REAL COUPLES AND THEIR ELOPEMENTS

CARMEN AND JIMMY

EXCITING PARIS TRIP: TUILERIES CEREMONY FOR TWO

LATE SUMMER ELOPEMENT

Planning and photography by Tim

Story by Helene

From walking hand-in-hand along the Seine River to mesmerized gazing at the Eiffel Tower, their journey is a delightful mix of unexpected encounters, delicious food experiences, and the undeniable allure of the City of Love. Against the backdrop of charming streets and cozy cafés, Carmen and Jimmy's love story flourishes, revealing the undeniable power of pure romance.

MEET CARMEN AND JIMMY

The couple met in middle school

Carmen and Jimmy, a couple from San Diego, CA, both currently live in their beloved hometown. They enjoy taking relaxing trips in their free time and are always up for new adventures. Jimmy works as a detective for the San Diego Police Department, while Carmen works in healthcare at a local hospital. Together, they find joy in exploring new places and creating memories.

Together for almost 12 years since their days in middle school, Carmen and Jimmy got engaged in Thailand in November 2019. The pandemic delayed their wedding plans for almost three years, but they have decided to elope in Paris in 2022.

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

The bride, Carmen, held Paris close to her heart as the ultimate city of love. Its enchanting ambiance, romantic landmarks, and timeless allure stirred something deep within her soul. As she dreamed of experiencing the magic of Paris with her future hubby, Carmen couldn't help but feel that elopement is exactly what she should plan. The very idea of exchanging vows in the city that epitomizes love and romance filled her with a sense of courage and determination.

Paris became a dream destination. With each passing moment, the desire to embark on this extraordinary adventure grew stronger within Carmen, granting her the certainty that in the City of Love, their union would be cherished and celebrated like nowhere else in the world. Carmen and Jimmy sent a sweet message: "We stumbled across your instagram and website and fell in love with your pictures and locations. Your work looks amazing. "

Paris being the city of love encouraged her to think about elopement.

Carmen wrote to us: "We both wanted something very intimate and for the day to be all about us. Big weddings are beautiful, but they are more for the guests and not the couple. Eloping is something so intimate and meaningful to us."

CHALLENGE: A QUEST TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT ELOPEMENT LOCATIONS

Carmen stood at a crossroads, her plans to elope to the enchanting city of Paris. However, a sense of confusion consumed her. The city's labyrinthine streets and countless landmarks felt like endless possibilities, overwhelming yet exciting.

She wanted to elope to Paris, but there was a problem - she had never been to the city before. She felt lost, unsure of how to choose the best locations without any familiarity. Carmen wanted to capture the true essence of Paris, to find those special places that would make their elopement unforgettable. Determined, she began seeking guidance and advice. Through research and recommendations, Carmen and Jimmy hoped to uncover the hidden treasures of the city.

THE MAGIC OF PARIS

Paris, the capital of France, is a city with a rich history. It was first built on the Île de la Cité in the 3rd century BC by a Celtic people known as the Parisii. A center of art, culture, and politics. From its origins as a small settlement on the Seine River, Paris grew into a thriving city during the Middle Ages.

It became known as the "City of Light" during the Age of Enlightenment, a time when art, literature, and philosophy flourished. Over the years, Paris has witnessed significant events, such as the French Revolution and World War II.

Today, it remains a global hub for fashion, cuisine, and tourism, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Meiddle ages. Paris in June 1410, by Jean Fouquet

Nicolas-Jean-Baptiste_Raguenet,_A_View_of_Paris_from_the_Pont_Neuf_-_Getty_Museum.jpg

View of Paris from the Pont Neuf , 1763

Paris almost 100 years ago

Paris nowdays, March 2022

Whether it's raining or the sun is shining (although sun is quite common in Paris), the city remains remarkably stunning. Please join us on a virtual tour of the best places in Paris right now. Let's embark on an excursion and explore the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, streets, and more. From iconic landmarks to hidden treasures, let's discover the magic of Paris together:

The Eiffel Tower (built in 1887) is located in the heart of Paris, France, specifically in the Champ de Mars park on the Left Bank of the Seine River. When you look at the Eiffel Tower, a sense of awe and inspiration fills your being. Its towering presence against the Parisian skyline evokes a feeling of grandeur and beauty. It's hard not to feel a sense of wonder and excitement, knowing that you are beholding one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.

