Paris Elopement Locations

Why Paris is a Perfect Elopement Destination

Paris, often dubbed the “City of Love,” is an iconic and enchanting place for couples looking to elope. Its timeless beauty, romantic ambiance, and rich cultural heritage make it a dream destination for an intimate and memorable wedding. Here’s why Paris a few reasons why Paris stands out as an elopement destination and a look at some of its stunning outdoor locations, along with considerations, pros, and cons.

The Allure of Paris

Paris has long been synonymous with romance, offering a picturesque backdrop for love stories to unfold. The city’s historic architecture, charming streets, and world-renowned landmarks provide a fairy-tale setting for any couple. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Paris offers a unique blend of history, art, and culture, ensuring that your elopement is not just a ceremony but a memorable experience. Most of the advice below pertains to elopements with at least 4-6 guests in attendance. When it’s just the couple exchanging vows, there’s more flexibility with locations and time of day. Inquire with us for more details when making your plans!

Amazing Outdoor Paris Elopement Locations

• Eiffel Tower/Trocadero area:
  • Pros: Iconic symbol of Paris, breathtaking views, spacious gardens for intimate gatherings.
  • Cons: Can be crowded later in the day
  • Considerations: Best early in the morning for privacy and optimal lighting for photos.
  • While one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower for portraits and the ceremony, this location should only be chosen in the morning for the best light and least amount of tourists. There aren’t really any restrictions for all of the options in this area, though of note, much of it is off limits from around July 7-16 for Bastille Day/Fete Nationale.
  • Also in winter time the lighting can get very tricky here and fog can hide the Eiffel Tower, so it’s not often the first choice during those months. The grassy area alongside the fountain is usually very quiet with few people around and often gives you the cleanest background and the touch of greenery is nice. We do have to be mindful about the lawn sprinklers, so for very large groups it may not be ideal.
  • Down by the Seine in front of the Eiffel Tower is also very nice and probably the most peaceful as well, unless someone can walk on water you won’t have any random people walking through your background!
  • Then there’s also the grassy area right by the base of the fountain and this is another very tranquil area that provides an area where people can’t walk through your background. The only drawback is this isn’t the best angle for photos with a full view of the Tower because of how close you are. However, the mid-length shots are great because the base of the tower appears much larger in photos here. And again the greenery adds a nice feel to the photos.
  • All in all the Trocadero/Eiffel Tower provides a good selection of locations for the ceremony. In addition there are great portrait spots before or after the ceremony all in walking distance.

• Eiffel Tower/ Pont de Bir Hakeim area:
  • An easy walk from the Trocadero area, this bridge is most well-known for its architecture with the tall, slender silver columns and large stone archway. It was made famous for its appearance in the Leonardo de DiCaprio movie Inception.
  • Should only be used in the early morning due to bike and car traffic.
  • First and foremost, this is the best rainy day option with a view of the Eiffel Tower.
  • There’s a landing that protrudes out over the Seine and provides a lovely area for the ceremony if it’s not raining. The archway is only suggested for the ceremony if it’s raining as, otherwise, your background may be full of other portrait sessions and cars.
  • This area is also closed off around July 10-16 for Bastille Day/Fete Nationale.
  • Because it’s a bridge over the Seine it can be the more windy location so it is not always the best spot for hair styled down.
  • And just like Trocadero you’re in easy walking distance to all the great portrait locations with the Eiffel Tower in the background.

• Eiffel Tower/Avenue Camoens:
  • This is a great view of the Eiffel Tower and a very popular spot amongst Instagrammers, can be seen in the opening montage of the film Midnight in Paris.
  • Due to its popularity and its small area, it’s not recommended for the ceremony but can be great for couple’s portraits.
  • Evening portraits generally do not work here due to the position of the sun.
  • It’s a great place for portraits with a vintage car!

• Pont Alexandre III:
  • Pros: Stunning bridge with ornate decorations, views of the Seine and Eiffel Tower.
  • Cons: Public thoroughfare, limited space, traffic noise.
  • Considerations: Best for short ceremonies and photo sessions during off-peak hours.
  • One of the most beautiful bridges in all of Paris, it has a couple spaces that are good for the ceremony, as well as couples portraits. If you shoot one direction you get the majestic gold dome of Les Invalides. Choose the other direction and you could get the Eiffel Tower in the distance or the grand dome of the Grand Palais with the large French flag blowing in the wind, giving your images a true sense of place!
    There are very few times of the year that the bridge isn’t accessible.
    Easy walk over to the grand steps and golden doors of the Petit Palais for some beautiful portraits.
    Another one of the great locations for a vintage car.

• Petit Palais:
  • Pros: An absolutely stunning backdrop for a ceremony void of any tourists. The entry to this museum is gorgeous with the ornate golden doors and entryway.
  • Cons: As for restrictions, it’s open starting at 10am on Tuesday through Sunday so best to be finished by 9:15am, or simply schedule your ceremony for a Monday if you love this location.
  • Considerations: It’s a close walk to Pont Alexandre III for portraits, and is also a great place for a vintage car.
    
