Your wedding is one of the most special days of your life, and while the ceremony often takes centre stage, your wedding reception is where the celebration truly comes alive. This is the time to gather with loved ones, enjoy delicious food and drinks, and, importantly, dance the night away! That’s why taking the time to plan a wedding reception carefully is just as important as planning the ceremony itself.
In this guide, we’ll take you step by step through planning a beautiful wedding reception in France, from choosing the perfect venue to styling your tables and even deciding what to wear. By the end, you’ll have plenty of ideas (and confidence!) to create a celebration that feels totally you and flows beautifully.
Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
What Is a Wedding Reception and What Happens There?
A wedding reception is the celebration that follows your ceremony, where the real fun begins! It’s the time to relax, toast, eat, dance, and connect with your loved ones in a more casual setting. While every reception is unique, most include a few common elements:
- Cocktail hour or welcome drinks – a chance for guests to mingle and for the couple to enjoy a quiet moment together.
- Seated meal or buffet – this can be formal or casual.
- Speeches and toasts – whether they make you laugh, cry, or even cringe a little, they’re often the most memorable moments of a wedding reception.
- Music and dancing – from a first dance to a party!
- Optional extras – photo booths, games, cultural traditions, or signature cocktails.
Receptions come in all kinds of styles, shaped by your personality, culture, or the season. Some couples opt for a classic banquet; others prefer a relaxed brunch wedding or a chic evening cocktail reception. The most important thing is to choose a style that feels right for you as a couple.
Wedding Reception Planning Checklist: Essentials You Shouldn’t Miss
Planning a wedding reception is exciting, but it can also feel a little overwhelming! That’s why we’ve pulled together a simple, easy-to-follow checklist to keep you organised and stress-free. Here’s a little preview of the nine key areas it covers:
- Venue & Rentals: Book your space, sort tables, chairs, and lighting, and check any permits or curfews.
- Catering & Drinks: Finalise the menu, plan your bar service, and remember signature cocktails and dietary needs.
- Tables & Seating: Determine the table style, create a seating plan, and incorporate personal touches such as decor or guest gifts.
- Styling & Flowers: Choose florals, candles, and decor that bring your theme to life.
- Timeline & Entertainment: Map out the flow from cocktail hour to last dance, plus music, speeches, and fun extras.
- Welcome Signage & Logistics: Prepare welcome signs, programs, and guest transport details.
- Attire & Essentials: Think reception outfits, comfy shoes, and a small “just in case” kit.
- Budgets & Contracts: Review contracts, track payments, know what’s included, and keep a buffer for extras.
- Weather Contingency: Have a backup plan for rain, heat, or anything in between.
This is just a sneak peek! Download the full checklist below to keep everything running smoothly, and keep reading as we’ll be breaking down the most important parts in more detail.
If you’re looking for more general tips for planning a destination wedding in France, read our blog post here.
How to Plan a Wedding Reception Timeline That Flows Smoothly
A well-thought-out wedding reception timeline can be the difference between a relaxed day and one that feels a little rushed or disorganised. Think of it as the gentle backbone of your celebration.
Of course, every couple (and every party!) is different, but here’s a sample flow for inspiration:
Example Wedding Reception Timeline
- Arrival & Welcome Drinks (1 hour)
Guests are welcomed with champagne or a signature cocktail while you take a few couple portraits or slip away for a quiet moment together. To set the mood, consider soft live music in the background, and if you need inspiration, take a look at our blog post on our handpicked French wedding songs. - Photos (optional, during drinks – allow extra time if needed)
This is also a natural window for family or group photos. If you’d like more portraits taken, simply extend this part of the schedule so nothing feels rushed. - Guest Seating & Dinner (1.5–2 hours)
A long, leisurely meal is very French, so don’t rush this part. Let guests savour the food, chat, and soak in the atmosphere. - Speeches & Toasts (30 minutes)
Speeches are often the heart of the evening and tend to be remembered most fondly. If you’d like to go less traditional, you can invite the bride or maid of honour to speak as well, just allow a little extra time in the schedule. - Cake Cutting (15 minutes)
A lovely, symbolic moment! - First Dance & Party (2–3 hours)
Kick things off with your first dance, then let the music carry everyone onto the dance floor. - Late-Night Snacks & Farewell
Think croque-monsieur, crepes, or even mini cones of frites to fuel the last hours of dancing.
