Paris is filled with fabulous events and things to do, especially during the summer time.
Yesterday, there was an amazing event called “Dîner en Blanc de Paris” or “Dinner in White in Paris.” It all started 25 years ago by François Pasquier and a handful of friends. Today, the event boasts a crowd of nearly 15,000! What exactly is this exclusive pop-up event? Well, thousands of people come dressed in white accompanied with their most elegant etiquette for a massive “chic picnic” in one of the city’s beautiful public spaces. The event is supposed to evoke the refinement and glamour of court society. The location is only given out at the very last minute, so its very secret for such a public affair. Every year a different spot is chosen, but has included: the Pont des Arts, the Eiffel Tower site, Place Vendôme, the Château de Versailles, the Esplanade de Notre-Dame, the Esplanade des Invalides, the periphery of the Place de l’Étoile, the Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde and this year: the lovely Palais Royal!
It doesn’t stop there either! “Dîner en Blanc” is actually an international event that takes place in close to 40 different locations throughout the world!
Did you miss out this year? Make sure you get an invitation for next year’s magical event!
Our Aussie couples always have so much style (and fun)! Nhu and Norman came from down under with their adorable 1-year old daughter to celebrate their elopement in Paris. They went all out with a lovely pink bohemian theme incorporating tons of pink florals and some fabulous large balloons for their photo session. The bride wore a beautiful, airy silk gown with a dreamy train, which she paired with glamorous pearled sandals. For her hair and makeup, she decided on a loose romantic chignon with a single bright pink peony and some baby’s breath and gorgeous pink lips to match.
The couple exchanged vows on a quiet cobblestoned street near Notre Dame officiated by our fabulous officiant, Igor. Amelia, who was dressed in a pretty white ruffled dress and darling floral crown to match her mother’s flowers, was there to toss some rose petals as confetti in celebration of her parents love. Following the ceremony, the adorable family traveled around our lovely city of love for some photos with our amazing photographer, Olivier before finishing their fun-filled day with a delicious meal at one of Paris’ famed restaurants.
Just before leaving, Nhu sent over this very thoughtful note to say thank you…
“Just wanted to drop you a brief email to say THANKS for everything! Our wedding was amazing and It was perfect for us! Olivier [photographer] was awesome and we can’t wait to see the pics!! Christina [babysitter] was also fantastic with Amelia! And Amelia loved her! Shame about the cherry blossom trees, but Olivier made it work! The quiet street we got married at was really cute and Igor [officiant] was great too! We loved his words Norman was very impressed in the end so as long as he is happy then we have both done a great job! Haha. But it was mainly all you! Thanks again for organising everything, we are both so happy with how everything turned out Everything was perfect.”
For those of you who are not aware, WeddingLight Events is fortunate enough to have our own in-house photographer. Because we work together so often, he was showing us some of his latest work and we just could not help but share his gorgeous photos with you, too!
Traveling all the way from Singapore, Innis and Scott decided to have some pre-wedding photos done while vacationing in Paris — the city of love. Opting for a 4-hour session with Olivier (as well as the use of our amazing car service), the charming couple were able to visit several iconic locations throughout our beautiful city and included two outfit changes with two different beautiful Spring bouquets!
We bring you our selection of the top spots to buy your wedding rings in Paris. There’s no more special way to remember your big day in Paris than buying your wedding bands on your trip. Especially since France is renowned for fashion and jewelry design worldwide. Whether you want a classic ring designer, unique boutique or antique piece we have the answers.
1. Cartier
The French standard
The epitome of luxury French jewelry design, Cartier has to be top of any French jewelry design list. There is nothing more classic or timeless than a Cartier wedding ring, and your friends will be stunned by its benchmark of quality. The house has a rich and royal background, with many exhibitions held under its famous name. It was founded in Paris in 1847 originally as a family company. They became most recognised for their pocket watches and symbolised by their panther, but it is their rings which stole the heart of diamond loving romantics worldwide. A name which has become truly synonymous with romance and excess. The only thing more special than a Cartier wedding band, is a Cartier wedding band purchased in Paris.
Cartier
17 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré 75008 Paris
2. Paulette à Bicyclette
Ethical Jewelry and Design Workshops
The number one spot for any bohemian couple Paulette à Bicyclette is founded on the principal of ethical jewelry, and specialises in wedding pieces. She loves working on rings which represent a couples love and happiness! In this artisan jeweller everything is made from recycled materials in an eco-responsible fashion. They have even been certified by Fairmined. She works to order so you can personalise your piece as you wish, and all her work is precious and poetic in style. Her wedding bands focus on using texture in their design. This is the best place in Paris for wedding rings made with love.
Paulette à Bicyclette
She also offers courses in jewelry making for both weddings and every-day wear so you can learn to create your own rings. This builds the perfect combination of ethical and remarkable wedding rings. There is no more special symbol of your love than making your own unique band in a Parisian workshop. It is important to order your jewelry here as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment.
2 Place de Guignier 75020 Paris
3. Dary’s
High End Antique Specialists
If you want an antique ring then Dary’s is the number one address to go to. Specialising in ancient jewelry and contemporary 18th and 19th century high end pieces, this is an amazing place if you want something not only beautiful, but also something with its own history and story to tell. They are truly experts in their field and authenticity is 100% guaranteed. Consultations are free so you can benefit from their knowledge before committing.
Although still pricey you will save 30% on the original price of the rings if they were first hand, so this is the perfect way to get your hands on the must have Cartier or Van Cleef on a tighter budget. Unique and timeless this is the must visit store for any vintage bride.
