Planning Your Dream French Wedding: The Complete Timeline

Dreaming of saying "Oui" surrounded by sunflower fields and rolling vineyards? Planning a destination wedding in France might seem daunting, but with the right timeline, your French countryside celebration at La Colombière can be everything you've imagined and more.

From the first spark of inspiration to your final dance under the stars, here's your complete guide to planning the perfect French wedding timeline.

12-18 Months Before: Laying the Foundation

The Dream Takes Shape

This is when the magic begins. You've fallen in love with the idea of a French wedding, and now it's time to make it reality. Start by securing your date at La Colombière – our exclusive venue books quickly, especially for peak season celebrations.

Key Tasks:

• Book La Colombière and choose your preferred gites combination

• Set your guest count (remember, we accommodate up to 28 guests across our three properties)

• Establish your budget, including travel costs for you and your guests

• Send save-the-dates with travel information

• Begin researching French wedding requirements and documentation

• Connect with Lisa to choose your preferred planning level - from day-of coordination to key moments or full service support

• Begin your legal documentation process early to ensure everything is in place for your special day

6-8 Months Before: The Details Come Together

Making It Uniquely Yours

Now that your foundation is solid, it's time to infuse your celebration with personal touches that make La Colombière truly yours. This is when your French wedding starts to feel real.

Key Tasks:

• Finalise your ceremony and reception spaces (stone barn, Bedouin tents, or outdoor vineyard setting)

• Plan your self-catered menu, start with your suppliers list, and book vendors

• Coordinate guest accommodation and create welcome information

• Arrange transportation from nearby airports (Bergerac is just 30 minutes away)

• Book additional services: photographer, musician, florist

• Plan your rehearsal dinner and post-wedding brunch

• Create your timeline for a multi-day celebration experience

The La Colombière Advantage: With 28 acres of exclusive privacy and multiple magical celebration spaces, you can craft unique experiences throughout your stay – imagine welcome cocktails amongst the golden sunflowers, an intimate dinner in the historic stone barn, and dancing until dawn under the enchanting Bedouin tents. Plus, Lisa is on hand to take away all the stress of planning, allowing you to simply enjoy your special moments – check out her tailored packages to find the perfect level of support for your dream day.

2-3 Months Before: Final Touches and French Flair

Bringing France to Life

The final months are about embracing the French art de vivre and ensuring every detail reflects the beauty of your Dordogne setting. This is when your celebration transforms from a wedding into a true French experience.

Key Tasks:

• Confirm all vendor details and create day-of timeline

• Prepare welcome bags with local treats from Eymet and Issigeac markets

• Finalise seating arrangements for intimate dining experiences

• Coordinate with Lisa for final venue setup and logistics

• Prepare contingency plans (French countryside weather can be unpredictable!)

• Arrange local activities for guests: wine tasting, market tours, château visits

• Create your signature cocktail using local spirits or wines

• Plan your grand exit – perhaps sparklers in the sunflower fields?

Final Legal Steps: Complete your French marriage documentation or arrange your legal ceremony at home with a symbolic celebration in France.

The Magic Moment: As you walk through La Colombière one final time before your guests arrive, you'll feel the anticipation building. The sunflowers are in bloom, the vineyard views stretch endlessly, and your French dream is about to become reality.

Your French Wedding Awaits

Planning a wedding in France requires patience, organization, and a spirit of adventure. But when you're standing in our sunflower fields, surrounded by the people you love most, with the French countryside stretching out before you, you'll know every moment of planning was worth it.

At La Colombière, we understand that your wedding day is just the beginning of your story together. With our exclusive 28-acre setting, onsite planning support, and the magic of the Dordogne countryside, we're here to help you create not just a wedding day, but a French experience you and your guests will treasure forever.

Ready to start planning your French adventure? Contact us today to begin your La Colombière love story.

If you're on a tighter schedule, don't worry – everything will still be perfectly organised. This timeline is simply a guide to help you achieve your dream wedding, whatever your timeframe.

Ready to say "oui" in the French countryside? La Colombière offers exclusive wedding celebrations, luxury accommodations, and expert planning services in the heart of the beautiful Dordogne region.

Contact Eileen and Lisa today to start planning your dream destination wedding.