When Hayley & Dan decided to tie the knot, they knew they wanted something breathtaking, something unforgettable, and something with just the right amount of French flair. So, naturally, they whisked off to the stunning Chateau Saint Jeannet, nestled in the hills just outside of Nice. With 50 of their nearest and dearest in attendance, the couple set out to create a wedding that was intimate, elegant, and (most importantly) one hell of a party. The wedding day was captured by the incredible Recommended Supplier, Patrick Partridge Photography!
Getting married in the stunning Chateau Saint Jeannet, in the hills just outside of Nice, was beyond perfect. The backdrop was breathtaking; the owners couldn’t do enough to help us. And being surrounded by our favourite 50 people who made the journey to celebrate with us was simply unforgettable. We wrote our own vows, and Hayley also did a speech; it was all tailored to exactly how we wanted it. Just the best day ever!
Hayley & Dan
Hayley had one fashion rule: go big or go home. This was not the day for a safe little number. Instead, she chose a romantic appliqué gown with just the right amount of sass including a high slit that added a touch of modern glamour. The venue needed little in the way of extra decor, so they kept things understated yet elegant, letting the chateau do most of the talking. A long banquet table with delicate florals, classic tuxedos, and chic black bridesmaid dresses set the tone for a stylish affair. To contrast, the guests were told to show up in bold, colourful attire because, after all, this was the south of France in summer; vibrancy was a must!
With a roof terrace first dance overlooking the valley down to Nice, they set the tone for an unforgettable night. The entertainment was next-level, tool. Enter Peter Beck, the saxophonist, and DJ Mike Panama, who didn’t just play music, they owned the night. Months later, their friends are still raving about the insane energy and epic tunes.
Some people hire professional celebrants. Others? They keep it in the family. Dan’s brother, Adam, stepped up to officiate, making the ceremony personal and heartfelt. As if that wasn’t enough to get the tears flowing, Dan’s dad, along with Hayley’s sister and Maid of Honor, delivered a custom poem. Hayley & Dan also wrote their own vows, which made their promises all the more special (and possibly tear-inducing for everyone present). The whole thing wrapped up in 18 minutes flat. It was short and sweet, and let everyone head straight to the champagne.
When it came to capturing the magic, Hayley & Dan knew they needed the best. Enter Pat Partridge and Abigail & Luke Films, who managed to snap and film every emotional, joyful, and slightly tipsy moment without ever feeling intrusive. Looking back, the couple insists that hiring top-notch photography and videography was the best decision they made because while memories fade, stunning wedding footage does not.
Don’t be afraid of taking your wedding abroad. Take your time to plan. Enjoy the planning - it’s all part of the big day. And don’t sweat about the small stuff; no one but you knows of anything that goes wrong (and we did have parts not go to plan, but hey ho, who’s perfect?!)
Hayley & Dan
Hayley & Dan learned a few things along the way and are happy to pass on their pearls of wisdom. They suggest you embrace the hiccups. Things won’t always go according to plan, and that’s okay. Head to our article for all our tips on managing wedding planning stress. Make sure to book the entertainment and photographer you really want. Creating and capturing memories is just something money can’t buy. Our Recommended Supplier directory is the best place to go to find your dream wedding suppliers!
At the end of the day, their wedding was everything they dreamed of and more. It was a timeless, romantic, and ridiculously fun celebration of love, family, and, let’s be honest, excellent taste in party planning.