Destination Elopement Photographer | How to Elope in France

Eloping in France is a magical experience, whether you’re dancing through Paris or traipsing around the French countryside. And the best part? Anyone can do it! Symbolically or legally, getting married in France is many a couple’s dream and is absolutely attainable if you’ve always dreamed of a romantic getaway wedding in the world’s most romantic country. For those looking to get legally married in France, the process is a tad more complicated. Since I’ve attended and photographed many French elopements, I’ll break it down here:

Legal Requirements to Elope in France

France requires one person in the couple to be a resident for at least 40 days before they can legally marry. During this waiting period, it’s a good idea to get all your legal documents in order. This includes:

• An application at the town hall (the Mairie) where you or your partner have lived for at least 40 days (do this application well in advance!)

• Proof of residency like a utility bill.

• A certified translated copy of birth certificates. Depending on the town or city you’re marrying in, you may need a copy less than three months old.

• An affidavit of marital status to show you are not already married, plus a divorce decree or death certificate if you were previously married. Marriage records are handled by your home state, and in France these may be called “certificat de coutumes” and “certificat de celibat,” or an “Attestation tenant lieu de certificat de coutumes et de célibat.”

After gathering these documents, meeting the residency requirement, and gaining approval, a public announcement of your marriage must be posted for ten days before your ceremony. Find more information on this stipulation here. Finally, it’s time to get married! Your civil ceremony will take place at the Mairie of the town you live in. Once you receive your marriage certificate and a certified translated copy, you can apply for an apostille to ensure your marriage is recognized in your home country.

Symbolic Elopement in France

Because of the complex (and lengthy) legal requirements to elope in France, many couples choose to have a purely symbolic ceremony. There is so much more freedom for choosing your location, incorporating religious or cultural elements, choosing a minister or officiant, and more—plus the added benefit of not having all that stress! There are many companies who provide symbolic ceremony services for couples who choose this route.

No matter which avenue you choose to elope in France, I will be right by your side the whole time! We’ll celebrate your marriage with romantic French elopement portraits under the Eiffel tower or in fields of fragrant lavender. I can just picture it! Can you?

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

Couple: IG @half_dust_half_deity

HMUA: Alesia Solo Co.

Florist: Arts Distributor

Vintage Car: Retro Motors Collection

Dress: BC Dress Rentals