“Paris is always a good idea,” said Audrey Hepburn, and I couldn’t agree more, especially when it comes to weddings at the iconic Ritz Paris. As a Paris wedding photographer, I’ve witnessed timeless love stories unfold within its golden walls. Whether you dream of an intimate Paris elopement or a grand celebration, planning your Ritz Paris wedding requires more than just a vision, it needs precision, elegance, and emotion. In this guide, I’ll share insider tips, from the best time to book to the most photogenic locations within the Ritz.
Let’s turn your Parisian dream into a once-in-a-lifetime reality!
- Why choose the Ritz Paris for your wedding
- Planning essentials for a Ritz Paris wedding
- The most photogenic spots at the Ritz Paris
- Styling your dream wedding at the Ritz
- Reception, dining and champagne moments
- Pro tips from a Ritz Paris wedding photographer
- FAQ – Planning you wedding at the Ritz Paris
Why choose the Ritz Paris for your wedding
In the Ritz, there’s history in every corner. The Ritz Paris opened in 1898 and quickly became the place for European royalty, creatives, and dreamers. Coco Chanel lived there. Hemingway drank there. Princess Diana dined there the night before her tragic accident. It’s not just a hotel, it’s a symbol of timeless luxury and Parisian elegance. Hosting your wedding at the Ritz means stepping into that legacy.
Now, I’ve photographed weddings in castles in France, vineyards, even on the Lake Como in Italy. But there’s nothing quite like the opulent salons inside the Ritz Paris. The Salon Vendôme and Salon d’Été are my personal favorites. The way the natural light filters through the massive windows, dancing across the gilded moldings and sparkling chandeliers, it’s a photographer’s dream. And then there’s the secret garden tucked behind the hotel, which feels like a little oasis in the heart of Paris.
What surprises many couples is how versatile the Ritz can be. Whether you’re planning an elopement with just the two of you, or a grand celebration for 100 guests, the venue adjusts beautifully. It feels intimate even when it’s lavish. And there’s something about hearing soft piano music echo through the marble halls while you’re slipping into your dress that just… hits different.
I’ve had brides tear up walking through the Galerie, not because they were nervous, but because they felt emotional behind in such a place. And that’s the thing: a wedding at the Ritz Paris isn’t just about beauty (though there’s plenty of that). It’s about emotion, storytelling, and being part of something grand.
And yes, celebrity weddings and royal events have taken place here, but the Ritz has this incredible way of making every couple feel like the most important people in the world. I think that’s why so many international couples choose it, because they’re not just looking for a beautiful backdrop, but for an entire experience. One they’ll remember for a lifetime, and one that deserves to be captured with care.
Planning essentials for a Ritz Paris wedding
Let me tell you this right away: planning a wedding at the Ritz Paris is not your typical venue booking. It’s not just picking a date, and signing a contract. It requires to be fully invested months before.
When to start planning your Ritz wedding ?
If there’s one thing I’ve learned photographing weddings here, it’s this: start early. The Ritz is internationally in demand. For full-scale weddings with 50+ guests, I would recommend locking in your date at least 12 to 18 months in advance, especially if you’re aiming for a popular season like May, June, or September. Elopements and micro-weddings? You might get lucky with 6 months, but don’t count on it. I once had a couple try to plan a summer wedding in just 4 months. We pulled it off, but it was intense, and only possible because their planner had direct connections inside the hotel.
Estimated budgets
Let’s talk numbers, because while the Ritz Paris offers unmatched beauty and service, it also comes with a high-end price tag. For elopements, you’re looking at €10,000 to €20,000 minimum, depending on your room, floral design, and photography. Full weddings typically range between €50,000 to €150,000+, especially if you’re booking multiple salons, full dinner service, custom decor, and live entertainment. I’ve seen some go way beyond that with couture gowns, private chauffeurs, and custom lighting installations, but honestly, even the simpler setups feel exquisite here.
Work with a local wedding planner
If I can give one piece of unfiltered advice: work with a Paris-based wedding planner who knows the Ritz staff. The hotel has a unique rhythm, and things often work a little differently than venues back home (especially if you’re coming from the US or UK). A good planner smooths out everything, from vendor access and timing, to translations and luxury logistics. I’ve worked alongside amazing planners and every time, the difference in guest experience is night and day.