    

• Tuileries Garden:
  • Pros: Beautifully manicured gardens, classic Parisian backdrop, central location.
  • Cons: Public space, can be busy with tourists, noise from nearby streets.
  • Considerations: Spring and summer offer the most vibrant foliage and flowers.
  • Opening times are as follows:
    7:00 AM TO 11:00 PM June, July and August
    7:00 AM TO 9:00 PM April, May and September
    7:30 AM TO 7:30 PM January, February, March, October, November and December
    Closing time isn’t really a concern as we rarely shoot here in the evenings since the gardens become very crowded with tourists, runners, etc.
  • When the trees are full and the gardens are in bloom, it’s a lovely place for a ceremony. The main locations are the long row of perfectly manicured trees with the majestic building of the Louvre in the background. You want to start your ceremony early here, otherwise the lighting becomes less favorable for the building to appear visible in the background.
    There is a chance for people in the background here but not much. If you’re afraid of dogs I would avoid this area as you may encounter them out on an early morning walk, but they never cause any issues with our shoots 🙂
  • There’s also a very nice white arch down in the gardens that is a very quiet area.
    The ground of the gardens is sorta like hard sand and small loose gravel so if you’re having a very large dress with a train then it will be a bit cumbersome to move around here while keeping the dress pristine.
  • It’s an easy walk to the small Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre, which all make great spots for couples portraits.
  • It’s an easy walk/drive to Place Vendome for some classy portraits with the luxury designer brand stores in the background which can also be a great spot for vintage car photos.
    It’s extremely close to major hotels such as The Ritz, The Westin, Hotel Crillon, Mandarin Oriental, and Hotel de la Marine.
  • In the gardens, closer to the Louvre, there is a smaller Arc de Triomphe which is a beautiful spot for a small ceremony and portraits but again, the ground is similar to the rest of the gardens with sand/gravel so best for smaller dresses without large trains.

• The Louvre:
• This is a beautiful location for portraits but is not a spot for the ceremony per rules of the museum. If it’s just the two of you, then it’s possible for a short ceremony in one of the archways and can be considered as a rainy day backup. The area opens at 7am.

• Riverbanks of the Seine:
  • There are several options along the Seine, but the best options are close to Notre Dame and Ile de la Cité (this is the island where Notre Dame is located). This gives you a wonderful background of Parisian buildings and a quiet serene area away from the busy tourist areas.
  • This area is definitely perfect for couples wanting something off the beaten path but still with a very Parisian feel.
  • Pont Neuf is also one of the areas we like to use for a Seine-side ceremony
  • Close to Place Dauphine and Jardin du Luxembourg for portraits.

• Place Dauphine:
  • A quaint courtyard on Ile de la Cité providing an intimate backdrop of equal parts Parisian charm and greenery. A great place for a ceremony and portraits.
  • Close to the Seine and Jardin du Luxembourg for portraits.
  • A few cute cafes in the square also make for great seated portraits with that classic Paris vibe.

• Luxembourg Gardens:
  • Pros: Serene atmosphere, elegant setting with fountains and statues, various secluded spots.
  • Cons: Permits may be required, popularity means potential for interruptions.
  • Considerations: Ideal for morning ceremonies to avoid crowds.
  • Most well known for the Medici fountain as a beautiful backdrop for an intimate elopement ceremony with just a few guests. The entire garden also provides many options for different portrait locations.
  • Should be chosen for early morning events as tourists do arrive early as well for photos of the fountain.

• Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur Basilica:
  • Pros: Bohemian charm, panoramic views of Paris, artistic history.
  • Cons: Steep terrain, can be crowded later in the day, requires climbing steps.
  • Considerations: Perfect for couples wanting a more artistic and intimate setting.

Considerations When Choosing Your Location

• Weather: Paris weather can be unpredictable. Have a backup plan or choose a venue with nearby sheltered options.
• Permits: Some locations require permits for ceremonies and photoshoots. Ensure all paperwork is in order well in advance.
• Timing: Early mornings or late evenings offer the best light and fewer crowds. Consider the season to avoid extreme temperatures.

Pros and Cons of Outdoor Elopement in Paris

Pros:

• Romantic Setting: Paris offers unparalleled romantic settings that enhance the magic of your special day.
• Photographic Opportunities: The city’s landmarks and natural beauty provide stunning backdrops for wedding photos.
• Cultural Experience: Incorporating Parisian culture and cuisine can add a unique and memorable touch to your elopement.

Cons:

• Weather Dependency: Outdoor locations are subject to weather conditions, which can be unpredictable, though we always have a Plan B in mind.
• Crowds: Popular spots can be crowded, potentially impacting privacy and intimacy.
• Logistics: Navigating permits, timing, and accessibility can be challenging, requiring careful planning.

Indoor Options for Larger Ceremonies

While the focus here is on outdoor locations, Paris also boasts numerous elegant indoor venues. These spaces offer a safe bet against inclement weather and can accommodate larger guest lists. From opulent hotels to historic buildings, these venues provide a blend of Parisian charm and practicality. Of course you can still take advantage of the locations above during a private photo session for the two of you, even if you decide to wed indoors.

Some of our favorite indoor locations include The Ritz Paris, The Shangri-la Hotel, and Plaza Athenée.

In conclusion, Paris is an extraordinary choice for an elopement, offering a blend of romantic allure and picturesque settings. By considering the practical aspects and weighing the pros and cons, you can ensure your Parisian elopement is both magical and seamless. Rest assured with our experience as wedding photographers for over 20 years, we are on your side. We’re here to help you create an elopement that is fitting of the two of you.

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