Nell & Chris – Village : Ansouis , in Luberon
Provence Only in Ansouis
She is English, he is Australian and they met in London. They quickly felt in love and there wasn’t any discussion anymore : they will become married and they will do asap ! Both fans of France, they had in mind to exchange their vows in our fabulous country and specifically in Provence where Nell spent holidays when she was young in a magical family house.
The brief was not easy as they looked for something authentic, with a stunning view, definitely not show-off and not too far from Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt in Luberon where Nell’s family owns a summer home. Château d’Ansouis was the perfect location : situated in the heart of Luberon, circled by vines and olive trees with one of the most spectacular view on the valley. But Château d’Ansouis was also a challenge as it is definetly not a wedding venue and everything is very steep there. As 2 wedding planners, Geraldine & Amandine from Dites Moi Oui had definitely to take into consideration these logistic issues and create a scenario to make it comfortable to combine a beautiful reception with easy access.
We decided to book the Church of Ansouis which was firstly lovely but also and mainly connected with the Chateau which means guests will be able to reach the top of the Chateau through the church : fantastic news.
The ceremony was celebrated by a local Anglican priest supported by a singer & an organist : full of emotions.
The reception drink was planned on the main terrace of the Chateau which offers a breathtaking view on Luberon mountain. Fresh lemonade, champagne, Provencal finger food and of course, Jazz-Swing live band strolling through guests to create an authentic French atmosphere.
Then, guests had to reach the dinner area which was located at average 250meters from the cocktail. In order to let a great memory and avoid guests keep the idea that the dinning area was too far, we decided to design a nice walk along the French Chateau garden and made it easier by offering flip-flops to all guests.
Welcomed by hostesses, guests came accross a magnificient nomade stretch tent set up around the old vintage pool and enjoyed a « wow effect ».
The menu was a mix of Provencal food & family style
– starter : assortment of French charcuterie, tartare of vintage tomatoes and basil, gaspacho
– main : « Beef daube » which is a slowly-7 hours-cooked beed with carrot, onion and red wine and which is definitely one of the most famous Provencal dish, served with assortments of sides : French ratatouille, Gratin Dauphinois (potatoes gratin) and fava bean – artichoke salad.
– desserts : Mara des bois (luxious Provencal flavoured strawberries) with basil sauce and whipped cream.
Nell wished to enhance the Provencal spirit along all her wedding. We decided to select raw materials and neutral colors embellished by a hint of yellow : vintage wooden boxes, lounge furniture made with wooden palette, beige linen cushions, sunflowers and lots of candles
Simple and elegant provencal floral arrangements were set up on each table composed by olive tree, lavender, sunflowers, rosemary, daisies. A « guinguette » decor was designed around the dancefloor with fairylight garlands, wooden box bar, zinc accessorizes.
Wedding venues in Provence (South of France)
Take a look at a selection of some organisation of wedding in the South of France