There are places that feel like a fairytale, and then there is Palace de Menthon. Nestled on the shores of Lake Annecy, this iconic venue was the setting for Madeline and Mike’s destination elopement—a day defined by intention, fashion, and the kind of quiet romance that only happens when it’s just the two of you.
Madeline and Mike (all the way from California!) had fallen in love with Annecy a year prior. Standing under the gazebo where they once joked about getting married, they turned that joke into a beautiful, private reality.
Intentional Style meets Timeless Landscapes
The aesthetic for this day was a bold and beautiful choice. Madeline wore a stunning Selkie gown with a pannier hoop, giving her silhouette a modern Rococo shape.
The contrast between the voluminous, vintage-inspired dress and the sharp, blue backdrop of the French Alps was breathtaking. It wasn’t just a wedding dress; it was a fashion statement that perfectly matched the timeless elegance of the Palace. My goal was to capture this refined look while keeping the images feeling soft, luminous, and effortless.
The Freedom of an Elopement
One of the best parts of an elopement is the freedom to move at your own pace. Without a formal schedule, Madeline and Mike were fully present in every moment.
After the exchange of vows, we headed to the water for a private boat ride around the lake. Watching them share a champagne toast as the soft September light hit the mountains was one of those « real stuff » moments. No posing—just the two of them enjoying the calm of the lake and the celebration of their new chapter.
Why Annecy is the Perfect Backdrop for Romance
For couples seeking a destination wedding in France, Lake Annecy offers an unparalleled mix of romantic European charm and powerful nature.
- The Backdrop: A rare landscape where crystal-clear water is framed by the dramatic, vertical peaks of the Alps.
- The Heritage: Locations like the Palace de Menthon offer a refined, historical atmosphere that feels uniquely European.
- The Pace: The lake creates a natural sense of calm, perfect for couples who want their day to feel slow, private, and away from the world.
- The Experience: From the historic streets of the town center (where Madeline found her pink bouquet just the day before!) to the lake’s edge, it’s a location that breathes romance.
Madeline and Mike’s story is a reminder that your wedding day should simply be whatever you want it to be. There are no rules, only the space to create a day that feels right to you.
Photography: Gabriela Tyrka @gabriela.tyrka
Venue: Palace de Menthon @palace_de_menthon
Dress: Selkie @selkie
Bride: Madeline Blake @xomadelineblake
