Château de Bois Rigaud country wedding in Auvergne

Pauline & Alexis

Château de Bois Rigaud wedding in Auvergne

Last weekend, for once, I was almost at home. I was Pauline & Alexis' wedding photographer at Château de Bois Rigaud, not far from my home in Issoire. This wedding reception venue in Usson is perfect for welcoming the bride and groom's nearest and dearest.

What's more, it was the first time I'd photographed a wedding on this magnificent estate. They really chose their wedding venue in the heart of the Auvergne.

The day began in the summer sunshine and ended in the rain. But it made for some original wedding photos. It's a nice change from traditional photos. Especially as the reception venue was perfect, with both indoor and outdoor settings.

Château de Bois Rigaud: wedding preparations

Layout for the secular ceremony

Living in Issoire, near the Château de Bois Rigaud in UssonI took the initiative to immortalize the wedding preparations.

I like to arrive early, to capture those moments when time seems suspended. Those moments of calm before the storm, when families and friends prepare in a serene atmosphere, tinged with a slight feverishness.

What's more, it's an ideal opportunity to get to know the people close to the bride and groom. I was able to chat with Pauline and Alexis' parents, and get a better idea of their inner circle.

On site, Pauline and Alexis were putting the finishing touches to the the organization their non-denominational ceremonywhile their friends finalized the exterior decorations.

But a surprise guest was at the center of all conversations: the weather! Winds and rain were forecast. The dilemma was endless: organize meals in the tents or move everything inside? The answer would take until the end of the day.

Bridal beauty and dressing

Visit Château de Bois Rigaud is a veritable Ali Baba's treasure trove for wedding photographers. Its sumptuous backdrops offer infinite creative possibilities. What a pleasure to let our imaginations run wild in such a setting!

Preparations began around midday, in the most noble rooms of the château, where Pauline got ready with her nearest and dearest. Alexis, meanwhile, joined his friends in the grand salon at around 2.30pm.

Finally, after putting on her sublime dress, Pauline descended the spiral staircase, surrounded by her friends. It was a magical moment that I was able to immortalize. The bride was radiant and ready to live this unforgettable day."

Lay wedding ceremony at Château de Bois Rigaud

Ceremony: between tears and laughter

Pauline and Alexis chose the big oak tree in the park to say "I do". All their guests were there, eager to share their happiness.

Alexis was the first to arrive, followed by his friends, who set the mood. Then it was Pauline's turn to make her entrance into the her wedding dress dazzling. Alexis's eyes lit up when he saw her. Emotions ran high. It was truly touching, giving photo report very moving.

Visit non-denominational ceremony wedding took place in the grounds of Château de Bois Rigaud. The ceremony, hosted by Angéline Auclair, was full of emotion. The speeches by the bride and groom were heartfelt and touched the bride and groom deeply. I was able to capture so many beautiful moments: smiles, tears, hugs... It was a magical ceremony.

End of ceremony and smoke

After the ceremony, the bride and groom walked down the aisle to the applause of the guests, surrounded by a shower of lavender, flowers and paper garlands. It was a magical moment!

We took the opportunity to take group photos in the shade.

And what a surprise! The bride and groom had prepared a smoke session with their friends. It was great!

Château de Bois Rigaud: the wedding party

Cocktail and couple session

The threatening clouds closed in, and the first drops fell. A moment of worry! But the weather forecast had reassured us, and we crossed our fingers that the storm wouldn't spoil the party. After all, in AuvergneWe're no strangers to the whims of the skies!

In short, we crossed our fingers and hoped the sky wouldn't fall too hard on our heads. In the land of the Arvernes, we're wary of the sky.

Meanwhile, guests took advantage of the opportunity to discover the pretty decorations prepared by the bride and groom and their friends, including photos hung on a tree, retracing their love story.

Between two games, such as the traditional ribbon game, I took the bride and groom for a photo opportunity.

We first took advantage of the last rays of sunshine to take a few photos outside, before taking refuge in the Château de Bois Rigaud for more original wedding photos.

Speech by the witnesses and photo of the bride and groom in the rain

What timing! As soon as the cocktail party was over, the first drops fell. Fortunately, the tent was ready to welcome us. These tents add an exceptional touch to the wedding decor at Château de Bois Rigaud.

The fairy lights created a magical atmosphere and the speeches by the witnesses, especially Mathis, made us laugh out loud.

Despite the rain, we made the most of this moment to take some beautiful couple photos. This wedding venue near Issoire is truly idyllic. Thank you Pauline and Alexis for your kindness and for an unforgettable day!

Planning your wedding in Auvergne?

Visit Château de Bois Rigaud is one of the most popular venues for a country wedding near Clermont-Ferrand. If you're planning your own wedding in the region, have a look at my dedicated page:
Wedding photographer Clermont-Ferrand & Auvergne

You'll find my documentary approach, my tips for preparing your day, and other examples of reports in the most beautiful locations in the world. Puy-de-Dôme castles (La Canière, Maulmont, Miremont, Parentignat...).

✦ Find out more about my style and services → Wedding photographer

See another report: Wedding at Château de Maulmont in Auvergne