When I first began shooting professionally, I packed up and spent the summer in Paris. I guess you could say destination work has been part of my photography since the beginning. It still holds a special place in what I do, and I’m so happy to share this weekend wedding at Château de la Flocellière.
Driving up, I had one of those “is this real life?” moments. The day kept handing me more of them.
Julia and Tom (a Chicago couple) gathered their closest family and friends and brought everyone to the French countryside for a full wedding weekend at the château. Château de la Flocellière is in Vendée, near Puy du Fou, and it’s been documented as far back as the 11th century, with a history that spans roughly 900+ years.
The property blends medieval roots with later-era additions, and it’s filled with the kind of details you can’t manufacture: painted ceilings, a collection of antiques, old portraits, stonework, and a park that feels like it’s been lived in for generations.
I spent most of the morning with Julia in the grand suite up top while she finished getting ready, then moved between rooms as the day came together. Their first look happened in the gardens, quiet and emotional, with enough space to breathe. The ceremony took place just behind the château and included a violinist, readings, and personal vows, with Tom’s father officiating.
Dinner was served in a traditional French style with multiple courses and wine pairings. The room carried that warm, echoing feeling of toasts, laughter, and the kind of celebration that doesn’t need a production to feel special. Later, dessert came out in full flourish, and dancing carried on into the night.
This entire wedding was photographed digitally, shot fully on my Leica M240 rangefinder, which shaped how I saw the day. Slower. Closer. More intentional. It’s a camera that rewards attention and honesty, and it felt like the right tool for a place like this.
If you’d like, you can also watch the my youtube video about this camera here.
Julia and Tom’s story is one I won’t forget. Here are a few favorites.
If you’d like some further ideas on having a wedding in France, check out this page for more information.
If you’d like more information about my approach to documenting weddings in France.