Legal vs symbolic ceremonies in France
Here’s something a lot of international couples overlook: you can’t legally marry at the Ritz unless at least one of you is a French resident. That’s because French law requires civil weddings to be performed at a mairie (city hall). So what most couples do, and what I always recommend, is to get legally married at home first, then have a symbolic ceremony at the Ritz. Trust me, it doesn’t make the moment any less powerful. In short, planning your Ritz Paris wedding is all about precision, anticipation, and the right people around you. Get the timeline right, choose your vendors wisely, and embrace the French way of doing things. When it all comes together, it’s absolutely unforgettable.
The most photogenic spots at the Ritz Paris
Every time I photograph a wedding at the Ritz Paris, I find myself discovering the light in new ways. This place is a photographer’s dream, and a bit of a puzzle. The challenge isn’t finding beautiful spots, it’s choosing which ones to prioritize because the entire hotel is one big canvas of elegance.
Let’s start with the grand staircase. It’s iconic. The curve, the wrought iron railing, the soft gold tones, it’s a perfect spot for those editorial bridal portraits. Just make sure to shoot this area mid-morning when the natural light from the upper windows softens everything like a vintage film. If you prefer an intense and dramatic look, a black and white photograph is just as memorable.
Then there’s the Salon Proust, which honestly feels like a hidden gem. Most guests pass by it without realizing how photogenic it is. The warm wood paneling, plush armchairs, and book-lined shelves give off this literary charm that’s perfect for quiet couple portraits or intimate candid shots.
But my personal favorite? The garden terrace. If you catch it just after a rain, when the greenery is fresh and the stone paths are glistening, it’s unbeatable. You’d never believe you’re in the middle of Paris. I love doing first looks there, it’s private, peaceful, and the emotion always feels more raw in the open air.
Now don’t skip the bridal suites, the lighting is just phenomenal, especially in the afternoon. The suites are flooded with soft, warm light, and the decor is subtle enough that it doesn’t compete with the bride.
And then there’s Place Vendôme just outside. If you can sneak out around golden hour, wow. The light wraps around the buildings like honey. It’s a bit of a balancing act, though, cars, tourists, traffic, but totally worth the effort. I like to plan a 15-minute portrait session out there just before dinner service.
Now, coordinating with the Ritz staff is key. You can’t just show up and roam the halls. The team is lovely, but they’re structured. I always send a shot list in advance, and the planner usually confirms which areas we’ll have access to and when. The smoother the coordination, the more relaxed the couple feels. And that comfort? It shows up in every single photo.
Styling your dream wedding at the Ritz
The first time I walked into a wedding at the Ritz Paris, I was floored, not just by the beauty, but by how every design detail felt like it belonged there. Styling a wedding at the Ritz isn’t about outshining the venue, it’s about enhancing its soul. The rooms already tell a story of timeless elegance; your job is to add your chapter.
Classic vs. Modern: Finding your style
There’s a real art to blending classic and modern elegance in a space like the Ritz. Some couples lean fully into the French grandeur, ballgowns, calligraphy menus, crystal candelabras. Others mix in modern touches like ghost chairs, sleek floral structures, or bold color palettes.
Honestly? Both can work. It just has to be cohesive. One couple added modern flair by using all-white orchids in floating glass vases with minimalist table numbers. It felt fresh, but still luxurious and intentional. My tip? Build your design around one central theme, florals, textures, or color, and let the Ritz elevate the rest.
Partnering with the right Paris vendors
The Ritz has a specific rhythm, and you need luxury vendors who understand how to work within its refined structure. I’ve worked with Paris planners who know every protocol, from vendor access hours to respecting the historical elements of each salon.
Florists, lighting designers, even the cake artist, you need to choose vendors who’ve worked here before. It’ll save you stress and give you peace of mind that every detail will land perfectly.
Dress codes and etiquette at the Ritz
A wedding at the Ritz calls for elegance, from the couple and the guests. Typically, black tie or formal cocktail attire is expected. I recommend adding a style guide on your wedding website. Something like: “Chic Parisian Glamour” or “Black Tie Preferred” gives guests direction without being rigid.