When planning your own timeline, it’s a good idea to build in small buffers just in case. The goal isn’t to live by the clock but to provide a soft guideline to reduce the stress!
How Much Does a Wedding Reception Cost in France?
One of the first questions couples ask is, ‘How much does a wedding reception cost in France?‘ The answer depends on your venue, guest list, and style, but here’s a useful guide to the main reception costs you’ll want to plan for:
| Category | Typical Cost Range (£) | Notes |
| Venue Rental | €5,500 – €20,000+ | It really depends on the venue. Get in touch for specific prices, or explore our handpicked reception-ready venues below to get an idea of costs. |
| Food & Drinks | €100 – €200+ per guest | Multi-course meal with wine; add extras for canapés, cocktail hour, or late-night snacks. |
| Entertainment | €1,000 – €5,500+ | DJs are usually €1,000 – €2,000, bands €2,800 – €5,500, and extras like photo booths, fireworks, or other performers will add more to your budget. |
| Decor & Styling | €2,000 – €5,500+ | DIY can lower costs, while a professional stylist ensures a cohesive look with flowers, tableware, and design. |
| Extras | €500 – €2,000+ | Transport, babysitting, guest gifts, or welcome bags –costs really depend on guest numbers. |
Budgeting Tip
If you’re looking to manage costs, focus on what guests will actually remember: good food, good wine, and great music. The rest, while beautiful, can often be scaled up or down to suit your budget without losing the magic.
Best Wedding Reception Venues in France: Our Curated Picks
Finding the perfect wedding reception venue sets the tone for your entire celebration. From grand chateaux to charming countryside estates, France offers countless options for incredible receptions. Here are some of our favourite locations for wedding receptions, all handpicked by Chateau Bee for their style and unique features:
Chateau de Seguin Wedding Reception: Elegant Bordeaux Venue for Your Celebration
Experience a truly unforgettable wedding reception at Chateau de Seguin. Just 20 minutes from Bordeaux city, this stunning estate spans 427 acres, including 235 acres of picturesque vineyards, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your celebration. The courtyard is perfect for a cocktail hour or outdoor reception dinner, while the renovated reception hall comfortably seats up to 300 guests for an elegant dinner. With on-site accommodation for 34 guests, flexible catering options, and packages that include furniture and lighting, Chateau de Seguin makes planning your wedding reception in France effortless.
- Maximum Guests: 300
- Price: From €11,150 from Friday to Sunday (April and October rate). Get in contact for specific pricing, including packages.
La Ferme Wedding Reception: Chic Seaside Venue on the French Riviera
Host an intimate and stylish wedding reception at La Ferme, a charming bastide tucked into the hillsides above Grasse on the Côte d’Azur. With panoramic views, olive groves, and pastel green shutters, this 18th-century property provides a quintessential Mediterranean backdrop for your celebration. Celebrate an outdoor wedding reception with pre-dinner drinks by the pool and catering options tailored to your style. This venue is perfect for couples seeking an intimate, al fresco celebration on the French Riviera.
- Maximum Guests: 80
- Price: From €20,000 for 3 nights (sleeping 14) or from €24,000 for 3 nights (sleeping 18)
Chateau de Vallery: Renaissance Chateau Near Paris
Celebrate a truly spectacular wedding reception at Chateau de Vallery, a Renaissance masterpiece just 100km from Paris. With multiple elegant indoor and outdoor spaces, including the Grande Galerie, Music Room, Oriental Pavilion, and the Floating Gardens, this estate accommodates everything from lavish banquets to intimate celebrations. Exclusive rental for 2–3 days ensures a private, luxurious experience, making it ideal for couples planning a grand wedding reception in France.
