We are happy to welcome back Amélie, Merci’s Special Markets Editor, who continues to report from Paris on the latest French wedding inspirations… Today, Amélie shares an exquisite Parisian venue with Merci New York’s readers: Le Pré Catelan, a palatial retreat, located steps from the Champs Elysées…
Who said a destination wedding has to take place on a Caribbean island? I have recently discovered a destination venue in Paris that would make you think twice.
Hidden in the middle of the woods, yet a few minutes away from the Champs Elysées, there is a gorgeous Napoleon III building called “ Le Pré Catelan .” How unexpected is it to find such a beautiful and peaceful place so close to the city?
The beautiful property is owned by Lenôtre {yes, the same Lenôtre as the Pièce Montée I disclosed a few weeks ago}… The space is full of history, filled with 14 salons, and is perfect to host the chicest receptions, where Lenôtre’s finest and inventive French Cuisine is served along with some of the world’s best wines.
The location is great and the food is divine, but if you are not already smitten by Le Pré Catelan, the interior design will definitely do its effect. Take a peek at this gorgeous venue… the crystal chandelier, high ceiling and hall of mirrors are typical of French castles. 
As if Les Salons du Le Pré Catelan were not enchanting enough, Lenôtre works hand in hand with some of Paris’ most talented designers to customize the receptions with wonderfully elaborate decor plans. Here are some examples of on-site floral table designs that seem to come straight out of a fairytale… 
Destination weddings are so often paired with a sunny locale and a barefooted bride on the beach, that we tend to forget many of the other fabulous venues all around the world. Les Salons du Pré Catelan would certainly be the ideal location for a grandiose destination wedding in Paris… Needless to say, the prices are a bit grandiose as well… If you are not ready to break your piggy bank, we hope you’ve at least found some wonderful inspiration in Les Salons du Pré Catelan ‘s gorgeous intetiros and inventive tablescape designs!
All images courtesy Lenôtre
