A Sunset Wedding at Château Eza in Èze, French Riviera¶
Some wedding days feel effortless from start to finish. This was one of them.
The Charm of Èze¶
Èze is one of those places that feels almost unreal. Perched high above the Mediterranean on the French Riviera, this medieval hilltop village is full of narrow cobbled alleyways, stone archways and cascading bougainvillaea. As you wander through its winding streets, every turn opens to sweeping sea views and sun soaked terraces. The light there has a softness to it, reflecting off the pale stone walls and the blue water below. It is romantic without trying too hard. Intimate without feeling small.
Château Eza¶
Château Eza sits along the edge of the village, overlooking the coastline. The hotel combines rustic stone architecture with refined interiors and panoramic views across the Mediterranean. Its terraces and balconies provide breathtaking ceremony backdrops, while the rooms feel private and luxurious.
A Calm and Joyful Morning¶
We began the day early, as we always do. Before meeting the couple, we like to document the venue itself, the quiet views, the details and the atmosphere before guests arrive. There is something special about capturing the stillness of a location before it fills with energy.
Afterwards, we joined H and her bridesmaids in the presidential suite. When couples get married here, they are given access to two separate suites for getting ready. The presidential suite is often where the bride and her bridesmaids prepare for the day, while the groom and his groomsmen settle into another room nearby. It allows everyone to have their own space while still being within the same beautiful setting. When we arrived, H was just finishing her make up, which was perfect timing for those final touch photographs. The room was full of laughter and excitement. We captured moments with her bridesmaids and close family members.
Once everyone was ready, we went outside to capture some relaxed portraits.
H was also able to sneak in a quick snack before the first look!
First Look in the Village¶
Their first look took place in the charming alleyways of Èze. Tucked between old stone walls and soft afternoon light, it felt intimate and cinematic at the same time.
Before exploring further, we gathered everyone together for a few group portraits, then spent some time capturing H and her partner alone.
We also made our way to the Jardin Exotique, which we highly recommend for couples marrying in Èze. There is a photographer access fee of 200€, in addition to entry tickets, but it is absolutely worth it. The views are completely unobstructed, stretching out over the Mediterranean with nothing but sea and sky in the background. It offers a perspective you simply cannot get elsewhere in the village.
Afterwards, we made our way back to Château Eza.
A Moment to Breathe¶
About half an hour before the ceremony, once we got back to Château Èza we encouraged the couple to take a short break together. We always try to create this window of calm. Wedding days move quickly, and it can be surprisingly difficult for couples to have a quiet moment alone.
While they stepped away, we focused on photographing ceremony details and the reception set up. Those in between moments help tell the full story of the day.
The Ceremony on the Balcony¶
The ceremony began at around 18:00 on the balcony overlooking the water. The setting could not have been more beautiful. The Mediterranean stretched endlessly behind them, glowing softly in the early evening light.
The groom walked down the aisle with his mother, followed by bridesmaids and groomsmen entering together in pairs. H then walked down with her parents, a moment that felt both emotional and joyful.
A particularly meaningful detail was that H's father served as the officiant. It added an even deeper personal touch to the ceremony.
When they shared their first kiss as husband and wife, a small unexpected moment happened as H's veil slipped free.
Golden Hour and Reception¶
After the ceremony, the newly-married couple and guests moved into the reception area.
The light at that time of day was beautiful. It was not quite sunset, but the pre sunset golden glow gave everything a warm, flattering tone. We documented candid moments of guests mingling, live music filling the terrace and quiet embraces between family members.
As the evening progressed, the sun dipped behind the mountains. While you do not see the sun setting directly over the water from this spot, the sky shifts into soft pastels and gentle shadows, creating a romantic atmosphere that is uniquely Èze.
Once the sun was set, the next part of the evening began— the beautiful reception.
Throughout the evening, we balanced candid storytelling with gently guided portraits. We love capturing natural interactions, but we also make space for intentional photographs of family and friends, ensuring everyone feels included in the final gallery.
By the time we left that evening, it felt like the perfect day. The setting, the light, the energy and the couple themselves all came together effortlessly. A September wedding at Château Eza, filled with emotion, elegance and the kind of beauty that speaks for itself.
Planning Your Wedding?¶
If you’re planning a wedding at Château Eza or in the French Riviera and would like us to capture your story, we’d love to hear from you. Please reach out to discuss your vision and how we can make your day unforgettable.