When Carly and Thomas chose Chateau de Sannes in Provence for their wedding, they knew the venue would be the star. But it was their thoughtful floral palette—deep bordeaux and lush green—that truly set the tone, weaving through every moment from the garden ceremony to the long family-style table. If you're planning a wedding that feels both elegant and grounded, this real wedding offers a masterclass in using color and florals to create a cohesive, memorable day.
Why Green and Bordeaux Work So Well for Weddings
The combination of rich bordeaux (a deep, wine-inspired red) with varied greens is a match made in floral heaven. Bordeaux adds warmth, romance, and a touch of drama, while green brings freshness and a natural, calming balance. This palette works beautifully for fall weddings, but it's versatile enough for spring and summer, especially in a garden or vineyard setting like Chateau de Sannes.
For brides and planners, this color duo is forgiving and easy to source. You can find bordeaux in dahlias, garden roses, ranunculus, and even silk versions, while greens range from eucalyptus and olive branches to ferns and ivy. The contrast creates depth in photos and in person, making your wedding venue decoration ideas feel intentional and lush without being overwhelming.
Wedding Venue Decoration Ideas Inspired by Provence
One of the standout elements at Carly and Thomas's wedding was how the decor flowed with the property. Instead of fighting the chateau's natural charm, they enhanced it. Here are a few wedding venue decoration ideas you can borrow:
- **Ceremony Arch:** A simple wooden or metal arch wrapped in greenery and punctuated with bordeaux blooms creates a focal point that photographs beautifully. You can DIY this with fresh or artificial flowers, making it reusable for the reception.
- **Long Family-Style Tables:** Instead of round tables, opt for one long table (or several) lined with runners of eucalyptus and scattered bordeaux florals. Low centerpieces—like compotes filled with garden roses and dahlias—keep conversation flowing.
- **Stationery and Place Settings:** Tie your color palette into your paper goods. Use bordeaux ribbon on menus, or place a single silk bordeaux bloom on each napkin for a cohesive touch.
If you're working with a venue that has strong architecture, like a chateau or barn, let your florals complement rather than compete. The goal is to create a sense of ease and movement, just as Bonjour Weddings did for this couple.
The Magic of a Wedding Flower Wall Backdrop
A wedding flower wall backdrop is one of the most impactful wedding venue decoration ideas you can implement. At Chateau de Sannes, the couple could have used the chateau's facade, but for many venues, a dedicated backdrop adds a "wow" factor for ceremonies, photo booths, or the sweetheart table.
Creating a flower wall doesn't have to break the bank. Here's how to do it with artificial flowers:
- **Build a Base:** Use a wooden frame with chicken wire or a foam board. Wrap it in greenery first to create a dense base.
- **Layer Blooms:** Attach bordeaux and green artificial flowers in clusters, varying sizes and textures. You can use hot glue or floral wire.
- **Go Modular:** Make smaller panels (e.g., 2x2 feet) that you can assemble on-site. This makes transport and storage easier.
A flower wall is also a fantastic investment for DIY brides—you can repurpose it as a photo backdrop at the reception or even sell it after the wedding. Plus, with artificial flowers for wedding decor, you can build it weeks in advance, saving time and stress.
Practical Tips for Using Artificial Flowers for Wedding Decor
Many brides are turning to artificial flowers for wedding decor because they're cost-effective, durable, and can be prepared ahead of time. Here are some tips to make them look authentic:
- **Mix Real and Faux:** Use real flowers for bouquets and boutonnieres, but opt for artificial flowers for large installations like arches, walls, and table runners. This saves money without sacrificing freshness where it matters most.
- **Choose High-Quality Silks:** Invest in good-quality silk flowers that have realistic petals and stems. Avoid shiny plastics that look cheap.
- **Add Greenery Generously:** Greenery fills space and makes artificial blooms look more natural. Use eucalyptus, olive, or fern stems—many are available in faux versions that look incredibly real.
- **Consider the Venue:** For outdoor weddings, artificial flowers won't wilt in the heat or droop in humidity. They're perfect for destination weddings like this Provence chateau, where you may need to ship decor ahead.
Conclusion
Carly and Thomas's wedding at Chateau de Sannes proves that a thoughtful color palette and intentional floral design can elevate any venue. Whether you're planning a chateau celebration or a backyard bash, incorporating green and bordeaux—with a mix of fresh and artificial flowers—can create a cohesive, romantic atmosphere. From a wedding flower wall backdrop to simple table runners, these ideas are practical, beautiful, and budget-friendly. So take inspiration from Provence, and build a floral story that feels uniquely yours.