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.

Luxury wedding in Paris France
Paris offers exceptional venues for your wedding, from historic châteaux to lavish Palace Hotels. Enjoy a predominantly English-speaking service industry, world-renowned cuisine, and a fun destination your guests will love.

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.

Kiss Me in Paris is the ultimate dream team for anyone wanting to plan an intimate wedding in Paris France and execute that plan with laser accuracy and professionalism. Cengiz and Chantelle are a power team! Despite the time difference, Cengiz, a world-class photographer, and Chantelle, the perfect event planner, assisted me responsively via phone, email, and WhatsApp. I was never worried and invariably felt in caring and experienced hands. All I had to do was to focus on having the party of my life. Thank you!

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.
Paris proposal Planner Chantelle-Marie
Meet Chantelle-Marie, a top Paris wedding planner known for her experience, extensive network, and focus on true French luxury. A great destination wedding planner eases your planning, prevents costly mistakes, and provides peace of mind.

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.
best time to get married in Paris
The best time to get married in Paris, France, depends on multiple factors, including the time of the year, availability of popular places and vendors, and giving your loved ones ample time to make travel arrangements.

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.
Vaux le Vicomte wedding Paris France
Visiting multiple potential wedding venues in person is a fantastic idea and will allow you to make a more informed decision.

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.

legal requirements for marriage in France
Familiarizing yourself with French legal requirements for marriage is a good idea unless you merely intend to have a symbolic wedding ceremony.

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.

French civil marriages conducted by mayor at Mairie
In France, civil marriages are conducted by the mayor at the Mairie.

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.

How to allocate your wedding budget in Paris
Allocate your wedding budget to those elements that matter most to you and your partner.

You get the point—prioritize spending and focus on those elements of the wedding that are most important to you and your family.

Note
When a wedding vendor is good enough for one of the most important days of your life, chances are high that the vendor would be in demand and book out early. So, don’t delay.
Use a wedding budget to stay organized.
Use a wedding budget to stay organized and prioritize what matters most to you. Break expected expenses down by category and track expenses carefully.

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.

save-the-date cards for a destination wedding
Send out save-the-date cards for a destination wedding at least 12 months before your Big Day.

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.

Why hire a wedding planner in Paris
A high-quality website is even more important for destination weddings than local events and allows you to update your guests in real-time.

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.

Paris destination wedding planning tips
Tips for planning the perfect Paris wedding: don’t stress about the details and focus on enjoying the process and one of the most special milestones of your life.

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.

Scander hit all the shots we could have asked for and MORE! Above and beyond! Scander is dedicated, clever in posing, and respected what our old knees could do! Remembering Bawb was deaf in one ear, I had to smile like I stole something. It’s the little things I value. Scander truly was an excellent choice for our special day.

Cathey + Bawb

What are the legal requirements for getting married in France?

Do I need a wedding planner for my Parisian destination wedding?

How long in advance should I start planning my destination wedding in France?

What is the best time of the year to get married in Paris?

What are the costs of having my wedding in Paris, France?

What is the difference between a Paris officiant and a Paris celebrant?

How do I make my intimate wedding in Paris decidedly French?

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 Paris wedding

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.

Luxury wedding Ritz Paris

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 Hotel George V Paris Wedding

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.

Hotel de Crillon Paris Wedding

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.

Paris wedding Hotel Plaza athenee

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.

The Peninsula Paris Wedding

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 luxury Wedding in Paris

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 Wedding

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

Best wedding venues in Paris Chateau de Villette

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.

Chateau Vaux le Vicomte luxury French castle marriage proposal near Paris

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.

Chateau Bouffemont Paris wedding

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

Best wedding venues in Paris Opera

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.

Hotel Le Marois Wedding

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.

Paris proposal Planner Chantelle-Marie

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.

Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris Wedding venue

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.

Best luxury wedding gown makers in Paris

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.

Who are the best wedding photographers in Paris, France

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.

Best Videographers in Paris

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 Paris weddings

Live Entertainment

Lively music and entertainment for your wedding ceremony and reception can include DJs, live bands, and spectacular performers.

Luxury floral arrangements for your Paris wedding

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.

Best beauty services for weddings in Paris

Beauty Services

Hair and makeup artists help you and your wedding party look your very best with professional hairstyling and makeup services.

The Best Wedding Cake in Paris

Cake Designer

Cutting the wedding cake is a fun romantic tradition sure to make for ridiculously fun photos and entertain your guests.

most important vendors for destination wedding

Transportation

Consider transportation for you and your guests. You have multiple options, including limousines, shuttle buses, helicopters, and luxury or vintage cars.

Best Paris officiant

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.