This wedding in Chamonix had me feeling like I walked into the village from Beauty and the Beast: cute storefronts, surrounded by beautiful views, even rose bushes climbing up the cottage walls. Complete with a private chalet nestled in the valley under the stunning Mont-Blanc, I had to pinch myself multiple times throughout the day to ensure I wasn’t dreaming. I’m so excited to finally share these photos with you!!

Leah + Adam’s Wedding in Chamonix: A Fairytale French Alps Wedding

Why have a wedding in Chamonix?

When Adam + Leah reached out to me about photographing their wedding day, they knew they wanted two things: Europe and mountains. Other than that, they didn’t really know where to begin the planning process. Enter: moi. Part of the value that I offer with my photography packages is helping couples find the perfect place for them to say “I do.” After sharing with them a few different options that fit their vision, they decided that a wedding in Chamonix was perfect for them. 

Chamonix is known for having some of the best skiing in the world. But in June the snow has largely started to subside and the greenery comes out in full force. Not only is the nature and hiking in Chamonix out of this world, the town itself also offers second-to-none European charm. Stunning nature 🤝 charming town = best of both worlds.

Kick off your wedding in Chamonix with a private vow exchange overlooking the French Alps 

Leah and Adam invited their closest friends and family to join them for their Chamonix wedding, but they also wanted to ensure they had some time throughout the day to spend with just each other. One of my favorite ways to include “just us” time on a wedding day is with a private vow exchange. Leah + Adam were all for this idea, and even decided they wanted to include a hike! We started the morning with a hike that ended under the epic backdrop of Mont-Blanc, and they exchanged vows there.

It’s not a wedding in Chamonix without a stroll through town (and gelato)

Leah + Adam got ready separately in the chalet and we drove a short distance to the first look location: in the valley alongside a beautiful lake. After their private first look, we headed into town for some photos. Getting married in the French Alps means a lot of french cheese and gelato. Having already been in Chamonix for a few days, Leah + Adam naturally already had a go-to gelato spot. So of course we had to make a stop! 

Rent a chalet (or two) for friends and family, and a private ceremony with a view

After roaming around town and enjoying some gelato, it was finally ceremony time! Having chosen the summer solstice for their Chamonix wedding day, the sun didn’t set until after 9:30PM, so we were able to have the ceremony later in the evening. The guests lined up on both sides of a pergola to create a makeshift aisle, and it was absolutely perfect. Leah walked down with her dad, and then she and Adam did a self-led ceremony with a few readings and their vows. 

Chalet Reception

When planning a small wedding, a lot of couples struggle to figure out what to do after the ceremony. Afterall, there isn’t a traditional happy hour, or reception with a plated meal, open bar and dance floor, right? Honestly, it depends! My top recommendation is a private dining experience. Whether that’s a rented room in a restaurant or a private chef at your villa or chalet. 

Leah and Adam opted for a private chef, and everything was to.die.for. After the ceremony, a bartender served up delicious drinks while hors d’oeuvres were passed and everyone enjoyed each other’s company. It was such a relaxed atmosphere and the bride and groom actually got to talk with everyone – what a foreign concept for weddings! Soon, we all went inside for a family-style dinner. Everyone sat at one long table, toasted to the happy couple and enjoyed the delicious meal! After the sun finally set, we went back outside for dessert, homemade cake and panna cotta. Then we wrapped up with sparkler exit under the alps. The perfect ending for a perfect wedding in Chamonix.

Tips for getting married in the French Alps

• Rent a chalet with a view for your private ceremony
• Hire a wedding planner – I know the best in the biz!
• Make it an experience for your guests: plan activities, hikes, etc.
• Have a chef cook for your group throughout your stay – having breakfast and dinner served daily is less of a hassle than finding restaurants that can accommodate large parties, and it’s a nice treat for your guests!
• Be prepared for any weather – being surrounded by mountains means weather can change at any moment!

Meet your Chamonix wedding photographer

Hi, I’m Erin! I travel the globe capturing wedding days for couples who love travel so much they want to include it on their wedding day. If you’re looking for a Chamonix wedding photographer, look no further! Learn more about me here, or reach out to get started planning your Chamonix wedding day!

DESTINATION WEDDING RESOURCES & INSPIRATION: 

• The Ultimate Amalfi Coast Wedding Guide
• 12 Pre-Wedding Activities to Make Your Destination Wedding an Epic Experience
• Destination wedding Costs: What you need to know