Charming and Intimate Destination Wedding at Chatâeu Ladausse, Monflanquin, France

18 of their favorite people woke up on the morning of their wedding day after sharing a weekend of delicious meals together, swimming, making memories and basking in the idea that soon, Clint and Kate would become husband and wife right on the gorgeous landscape of Château Ladausse, the most charming bed and breakfast. The morning was mild, a little bit hazy, but you could still see miles of lush greenery, vineyards and gravel paths. I sat on the edge of my seat as we drove through Manflanquin, France, the coziest small town that would quickly become a favorite place for all of us Wisconsin + Oklahoma folks. It is a gem. It holds everything you would hope to see and experience when traveling abroad to France. Delicious crepes in the morning, people saying hi and greeting you as you walk through, narrow streets, terra-cotta planters lining the roads, roses climbing up walls, colorful shutters and doorways, it was comfortable, it was all dream-like and the perfect place to have a trendy and intimate outdoor wedding. Why France? This is why. Clint and Kate started to plan a wedding back home, and through the process, all signs pointed towards doing what they longed to do. They are both well traveled, they love the style of living in Europe, the food (especially!), and traveling slow. On top of it all, it was a way to encourage their families and friends to do something out of their normal, to see the world and to check some things off of their own bucket lists. Speaking for myself and Sam, we loved our experience in Europe and it encouraged us to take a trip we may have never made, and it was so, so amazing.

As relaxed and collective as the morning was, the ceremony seemed to come quick. Everyone was ready and anxious for 2:00 and to see all of the plans and thoughts come together into one gorgeous, unforgettable wedding and trip. Laura of Label’ Emotion made a beautiful thought come to life with her amazing wedding planning expertise, and Eric and Diane of Château Ladausse made our experience unbelievably wonderful, everyone felt right at home (and felt like kings and queens the way we were fed! Amazing, Diane!). Everyone took their seats and Clint stood at the head of the aisle in front of the lovely doors, once part of the chateau and now given new life and meaning. Kate’s Sarah Seven gown was a simple statement, a timeless piece that was chosen to travel across the world with her. Let’s be real, that girl would look gorgeous in anything, but she was a showstopper on her wedding day. The short and sweet ceremony included a sweet reading paired with sweet vows. It was sealed with a kiss and ended with  the biggest hug, the kind where he wraps his arms around your waist and lifts you in the air. The day proceeded with an adventure downtown to explore the beauty, talk to locals (who even let use their steps and balconies for photos!) and to capture some of the most gorgeous memories to keep forever. Cocktail hour followed with hors d’oeuvres and refreshing drinks, followed by an 8 course meal that was out of this world. We ate and drank and clank our glasses until the sun went down, and then danced until the sun came up. What an unforgettable day and adventure celebrating two people who are so deserving of a day like this one, and so deserving of a love like the one they have. It was said so many times at their wedding, but these two are true compliments to one another. They are balance, they are love, they are truly, wonderful, wonderful people. WE LOVE YOU!

Meet: Mr. and Mrs. Heckner!:

Wedding vendors near and far, your talents are worthy of a thousand gold stars. You are amazing!:
Wedding Venue + Bed and Breakfast: Château Ladausse // Bride’s Dress: Sarah Seven // Bridesmaid Dress: Macy’s // Groom + Groomsmen Attire: // Wedding Planner: Laura Chenay of Label’ Emotion // Invites: Caitlin Spaulding of Wouldn’t it be Lovely // Cake: SweetArt by Diane Poultney Magne // DJ: Paris New York Event // Bride’s Shoes: Jimmy Choo