Three things couples need to know when planning
a wedding in the south of France
March 6th, 2025
When it comes to seeking romantic destinations for a picture-perfect wedding, the rugged beauty of the South of France cannot be overlooked. With its rolling hills, lush vineyards, and pristine beaches, this entire landscape is the epitome of elegance and natural beauty. But whether you’re dreaming of an intimate event in a rustic chateau in the countryside or a coastal celebration on the edge of the glistening Mediterranean Sea, there are a few things to consider before planning a wedding in the south of France.
Here, we explore three important things couples need to know.
Legal requirements
As with many destination wedding locations, if you aren’t a French resident, you will only be able to host a wedding celebration in the south of France – you’ll need to get legally married back in your home country. For a marriage to be legally binding, a civil ceremony is the only current option in France. If you have your hearts set on this option, at least one of you will need to be resident in France for at least 40 days immediately before a civil ceremony takes place. It’s worth noting that civil ceremonies can only take place in the Town Hall.
For many couples, the most straightforward option is to have their official marriage ceremony legalised before setting off to the south of France for their celebrant-led wedding, so they can enjoy a ceremony and reception in the beautiful setting they desire.
An experience planner is invaluable
Budgeting
Craft your perfect wedding
On top of the challenges that come alongside negotiating with people in a different native language, booking in and coordinating your wedding venue with multiple suppliers overseas is not for the faint of heart. Hiring an experienced wedding planner is one of the most effective ways to streamline your day and massively reduce the stress of planning your wedding in the south of France.
Your first port of call should be choosing your favourite wedding venue, ideally including an in-person tour. There are many breathtaking options, from historical mansions with immaculate gardens to quaint barns on the edge of an unspoilt vista, so be sure to research thoroughly.
Once you know where you want to host your wedding, search for wedding planners who have experience both at that venue and in the local area. They will be able to recommend the best suppliers and translate your preferences on your behalf, working behind the scenes to pull every detail together.
Money is not the most fun aspect of wedding planning, but nevertheless, it’s unavoidable. Getting married in the south of France is possible with a wide range of budgets, but you’ll need to weigh up your options carefully to ensure you’re getting the right wedding package for you.
After agreeing on your wedding budget, take some time to decide which parts of the day are most important to you both. Do you want to splash out on the venue, but have a more affordable dining experience, such as a BBQ or buffet? Or, perhaps you would prefer a micro wedding, so you can reserve some funds for your honeymoon?
Though it isn’t without its challenges, having your wedding in the south of France is sure to be an unforgettable and simply gorgeous experience. Keep these tips in mind to help you, and be sure to double check all the details before jetting off for your idyllic French wedding.
