Destination Wedding Photographer | Cost of Getting Married in France

Have you ever dreamed of embracing the role of French royalty, strolling the grounds of a chateau and dining on fine wine and cheese before falling into a downy four-poster bed and waking up to be married in a grand ballroom? With a French destination wedding, all that is possible! The thought of how much a destination wedding costs can scare off so many couples, but as a professional destination wedding photographer, I can tell you honestly (in English and in French!) that the cost of a wedding in France does not differ too greatly from the cost a wedding in the states. Yippee!

Average Cost of a Wedding in France

For a classic wedding, the range is typically $30,000-$50,000. For those that wish to embrace French luxury, $75,000 and up is a good starting place. This includes the venue (you can’t beat a breathtaking chateau in the French countryside), the caterer (genuine French cuisine? I’m drooling!), photography (moi, s'il te plaît!), rentals and linens (the French blue elements in this session are so lovely), florals (Arts Distributor is unmatched), and every other piece that goes into producing a beautiful destination wedding in France.

Destination Wedding Costs

Beyond the costs that come with all weddings, destination weddings come with their own unique considerations. For starters, you need to consider airfare for yourself and any members of your family or wedding party that you will be paying for. I also recommend trip insurance for things like delays, hotel changes, cancellations, and any of a hundred things that can go wrong during an international trip. Additional costs for lodging—usually three to five days for a destination wedding—should be factored in. Many venues offer getaway wedding packages that include lodging and a whole host of other luxuries, so do thorough research!

There are also the fees associated with the legal side of getting married in France. I broke down these legal requirements in my last post; it’s very helpful information for anyone considering a French destination wedding!

Is a French Destination Wedding Expensive?

Weddings are so completely customized to you and your vision that the cost very much depends on what you want. Ultimately, the price is very similar to the cost of a wedding in the United States. While you do have to consider minor extra legal costs and any travel expenses, understand that the once-in-a-lifetime experience and luxurious treats and accommodations you’ll be enjoying will be absolutely worth investing extra in.

If you have questions or want more details on what a destination wedding photographer thinks about the cost of getting married in France, send me a message! I’m always happy to discuss one of my favorite places in the world.

Amber is a Wedding and Elopement Photographer who is available in Paris, France, and beyond for travel for elopements and weddings. Send in a contact form through the link above to schedule your free consultation.

Photographer: Amber Garrett Photography
Hosts: Bella Vita Retreats
Venue: Chateau de Champlatreux
Couple: IG @estelleandyounes
HMUA: Alesia Solo Co.
Florist: Arts Distributor
Officiant: Paris Officiant A. Herberholz
Rentals: La Maison Options
Dress: BC Dress Rentals
Suit: The Bridal House of Beaufort
Invitations: IG @sakurabishop