We were honoured to be invited to curate a destination celebration at Château du Grand-Lucé for a wonderful couple we had previously worked with on their wedding. Bringing together friends from across the globe and hosting them for an immersive weekend in the French countryside through a series of thoughtfully planned events.

Festivities began the evening before with a relaxed welcome barbecue in the château gardens and orangery. Guests gathered for an informal al fresco dinner as a roaming band moved through the crowd, setting a joyful and convivial tone for the weekend ahead. It was the perfect way for friends travelling from around the world to reconnect and settle into château life before the main celebrations began.

The highlight of the weekend was an opulent 18th-century costume party inspired by the splendour of the French Enlightenment. The château’s grand interiors provided the perfect backdrop for an evening of gilded decadence, as guests stepped into a world of historical elegance and theatrical storytelling.

Attendees arrived in elaborate period costumes sourced from Venice’s most renowned costumier, instantly transforming the château into a lively and atmospheric royal court. A live string quartet performed throughout the evening while roaming actors encouraged guests to fully embrace their characters, creating a sense of playful immersion and shared experience.

As night fell, guests moved into the château gardens for a curated French feast beneath sparkling crystal chandeliers. Tables were set with antique porcelain, delicate florals and candlelight, creating a romantic contrast to the theatrical energy of the evening. Dinner felt celebratory and convivial, with guests from around the world gathered together in one extraordinary setting.

The night concluded with a secret masked ball, revealed only to guests on the evening itself, creating a magical and unexpected finale to the party. Guests relived the night over a decadent brunch and dips in the pool the following morning. The result was a truly unforgettable destination event - a weekend designed not only to celebrate, but to transport guests into another world.

At The Bijou Studio, we specialise in planning luxury destination celebrations in France and across Europe, creating immersive and deeply personal experiences for couples and their guests. Celebrations at Château du Grand-Lucé offer an exceptional setting for weddings and multi-day events, combining luxury historic grandeur with an unforgettable guest experience.

Captured by Holly Clark Photography