Château de Mar Vivo, Provence
Gillian + Alvah | PROVENCE, FRANCE | september 18, 2025
THE PREPS
Waking Up to the Sea at Château de Mar Vivo in French Riviera with Their 13 Guests.
Some places make time stand still, and Château de Mar Vivo on the French Riviera is one of them. This beautifully renovated historic château, perched above the sea, blends authentic Riviera charm with stunning modern touches. Every corner tells a story, and the views… they take your breath away. It’s the perfect setting for an intimate wedding in Provence.
For this celebration, it was just 13 guests, family and friends who traveled from America, turning a quiet weekday into a long weekend of laughter, heartfelt toasts, and unforgettable moments. As a wedding photographer in the French Riviera, capturing these genuine, sun-soaked celebrations is pure magic. Château de Mar Vivo isn’t just a venue, it’s an experience where love, history, and the sea come together.
Ceremony by the sea
Sunset Vows by the Sea at Château de Mar Vivo
The sun was slowly setting over the French Riviera when they exchanged their vows under the big pine, the sea sparkling right behind them. It was an intimate wedding with just 13 guests, and they did their special ritual: passing the rings from hand to hand before finally putting them on each other’s fingers.
The ring slipped just before it was their turn! A quick moment of panic, followed by laughter. Tears, giggles, and huge smiles filled the air, it was real, heartfelt, and totally them. As a wedding photographer in the French Riviera, moments like this are exactly why I love what I do.
COCKTAIL HOUR
Handmade Signature Cocktails and Pink Sunset
After the ceremony, everyone gathered for signature cocktails as the sky turned a dreamy pink over the French Riviera.
Little note to the tailored napkin with the first drunk message of Alvah to Gillian, Hillarious.
DINNER RECEPTION
Gourmet Evenings with a Private Chef for their Wedding Dinner
The dinner took place outdoors on the château’s terrace, beautifully decorated with pink sunset-hued flowers that echoed the sky. With just 13 guests, it felt completely intimate, and a private chef prepared every dish with care, making it a truly unforgettable dining experience. The combination of the sea breeze, the sunset light, and the elegant floral details made this French Riviera wedding dinner absolutely magical.
PARTY
Ending the Day With an Outfit Change and Cocktails
Vendors
Venue: @chateau_de_mar_vivo
Coordinator: @sparklingdays_event
Photographer: @laurineblly
Florist: @maison_velvet_fleurs
Private Chef: @lefoodista
Tailor-made Cocktail: @mountainmixologyco
Muah: @mandydorian.beauty
Content Creator: @lafairycreative
Furnitures: @jolibazaar
©laurinebailly 2025
