Will you marry “moi” ?

MARIE-ANTOINETTE THEME WEDDING

The French inspired style of decadence has been a strong trend in the past couple of years for destination weddings to France and Italy. Both France and Italy have an abundance of Châteaux reminiscent of the glorious Versailles Palace. 18^th Century Palaces and Villas adorn Florence and Venice and sumptuous Châteaux in the Loire Valley of France. All can accommodate small or large wedding receptions.

Many couples have seen the charm of Paris-Theme receptions over the past few years. In fact, it’s possible that this devotion to France and its Châteaux has turned into a craze, especially now that Eva Longoria of Desperate Housewives and fiancé Tony Parker held their lavish nuptials in a swanky Château just south of Paris called Château de Vaux-Le-Vicomte.

Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte

Vaux-le-Vicomte was in many ways the most influential work built in Europe in the mid-17^th century. It is located 34 miles southeast of Paris and was the work of three geniuses of the 17^th century: the architect Le Vau, the painter and sculptor Le Brun and the landscape gardener Le Nôtre. The building impressed King Louis XIV so much that he commissioned the same three men to create the Château de Versailles. The first view of Vaux-le-Vicomte and its grounds is breathtaking. It is smaller than Versailles however the gardens are spectacular. In fact several scenes from Sophia Coppolla’s award winning movie “Marie-Antoinette” were filmed on location in the gardens of the Château; you surely remember the fire works for Marie-Antoinette’s birthday, or the playful boat scene with her friends as well as the promenades in the gardens.

Inspired by the fashion epic, Marie-Antoinette, decadent reception décor is a must. Brides will show a flair of bourgeoisie by boasting big gowns, brocade, gilded colors, hand written invitations, lush floral centerpieces, champagne-tasting bars, seven course meals and dessert displays.

Your Marie-Antoinette Wedding Theme

The Inspiration: Kirsten Dunst in Sophia Coppola’s award winning movie

“Marie-Antoinette”

The Theme: Romantic, Whimsical and Decadent.

The Motto: More is better!

The Metallic: Gold, Gold and More Gold, Silver, Precious Jewels also. Mix them up.

The Venue: A grand ballroom with airy, light décor and paisleys. Look for sand-colored patterns on the walls, (damask, toile), grand chandeliers, over the top molding, drapes and valance combinations with lavish tassels.

Colors: Focus on neutrals on the pastel end of the wheel for your base: porcelain, pale pink, and peach, oyster, shell and pearl. Accent with frothy, feminine colors that aren’t oversaturated: dusty rose, salmon, celadon and pale blue.

Textures: Silky damasks in multiple layers. Avoid using the same combinations at every table but use complimentary colors. A must have: Plumes, plumes and more plumes! Think fans, vintage shoe clips, hair embellishments, centerpieces and boutonnieres; chunky, vintage style jewelry such as chandelier earrings, sparkling chokers and satin ribbons on the neck, bouquet wraps and stationery.

Flowers: Roses, roses, roses!

Plenty of roses, peonies and hydrangeas will complement your rich neutral palette of colors.

Wedding Cake: A festive croquembouche or macaroons cake such as the ones made by Ladurée in Paris as well as a dessert buffet, with tons of tiny pastries for guests to help themselves to.

Must-Haves: Gold chargers, luxurious napkins folded into a fleur-de-lys, silk fans opened on a plate with a hand written guest tag in gold calligraphy, rose topiaries on the tables, parasols, satin bows, gloves and ruffles, garters and tiaras, tulle, silk and taffeta. Masquerade masks for you and your bridal party is a must!

Additional touches: Champagne fountains with rose petals floating in a basin and decadent chocolate fountains. Find the best ostrich plume pen to compliment your satin damask guestbook. Lastly adorn your fingers with pink sapphire costume rings which Marie-Antoinette loved as well as plenty of pearls!

References: Retrieved from official website of the chateau of Vaux-le-Vicomte, www.wikipedia.org, www.weddingfavorstolove.com, www.palmbeachdailynews.com, www.wedsmack.com, www.weddingbycolor.com, www.favorideas.com, www.findgalegroup.com,www.etsy.com, www.fodors.com,