Marie and Derek’s wedding was a celebration of love, history, and timeless beauty, set against the stunning backdrop of the 12th-century Château de Lisse. Captured exquisitely by Danielle Chambers, their day was filled with unforgettable moments and elegant design. With half the guests traveling from the USA and the rest from Ireland, this destination wedding perfectly blended charm and intimacy.
A Venue Steeped in History
Château de Lisse is a jewel of French heritage, boasting architectural elements dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. From its medieval chapelle, adorned with intricate arcades and carvings, to the 17th-century painted ceilings and fortified village remnants, every corner tells a story. Significant renovations in the late 19th century by Louis Viton brought modern elegance to the historic structure, making it a truly unique setting for a wedding. (Source: chateau-fort-manoir-chateau.eu)
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A Warm Welcome
The celebrations began with an alfresco welcome dinner on the château’s terrace, catered by Chambers & Co. Long tables dressed in rustic elegance set the tone for the weekend, offering guests a taste of what was to come. As the sun set, the guests staying at the beautiful Hotel Henri IV in nearby Nérac joined the château guests for drinks, as the golden hour light made for the perfect backdrop as friends and family mingled and toasted the couple’s happiness, moving indoors after dark for delicious grazing tables and cocktails.
Bridal Preparations, Ceremony & Cocktail Hour
On the big day, Marie and her bridal party were beautifully styled by @annajazellebeauty, exuding effortless grace. The minimalist floral arrangements, crafted under our floral brand @opera_de_gardenia with the help of @melinaa.psc and @hannahp_l, perfectly complemented the historic chapel, which we adorned with hundreds of candles and rose petals for a traditional Catholic ceremony led by Father Andrew Richards. The serene cello music by @ensembleobbligato added an ethereal touch to both the ceremony and cocktail hour.
A Dinner to Remember
The reception was held on the château’s rear lawn, where guests dined at a single imperial table that stretched elegantly across the château's long back lawn. The table was beautifully set with bespoke stationery designed with Marie by @opera_de_gardenia. As the sun set, the atmosphere grew even more magical under a canopy of string lights. Guests enjoyed an exquisite menu by @little_black_pig, toasting Marie and Derek in a setting fit for Medieval royalty.
The Party & Beyond
After dinner, the party moved to one of the château’s ancient vaulted rooms, where DJ Crystal Beats kept the dance floor alive. Guests were treated to midnight snacks in the cozy drawing room before retiring for the evening.
The next day, despite some morning rain, everyone gathered for a relaxed barbecue lunch indoors, catered once again by the talented team at @little_black_pig. By the afternoon, the sun returned, and guests enjoyed poolside games, bringing the festivities to a perfect close.
A Dream Team
As always, this incredible weekend was brought to life by an exceptional team of vendors:
Planning & Design: @sarahthomasevents
Photography & Videography: @danielleweddingphotography with @drewchambers01
Hair & Makeup: @annajazellebeauty
Florals: @opera_de_gardenia, @melinaa.psc, @hannahp_l
Cellist: @ensembleobbligato
Catering: @chambersandcocatering & @little_black_pig
DJ: @dj_crystalbeats
Furniture Hire: @t_tloc
Venue: @chateau_delisse
Dress: @rimearodaky
Marie and Derek’s wedding at Château de Lisse was a celebration for the ages, blending history, romance, and joy in one extraordinary weekend. If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding, we have hundreds of equally enchanting venues for you to say, “I do.” Click here to schedule a no-obligation intro call personally with Sarah.
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