visits to Paris wedding venues and menu tastings and negotiate with local vendors on your behalf.
Venue and Catering
No wedding venue. No date. Paris offers breathtaking Palace Hotels and historic châteaux to suit virtually any style, guest count, and budget. The venue (the location for your wedding ceremony and/or reception) sets the tone for the wedding festivities and will affect your experience and how your party is remembered.
The Wedding Dress
Your wedding gown holds cultural and personal significance in almost any religion or tradition. And for a good reason: it instantly symbolizes “bride, wedding day, celebration, and transition into a new chapter of life.” It allows a bride to showcase her style and look and feel absolutely gorgeous.
Wedding Photographer
Your wedding photographer in Paris plays a vital role in preserving the memories of your special day. Styles differ, ranging from candid to editorial and anything in between. We are storytellers who’ll capture joyful tears and heartfelt laughter, precious moments you are unaware of on wedding day, publication-worthy details shots, and infinitely frameable family portraits.
Videographer
Hiring an experienced Parisian videographer allows you to capture priceless emotions in a way that photography can’t—notably when it comes to movement, tears of joy, genuine laughter, and heartfelt speeches.
Live Entertainment
Lively music and entertainment for your wedding ceremony and reception can include DJs, live bands, and spectacular performers.
Floral Designer
The wedding floral designer plays an important role, contributing significantly to both the ambiance and aesthetics of the celebrations. An experienced floral design & production expert will understand your unique vision and make it a reality.
Beauty Services
Hair and makeup artists help you and your wedding party look your very best with professional hairstyling and makeup services.
Cake Designer
Cutting the wedding cake is a fun romantic tradition sure to make for ridiculously fun photos and entertain your guests.
Transportation
Consider transportation for you and your guests. You have multiple options, including limousines, shuttle buses, helicopters, and luxury or vintage cars.
Paris Officiant or Paris Celebrant
A Paris officiant and a Paris celebrant are often used interchangeably. Still, they have some differences in their roles, responsibilities, and the types of ceremonies they perform. The Paris officiant has the legal authority to solemnize and perform marriages, whereas most wedding celebrants conduct personalized, meaningful, non-religious ceremonies.
Let us plan your wedding day in Paris.