- Maximum Guests: 500
- Price: POA. Get in contact for specific pricing and packages
Domaine du Rey Wedding Reception: Elegant Provençal Venue in the South of France
Celebrate a truly memorable wedding reception at Domaine du Rey, nestled in the heart of Provence in Occitanie. Surrounded by olive groves and Mediterranean garrigue, this 18th-century estate blends luxury and French charm. Choose between a chic indoor reception hall seating up to 150 guests or embrace the magic of an al fresco wedding dinner in the gardens or beneath a nomadic tent. For us, an outdoor wedding reception really captures the romance of the South of France.
- Maximum Guests: 160
- Price: From €13,200 for 3 days, 2 nights
Chateau Mathilde Wedding Reception in Normandy: A Historic Venue for Elegant Celebrations
Chateau Mathilde is a stunning choice for a wedding reception in Normandy, combining historic charm with elegant reception spaces. Couples can host cocktails in the farmhouse courtyard before moving to La Charreterie, a stylish reception hall that seats up to 80 guests and can be extended with a marquee for larger celebrations of up to 200. With no curfew, you and your guests can dance late into the night, making the most of this truly unforgettable venue!
- Maximum Guests: 200
- Price: From €8,714 for 3 days, 2 nights
Wedding Reception Table Design: Inspiring Layouts & Themes
Your wedding reception tables are so important to show off your personal style. The right table setup can set the mood for the whole evening, whether you’re imagining long banquet tables for lively conversation or round tables for an intimate, cosy feel.
Banquet vs Round Tables
- Banquet tables create a communal atmosphere, perfect for grand chateaus or large marquees.
- Round tables offer intimacy and balance, ideal for smaller guest lists or outdoor receptions, and make centrepiece arrangements simple and elegant.
Table Runners, Centrepieces & Local Touches
- Add personality with table runners in soft pastels, bold patterns, or natural fibres.
- Use seating cards and thoughtful place settings to inject charm and personal touches into your table design.
- Incorporate local elements, such as fresh seasonal flowers, Provence olive branches, or small bottles of olive oil as gifts. Remember, your venue sets the tone, so let it inspire your table design.
Sustainable & Creative Ideas
- Consider upcycled or second-hand decor to be sustainable without compromising your style.
- Mix textures, vary heights, and play with colours to create a curated, luxurious look.
- For inspiration, explore Pinterest: follow our page and check out our board on wedding table designs to see ideas for every style and budget.
- For more inspiration on flowers, stationery, and wedding details, check out our Wedding Trends: Unforgettable Florals, Stationery & More blog for ideas to elevate your table design and overall reception styling.
Why not explore our Pinterest for more table design ideas?
Fun Things to Do at a Wedding Reception to Wow Your Guests
Make your wedding reception unforgettable with interactive experiences and personal touches that keep your guests talking long after the day ends. Here are three fun ideas to elevate your celebration:
- Signature Cocktail Stations: Create a bespoke cocktail experience where guests can personalise drinks or enjoy French-inspired aperitifs. Great for mingling!
- Music & Dance: From a choreographed first dance to a surprise flash mob or live band performance, music is such an important aspect of any wedding reception. Consider acoustic sets during dinner or late-night dance-offs to keep guests entertained throughout the evening.
- Cultural & Local Experiences: Add an authentic French touch with a champagne tower, a classic croquembouche for dessert, or even a late-night onion soup station.
Or why not include some games or other fun touches to get guests mingling? Here is some inspiration:
What to Wear to a Wedding Reception in France
Wondering what to wear to a wedding reception in France? This is the fun part, and the good news is, you don’t have to overthink it. Just think about the time of day, the venue, and the vibe you want to create. A little planning goes a long way in helping you feel confident and stylish so you can enjoy every moment.
Day vs Evening Receptions
- Daytime celebrations call for light, breathable fabrics. Think pastel dresses, linen outfits, or smart separates. Accessories like chic sunglasses or a stylish hat can add to the look.
