Finding Your Perfect Destination Wedding Venue in Paris

The City of Light is a coveted spot for a destination wedding, from the iconic sights to the world-class cuisine. It is no wonder couples flock there to tie the knot! However, before you can find your perfect wedding venue in Paris, it helps to know more about the logistics of planning a wedding in the city. We are here today to walk you through everything you need to know, guided by our experience as destination wedding planners. Plus, you will find a list of our five favorite Paris wedding venues!

So, grab a glass of wine, sit back, and say au revoir to all your planning stresses and doubts as we hop across the pond to discover the ins and outs of getting married in one of the most romantic places on earth.

What to Know About Planning a Paris Wedding

Local Customs

While speaking with locals the last time we visited France, we noted that French weddings do not follow the typical pattern of weddings in the States (i.e., large ceremony in one spot, cocktail hour in another, and reception in a third). In France, they perform an intimate ceremony with only the bridal party and parents present, usually in a church or city hall. Then, the reception follows at a separate venue with cocktails and dinner. Of course, you do not need to plan your Paris destination wedding this way. However, it helps to familiarize yourself with local customs before booking European vendors as you may find your expectations differ.

Location and Logistics

The logistics of planning a wedding in a busy city like Paris can get complicated fast. Since moving around is harder than at a rural venue, we recommend hosting all wedding-related events at one location. To that end, we advise booking a hotel venue where your guests can stay on-site (more on that to come!). Note that these venues are usually smaller than they would be in the States; most accommodate a max of 200 guests. 

However, there are other differences between Parisian and American hotels. For example, hotel room blocks work differently. There are no ‘courtesy’ blocks for booking the venue. Rather, you must book a contract block and pay upfront. Then, you will create a rooming list of the precise amount of rooms you need instead of sending a conventional booking link to your guests. We recommend doing this as early as possible so you can lock down that room block!

Tip: Many guests may opt to vacation before or after your wedding. Some may choose to stay at a different hotel or even at an Airbnb and provide their transportation to and from the wedding. Check with each guest before booking your room block to avoid vacant rooms!

It is also worth noting that Parisian hotels lack the “getting ready suite” often found at American wedding venues. The rooms, in general, are much smaller than the average American might expect. So, to get ready, you will want to book a large suite, which usually runs from five to six thousand euros per night. Or, you can book one of the hotel’s small conference spaces for more space.

The Vendor Market

Planning a Paris wedding does not limit you to hiring Parisian, or even French, vendors. It is easy to bring in vendors from other countries, just as it would be to bring in a vendor from a different state here in the U.S. Most are happy to travel! In addition, most are fluent in English and French; the only place you may have issues is the remotest part of the countryside. However, we have noted that finding an English-speaking band is tricky. If you want a live band, we generally look to England or Italy for options. 

All in all, you will find that European wedding vendors are warm and welcoming. They are excited to work with you, and with us! They are also highly professional, creative, and dedicated to their craft. And, bonus: they usually respond MUCH faster than American vendors.

Find Your Perfect Wedding Venue in Paris

As previously stated, booking a hotel venue is your best bet for avoiding a logistical nightmare when planning a destination wedding in Paris. A few of our favorites are listed below!

Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris

It all comes together at the Four Seasons Paris: Art Deco style, Michelin-starred cuisine, an on-site spa, and an enviable view of the city’s most iconic sight, the Eiffel Tower. It is also the largest venue on our list, with 244 guest rooms for hosting your nearest and dearest in the lap of luxury. Note that if you book this venue, you must work with their in-house floral team, led by Jeff Latham. Fortunately, they are excellent at what they do!

Ritz Paris

If you have been envisioning an open-air wedding surrounded by the sights and sounds of the City of Light, Ritz Paris is your go-to pick. The five-star hotel boasts the prettiest outdoor space of any on this list! We enjoyed exploring the rear patio, which features steps leading down to the lush Grand Jardin: the perfect spot for a secluded outdoor ceremony in the city’s heart.

Hotel Plaza Athénée

Established in 1913, the Plaza Athénée is an iconic Parisian hotel on Avenue Montaigne. Like the Ritz Paris, this hotel also features a beautiful outdoor space. Moreover, it boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, the Jean Imbert au Plaza Athénée by Chef Jean Imbert. 

Note that rain is always a possibility in Paris. So, if you plan an outdoor ceremony at the Hotel Plaza Athénée or the Ritz Paris, it is best to have a tent that can cover the space if necessary. Some hotels may be able to provide this, while others will require an outside rental.

Hotel de Crillon

This hotel overlooking the Place de la Concorde is perfect for couples seeking a venue with an intimate feel. It is the smallest on our list and accommodates a maximum of 30 people. There are three small rooms, known as salons, which you can use to host your event. With ornate molding and gold accents sprinkled throughout the decor, each space exudes elegance.

Hotel Lutetia

For those seeking a venue with a more contemporary feel—without sacrificing that signature Parisian elegance—there is the Hotel Lutetia. This location blends art nouveau with art deco style to create a unique experience. Moreover, you will experience all the benefits of staying amid the hustle and bustle of the city’s lively Saint Germain des Prés district.  

Alternative: Chateau Weddings

Are you a dedicated Francophile but undecided about whether a destination wedding in Paris is a good fit? Consider a chateau wedding! Rural France makes a gorgeous setting for a destination wedding, and you will find ample venue options throughout the country. Since everyone stays onsite at a chateau wedding, this option is ideal for extroverts who want their loved ones close throughout the weekend. However, the lack of privacy may be undesirable to introverts.

Read our Blog: How to Find the Perfect French Chateau for Your Destination Wedding

A venue in the city is a better choice for those desiring quiet and one-on-one time with their spouse-to-be. A hotel may also be less expensive than a chateau since it is unnecessary to entertain your guests 24/7. They can explore Paris to their hearts’ content, while you must provide onsite activities at a chateau.

Is your perfect wedding venue in Paris on this list? Whether you feel sold on saying “I do” in the City of Light or tempted to steal away to the countryside for a chateau wedding, we want to make the journey toward your dream day possible. We would love to hop on a call to discuss your vision, the guiding star that will ultimately lead us there! Get started today by inquiring.