WeddingLight Events – Elope to Paris

Tag: hotel

  • 12 Wedding Reception-Ready Restaurants in Paris

    12 Wedding Reception-Ready Restaurants in Paris

    It’s no secret that Paris has some great restaurants, in fact it’s likely one of the reasons you decided to hold your Wedding here in the first place.  However, there are restaurants and then there are Wedding Reception-ready restaurants.  With dozens of offerings on every boulevard, it can be overwhelming trying to pick out the right one. Well, that’s where Wedding Light Events come in; with our extensive Paris knowledge, we’ve made a list of the best of the best to ensure your dining experience is as perfect as possible.

     1. Lasserre

    From the moment your Wedding Car pulls up outside the charming, stand-alone structure of Michelin Star Restaurant Lasserre, you’ll be in good hands.  Priding theirselves not just on exceptional food and wines, but also on the perfect balance between attentive and invasive service, you’ll be able to sit back, and relax, while your Wedding Dinner is taken perfect care of in one of the many private rooms.  The restaurant was opened by Rene Lasserre himself, and has been sitting elegantly since 1942.  With the soft lift, ornate chandeliers and magnificent painted ceilings, you and up to 50 guests will feel like movie stars in this iconic setting.  Perhaps the most beautiful art on show, though, is the food, available to try on 3 different menus along with one wine tasting, starting at €130p/h.

    2.The Restaurant Hôtel les Bains – La salle à manger

    If you envisage your Wedding Dinner being a little off-the-wall, this quirky Parisian neo-brasserie might just be the one for you. With it’s extraordinary, cave-like domed ceiling and pillars, bright walls and contrasting monochrome flooring, it definitely has the wow factor.  The food is just as impressive, with a cooking approach developed by the two Michelin starred chef, Philippe Labbe.  All ingredients are bought from local and sustainable producers, with their honey sourced on site from their own rooftop bee hives – it doesn’t get much fresher than that! Whether it be a small party of six or a large wedding reception, Hôtel les Bains has lots to offer.   L-shaped tables are available for up to 26 guests at €100p/h plus an additional €3k for the space, or if you want to go all out, privatise the entire restaurant for €25k plus food and drinks.  There’s even a club available for hire downstairs if you want to keep the party going all night long.

    3. Les Ombres

    Who needs fancy decor when you can have Paris itself as the backdrop of your Wedding dinner?  Restaurant Les Ombres is located inside the Quai Branley Museum, making it one of the only places in the City offering panoramic views.  Letting the magnificent Eiffel Tower do all the talking, the decor is minamilistic and modern and the food contemporary, with an inventive offering influenced by many international cuisines.  Surprisingly affordable, with prices starting at €85 p/h including drinks for up to 40 guests, your dream of a Parisian wedding has never been more achievable.

    4. Restaurant le Saint James

    Looking for an intimate affair in a historical Parisian setting?  Look no further.  Located inside the hotel that was once a 1892 Chateau, The 3 Michelin Star Restaurant le Saint James is the epitome of luxury, with antique chandeliers, polished oak and striking oil paintings.  If that wasn’t enough, head outside and be greeted by a Pride and Prejudice-style patio, with beautiful parasols and white, lace-like seating.  Such a divine location requires equally impressive food and drink, something Chef Virginie Basselot and ‘wine whisperer’ Micael Morais definitely deliver on.  In order to assure a sophisticated and harmonious atmosphere, the maximum number of diners is limited to twelve, inside or out.  At a price of €130p/h plus drinks, it’s the perfect place to make your private Parisian Wedding dreams come true. 

    5. Restaurant le Diane

    Have the best of both worlds for your Wedding Dinner at Michelin Restaurant Le Diane, situated inside of one of Paris’ famous hotels, Le Bouquet.  The circular, domed room opens out to an elegant summer patio, giving you both the comfort of an inside setting whilst having nature on your doorstep – literally.  A refined and feminine decor with plush velvet in romantic purples and striking wall lighting is used inside while the terrace is a much more minimalistic, modern affair.  A seasonal Menu by Chef Jean-Yves Leuranguer is offered for a party of up to 40 Wedding guests, with prices starting at €150, including drinks.  While privatisation fees of around €8k are added on to this, the versatility the location offers for wedding day, come rain or shine, is a priceless thing.

