Nathalie & Raigen, an Epic Chateau Wedding on The Dordogne
Nathalie & Raigen contacted me a couple of years ago now to tell me about their amazing wedding plans and to see if I’d go with them to The Dordogne region of France to document it for them. Having family and friends from New Zealand, Australia, Turkey and The Seychelles (as well as the UK) meant a European venue choice was an easier option, as their guests would be flying into wherever they chose to hold their celebration. We arrived in France the day prior to the wedding and the weather was awful, heavy, non-stop rain and winds high enough to bring trees down, but the day itself dawned bright, clear and really warm! Chateau Soulac is everything you’d want it to be, elegant and charming with an incredible view from the back terrace over the Dordogne, you can see for miles! Raigen and his Groomsmen were relaxing when we arrived but soon began to get ready in the spacious apartments in front of the chateau, whilst Nathalie and her Bridesmaids prepped in the chateau itself. The ceremony was held in a stunning, yet simple barn in the courtyard which Raigen’s brother presided over beautifully and afterwards the guests were treated to the amazing views, incredible canapés from the local area and a traditional accordion player, whilst I took Nathalie & Raigen off to make the most of the stunning grounds for a few portraits! After an exquisite meal, there were many speeches by members of the newlyweds family and friends, so very funny but also emotionally charged with the underlying theme that this gorgeous couple were just very much loved by everyone in the room. After speeches we did some group shots with the wedding party who were relaxed and in full party mode followed by a few more portraits as the sunset over the valley below. Then it was party time, and boy, did these guys know how to party! An enchanting wedding that I was so lucky to be a part of, I was made to feel incredibly welcome, fed and watered with delicious regional food and got to document two wonderful families becoming one. Thank you so much to Nathalie & Raigen, it’s one I’ll never forget!
Supplier Love:
Venue : Chateau Soulac
MUA: Elizabeth Harbottle
Hairdresser: Hair by Jo
Florist: Jenny Fairbanks Flowers
Wedding Co-ordinator: Louise at Handmade Events
