Luxe Retreat In France

Whether passing through an a tour of France or planning a destination wedding, Chateau de Varennes is a must see and stay luxury hotel in beautiful Burgundy, southeastern France.

Owner Aymeric de Truchis inherited the estate in 2009.  The chateau has been in his family for 400 years and remains one of the most beautiful destinations in the country.  Aymeric and his wife Sonia hired interior designer, Fabrice Bejjani to help turn the estate into a luxury hotel.

I hope to be able to visit this place someday.  The classic french interiors coupled with modern amenities and accents are so inspiring and welcoming.  In the meantime,  I will continue to peruse the photos on their website and Facebook page

Photos courtesy of  www.chateaudevarennes.fr and Alexandra Meurant

The Grand Island Mansion

This last weekend I was in a wedding at the most charming location, The Grand Island Mansion. Situated in the delta area a little ways outside of Sacramento.

It is one of the largest private estates in Northern California and perfect for weddings. They have lovely grounds with a Gazebo for outdoor weddings and a grand ballroom for indoor ceremonies. There is plenty of space among the 58 room for the bridal party to get ready for the big event.

Two dining rooms accommodate quite a crowd. The smaller is cozy with a fireplace and rich drapery framing the windows. The larger dining room is has a beautiful gallery of arches in classic Italian style that open to the spacious window wall overlooking a courtyard. The happy couple can retreat to the bridal suite while out of town guest or bridal party can stay in many of the other themed rooms. From lounging in the Hemingway bar to working out in the gym or watching a film in the theater, the overnight guests will be quite content. This venue is definitely worth checking out sometime!

Photos by Rebecca Ward