Jenn & Joshua’s Destination Wedding in the South of France
Some weddings stay with you long after the day is over — not because they were grand or extravagant, but because they were deeply personal, intentional, and full of meaning. Jenn and Joshua’s wedding at Château Rieutort was exactly that kind of celebration.
Set in the heart of Southwest France, this October wedding blended elegance, warmth, and authenticity. From the golden autumn tones to the emotional outdoor ceremony under centuries-old trees, every detail felt thoughtfully chosen and beautifully lived.
As a wedding photographer, these are the stories I love telling most.
A Destination Wedding in Southwest France
Jenn and Joshua traveled from the United States to celebrate their wedding in France — a country they love for its atmosphere, landscapes, and art de vivre. Château Rieutort, surrounded by vineyards and rolling countryside, offered the perfect setting for an intimate destination wedding that felt both refined and relaxed.October is one of my favourite months for weddings in the South of France. The intense summer heat has softened, the light becomes golden and gentle, and nature begins to shift into warm autumn colours. On this day, the weather was ideal — comfortably warm, luminous, and calm — creating perfect conditions for both the ceremony and photography.
A Bride Who Brought Her Own Glam Team — From the US
One of the most touching and personal aspects of this wedding was Jenn’s decision to bring her make-up artist and hair stylist from the United States.
These were not just professionals she hired for the day — they were people who had been working with her for years. Jenn shared with me that she couldn’t imagine anyone else taking care of her on her wedding morning. Trust, familiarity, and emotional comfort mattered more to her than convenience.
They even joked — perhaps not entirely joking — that they knew what her wedding hairstyle would be long before she met her future husband.
This detail says so much about the kind of wedding Jenn and Joshua planned: personal, meaningful, and deeply connected to their lives before the wedding day. It also made the getting-ready moments incredibly relaxed and joyful — something that always shows in photographs.
A Calm, Thoughtful Wedding Morning
The wedding day began quietly at Château Rieutort, with Jenn getting ready surrounded by her closest people. There was no rush, no stress — just soft music, gentle laughter, and the slow rhythm of a meaningful morning.
This calm energy set the tone for the entire day. When couples allow themselves space and time, the photography becomes more natural, more emotional, and more timeless.
An Outdoor Ceremony Under Ancient Trees
The ceremony took place outdoors, beneath aged trees that gave the space a sense of history and intimacy. The décor embraced the season: autumnal tones, warm florals, and natural textures that blended beautifully with the surroundings.The setting felt almost cinematic — not because it was overly styled, but because it was perfectly aligned with nature.Autumn weddings in Southwest France have a unique charm. The colours are richer, the light softer, and the air feels calmer than in high summer. For photography, this season is a dream.Jenn and Joshua’s ceremony was emotional, sincere, and deeply moving. These are the moments where I work most discreetly — allowing emotions to unfold naturally, without interruption.
French food — always a perfect choice
Another detail that made Jenn and Joshua’s wedding truly special was the French cuisine. Choosing to celebrate their day in France also meant embracing one of the country’s greatest treasures — its food.
For destination weddings, French cuisine is always a wonderful decision. It feels generous, refined, and deeply connected to the place. Seasonal ingredients, thoughtful presentation, and long, convivial meals naturally bring people together and encourage conversation, laughter, and shared moments.
At Château Rieutort, the wedding meal became an experience in itself — not rushed, not formal, but warm and welcoming. Guests from both sides of the family, French and international, connected easily around the table, discovering flavours, traditions, and the simple pleasure of slowing down together.
This is one of the reasons why couples from abroad so often choose France for their wedding: food here is never just food — it is part of the celebration, part of the memory, and part of the story that will be remembered long after the day has passed.
Expert Planning by Grant Morgan Weddings
Behind the seamless flow of the day was Grant Morgan Weddings, led by wedding planner Grant.
His role was subtle but essential: ensuring that everything unfolded smoothly while allowing the couple and their guests to remain fully present. From the ceremony timing to the transitions throughout the day, the planning was thoughtful, elegant, and effortless.
For destination weddings especially, having an experienced planner makes an enormous difference — not only logistically, but emotionally. Couples can relax, knowing they are supported by someone who understands both the location and their vision.
A Wedding Focused on Connection, Not Performance
What stood out most about this wedding was its authenticity. Nothing felt staged or forced. Every choice — from bringing trusted professionals from home to selecting an outdoor ceremony surrounded by nature — reflected the couple’s values.
As a photographer, this is when my work feels most meaningful. My role is not to direct the day, but to observe, anticipate, and quietly document the story as it unfolds.
Jenn and Joshua’s wedding was not about creating a spectacle. It was about connection, presence, and celebrating love in a way that felt true to them.
Photographing Destination Weddings in France
Château Rieutort is an exceptional venue for couples dreaming of a refined yet relaxed wedding in the South of France. Combined with thoughtful planning and a clear vision, it offers endless possibilities for beautiful, emotional photography.
Jenn and Joshua’s day was a reminder of why I love destination weddings: they bring together cultures, stories, and people from different parts of the world — all meeting in one meaningful place.
Why October Is Perfect for Weddings in the South of France
Jenn and Joshua’s wedding is a beautiful example of why October is such an exceptional month to get married in this region:
- Softer, golden natural light
- Comfortable temperatures for guests and vendors
- Rich seasonal colours
- A calmer, more intimate atmosphere
For couples considering a destination wedding in France, autumn offers elegance without excess — and photographs that feel warm, timeless, and refined.
Planning a wedding in France?
If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding in France, filled with art, music, and timeless elegance, I would be honoured to tell your story.I photograph weddings across France — from Toulouse to Provence, Dordogne, and Paris — always with an eye for light, authenticity, and emotion. Whether your celebration is grand or intimate, every image will reflect who you truly are. Get in touch to discuss your plans.
Eugenie Smirnova — wedding and elopement photographer in Toulouse, South West of France
Wedding Photography Packages for International Couples
Here’s what I offer:
- Tailored packages from 5 to 10+ hours
- Pre-wedding consultation to plan your ideal timeline
- High-resolution, edited images
- Fully retouched highlight portraits
- Private online gallery with 1-year access
- Optional day-before or day-after sessions
- Fine art album design available
I’ve worked with couples from all over the world and love making their time in France feel relaxed, exciting, and unforgettable.
Are you planning a destination wedding in France, let’s Start Planning Your Story
Whether it’s in a vineyard, by the sea, or in a charming château, your story deserves to be told beautifully
📅 Let’s schedule a discovery call
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Thank you to this amazing couple for letting me be part of their day—it was a celebration full of heart, beauty, and style, and one I’ll remember for a long time.
Eugénie Smirnova — Destination Wedding Photographer in France
Based in Toulouse | Serving Provence, Dordogne, Occitanie, Bordeaux & Beyond
Ultimate Wedding Photography Planning Guide
Planning your wedding photography can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re getting married in the picturesque landscapes of the South or South West of France my Ultimate Wedding Photography Planning Guide is here to help you every step of the way. It is designed to ensure that every precious moment of your big day is captured beautifully.
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