Dary’s
362 Rue Saint Honoré 75001 Paris
4. Boucheron
The original on Place Vendôme
Boucheron was the first jeweler to open its doors on Place Vendôme, the heart of France’s luxury jewelry market, and one of Paris’s founding ring makers. They stand alongside Cartier as trail blazers of the French luxury jewellery market. Clients have included tsars, princesses and maharajahs. Boucheron set out to find the best stones which are then worked on by the best craftsmen, controlling quality of raw materials and workmanship at all levels.
Boucheron
26 Place Vendôme 75001 Paris
5. Chanel Fine Jewelry
High Fashion Meets Bridal Elegance
The fashionistas choice, Chanel entered the jewelry market with her first collection in 1932 . Originally developing a niche with designer costume jewelry, mixing real and fake stones Chanel changed the jewelry market as she had the fashion industry. The houses wedding pieces are however of course all about the diamonds.
“If I have chosen diamonds, it is because they represent the highest value in the smallest volume” Coco Chanel.
Diamonds symbolise the elegance and sophistication which embodies Chanel. Classic cuts and the best chosen pieces are the basis of the jewelry line. We love this gorgeous ribbon ring in 18k white gold and diamond.
Chanel
Their store on Place Vendôme now also has a workshop upstairs, making special orders on site.
18 Place Vendôme 75001 Paris
Hopefully you find your perfect wedding band from one of the boutiques on our list! If you’re coming to Paris for your engagement then be sure to also take a look at our Top 5 French Engagement Ring Designers.
After choosing your perfect dress, the biggest statement you can make is through your bridal head-wear. Whether you want to be classic in a veil or breaking boundaries with a more unique piece, WeddingLight Events collated this season’s top hair accessory trends. Tying together your personality and wedding theme will be completed with one of these fabulous looks. Don’t forget to check out our Top 5 Hairstyles to discover the ultimate combination of style and accessory.
1.Gatsby Style Rhinestone Headdresses and Juliet Caps
1920’s glamour continues to inspire brides, and what better way to add nuances of the jazz era to your look than through head-wear. Rhinestone head bands offer a perfect bridge between tiara and hair-band. This look has a timeless elegance which transcends the ages, whilst evoking the fun and recklessness of the period. With many different accessory styles to choose from you should have no problem finding one which compliments your face shape, hair style and dress.
Juliet caps have also made a big comeback with brides. This look is unmistakably vintage and romantic. They can be worn simply or used as a more interesting way to incorporate a veil into your look. The lace adds extra prettiness to any bridal look. Both are perfect for adding a little Gatsby majesty to your reception – just make sure you’ve perfected your Charleston so you can live up to your look!
The staple bridal look will never change, and if you’ve always imagined of the man of your dreams lifting a veil from your face what other choice do you have but to go for it? After all this is your one and only chance to pull it off. Of course just because you know you need to have a veil there are still many decisions to be made! Floor length cathedral style, or shorter and layered? Detailed or simple? Thinking about practicalities is also an important aspect in veil choice as you may want to be able to easily remove it for certain photographs. Floor length veils are the most traditional and are always flattering. Whilst shorter styles can be more playful and inject some personality however it’s important to make sure your whole silhouette is still pleasing to the eye. We love this soft romantic blusher veil from Twigs and Honey.
For the bohemian bride floral crowns are the perfect free spirited expression of beauty. Celebrating natural elegance and romanticism, they create a unique look. From pale and delicate headbands to larger and brighter crowns, the floral trend offers a spectrum of diversity and the perfect motif for a spring/summer wedding. This has to be the biggest trend right now. Your bouquet can also be tied into your look making your favorite flowers play a starring role in your big day. Check out our blog on top bouquet trends for even more inspiration on which flowers to choose, as well as our interview with our wonderful florist Estelle. Adding a splash of colour to your look with bright flowers can also change up the style, and allow you to add in the tones which most suit you. Your floral crown will also of course be completely unique, which is exactly what you want for your big day. Floral crowns are particularly stunning when combined with loose natural curls, for a soft ethereal elegance.
It’s your big day so all eyes must be on you, and nothing will ensure this better than a statement fascinator. Intricacy of design and an array of materials can combine to form a work of art. An excellent choice when combined with a more simple dress. Adding feathers, lace, or rhinestones creates endless possibilities. This gives you an excellent way of bringing in any colours or materials you want to incorporate into your look. Fascinators have made a big comeback since the Royal wedding, even making a splash within mainstream fashion. Of course there are also many smaller fascinators out there if you want a more subdued take on this look. Dare to be different!
If adding a little royal touch to the day is important for you, then you can alternatively embrace the princess theme with a tiara. Now is the time to truly channel your inner Kate Middleton, after all who can deny how stunning her vintage Cartier piece was? A delicate and somewhat traditional accessory choice, a tiara can easily be incorporated into your chosen hairstyle. They are also perfect for adding a little sparkle to a structured hair do. So if a formal chignon is your style of choice a tiara will be the perfect accompaniment! Excellent if you don’t want too much attention to be on your hair. Tiaras are less of a hot trend right now but they will always be a classic and regal wedding look. They’re also perfect if you’ve chosen stunning jewellery and want to emphasise your chosen pieces with a matching tiara. Glitz and glamour galore!
Hopefully this has inspired you to find the perfect wedding hair accessory for you. For more advice on choosing your perfect bridal hairstyle to go with your hair accessory and on how to prepare for the big day, take a look at our interview with Muriel, our favorite Paris wedding hairstylist (and stylist to the stars!).
