Wedding Photographer Arles

When Maeve and James first got in touch about their wedding at Château de Vergières, I had a feeling it was going to be a really lovely day. They were planning a relaxed celebration with a mix of Irish and English guests, set in the heart of the French countryside just outside Arles. From the first chat, I could tell they were the kind of couple who just wanted everyone to have a good time, and that always makes for the best kind of wedding.

The château had that slightly faded charm I’ve come to love in this part of France. Not overly polished, but full of character, with weathered shutters, old stone walls and huge trees shading the courtyard. The kind of place where you can imagine generations of celebrations taking place. They’d chosen to use the large open-sided barn for the main part of the day, which turned out to be a great call because, as luck would have it, it rained. Classic. Not what you dream of when you plan a wedding in the south of France, but it honestly didn’t take away from the atmosphere at all.

The ceremony was held inside the barn, with everyone gathered closely around. Maeve and James chose to include a handfasting, which was such a beautiful touch. It’s an old tradition where friends and family are invited to come up and wrap ribbons around the couple’s joined hands. Each ribbon symbolises something meaningful like love, strength, support or adventure. It felt deeply personal and intimate, and there wasn’t a dry eye in sight. That’s actually where the phrase “tying the knot” comes from. It really set the tone for the rest of the day, heartfelt and genuine.

After the ceremony, the rain lightened just enough for everyone to head outside. Guests lined up in the courtyard to shower the newlyweds with dried lavender, which smelled incredible and floated through the air in the loveliest way. It’s such a great alternative to confetti, especially in this part of France where lavender grows in abundance.

Then it was onto the vin d’honneur, the drinks reception. There was a covered area just beside the courtyard, so everyone stayed dry and happy. Cocktails were flowing, people were mingling, and the caterers had set up planchas to cook fresh meats and seafood right there in front of the guests. You could smell the food sizzling away and it gave the whole thing a relaxed, summery vibe. Trays of hot canapés were passed around and there was plenty of laughter as people tucked in.

As things started to wind down a little before dinner, I stole Maeve and James away for ten quiet minutes of couple portraits. The rain had finally cleared up and we took advantage of the beautiful golden light that often follows a summer storm. We wandered around the grounds of the château, stopping by the pretty stone buildings and along the long, tree-lined driveway. They were so relaxed together, laughing and chatting between shots, and I barely had to direct anything. They just fell into their rhythm.

Days like this are exactly why I love what I do. It wasn’t perfect weather and it wasn’t a showy kind of wedding. But it was honest, joyful, and full of love. The kind of day that reminds you what it’s really all about.

Here are just a few of my favourite images from their beautiful celebration.