MEGAN & JAMES - CHATEAU RIGAUD
DAY 01 - RIVERSIDE BISTRO EVENING PRIOR GATHERING
This post is going to be a big one as this was such a big wedding. Maybe not that massive in terms of total numbers being around the 100 persons mark, but so much going on…
This 3 day event began with a welcome party down by the River Dordogne at Chateau Rigaud’s private and exclusive riverside bistro with open air (but covered to the elements) deck. The last time I was here, there was a storm and the rain was relentless, but not today.
The Chateau Rigaud Riverside Bistro has it’s own chicken rotisserie and the chef’s are Michelin trained so you know the food this weekend is going to be pretty good!
DAY 02 - WEDDING DAY
Sunshine with some cloud cover was the order of the day and that’s just perfect for a wedding in South West France.
It just so happened that the British & Irish Lions were on tour this Summer in Australia and there was a match on so groom prep was conveniently split between the two halves.
Meanwhile, over with the girls, hair for this one was by Laura Cawte and makeup by Orelden and flowers by in house florist Jilli.
The ceremony took place at church nearby and has some spectacular views being perched on a hill surrounded by vineyards. The Rev. Barrie Green conducted the service and then one of the stars of the show took over, - a red Renault 1964 Caravelle from Bordeaux Classics, whisking Meg & James back to Rigaid for their double drinks reception.
Yes, double drinks reception and this is something of a feature for weddings at Chateau Rigaud starting with a shorter champagne ‘welcome’ event on The Quad followed by a longer ‘Aperol & Oysters’ session on the rear terrace overlooking the fields. It works really well with some live cooking!
The barn was set for the meal and always looks spectacular with dancing later to Magnolia Band from the UK.
DAY 03 - SUNDAY LUNCH & POOL PARTY
Or as it’s known at Chateau Rigaud, ‘Rosé All Day’!
Dare I say, this is possibly my favourite thing at a weekend wedding at Rigaud, - the Sunday lunch is just divine. I have honestly never had a better Sunday lunch anywhere than the one here.
Rigaud are renowned for their food, but I think this is their crowning glory. And then there is the unlimited help yourself ice cream machine. Say no more.
Plus lawn games and an obligatory pool jump to conclude my coverage. What a wedding, - just fabulous from start to finish and what weddings in France are all about, - good location, great food and happy people just having a good time.
And more Aperol Spritz. There is no such thing as too little Aperol Spritz!