Louvre Museum: One of the world's largest and most famous museums, housing thousands of artworks, including the Mona Lisa.

The scent of roses and flowers in the Tuileries Garden remains an enchanting sensation. As you stroll through this picturesque Parisian oasis, the air becomes infused with delicate floral fragrances. The sweet aroma of roses, nature's poetry.

Streets are beautiful because they have signature Paris buildings with fancy designs. They lead to famous places like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre. Walking down the streets of Paris will make you feel amazed and fascinated. The lively atmosphere with people chatting and moving around will give you a sense of energy and excitement. You'll come across cozy cafes and interesting shops that will make you want to explore.

Save this spot to visit later: The Rue Saint-Dominique is a street in the 7th arrondissement of Paris.

Ah, the Parisian cafes...where culinary dreams come true! Prepare yourself for a journey of feasting until your tummy is round and content. Picture yourself seated at a cozy bistro, surrounded by an irresistible spread of mouthwatering delights. With every heavenly bite, your heart swells with joy. So embrace the Parisian cafe, my friend, for here, food knows no bounds, and your happiness knows no limit!

Every detail and corner in Paris is incredibly charming! As you explore the city, you'll discover so many interesting things along the way. Each street has its own special character and beauty. From the elegant buildings to the cute shops and cafes, there's always something fascinating to see. You might stumble upon hidden parks, street performers, or even vintage markets. Everywhere you turn, there's a new surprise waiting for you. It's like a treasure hunt filled with delightful finds.

ELOPEMENT PACKAGE: TAILORED AND FINALIZED TO THEIR LIKING

The whole planning took 3.5 months from beginning to end. Carmen and Jimmy contacted us on May 9, 2022, and got married on August 22, 2022.

Here is a brief story of how the whole process went:
1. Carmen and Jimmy picked a suitable date for their elopement in Paris
2. They decided on the perfect airbnb that fit their preferences and budget. Booked flights
3. Carmen sent us a deposit and booked our Carousel all-inclusive elopement package
4. When the main part was set, Carmen and Jimmy considered additional services like hiring a videographer. Carmen collected hair and makeup inspiration and flower photos
5. 2 weeks before the wedding, Carmen and Jimmy personalized their ceremony by writing heartfelt vows, selecting meaningful readings
6. We created a timeline for them 3 days before the ceremony, based on the latest weather forecast

We communicated through email and WhatsApp.

Carmen was incredibly creative and a pleasure to work with throughout the planning process. Her unique ideas and vision brought an extra touch of magic to every aspect of her wedding preparations. She paid attention to even the smallest details and thought outside the box to make her wedding truly special.

Not only was Carmen creative, but she was also easy to work with. She was open-minded, communicated clearly, and collaborated well with the team. Her flexibility and positive attitude made decision-making smooth and enjoyable.

You know when you meet someone and you immediately match and understand that you have the same vibes and goals? We understood Carmen and Jimmy from the very beginning.