    6. Le Bon

    Nestled inside what’s considered as the most upmarket and socialite arrondissements of Paris, Restaurant BON offers exclusivity, excitement and extravagance.  With four different rooms, each offering an entirely different decor, there is something for everyone, and the space can be entirely privatised or partially, in order to accommodate numbers from 10, right up to 180.  Far from the traditional French affair, the menu is based around Southeastern Asian cuisine, something which is sure to make you Wedding Dinner one to remember. Set menus from €49.50 to €122 are available, or if you want something entirely unique and catered to you, tailored menus can also be discussed to ensure your day is as unique as you are.

    7. 114 Faubourg

    Far from the muted colours and monochrome theme of many of Paris’ finest establishments, Michelin Star Restaurant 114 Faubourg is sure to bring a splash of colour to your Wedding Dinner.  Set on two levels, with floral wall panelling and intricate, black and gold-leafed railing, the setting is vibrant and ornate.  The bustling and ambiance-enhancing open-plan kitchen sees Chef Jean-Charles Cauquil and his talented team creating their sophisticated but classic dishes right before your eyes.  Despite being situated inside the famous Hotel Bristol, the clientele are mainly loyal, local Parisians so tables are kept to smaller numbers, welcoming from 8-10 wedding guests with menus starting €160p/h including drinks. 

    8. Le Taillevent

    Restaurant Le Taillevent has a distinctively Parisian decor.  A classic and understated style, including wooden panelling, winding stairs and stone pillars is mixed with modern touches in the lighting, bright artworks and striking floral arrangements, giving just the right amount of wow-factor for a Wedding.  Multiple dining rooms can cater for up to 36 with prices starting at €120p/h for a taste of their three Michelin star menu which includes perfected balance of flavours and exquisite presentation.

    9. L’Oiseau Blanc

    Why have your Wedding Dinner anywhere when you can have it enjoying jaw-dropping views of Paris on what’s known as the best terrace in the City?  Sit surrounded by glass from floor to ceiling in their aviation-themed room and you’re sure to feel on top of the world – just as you should on your wedding day.  If you’ve got bigger ideas, their beautiful reception rooms can cater for up to 80 people including a dance area, champagne aperitif, 3 course dinner and much more from €265 p/h.  Whether your inside or out, Chef Sidney Redel’s traditional french cuisine with a hint of contemporary flair is sure to add the finishing touch to your experience in this stunning location.

    10. Le Meurice

    If you’re thinking of going big, bold, and beautiful, Le Meurice is the obvious choice.  With enough space to host the Wedding Reception of a lifetime and decor that wouldn’t look out of place at a Palace, you’d be stretched to find a more glamorous location.   Antique mirrors, bronze tones, marbles, and much more set the scene inside, while an astounding view onto the Jardin des Tuileries assures continued beauty wherever the eyes of your Wedding guests may wander.  A variety of Menus by Chef Alain Ducasse starting from €130p/h are offered, and with the array of reception rooms available all with varying privatisation fees, the options for your day are endless. 

    11. Le Cinq

    Another great option if you need somewhere capable of catering for big numbers – up to 315 to be exact – is 3 Michelin Star Restaurant Le Cinq, inside another one of Paris’ most prestigious Hotels,  Hotel George V.  Light and elegant, the textiles in shades of gold and grey and magnificently detailed pillars and wall panelings give the atmosphere of a private Chateau. Chef Christian Le Squer – who defines himself as a “creator of flavors and composer of tastes” – is paired with Eric Beaumard – once named vice champion in the Wine Stewardship Contest – to make this the ultimate fine-dining experience.  With the best in the business catering to your every need along with the stunning setting, the €359p/h includes everything you could ever dream of for your big day in the City of Love.

     12. La Maison Blanche

    The Champs Elysées is one of the most famous spots in the world, and the chicest, too.  Testimony to this great reputation is La Maison Blanche, a place both to see and be seen in. Sitting on the top of the Théâtre des Champs Elysées, Bruno Frank’s restaurant offers outstanding views over Paris set over two levels.  The decor is sleek and sexy with plus, textiles in neutral colours and dimmed mood lighting, completing this warm and intimate setting. The restaurant can cater for up to 40 for a Wedding dinner, with the price per head set at  €135 including drinks.  Why not have the Parisian skyline all to yourself and privatise the terrace for an extra cost of €2000 ?  It is your Wedding day, after all.

