Let's face it–the French know what it means to be effortlessly chic. And
weddings in the City of Light (and love) are no different–nuptials
en françias opt
out of the overdone centerpieces, the far-too-big bridal parties and
there is usually no place to plug in a desire for chicken, fish or
vegetarian on your reply card. Instead, the bride and groom dine with
their guests (yes, there is such a thing as eating at your own wedding)
and brides don't stress about an overwrought chignon staying put all
night. When it comes to wedding planning, there's a lot to be learned
from the French style icons like Jane Birkin, Brigitte Bardot and Carla
Bruni, just to name a few. Here are the lessons to glean from Paris'
high-style bridal set.
1) Bridesmaids Aren't Required.
Yes,
they're optional. In France, couples first have a civil ceremony (which
they deem more important than their religious ceremonies or parties)
followed by a religious celebration or a festive reception. The most
important women or men in your life are witnesses at your civil union
and perform all the necessary duties of bridesmaid-hood, like making
sure your champagne coupe stays full at your bachelorette party, all
without donning the prerequisite chiffon dress in your color of choice.
Wearing what they'd like to your celebration means they show up to your
special day looking and feeling amazing. You are who you surround
yourself with–when your entourage looks good, you look good.
2) Second Looks Are More Sophisticated Than Sexy.
While
we in the States have caught on to the idea of a wedding night costume
change, in France two bridal looks are a given. Heading to the
courthouse requires a tasteful and typically fashion-forward look, like a
sweet lace mini, sharp jumpsuit or a Chanel tweed suit. After French
couples make it official, a more romantic, formal gown for a religious
ceremony or reception usually follows. With the civil ceremony kicking
off the festivities, sophisticated cocktail dresses are worn before a
more dramatic gown, leaving little room for those overly sexy party
dresses we've seen on too many American dance floors.
3) There is no such thing as a Parisian Bridezilla.
Brides
in France are more relaxed when it comes to wedding planning. You'll
likely never spot a Parisian bride having a tantrum at a hair trial (if
they have one), and you certainly won't find a French bride-to-be with
rollers in her hair arguing with her mother, maid of honor or florist.
Instead, these brides go with the flow. The takeaway: Stress is not
photogenic, and a calm mindset on your wedding day makes for radiant
skin–and stunning bridal portraits.
4) Wedding Food = Good Food.
Is
there such a thing as bad food in Paris? Probably not, so there is
certainly no such thing as bad Parisian wedding food. Wedding dinners in
the U.S. bring up bad memories of overcooked vegetables and
inconsistent filet mignon, but French couples realize the importance of
splurging on food and drink no matter how large their party's size. Take
a cue and keep dish concepts simple but special for your wedding day,
opting for a high-end balance of bright vegetables and decadent
proteins. Trust us, your guests are much more likely to rave about a
perfectly cooked steak than an attempt at molecular gastronomy. Don't
neglect your wine choices or bar options either, your guests will
appreciate options that pair well with each of their courses and the
ability to order a digestif at dessert.
5) No-fuss beauty.
Say
goodbye to Pinterest-inspired updos. The irreverent, bed-headed bobs
and lobs of French It-girls paired with a romantic, bridal silhouette is
the epitome of effortless style. Rather than overthinking your big day
beauty, choose an update on your everyday look with glowing skin for the
day-of. Only wear a bold or deep-colored pout if it's something you
know how to pull off on the daily.
Keep saying I do!
Angelika
(credit: HarpersBazaar)