Here is a summary of the wedding day we planned:

Wedding date - August 22, 2022
Chosen package - the Carousel all-inclusive elopement package plus additional photo location
People - bride plus groom only
The ceremony location - Tuileries

TIMELINE

Tim: "You may wonder, why do I plan all our elopements so early? There is a serious reason. Paris becomes overcrowded after 10 AM during summer months since it is a touristic city. And in order to get perfect photos, we work earliest possible"

WEATHER IN PARIS IN AUGUST

4:40 AM makeup artist Yana is coming for bridal hair and makeup. Groom gets ready and packs bags for the day
6:20 AM Yana ends her work. Putting the dress on and getting down
6:30 AM pick up
Paris streets - Avenue Camoens - Arc de Triomphe - River Seine
Getting to the car, driving to Tuileries
The ceremony begins at Tuileries
After-ceremony photos and champagne
Driving back to the hotel

As you can see, the Tuileries ceremony is after the photoshoot. It is because the gardens open later during the day. But we need to take the sunrise Eiffel Tower the earliest possible, to avoid crowds. That's why when the couple picks Tuileries as their place to get married, we swap ceremony and photoshoot.

Have a picnic! You can drink wine at any park without problems

August in Paris is a great time to visit because the weather is usually warm and nice. It's not too hot or too cold, so you can do fun things outside. The temperature is usually around 16°C (61°F) to 25°C (77°F), which is comfortable for doing activities and exploring the city. It's mostly sunny, but sometimes it might rain a little, so it's a good idea to bring a light jacket or an umbrella just in case. You can relax at outdoor cafes and take walks along the beautiful Seine River. Paris in August is a great opportunity to experience the wonderful sights and atmosphere the city has to offer because locals leave Paris to go on holiday.

The city can feel less crowded than usual. This means that you can explore cool places and famous sights without dealing with huge lines or lots of people. It's a more peaceful time to be in Paris, and you can enjoy a slower pace. Keep in mind, though, that some shops, restaurants, or attractions might have different hours or be closed because the staff is on vacation too.

DAY BEFORE THE ELOPEMENT

Pont d'Iéna, Paris

The day before Carmen and Jimmy's elopement in Paris was filled with excitement and anticipation. They wanted to make the most of their time in the city of love before tying the knot, so they had a walk around the enchanting streets of Paris. Hand in hand, they admired the beautiful architecture, charming cafés, and lively atmosphere that filled the city. As the afternoon approached, they made their way back to apartments to steam their wedding outfits, ensuring they would look perfect for their special day. The couple exchanged nervous smiles and heartfelt reassurances as they excitedly got ready for the next chapter of their love story.

Bridal dress is ready for tomorrow!

BRIDAL LOOK

"My dream dress is beautiful. It's very classy, yet modern with a slit. It fits me like a glove," said Carmen about her dress. It is by House of CB Bridal, IG: @houseofcbbridal

Photo from the boutique VS the dress in real life, even better!

Photos Carmen sent to Yana and her final look

Yana, the talented makeup artist, arrived early in the morning, ready to make Carmen's wedding day even more magical. With gentle brushes and expert hands, Yana carefully crafted a soft, romantic look that perfectly matched Carmen's vision. Yana, with her skilled artistry, not only enhanced Carmen's natural beauty but also captured the essence of her inner joy. Carmen felt like the most beautiful bride in the world, as her reflection mirrored the love and happiness that radiated from within.

BRIDAL BOUQUET

Carmen asked for all white rose bouquet. White rose is the most elegant flower for weddings. Its beauty and delicate petals bring an air of sophistication and romance to any ceremony. With a variety of colors to choose from, roses can easily match any wedding theme or color scheme.

References from Carmen and final result

On her wedding day, Carmen looked absolutely stunning. All the elements of her look came together perfectly. Her hair was styled in beautiful loose curls. The delicate veil added a touch of magic as it gently covered her face. Carmen's dress was a gorgeous mix of fashion and romance fitting her perfectly and showing off her curves. The makeup she wore was soft and gentle, enhancing her natural beauty without being too overpowering.

Carmen saw herself in the mirror, she couldn't help but feel incredibly happy and confident, knowing that she was about to start a new and exciting chapter of her life as a breathtaking bride.

AND SO WE BEGAN WITH PARIS PHOTOSHOOT

Tim picked the couple up at 6:20 AM. Carmen and Jimmy were thrilled to start their adventure together and capture beautiful moments during their photoshoot. As they patiently waited for Tim's car to pull up, their hearts filled with anticipation for the magical memories they were about to create. The sun-kissed morning added a touch of ethereal glow to their surroundings, with the gentle breeze carrying the scent of fresh croissants.