And for the couple? Think haute couture, silk trains, classic tuxedos, this is the place to go all out.
Styling your Ritz Paris wedding is more than just picking pretty things. The most important thing is that you are satisfied with your event but it’s also about respecting the space, understanding the vibe, and working with people who elevate your vision without overpowering the venue. And when it all aligns, wow. The photos speak for themselves.
Reception, dining and champagne moments
Let me tell you, when the Ritz Paris hosts your wedding reception, it’s not just a meal. It’s theatre. It’s choreography. It’s emotion plated like fine art. Every time I photograph a reception there, I’m reminded why the Ritz is in a league of its own. It’s not just the beauty of the room, it’s the precision, the service, the way even the champagne seems to sparkle more here.
What to expect from Ritz catering & service
The service? Impeccable. Every fork polished, every pour timed to the second. I’ve watched servers glide through rooms like they’re part of a ballet. They remember guests’ names. They notice when a bride’s glass is empty and quietly refill it. The kitchen, led by some of Paris’s finest chefs, customizes the menu with seasonal ingredients and a distinctly French flair.
And the presentation? Each dish looks like it belongs in an art museum.
Intimate receptions or lavish banquets?
Here’s the beauty of it: whether you’re eloping with a few guests or hosting a 120-person black-tie soirée, the Ritz adapts. I’ve shot candlelit dinners in the Salon Psyché that felt like scenes from a royal romance. And then I’ve witnessed full-scale banquets in the Salon Vendôme with towering floral centerpieces, a live quartet, and a menu curated like a Michelin-starred tasting experience.
Don’t feel pressured to go big. The intimacy of a smaller reception at the Ritz can be just as powerful and often even more emotional.
Cocktail hour and champagne toasts in the garden
If there’s one candid moment I really like to capture it’s cocktail hour in the garden. The light filters through the trees. Guests sip champagne while soft jazz plays. Laughter mingles with the sound of clinking glasses. I’ve captured some of my favorite candid shots during these toasts, raw, joyful, and completely unposed. By the way, if this kind of photo inspires you, I invite you to take a look at some of my favorites.
Pro tip? Start cocktail hour just before sunset. The golden glow bouncing off the garden walls? Unreal. It’s when Paris feels most like a dream.
At the Ritz, dinner isn’t just about the food. It’s about the atmosphere, the emotion, the small touches that turn a meal into a memory. Every champagne toast, every course, it all becomes part of your story. And trust me, it photographs like magic.
Pro tips from a Ritz Paris wedding photographer
Every wedding at the Ritz Paris teaches me something new, but after years of capturing love stories in these iconic halls, I’ve picked up a few secrets that can make your experience, and your photos, extraordinary. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the magic is in the little details and the way we prepare for them.
Let me walk you through the things most couples don’t know but absolutely should.
Lighting is your best friend (or worst enemy)
Ritz interiors are stunning, but they can be tricky when it comes to lighting. Those deep golden tones, crystal chandeliers, and antique mirrors? Gorgeous, but they bounce light unpredictably.
If you’re getting ready in a suite, ask for a room with large windows facing east or south, especially in spring or fall. Morning light is soft, even, and perfect for portraits. I’ll often turn off overheads and rely on natural light to preserve skin tones and ambiance.
During your ceremony or dinner, I love incorporating warm candlelight or soft uplighting to balance the room. Harsh LED lights ruin the mood, and the photos. Trust your planner and lighting designer to keep things cohesive and romantic.
What couples often forget in Paris weddings
Here’s the truth: Paris runs on its own clock. Deliveries might be a little late, streets might close for a movie shoot, and traffic on Place Vendôme? Unpredictable.
That’s why padding your timeline is essential. I always recommend a 15–20 minute buffer between events, especially if you’re moving between salons, going out for portraits, or coordinating family moments.
Another thing? Paperwork. If you’re dreaming of a legal ceremony in France, start months in advance. Most couples opt for a symbolic ceremony here and handle the legalities at home, and honestly as you read earlier, it’s way more relaxed that way.
How to stay calm and present
Weddings are intense. But the most radiant brides and grooms I photograph? They’re grounded. They trust their team, breathe through the chaos when it comes, and stay focused on what really matters: each other.
