Romantic Château Wedding in the French Countryside

Set against the serene backdrop of Château Destinée in the heart of the French countryside, Georgia and Ben’s wedding was the perfect blend of timeless elegance and relaxed luxury. Surrounded by manicured gardens, ancient stone statues, and sun-drenched views, their day was a dreamy blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. With soft pastel florals, thoughtful personal touches, and a sun-drenched outdoor ceremony, the day had all the magic of a storybook celebration, with styling details that reflected the tranquil natural surroundings. For her bridal makeup, Georgia turned to Make Me Bridal Pro Ellie Watkinson of Ellie The Make Up Artist, to bring her glam-meets-natural vision to life and keep her looking flawless from the first look to the last toast.

Elegant château wedding venue surrounded by French countryside gardens
Bride’s wedding dress hanging in a sunlit room
Bridal bouquets with soft pastel flowers
Bridal portrait in the château
Bride with soft natural makeup and classic bridal hairstyle
Bride standing in front of a château with natural light

Georgia’s vision for her bridal look was classic and clean, but glam – a timeless style that would feel elegant in the chateau surrounds. Ellie created a beautifully balanced makeup look that enhanced Georgia’s natural features while adding a soft glow. She created a neutral bronze eye using Charlotte Tilbury bronzer, adding a subtle shimmer to the inner corners with MAC highlighter for that radiant, wide-awake finish. With lash extensions already in place, Ellie kept the look seamless with just a touch of mascara on the lower lashes. Flawless skin was key, achieved with a full-coverage base using NARS foundation, cream bronzer, and perfectly placed powder to set the glow in place. A nude lip lined in pinky brown and topped with a clear gloss completed the look, which was effortlessly refined and photo-ready all day long.

The wedding venue’s exterior with romantic architectural details
Ceremony setup with white chairs and floral arrangements under the trees
Baskets of fans and tissues prepared for guests at the ceremony
Bride arriving for the ceremony with her father
Bride and groom exchanging vows during an outdoor ceremony
Outdoor table setting in the château courtyard
Reception setup with long tables and floral centerpieces
Creative photo escort card display
Reception table styled with candles, florals, and elegant tableware
Close-up of place setting with name card and linen napkin
Outdoor reception in the château courtyard
Champagne tower being poured at the reception

Set in the heart of the Dordogne, the romantic Château Destinée is a 17th-century home situated directly on the bank of the Dordogne River. The château’s elegant charm and sweeping countryside views created an idyllic setting for Georgia and Ben’s big day, with guests gathering from around the world to celebrate under the French summer sun. The ceremony took place in the garden beneath an arch of blooms, followed by a relaxed outdoor reception where long tables were laid with crisp linens, gold-rimmed glassware, and pastel florals. Guests dined al fresco as the sun set over the valley, then danced long into the night.

Bride with her bridesmaids in matching dresses holding bouquets
Full wedding party smiling and posing in the château gardens
Bride and groom sharing a kiss
Bride and groom walking hand in hand through the château gardens

Ellie The Make Up Artist is a professional makeup artist with experience spanning weddings, fashion, TV, and music, including working on 90 Day Fiancé and London Fashion Week. She covers London, Berkshire, Surrey, and destination weddings abroad. Known for her meticulous attention to detail and passion for enhancing natural beauty, Ellie works closely with each bride to create a flawless, tailored look that reflects their unique style. You can view her profile here.

Romantic portrait of the couple
Bride and groom couple shoot at the château
  • Featured Makeup Artist: Ellie The Make Up Artist

  • Hair Stylist: Molly Mae Hair

  • Photography: Gary at Team Edwards

  • Venue: Château Destinée

  • Videography: Visions of Grace

  • Styling: Our Fabulous Things

  • Ceremony Music: Samantha Bramley

  • Reception Music: Damien Keys

  • Wedding Dress: Mime Toko

  • Groom & Groomsmen’s Attire: MOSS

  • Rings: Beaver Brookes

  • Marriage Officer: Linda, owner of Château Destinée


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