The key to achieving a Parisian-style wedding theme is choosing romantic details. Here are our top must haves to ensure you create an authentic Parisian wedding…
Bridal chic
For full-on Parisian chic, consider a flamboyant gown by designers such as Ian Stuart, Stephanie Allin or Jasmine to create an instant statement.
Complete the look with a parasol and lace gloves. If you prefer a more subtle style, opt for a slinky silk design with hints of sparkle, complete with a faux fur shrug. Choose chunky pearl jewellery to finish the look.
All you need is love
Paris is the romance capital of the world, so love needs to be all around your venue, from the written word through to romantic designs. To keep it chic and simple, choose white ornate details with a renaissance look and feel. Ornate photo frames can hold the table numbers and table plan, and white wooden blocks reading ‘Je taime’ or ‘J’adore’ can be displayed around your reception.
You can take the theme further by choosing stationery adorned with lovebirds, hearts and cupids, too. For your centrepieces, choose white distressed birdcages filled with pastel-coloured blooms, or weave a garland through the bars and light a candle inside. This will also create a romantic ambience on your tables.
French venue
You may struggle to find a French-style wedding venue, but that doesn’t mean you can’t adapt your venue to make it look Parisian.
Sumptuous fabrics and colours for your tables will help create a Parisian theme, particularly white, gold and red. Flowers will play a big part, too, in creating this theme – romantic pink roses can be used in your bouquet and centrepieces, and you could hire large urns filled with pretty blooms to mark each end of your top table.
Food and drink
The French are known for the finer things in life, and in particular, the delicacies they eat and drink. Serve your guests French wine at the table, with vine leaves wrapped around the bottle. Instead of a traditional tiered cake, consider a cheese cake consisting of French cheese wheels, decorated with figs and grapes. Stunning, unique and delicious!
For favours, offer guests little bags or boxes filled with sugared almonds for them to nibble on throughout the day. Complete the look by ordering French-style menus and place cards, using an elegant, Parisian type font.
French entertainment
Having a summer soirée? Set up some French garden games for your guests to enjoy, from crouquet to boules – the perfect entertainment for any age. For a bit of authentic French pizzazz, book an accordionist to play French music while you dine.
Parisian bridesmaids
Get your girls in on the act by choosing pastel shades for their dresses. Short and chic designs in lavender, sage, and candy pink will work particularly well, complete with pearl jewellery and parasols. Coloured lace is set to be big news for weddings this year, and would work really well for this theme, too.
Video stars
Why not give your wedding video an authentic French soundtrack and shoot in super-romantic Super 8 film, just like real-life couple Stuart and Michelle. We love the dreamy shots of the Eiffel Tower and the Seine as they say their vows!
