Dordogne Vineyard Wedding

Laine & Justin

Laine & Justin are from Los Angeles, California and they decided to celebrate their wedding in a stunning villa in Dordogne, France. These two beautiful and funny people chose to marry with only their closest friends and families. The 25 guests flew all over from the United States to celebrate Laine & Justin’s union in a secluded and intimate location.

The gorgeous villa had it all! Old stonework, a beautiful pool encircled by limestone ‘ruin-like’ walls, an open-air wooden garden gazebo, and the breathtaking vineyards views. Everyone stayed on the property all week and soaked in the sun by the pool, played tennis on the courts, or just relaxed in the refreshing shade of the trees. The family was able to disconnect, unwind and enjoy the quiet and slow pace of life in the French countryside together. The week was dotted with local experiences like an on-site wine tasting from the domaine itself, visiting local villages, and a huge and delicious garden brunch the day after the wedding.

The bride, her 2 bridesmaids and the mothers got ready in the master suite upstairs overlooking the vast property. Laine was 4 months pregnant with her third child during the wedding and needed a little help putting her gown and shoes on! The groom got ready in the red medieval style library, joined by his best man. And the kids of course had the time of their lives running around the villa, getting dressed up, and feeling the excitement of their parents getting married. 

The ceremony took place in the middle of the stunning tree-lined alley. It was very casual and low-key with the groom’s best man acting as celebrant, and Laine’s older daughter playing the piano. It lasted only 10minutes, but they laughed all throughout the ceremony, and it was so beautiful to see their joy and happiness, giggles and silliness!

After the ceremony was over, the guests headed to the other side of the villa for the cocktail hour. Champagne, oysters, exquisite amuse bouches, a local jazz band and a lot of sun – the overall ambiance couldn’t have been more perfect for their special day. The kids were very happy to play in the pool while the parents enjoyed chilled cocktails and chatted amongst each other.

Dinner was held in the poolside -vineyard view- garden gazebo! The tablescape was refined and elegant with crystal glassware, brushed gold flatware and subtle hews of gold trimming on the plates. The tables were set up in a square formation, so everyone could see each other and share in laughter and conversation together! They laughed, they cried, speeches were made, and bellies ached.

The traditional French croquembouche was cut by the pool at sunset, and then the party kicked off with the jazz band. No DJ needed for the party as the band kept them dancing non-stop for hours! The bride & groom had a night-cap with their guests in library with a game of roulette before calling it a night.  

Laine & Justin’s wedding is the perfect example of how to celebrate with those nearest and dearest to you, escape everyday life and relish in the timeless beauty of the French countryside.