    Seen something that takes your fancy ?  The team here at Wedding Light Events are ready to advise, plan and bring to life your perfect day here in the City of Love.  Why not send us a message for some more information. 

  • Top 5: Luxury Boutique Hotels

     

     If you are planning to elope or wed in the wonderfully charming city of Paris, then you will certainly need an equally special place to stay to match the occasion. We are giving you our Top 5 recommendations for luxury boutique hotels, all of which are located in the very heart of the city giving you ease to move about see and do all that the City of Lights has to offer.

    1. Saint James Paris

    43 Avenue Bugeaud, Porte Dauphine, 75116 Paris

    Just around the corner from the Champs Elysées, Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triumph, stands the city’s last remaining chateau hotel. Set in its own private gardens in the very classy 16th arrondissement, this hotel blends a touch of extravagance with comfort and true elegance. The beautiful Saint James Paris offers more than just a gorgeous atmosphere, but a personal service that is held to the highest of standards and luxury accommodations that will amaze you. Imagine this: you and your partner have just had your perfect wedding day and the next morning  you wake up to breakfast in bed! (Oo-la-la!) However, you also can enjoy their delicious petit-dejeuner (breakfast) in the comfort of their stylish library and bar. They have 48 room and suites, several of which are theme designed, such as The Boudoir Room, The Deluxe Room, or The Love Pavilion. Prices begin at €385 a night for their Classic Rooms and go up to €980 for their larger Suites. You can also treat yourself at their Gemology Spa, dine in their restaurant with their brilliant young chef, Virginie Basselot, or even join their exclusive Members Club to enjoy amazing benefits.

    Source: www.saint-james-paris.com

    2. La Maison Favart

    5 Rue de Marivaux, Opera, 75002 Paris

    This boutique hotel is located just a stone throw away from the famous Opéra. The 4-star luxury establishment is named after Monsieur Favart, the director of the Opéra-Comique in 1743, and his wife, the young actress known as “Mademoiselle Chantilly.” Here you can choose from 37 uniquely decorated rooms and suites that will take you back into the fabulous Parisian atmosphere of 18th century. Room prices vary from  €200 a night for a Classic Room up to  €1,100 euros for one of their suites or duplexes. They also offer a bar called the Honesty Bar (open from 5pm to 11pm), a modern spa with all amenities and a beautiful Relaxation Bath, as well as a fitness room.

    Source: www.lamaisonfavart.fr

    3. Relais Christine

    3, rue Christine – 75006 Paris

    The Relais Christine was one of the first among boutique hotels in Paris. The 4-starred elegant country manor-styled hotel is actually housed within a mansion and was built on the remains of a 13th-century abbey. How’s that for some history?! Hidden out of sight from the hustle and bustle of the St. Germain-des-Pres district and the Seine river, this boutique hotel has managed to keep its tranquility and peacefulness left by the monastery all those centuries ago making ideal for a romantic getaway. Housing 49 bedrooms and suits, this luxurious home-away-from home will be sure to impress on all levels. With its  high ceilings, French windows, classic wood panelling, plus sofas and rich coloring, you will be sure to have a comfortable stay.  They also serve breakfast in a vaulted cellar, have a cozy little garden and spa. Standard rooms begin at €320 a night and go all the way up to €1,000 a night for one of their larger suites.

    Source: www.relais-christine.com

    4. Hotel Francois Premier

    7 Rue Magellan, Champs Elysees, 75008, Paris

    Designed by the renowned architect, Pierre Yves Rochon and tucked away in the luxurious “Golden Triangle” district, this 4-starred gem is more of a secret private residence than a hotel. Blending country estate charm with Parisian glamour and elegance, this luxury boutique hotel offers 38 rooms and 2 suites, all of which are lavishly decorated from top to bottom with modern amenities. It does not stop there either — they have an equally amazing staff that are both attentive and conscientious too. The hotel offers a bar with a winter garden, a restaurant with traditional cuisine and a delightful area to have an afternoon tea. As for things to do, they are just steps away from some of the most famous fashion houses in the industry, within walking distance of the fabulous Lido and Crazy Horse cabarets and there is always the Bastille Opera that always offers wonderful programs, as well. Prices vary beginning from €219 for one of their Classic Rooms to €599 for one of their Suites.