We started with a famous street called Pl. de Mexico in 75016, with an Eiffel Tower view. It is only available April to Septemeber for photoshoots.

An intimate moment as the groom kisses his bride's hand

Love's serenade: a romantic promenade beneath the Eiffel tower

We love simple poses that show true love between the couple

Our next photoshoot location was a charming street called Avenue de Camoëns, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Paris. Legend has it that the street was named after Luís de Camões, a poet who wrote about love. Much like the tales penned by Camões, Avenue de Camoëns emanated an air of poetic beauty. The cobbled pathway provided a whimsical backdrop for Carmen and Jimmy.

Tim: "Legend says, that Luís de Camões, the poet after whom Avenue de Camoëns is named, had a tragic love story. Camões experienced heartbreak. He fell deeply in love with a lady named Catherine of Ataíde. Sadly, his affection was not wanted, and he endured the pain of rejection. This love served as a source of inspiration for the street's architecture. Luís de Camões never had his happy love story, so the street was built purposely for everyone to enjoy romance together and have what he missed"

Carmen and Jimmy kiss at Avenue de Camoëns balcony

The street is only 115m (377ft) long

We shoot both full body and closeup portraits

A true kiss of love unites newlywed couple on their special day

To create a perfect dance shot, we ask the groom to lead and both maintain the right posture

These black doors with french texture are located at Avenue de Camoëns as well

We recommend Arch de Triumph only during the month of August for elopements. During this period, locals often go on holidays, resulting in fewer cars and a more serene atmosphere. In other months, we don't usually go here, the beauty of the Arch de Triumph is ruined by traffic and endless cars.

August is the only month without cars here

Do you see Eiffel Tower here?

This green bench was near our shooting spot at Arc Triomphe

Cozy view and sweet poses

Every corner in Paris is beautiful

Our last photoshoot location was River Seine. It is a beautiful Eiffel Tower view from the river. Couples choose this place when they want to take pictures with Eiffel Tower, but in an intimate setting. Trocadero is full of people and other photoshoots, but River Seine location is peaceful and more unique.

The River Seine, carrying the whispers of countless lovers who have stood on its banks

Carmen and Jimmy, their love radiating like a thousand sunsets

Overflowing with dreams

Eiffel Tower and the River Seine making everything even more magical

Tim: "And so that was our photoshoot. As a photographer, my ultimate goal is to create an environment where my clients feel comfortable and at ease in front of the camera. begin by building a rapport with my clients and getting to know them on a personal level. By establishing a connection and creating a relaxed atmosphere, I can help them feel more natural and confident during the photoshoot. I provide clear instructions and guidance throughout the process, ensuring my clients understand the poses and feel comfortable expressing themselves authentically."

WEDDING CEREMONY

Do you know what happens during our elopement wedding ceremonies? Most importantly, they hold profound significance and beauty. The intimacy and simplicity of an elopement ceremony can create a truly magical experience. The exchange of vows and rings, the certificates, and the I DO'S, resonating with the timeless essence of a classic wedding ceremony. The absence of a large guest list allows the couple to focus on each other, creating an atmosphere filled with authenticity and profound emotions. From the exchanging of passionate glances to the gentle touch of hands, the moments captured during an elopement ceremony hold an enchanting and personal charm, telling a love story that is unique. How do you envision your ceremony?

Vow books

On the day of Carmen and Jimmy's long-awaited ceremony, the bride took a deep breath, her heart filled with a mixture of nerves and exhilaration. With every beat of her heart, she carried the weight of their shared memories and the dreams they had woven together. In that moment, Carmen realized the immense joy and profound love that overflowed within her. And as she said her vows, tears streamed down her cheeks, intermingling happiness and gratitude.

