French-Inspired Wedding Ideas That Will Wow At Your Queensland Wedding

Are you dreaming of a timeless and romantic wedding that exudes the charm and elegance of France, but you can’t quite commit to that long-haul flight to Paris, Provence, or Bordeaux? Never fear because we’re unlocking the secrets of French wedding style so you can party like a Parisian at your Queensland wedding. Ooh la la!  

Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a grand affair, there is no doubt about it: infusing French elements into your wedding will let you create an enchanting and unforgettable atmosphere. From charming venues to delectable cuisine and stylish fashion, there are countless ways to add a dash of chic to your wedding festivities to create a true celebration of love and joie de vivre. 

Here are our favourite French-inspired wedding ideas that will wow at your Queensland wedding.

Feature photo: Ben & Hope Photography

FRENCH WEDDING STYLE:
THE PRE

High tea may be an English tradition, but it lends itself so well to French petit fours and sweet canapés. It’s the perfect treat for your mum, mother-in-law, and closest pals. 

FRENCH WEDDING STYLE:
THE DRESS CODE

Because traditional French weddings lean towards a more ‘dressed-up’ feel, you can give your guests an excuse to frock up with a formal or garden-cocktail dress code to suit your glorious locale. French brides often skip sparkles in favour of simple lines and ultra-luxe fabrics. Look to silk, lace, velvet, and pearls and let glittering chandeliers, cut-crystal glassware, and Champagne towers bring the bling. Or add a little glamour in the details, such as a metallic heel or narrow crystal belt. Much like the rest of a French wedding, the feel is elegant and stylish yet still loads of fun.

FRENCH WEDDING STYLE:
ADIEU BRIDAL PARTY

The funny thing about a French bridal party is … there often isn’t one! Traditionally French couples wouldn’t have bridesmaids and groomsmen. Instead, flower girls and page boys herald the bride’s arrival and special guests (called témoins) are invited to act as witnesses.

FRENCH WEDDING STYLE:
THE CEREMONIES

Most French couples have two ceremonies: one civil and one symbolic. The first just has close family and friends in attendance and is conducted at the local registry office. The second is what we would generally associate with a ‘Western wedding’ with couples pledging Je t’aime before a bigger crowd.

MOTHER-SON MOMENT

One of our favourite ceremony traditions is called le cortège: where mother and son walk down the aisle together, followed by the flower girls and page boys, and the bride and her father. A lovely way to honour your mum!

FRENCH WEDDING STYLE:
LA RECEPTION

Sprawling country estates are synonymous with French chic. Look for chateau-style buildings, clipped hedges or topiary, wine rooms, marquees, and antique furnishings. Ideally, you want somewhere the festivities can spill out onto a terrace or manicured green space (lawn games are very on brand). For an inner-city soirée, channel the Parisian spirit with historic buildings and glamorous details such as gilded panelling or plush banquette seating. And chandeliers, always chandeliers! When it comes time to feast, remember food is VERY important at a French wedding. Serving French wines and cheeses, European flavours with the freshest local ingredients, and the best quality for everything will strike the right note.

FRENCH WEDDING STYLE:
BONJOUR COCKTAIL HOUR

French couples certainly don’t contain their cocktail hour (le vin d’honneur) to 60 minutes, with delicious canapés and drinks often served for several convivial hours. And what better to present at this festive post-ceremony event than une fontaine de Champagne (a Champagne tower)!

FRENCH WEDDING STYLE:
CROQUEMBOUCHE

The iconic croquembouche (translates to ‘crunch in the mouth’) dessert is a sweet stack of delicious cream-filled profiteroles shaped into a cone or pyramid and often held together with caramel. Garnishes can include spun toffee, fresh flowers, and sparklers. Ooh la la!

FRENCH WEDDING STYLE:
LATE-NIGHT REVELRY

With good food, good company, and plenty of Champagne, it’s no wonder French newlyweds aren’t in a hurry to wrap up their big night. French receptions tend to kick on, and we’re here for it. See if your venue offers a generous finishing time or plan for a catered after-party.

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