Enchanting Chateau de Garde wedding near Bordeaux

Mid July took me to South West France for Katie and Charlie's wedding, a short drive from Bordeaux. I've photographed weddings across France quite a few times now, and honestly, the excitement hasn't worn off. There's always a new corner to discover. This time I had a day to explore Bordeaux itself before the wedding. Walking those streets, taking in the architecture and the atmosphere, that's always a bonus.

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Wedding morning arrived with rain clouds looming. When you're shooting a destination wedding, everyone's banking on sunshine, so seeing grey skies isn't great. But heading upstairs to find Katie getting ready with her bridesmaids in the chateau's top floor, the mood was surprisingly upbeat. She was adamant the outdoor ceremony would happen regardless. That kind of certainty rubs off on everyone. Downstairs, Charlie looked sharp in his navy suit, groomsmen in pale blue. Then Charlie opened a champagne bottle he'd accidentally shaken beforehand. Fizz exploded everywhere, filling the room with laughter.

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From the chateau's tall windows, I watched the sky begin clearing. Katie's optimism was looking justified. Guests arrived on the terrace, everyone dressed beautifully and happy to reconnect.

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Katie descended that long staircase to her waiting dad, and that's always such a powerful moment to witness. The ceremony took place on Chateau de Garde's lawn, with vineyard rows and countryside rolling out behind the couple. Best Events Co had worked their ass off on the beautiful floral display across the lawn, creating a really romantic setting for everyone to enjoy.

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After the ceremony, the couple got surrounding with love, hugs and some happy tears from a lot of their family and friends. You could see how much it meant to everyone. The courtyard reception had palm trees throughout, giving it this unexpected Moroccan feel rather than typical French countryside. Quite the contrast, but it worked beautifully.

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Katie and Charlie's entrance got huge cheers, guests waving napkins enthusiastically. Speeches were woven throughout the meal, all delivered by close friends. My favourite moment was Charlie leading everyone in "I am the music man," getting the whole room singing together. Perfect way to transition into the party.

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As golden hour arrived, we headed into the Bordeaux vineyards for portraits. That soft orange light you get at sunset made everything glow. Then came the croquembouche with sparklers, a lovely French tradition. Katie and Charlie's faces lit up cutting into it.

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Night fell and the dance floor filled. Wine flowed freely, jackets came off, ties loosened. The formal atmosphere gave way to pure celebration. What a day to photograph.

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I hope you love Katie & Charlie’s Château de Garde in the Bordeaux region wedding as much as me, what a location for a destination celebration! If you like this one then do check out Aviana & Frank’s Gorgeous Portugal vineyard wedding or if you want to stay with in France then go take a look at Sophie & Andrew’s wedding at Chateau de la Bourlie .

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