Elise and Steven met in 2007 at a concert for the French rock band Mypollux. Eighteen years on, they celebrated their love under the branches of a 200-year-old tree, surrounded by the people who had been part of their story all along.

The wedding was held at a Château in France. “Our inspiration was to create something that feels like us, in a place that feels like home,” Elise said. They wanted a wedding that included their shared of cinema and metal music, but in a quite, peaceful way.

Elise wore a deep red gown, a colour she’d dreamed of for years but struggled to find in bridal shops. “I would like to see more imagination and variety in the options available!” she continued. “However, finding a good-quality red wedding dress was almost impossible.” In the end, a local dressmaker stepped in to create the piece exactly as she’d envisioned it.

Their ceremony took place beneath the vast old tree, where Elvis Presley’s Can’t Help Falling in Love played as Elise walked down the aisle. There were no vows. “Having been together for 18 years, we felt that we had already proven our love for each other.” Steven’s best friend officiated, and their young son sat nearby.

There was no formality for the reception; no long sit-down meal and lots of entertainment. They hosted an open-air cocktail party with Italian buffets, themed corners, and space for everyone to move around freely. There was a cinema nook, a knitting station, a vinyl bar, and games for the kids.

Elise and Steven’s favourite part came when darkness fell. Fire performers lit up the grounds, spinning flames and pyrotechnics in a heart-shaped blaze, followed by fireworks. “The fire show was the best part of the day”, the bride said. “It was one of our slightly crazy dreams, we didn’t know if we would dare to do it, but in the end it was a complete success!”