    Source: www.the-paris-hotel.com

    5. Hotel Caron De Beaumarchais

    12, rue Vieille-du-Temple 75004 Paris

    If you looking for something with a bit more history and charm, then this fabulous little 3-star hotel is just for you. The 19 room hotel has an ideal location in the Marais district, just next to the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Picasso Museum and a lovely little square called the Place des Vosges. Unlike other hotels, the Hotel Caron de Beaumarchais evokes the feeling of a private house more than an actual hotel. The 18th century establishment is decorated with wooden beams, refined fabrics, and selected antiques for a cozy, intimate, and romantic atmosphere. They offer three room choices: a ground floor room for €145 a night, a rear-view room for €165 a night or a front-view room for €195 a night.

    Source: www.carondebeaumarchais.com

    This list could go on and on, but these are just a few of our favorites. If you are still in need of some other ideas of where to stay or prefer Paris’ larger hotels, be sure to check our Top 5 Luxury Parisian Hotels, as well!

  • Top 5: Luxury Parisian Hotels

    If there’s one thing Parisians do well it’s luxury. From fashion to food to everything in between, no one does opulence quite like the French! Whether you’re looking to stay in Paris for just one night (viable excuses include: anniversaries, proposals, birthdays… Mondays) or for an extended period of time, there’s a room (or a suite!) to suit everyone. Thanks to Parisians’ perfectionist tendencies our top 5 luxury hotels are just that – perfect. If you can think of it they’ve probably got it, and if they haven’t got it they’ll bend over backwards to get it for you.

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    1. Le Bristol

    The Terrace Suite at Le Bristol

     

    Le Bristol is perfectly located on the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré – home to not only the Palais de l’Elysée (the President’s residence) but also virtually every big-name luxury brand including Chanel, Prada, Dolce & Gabanna… the list goes on! Le Bristol boasts a seemingly never-ending list of accolades, the most recent of which include “Best Luxury Day spa” in Europe and ranking 2nd amongst the 25 Best Hotels in France according to Trip Advisor, and did we mention it was the first French establishment to be awarded the distinction of “Palace” status? If that doesn’t persuade you how about the romantic 18th century décor, the kid’s club or the triple Michelin-starred chef!

    Prices vary throughout the year, “Romance in Paris” offer from €975

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    2.Plaza Athénée

    The Eiffel Suite Classic at Plaza Athénée

    Having welcomed previous glamorous clientele such as Grace Kelly, Jackie Kennedy and the Ford family, the Plaza Athénée is the perfect choice for a VIP-style stay. Featuring 12 different types of rooms and suites, 5 restaurants and even 2 styles of décor (classical and art deco) the choices are endless! The jaw-dropping “Signature Suites”  are essentially sumptuous Parisian apartments and if it weren’t for the option of round-the-clock room service (24-hour champagne!) you could soon forget that you’re in a hotel. For those who like to travel in style there’s a hotel limousine available for hire (with driver) by the hour, but who needs to leave when you have three Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse’s restaurant and a Dior Institut spa on the premises?! But if you do get itchy-feet the Théâtre des Champs Élysées, where you can catch an opera or a ballet, is just seconds away.

    €635 – suite prices on request, “Romantic Offer” from €975

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    3. Shangri-La Hotel

    The Suite Impériale at the Shangri-La Hotel

    The best thing, and it’s hard to choose, about the Shangri-La Hotel is its location on the banks of the Seine with a breath-taking view of the Eiffel Tower. Painstakingly restored, it’s also the former home of Napoleon Bonaparte’s grandnephew and you’ll certainly receive the royal treatment here! Guests can take advantage of three restaurants (two of which are Michelin-starred) offering French and Asian haute cuisine or sip the hotel’s signature cocktail “The Pink Lady” at the Empire style bar. The Shangri-La is another hotel with a whole host of awards but what really sets it apart from other luxury options are its inventive but subtle East-meets-West décor and rooms that boast a view of the Eiffel Tour from your bath tub… quite a way to start your wedding day! Prices vary throughout the year, “Romance in Paris” offer from €990

