When planning a wedding, the setting often inspires the entire aesthetic. At Chateau de Sannes in Provence, Carly and Thomas let the property's natural flow dictate their celebration—from a garden ceremony to a long family-style table. The result was a day bathed in blue skies and anchored by a rich palette of green and bordeaux. For couples dreaming of a similar look, this real wedding offers a masterclass in blending timeless elegance with practical decor choices. Below, we break down how to recreate this style, whether you're working with a planner or going the DIY route.
Why Green and Bordeaux Works for Weddings
Green and bordeaux is a color combination that feels both grounded and luxurious. Green symbolizes growth and freshness, while bordeaux—a deep, wine-infused red—adds warmth and sophistication. Together, they evoke the romantic charm of a French vineyard or a lush garden in autumn. This palette is incredibly versatile: it suits outdoor ceremonies, rustic barns, and even modern ballrooms. For couples who want a natural yet refined look, this duo is a safe bet.
Pro tip: When incorporating these colors, balance is key. Use green as your base (think foliage and greenery) and let bordeaux pop through flowers, linens, or candles. This prevents the palette from feeling too heavy or overpowering.
Incorporating Faux Florals for Practical Elegance
One of the smartest ways to achieve this look without breaking the bank is to use high-quality artificial flowers. Many couples worry that faux options will look cheap, but today's realistic artificial flowers are crafted with such detail that they're nearly indistinguishable from fresh blooms. For a chateau-style wedding, where you want a polished yet organic feel, silk flowers wedding decor can be arranged to mimic the lush, unstructured style of Provence.
For centerpieces, consider a fake flowers centerpiece that combines eucalyptus, olive branches, and bordeaux dahlias or roses. These can be pre-assembled weeks in advance, saving you last-minute stress. Plus, you can repurpose them for other events, like bridal showers or dinner parties, making them a sustainable choice.
How to style: Mix matte and glossy textures—velvet ribbons, ceramic vases, and wooden accents—to elevate the faux florals. This adds depth and prevents the display from looking flat.
Designing a Garden Ceremony with Lasting Impact
Carly and Thomas held their ceremony in the chateau's garden, surrounded by natural greenery. To recreate this, focus on the arch or altar as the focal point. A wooden or metal arch adorned with cascading silk flowers wedding decor—think trailing ivy, burgundy amaranthus, and cream garden roses—creates a romantic frame for your vows. Because these flowers are artificial, you can install them the day before without worrying about wilting.
For the aisle, line it with potted olive trees or lavender bushes (real or faux), which echo the Provençal landscape. This not only guides guests to their seats but also ties the ceremony into the reception decor.
Budget tip: Instead of buying dozens of arrangements, invest in a few statement pieces—like the arch and a floral ground piece—and reuse them indoors. This maximizes your budget and keeps the design cohesive.
The Long Family Table: Centerpieces That Impress
A signature element of this wedding was the single, long family-style table. This layout encourages intimacy and conversation, but it also requires clever centerpiece planning. For a long table, avoid tall arrangements that block sightlines. Instead, opt for a series of low, lush runners made from realistic artificial flowers. These can be interspersed with candles, fruits like pomegranates or grapes, and loose greenery for a bountiful feel.
A fake flowers centerpiece doesn't have to be a single vase—it can be a collection of small clusters placed every few feet. This creates a continuous flow down the table, echoing the chateau's natural beauty. Add personal touches like handwritten place cards or vintage silverware to enhance the European charm.
Practical note: If your venue is outdoors, faux florals are a lifesaver. They won't droop in the heat or attract bugs, and you can assemble everything in the comfort of your home or studio.
Practical Tips for DIY Brides and Planners
- **Mix high and low:** Pair expensive-looking silk blooms with budget-friendly greenery to stretch your budget.
- **Invest in quality stems:** Look for realistic artificial flowers with wired stems so you can bend and shape them easily.
- **Test your arrangements:** Create a sample centerpiece a month before the wedding to ensure the colors and scale work.
- **Store properly:** Keep faux florals in a cool, dry place until the big day. Avoid crushing them—use garment bags or boxes.
- **Rent vs. buy:** If you're a planner, consider renting silk arrangements for clients to save time and storage space.
Conclusion
A green and bordeaux palette, inspired by a Provence chateau, can transform any wedding into a timeless, romantic affair. By incorporating realistic artificial flowers, you gain flexibility, cost savings, and peace of mind—all while achieving the same visual impact as fresh blooms. Whether you're planning a garden ceremony or a long banquet table, let this color combo guide your decor choices and create a day that feels both elegant and effortless.
For more inspiration, explore how other couples have used silk flowers wedding decor to craft unforgettable events. Happy planning!