What the vin d’honneur is
The vin d’honneur follows the ceremony. It is the first moment all your guests come together, glass in hand. It often lasts longer than a cocktail hour, and it frequently takes place outdoors: in a château park, on an estate terrace, in a courtyard. In some families, it also brings together more guests than the dinner.
One place, then another
The vin d’honneur often takes place in a different space from the evening party. That means two bar stations, and two atmospheres. We recommend a more understated, elegant vin d’honneur, then a livelier cocktail bar in the evening, so the mood builds through the day.
What is served
Traditionally, champagne and canapés. A cocktail bar adds creations prepared in front of your guests, with and without alcohol: conversations start naturally around the bar.
Our advice for an international wedding
- an English-speaking team, so that everyone feels welcome;
- a short, clear bilingual menu;
- a signature cocktail that tells the story of your two countries;
- times shared with your guests in advance: in France, the day often runs late into the night.
Read more: our guides for weddings in France.