French elegance in Utah? Oui. Alexia Nilsen shows off Utah-born European flair in a styled shoot at the gorgeous Wadley Farms.
Est-ce que to parles français? You don’t have to speak French to understand the enchanting style. No other country masters the art of understated sophistication quite like France. How exactly do the French do it? Up-and-comer photographer Alexia Nilsen instructs us how to achieve this art for the big day.
Focus on Quality 
“You don’t have to travel to Europe to achieve a stunning European wedding,” photographer Alexia Nilsen says. If there’s anything we can learn from the French, it’s to forget the fuss. Repeat after me, quality over quantity. Get to know a good tailor for all your wedding day fashion and choose natural fabrics over manufactured versions for the best fit. And while we’re on the topic of fashion, remember to allow several months to order and fit those gowns and suits.
Book a Chateau
In a state abounding with rustic farmhouses and mountain resorts, castles are a bit tough to find in Utah. Enter Wadley Farms. “Wadley Farms has so many stunning backdrops to choose from, like vineyards, stone walls, pathways, beautiful doorways and ivy-strewn gates,” Nilsen says. This Lindon property boasts a castle, a barn, and a turn-of-the-century Railway Building.
And if that weren’t enough, Wadley is a working farm that grown peaches, apples, cherries, apricots, pears, grapes, pumpkins, peppers, tomatoes and corn, in addition to raising honey bees and free-range Angus cows.
Stay with a Subtle Palette
Just like black-and-white is classically French, blush is the tried-and-true hue of weddings. “Choosing subtle, elegant colors doesn’t have to be boring. In fact, sometimes going with softer tones with a modern twist really elevates your whole wedding,” Nilsen says. Here, the pink and blue make a perfect pairing when teamed with champagnes, whits, peaches and even browns. Can you spot the dark chocolate cosmos and blue tweedia in the bouquets?
Turn up the Romance
Evoking emotion is your number one goal for the big day. How do you do that? “It’s true what they say. It’s all in the details. Pick a few key sentimental details worth splurging on, like florals and invitations,” Nilsen says. Seasonal blooms tied with silk ribbons, handmade paper finished with raw edges, and lace runners topped with garden urns conjure romance at every turn.
Set Up the Ambiance
Sure, the big day is about commitment and love, but what about the dining experience? The French never rush a meal, so boost conversation with long farmhouse tables, low centerpieces and tapered candles. Save the buffet for casual parties and opt for the formality of a full-service instead. French flair encourages guests to linger over their cuisine, wine, conversation and music without ever leaving the comfort of their Louis cane back chairs. 
Want more bridal day inspiration? Browse more blogs here.
VENDORS
Photography: Alexia Nilson | @alexianilsonphotography
Venue: Wadley Farms | @wadleyfarms
Paper: Sugared Fig Paperie | @sugaredfigpaperie
Gown: Mary’s Bridal | @marysbridalslc
Florals: Ivie Floral Co., | @iviefloralco
Cake: Sweet Cravings | @sweetcravings12
Hair: Elyssa Anderson | @elyssa.anderson.hair
MUA: Savanah Norman | @savanahnormanmua