The feeling of getting married is a unique blend of excitement, nervousness, and profound joy.

Each step towards the ceremony beginning is both surreal and momentous as if stepping into a new chapter of life.

The heart beats faster, echoing the rush of emotions.

It's a moment where time stands still, and the world around you fades away.

As Carmen and Jimmy stand face-to-face, their hearts brim with anticipation

I Do" moment

As part of the elopement ceremony, you may choose to include readings

Exchange of vows: words filled with promises, devotion, and dreams are spoken

When hearts overflow with a profound sense of love

Ring exchange

Celebration!

Toasting to their love and happiness

Carmen and Jimmy, as happy as they are

Groom to carry the bride: smiles and laughter from the couple. This act symbolizes the support and willingness to carry each other through the challenges and joys that lie ahead in their marriage

Joy and excitement. For this image, videographer asked to show their rings to the camera

And... married! The beginning of their lifelong journey together

Carmen and Jimmy's elopement day was truly magical, filled with intimate moments and unforgettable memories. The decision to have a photoshoot and a ceremony for just the two of them allowed them to create a day that was solely focused on their love and commitment to each other.

THE REST OF THE DAY

We drove Carmen and Jimmy back to their apartments.

Last photo Jimmy took before they got out of their wedding outfits

"We were so happy and excited to be married so I asked Jimmy to take a picture of me with my bouquet and the Eiffel Tower in the background. It was a very special moment" shared Carmen a story of this photo.

In the comfort of their room, Carmen and Jimmy took the time to reflect on the magical day they had just experienced. They shared stories and laughter, flipping through the selfies from the day and reliving the emotions once again.

DINNER CRUISE

A cruise on the Seine River is a special experience where people can have a delicious meal while sailing on a boat along the Seine River in Paris, France.

The cost of an average dinner cruise is around 80 to 150 Euros per person

It is a panoramic glass boat. You will see the famous landmarks and beautiful scenery that line the riverbanks, the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Of course, they serve traditional French cuisine.

The best part about a dinner cruise? A unique perspective of Paris.

Jimmy said: "It was our first date as husband and wife. The cruise was so much fun, I highly recommend it to all couples. After the cruise, we walked and took pictures in front of the Eiffel Tower."

We have a FAQ and a detailed cruise review on our website.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Carmen and Jimmy spent 12 days in Paris, focusing on a balance between tourist activities and experiencing the French culture. Their goal was to explore not only the popular attractions but also the local side of the city, aiming for a more authentic experience. They enjoyed the iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum but were equally enthusiastic about immersing themselves in the neighborhoods, visiting local markets, and indulging in genuine Parisian cuisine.

Carmen was so happy: "Our trip to France was amazing. The food, the wine, the people, the sights everything wrapped into one perfect vacation. It’s hard to pick one favorite restaurant because we stopped at every cafe possible to eat and drink everything. One of my favorite things we did was renting a golf cart and driving it around Versailles."

Carmen and Jimmy shared their advice for the future couples who are thinking to elope to Paris, but are hesitant: "One advice I would give is to have fun, don’t stress, and have trust in your team that they will do a good job, because they will! :) "

Our goal is to create special memories for the couple that they will treasure. We hope they will have a great time and leave us a positive review to share their happiness with others.

PACKAGE AND VENDORS

The Carousel elopement package is a smart wedding option and we are super proud of it. It combines price and quality, and our 12 years of wedding planning experience in Paris.

With years of experience, we have carefully selected top-tier vendors and perfected the logistics to ensure a seamless and stress-free wedding day. From the stunning ceremony location to Tim's skilled photography, designed to create lasting memories.

Our team takes immense pride in creating unforgettable experiences for couples from all over the world.

Book now and let us take care of the rest!

THE CAROUSEL ALL-INCLUSIVE PARIS WEDDING PACKAGE

YANA, MAKEUP AND HAIR IN PARIS

SOUHAIL, THE VIDEOGRAPHER