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    4. W Paris-Opéra

    The W Lounge at W Paris-Opéra

    The W Paris-Opéra may belong to a chain but its stylish rooms make it feel more like a boutique Parisian hotel and with 9 types of rooms ranging from “Cozy Room” to “Extreme Wow Suite” it’s easy to find a luxury space to suit you, even on a budget. All guests can enjoy complimentary 24-hour access to the top floor fitness centre (with a view over the Paris rooftops exercising just became a lot more fun!) and then treat themselves to a drink in the ultra-chic W Lounge bar. The hotel also offers its unique “Whatever/Whenever” service for “Whatever you want. Whenever you want it, as long as it’s legal!” – perfect for a rainy day in bed! But it’ll be hard to resist leaving your room with a Michelin Star restaurant in the hotel and the Opéra and world-famous Grands Magasins on your doorstep!

    €340 – €2300, “Romance in Paris” offer from €470

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    5. Hotel Fouquet’s Barrière

    The Duplex Eiffel Suite at Hotel Fouquet’s Barrière

    Located just off the Champs Elysées on the famous Avenue George V, Hotel Fouquet’s Barrière was the first luxury hotel in Paris to receive five stars. Even the smallest rooms are spacious at 37sqm, with the largest suite a huge 250sqm and rooms available at every size in between. All of the rooms and suites offer great views of surrounding landmarks or the hotel’s private garden, a delightful haven of sunshine and greenery . During your stay you can also take advantage of the hotel’s  U Spa (the U stands for “Unique in Paris”!), stunningly decorated with light wood and bronze mosaics, with free access to the swimming pool and fitness centre. The hotel is home to no less than 5 restaurants and 3 bars including the recently opened La Petite Maison de Nicole, the Parisian version of the famous restaurant of the same name in Nice.

    €655 – €14280, “Paris c’est l’Amour” offer from €990

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    Phew! After that we’re guessing you’re feeling a bit spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing your luxury hotel! Exemplary service, world-renowned chefs and budgets to suit everyone from the purse-friendly to the money-is-no-object… these hotels may seem the stuff of dreams but we can assure you they’re very real! Just remember to book well in advance to secure your favourite room or suite, then kick back, relax and let yourself be pampered in the lap of luxury!

    *All photos taken from the Hotels’ websites.

     

  • The Most Romantic Hotel in Paris: The Hotel Ritz Closes for Renovation

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    Preparation photo of real wedding at the Ritz by Weddinglight Paris

    French Elegance at the Hotel Ritz Paris

    When deciding on a wedding venue location, one of the most important elements is the romance factor.  For some couples, it has to be a grandiose fairy tale wedding with all of the bells and whistles.  Others wish for an intimate setting for only the two of them to revel in the magic of their day.

    For both sides of the spectrum – and everything in between – the Hotel Ritz in Paris is the perfect setting for the most romantic day of your life.

    Located near the Opéra Garnier, arguably one of the most beautiful buildings in the world, and in front of elegant column of Place Vendôme, the Hotel Ritz Paris is the perfect backdrop for your wedding and, of course, your wedding pictures.

    hotel ritz paris wedding planner

    Closing and Renovation

    However, for those wishing to indulge in this paradise, time is limited.  The Hotel Ritz in Paris will be closing for two years beginning in August 2012 for some much-needed renovations.  The last upgrades took place in 1979, and the owner, Egyptian billionaire Mohamed Al Fayed, has planned to make many changes, while maintaining the integrity of the architecture and style of the Ritz.  Winner of the €140-million bid on the project, Bouygues Construction will be spearheading the remodeling, working with designer Thierry W. Despont.

    According to Forbes.com, refurbishments include a full technological upgrade, an extension of the ballroom, additional suites, and a new summer restaurant with a retractable glass roof. During the restorations, the hotel’s restaurant and prestigious culinary school will also be closed. The new-and-improved Hotel Ritz Paris will reopen in 2014.

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  • Hotel Vendome Paris

    Lets spread the word; our heart goes for L’Hotel Vendome this week. Built in 1723 by Pierre Perrin, the Sun King’s secretary, this elegant building was by turns a private residence and a seat of government, then in 1842 the embassy of the young Republic of Texas whose independence France was the first to recognise. But first they have a new gastronomic card, specially conceived by very promising talented Chef Nicolas Rucheton and his team for Fall.Second and that really raised our curiosity a “5 Senses Experience at the Hôtel de Vendôme” which you should read about and try. Delightful Paris….