Every so often, a project comes along that feels like stepping straight into a dream — the kind that makes all the long hours, early mornings, and creative chaos entirely worth it. This French château wedding shoot was one of those.
Set in the heart of Bordeaux, surrounded by rolling vineyards and that unmistakable golden light, it was a celebration of all things soft, romantic, and elegant — a vision in shades of blush, ivory, and muted pink. Every corner of the château whispered history, and we filled it with delicate blooms, flowing fabrics, and intricate details that made the space come alive.
This project began long before the first flower was placed or the first tier of cake was stacked. For me, it started on the ferry — a car loaded with equipment, props, desserts and 7 tier beauty — crossing from the UK to France. There’s something quietly cinematic about driving through the French countryside, watching the scenery shift from coastal mist to warm southern sun.
By the time I reached Bordeaux, the car was coated in travel dust, but my head was full of ideas. The château rose from the landscape like something from a painting — soft stone, green shutters, and gardens blooming in every direction. It was the perfect backdrop for a story told in pink.
The creative direction was rooted in the idea of romance reimagined — delicate and timeless, yet modern in its execution. The palette moved between dusty rose, champagne, and touches of gold, while the tablescapes combined French refinement with contemporary design.
Every detail was meticulously curated: silk ribbons, crystal glassware, florals spilling over antique urns, and the kind of sunlight that seems to linger a little longer than it should. My cake design echoed the same aesthetic — sculptural, textural, and ethereal, layered in sugar work that felt at home in the château’s grand exterior.
What made this shoot extraordinary was its scale. It wasn’t just a table and a camera — it was a full wedding day recreated from start to finish, complete with multiple setups, outfit changes, and lighting transitions. The château became our canvas: we staged everything from a ceremony scene on the lawns to a candlelit dinner in the hall, all captured through the lens of a talented, international creative team.
There were vans of flowers arriving from different corners of France, dresses travelling in garment bags that seemed to float through doorways, and the constant rhythm of setting up, styling, and perfecting each frame. It was a true team effort — and one of the most visually stunning collaborations I’ve ever been part of.
There’s a special kind of quiet that settles over a place like this once everything falls into place. As the sun began to set, casting soft gold across the pink tones of the décor, it felt like watching a painting come to life. The reflection of candlelight in the mirrors, the laughter between shots, and the scent of flowers in the evening air — those are the moments that stay with you.
For me, it was more than a creative project; it was an experience. A journey that began on British shores and unfolded into something extraordinary in the French countryside — filled with artistry, collaboration, and a little bit of magic.
Creating cakes for destination projects like this is a labour of love — one that combines travel, precision, and a deep appreciation for beauty and storytelling. From ferry crossings to château courtyards, every step reminds me why I do what I do: to create edible art that belongs in the most unforgettable places.
If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding or editorial collaboration — whether in the UK, France, or beyond — I’d love to hear from you. Let’s design something that captures your story, your style, and your version of timeless romance.
