A Contemporary French Wedding Editorial: Unconventional Elegance at Château Marcellus

by Sasha Dove

THE WED member Sasha Dove's latest editorial shows a fresh interpretation of French classics. The shoot took place at the Château Marcellus, near Bordeaux, where a contemporary French couple embarked on a wedding day that defied tradition. The neo-classical elegance of the 18th-century château served as both the canvas and inspiration for a celebration that reimagined the classic narrative of love.

The day began by the pool, capturing the couple's relaxed morning in a non-traditional light. Dressed in a white swimsuit adorned with black accents, a black headband, and round earrings, the bride exuded French chic, radiating the freshness, ease, and romance of a French summer. The couple enjoyed a leisurely morning, capturing moments on film camera, taking refreshing dips in the pool, and sharing laughter and kisses.

Breaking with convention, the morning rituals of the bride and groom were shared, taking place in the vibrant yellow room — the master bedroom of the Château. Freshly cut dahlias adorned the room, infusing it with color. The bride, challenging the classic use of veil, incorporated it into her morning attire, with white petals adding a touch of delicacy. The groom opted for a black, casually unbuttoned shirt, accentuated by a silver pendant, exuding stylish nonchalance.

The intimate first look unfolded in the Château's grey-columned room, adorned with a crystal chandelier. Soft blue linens, pink plates with lace details, tall yellow candles, blush flowers, and antique rose velvet chairs added luxurious touches to the couple's morning.

Inspired by Chanel's 2022 fashion show, the bride's look for the first encounter with the groom featured makeup, lingerie-style dress with drapery, and a simple hairstyle adorned with two prominent side clips — a nod to French chic à la Chanel. The addition of stylish ballet flats and a small bouquet completed the comfortable yet sophisticated bridal ensemble. The groom, in a classic black suit with a casually unbuttoned white shirt, sported a silver ring and multiple silver chains.

Choosing a unique ceremony location, the couple opted for the grand window arch of the Château leading to an intricate balcony instead of the traditional floral arch. Hydrangeas, anthuriums, and orchids emphasized the elegance of the setting. For the ceremony, the bride was wearing a relaxed, free-flowing dress with a wide slit and a corset embellished with pearls by Tatyana Kochnova, creating a stylish bohemian look.

For the reception, the bride changed into a third outfit with a mermaid aesthetic inspired by the latest Alaia designs — an evening-styled dress with a semi-transparent top and long sleeves, and statement earrings echoing Valentino's 2023 style. The classic elements of her outfits were reinterpreted to reflect a contemporary flair. On the terrace overlooking the Château, the reception showcased a new wedding cake trend — bows.

The day came full circle by concluding where it began — by the pool. Champagne, dancing, swims in attire, and heartfelt kisses marked the end of a day that redefined the essence of a modern French wedding.