- Evening receptions are your chance to dress up a little more. Cocktail dresses, elegant gowns, or a tailored suit will help you feel polished and party-ready as the sun sets.
Hotel vs Chateau Receptions
- At hotels, the vibe tends to be more contemporary or formal, so clean lines or tailored outfits work perfectly.
- At chateaux, embrace the romance of the setting with flowing dresses, soft colours, and refined details that complement the historic backdrop.
Summer Reception Attire
- Summer weddings are all about light fabrics, soft or meditteranean shades, and breathable layers. Think floaty dresses or linen suits that look chic but keep you cool, especially if you’ll be celebrating outdoors on cobblestone courtyards, terraces, or garden lawns.
FAQ: Wedding Reception
What is a wedding reception?
A wedding reception is the celebration after the ceremony where you eat, drink, dance, and entertain guests. It can be formal or casual, indoors or outdoors, and often includes speeches, a first dance, and themed decor.
How much does a wedding reception cost?
Costs vary depending on venue, catering, decor, and entertainment. On average, receptions start around €5,500 for smaller venues and can exceed €20,000 for larger estates. Packages, extras, and seasonal rates will influence your final price.
What is a typical wedding reception timeline?
Most receptions begin with a cocktail hour, followed by dinner, speeches, cake cutting, and dancing. Adding small breaks for photos or cultural touches ensures a smooth flow.
How to plan a wedding reception timeline?
Start by mapping key moments: guest arrival, drinks, dinner, speeches, cake, and dancing. Allow buffer time for photos and speeches, then refine the schedule with your venue, vendors and wedding party.
How far in advance should you book a wedding reception venue?
Ideally, book 12–18 months in advance, especially for popular summer dates or chateaux. Early booking ensures availability and gives you time to plan everything else.
What should be included in a wedding reception checklist?
A wedding reception checklist helps you organise every detail, from venue and catering to tables, flowers, entertainment, and logistics. Use our downloadable checklist to stay on track.
How to decorate a wedding reception table?
Use table runners, centrepieces, seating cards, and local touches like seasonal flowers or regional gifts. Mix textures, play with height, and consider sustainable or upcycled decor for a stylish, thoughtful table setup.
What’s the best way to plan a budget-friendly wedding reception?
Prioritise key elements like venue, catering, and entertainment, and explore options for DIY or second-hand decor. Limit extras, negotiate packages, and consider off-peak dates to keep costs down.
What is a cocktail reception at a wedding?
A cocktail reception is a shorter, informal celebration where guests enjoy drinks and small bites rather than a full sit-down dinner. It’s perfect if a formal dinner isn’t for you or your partner, allowing more mingling and a relaxed, social atmosphere.
Can I have a wedding reception without a ceremony?
Yes! A reception-only wedding lets you celebrate with food, drinks, dancing, and friends without a formal ceremony, ideal for destination weddings or symbolic unions.
Final Tips for a Seamless Wedding Reception in France
Planning a wedding reception in France is so exciting, but a few key tips can make the process smoother and ensure your big day goes off without a hitch:
- Don’t overlook your timeline and flow: A well-planned schedule keeps guests happy and the day running smoothly. Factor in cocktails, photos, speeches, and dancing.
- Trust local vendors: From caterers to florists, local professionals know the area and can help bring your vision to life.
- Book early, especially in summer: Popular chateaux and venues fill up quickly, so securing your date early gives you more options and peace of mind.
- Stay true to your style and budget: Choose elements that reflect you as a couple, and don’t feel pressured to follow any trend.
Ready to get started? Use our free wedding reception checklist and explore reception-ready venues hand-picked by Chateau Bee.
Our team at Chateau Bee is here to guide you through every step, from choosing the perfect venue to planning your dream wedding reception in France.
Explore our hand-picked venues and start planning a celebration that’s truly unforgettable. Get in touch at hello@thechateaubee.com for personalised recommendations and expert advice.
How to Plan a Wedding Reception in France: Venues, Timelines & Table Design by Bella Dean
Foodie, yogi and travel lover!