A French Manor Wedding

1885 oil painting by Impressionist French artist Claude Monet

The Road to Giverny in Winter is an 1885 oil painting by Impressionist French artist Claude Monet. The wintery scene in this painting was the inspiration for this French French Manor Wedding captured by Fleur Challis. Who talks us through this exquisite day…

The desire to capture the very essence of a romantic winter

“The inspiration for this styled shoot at the wedding venue, Domaine de la Traxene. Was drawn initially from the desire to capture the very essence of a romantic winter – as recorded by the impressionist painter, Monet. Who painted nearby, in the depths of the Hauts de France.

Brought together by the owner, Isabelle, in that seemingly effortless French style

Secondly, it drew inspiration from the exquisite French interiors of the French Manor House. As well as the collection of authentic pieces of furniture, brought together by the owner, Isabelle, in that seemingly effortless French style.

Rolling hills and rustic French scenery

Often overlooked as we journey south. This quiet and beautiful area of Northern France is not to be forgotten for the perfect destination wedding. Within easy reach of England. With a huge wealth of historical character, diverse architecture, rolling hills and rustic French scenery. It’s a must for couples looking for an exclusive use wedding venue with local character, where they can also personalise the space.

With a beautifully renovated dovecote at the very heart of the venue

On arrival friends and family can check into their rooms, whilst the couple is ‘given the keys’ to this stunning venue. The French Manor’s exquisitely restored chalk walls lend warmth and intimacy to the courtyard. With a beautifully renovated dovecote at the very heart of the venue. Where newly married couples spend their first night together. Within the walled garden, there are two ancient, imposing and handsome beech trees. That literally can’t live without each other!

Winter weddings can be a bit like Marmite

Winter weddings can be a bit like Marmite to both those seeking to get wed and to wedding photographers alike. As the bitter beauty of that elusive light can fade so quickly. But, whilst we all love the endless long hot days in June or the sharp intensity of that spring light. Winter light and the hues of the countryside most definitely have a whimsical charm of their own.

Working together on this shoot with The Wedding Owl (Sam Lloyd), and a team of mostly Kent based suppliers. We incorporated quintessentially French experiences. That included a 2CV getaway vehicle and a local accordion player.

The tablescapes are painterly, using a delicate fusion of colours. That included winter light blue sky, natural blond, honey, muted, faded browns. Café au lait, praline and salted caramel, with splashes of gold.

The ceremony area was lent extra enchantment with an abundance of flickering. Tapering candles and decorated with romantic, dreamy, big blousy, David Austin roses.

What Northern France may lack in warm temperatures, it more than makes up for with charm. Rolling French countryside, glasses of the best Champagne. Good wine, amazing French food (full of flavour and aromas) and rich culture. Located near to Le Touquet (a small seaside town known for its sandy beach and seafood), and of course it’s easy access to the most romantic capital in the world.Paris (perfect for a mini-moon post celebrations!).

If you are looking for a destination wedding venue in France. We strongly recommend that you meet Isabelle the owner. You will not only fall in love with the Manor, the all-inclusive food and drink package, but also with her!”