little aisle to kneel on the prayer benches in front of the alter, as the bridesmaid but also a soprano opera singer, broke out into an angelic rendition of Schubert’s Ave Maria. Light streamed through the stain glass windows as they exchanged their vows. During the short walk back to the château everyone’s gait
became light as the first notes of “Hello Dolly” sifted out into the air coming from the chateau reception rooms. The groom’s parents had met during the original musical.
A lively champagne cocktail ensued, to further tunes played by the Jazz orchestra from the trendy band of Club de la Huchette, in Paris’ Latin quarter. Cameras were flashing as the bride and groom kissed underneath the portrait of the Marquis who had been married in these very rooms in 1778. Actually all the furniture of the ornate Grand Salon had been crafted especially for his wedding and has never left the château since.
To the call of “Les mariés sont servis”, bride and groom led the way into the XVIIth century grand dining hall, mellow golden Sauternes glistening in the candlelight through in the thick cut crystal amidst an abundance of white lilies with their intoxicating fragrance. Laughter and joy mingled until the early hours of the morning, accentuated by witty speeches and the rhythm of cheerful favourite songs requested and danced to by all.
Food not being a priority on everyone’s list on Sunday, it had been decided to embark on a cultural sightseeing excursion down to the romantic and famous Chateau de Chenonceau, known as the castle of the six queens, including a visit to Leonardo da Vinci’s home. Tea in the “most English of French Gardens” on the way back, hosted by the owner, sister in law to former French President Giscard d’Estaing, grande dame and famous horticulturist. The farewell dinner was an informal and relaxed impromptu Mediterranean couscous, with Count & Countess disguised in Djelabahs, an amusing sound off to the bride and grooms’ departure to Marocco for their honeymoon! But rest assured, we managed to avoid the belly dancing!
In the morning, we all saw the bride and groom off early to catch their flight, then some guests lingered on for another two days of Aristocratic R&R, just simply enjoying the bucolic scenery, the medieval villages and discovering the well hidden Gourmet Auberges, which France is famous for. The Comte & Comtesse, however, had little rest, since everything needed to be geared up for another couple, older this time, who had requested a similar scenario, but to celebrate their 25thwedding anniversary with a renewal of vows.
Hideaways en France
Tel: from UK Only 08442323399
International 00.33.556616856
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website www.hideawaysenfrance.co.uk
www.eliteweddingsinfrance.com
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