My personal advice? Unplug during hair and makeup. Sip champagne. Write each other a quick note that morning. That emotion shows up in the photos, it’s real, it’s raw, and it’s beautiful.
Why It matters to hire a photographer who knows the Ritz
The Ritz isn’t just a venue. It’s a living, breathing legacy of French elegance. And it has its own tempo, protocols, and light patterns, yes, I even track where the best golden hour falls through the Salon d’Été windows.
When you work with a photographer who knows the property inside out, you don’t waste time figuring things out on the spot. I know where the softest light hits, when the staff does room flips, and which terrace corners are best for those just-married portraits. Your wedding day deserves to unfold smoothly, with intention and grace. With the right guidance, and a photographer who understands the language of light and emotion at the Ritz, you’ll not only look incredible in your photos… you’ll feel that magic in every frame.
Your Ritz Paris wedding is a timeless memory woven into the fabric of Parisian elegance. From the golden hallways to the candlelit salons, every detail deserves to be captured with care and intention. As someone who has photographed love stories in the heart of the Ritz, I know how to highlight your beauty, your joy, and your story. If you’re ready to bring your dream wedding to life in one of the most iconic hotels in Paris, I’d be honored to be by your side.
Contact me for more information about a wedding photoshoot and let’s make magic together!
FAQ – Planning a Wedding at the Ritz Paris
How much does a wedding at the Ritz Paris cost?
The cost of a wedding at the Ritz Paris can vary widely depending on your guest count, choice of salon, menu, and level of styling. Elopements or intimate weddings for two to ten guests typically start around €10,000–€20,000, while full-scale luxury weddings with 50+ guests can range between €80,000 and €200,000+, especially when working with top-tier vendors.
Can foreigners legally get married in France?
Technically yes, but it’s complex. France requires at least 40 days of residency in the district where the wedding takes place, which is why most international couples choose to legally marry in their home country and then host a symbolic ceremony at the Ritz Paris. It’s much simpler—and just as romantic.
When should I book the Ritz Paris for my wedding?
To secure your ideal salon, date, and vendors, it’s best to start planning 12 to 18 months in advance. The Ritz is a high-demand venue, especially in spring and early fall. Booking early also gives you more flexibility for customizations and photo timing.
Is it possible to have an intimate wedding or elopement at the Ritz?
Absolutely! The Ritz Paris is one of the most elegant venues in the world for luxury elopements or micro-weddings. Many couples choose a private salon or the garden terrace for a romantic vow exchange followed by a gourmet dinner.
What are the best photo spots at the Ritz Paris
Some of the most photogenic locations include the Grand Staircase, the Salon Proust, the garden terrace, and the bridal suites. Nearby, Place Vendôme is perfect for golden hour portraits, and the soft lighting in the salons makes for timeless indoor shots.
Do I need a wedding planner for a Ritz wedding?
While the Ritz has an experienced in-house events team, hiring a local Paris wedding planner is highly recommended. A planner will help you manage logistics, source trusted luxury vendors, and create a seamless experience from start to finish, especially if you’re planning from abroad.
What kind of food and drink options does the Ritz offer?
The Ritz Paris is renowned for its Michelin-level catering, curated by world-class chefs. Expect multi-course menus, elegant wine pairings, and signature desserts. You can also request a custom wedding cake and enjoy champagne toasts in the garden.
What is the dress code for a Ritz Paris wedding?
Think black tie, evening elegance, or couture chic. The setting is formal, so guests typically dress in cocktail or evening attire. For the couple, timeless gowns, tuxedos, or custom-designed fashion pieces match the grandeur of the venue perfectly.
How do I choose the right style for my wedding décor?
Work with your planner and floral designer to select a style that enhances the Ritz’s opulent interiors. Classic Parisian elegance, soft florals, gold accents, crystal details, always looks stunning. However, a modern twist can also work beautifully if done tastefully.
Why is it important to hire a photographer familiar with the Ritz?
A photographer who knows the venue inside out will anticipate the best lighting, work efficiently with the staff, and know exactly when and where to shoot. From timing portraits in the Grand Jardin to coordinating with room changes, this familiarity helps make everything smoother and more magical.
Learn more about me, Cesare Piaser – wedding photographer
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