FAQs

Question

What is Château de la Bourdaisière?

Answer

The chateau dates all the way back to the mid 14th century, starting as a fortress to defend the outskirts of Tours against English attacks. Today, the dry moats to the east and north of the chateau, as well the corner tower of the chateau, remain from the middle ages. The chateau was then passed down through generations until it's first sale to the mayor of Tours. The chateau then had a long extensive history with many other owners including Marie Gaudin - King François I’s lover. This is when the fortress was turned into a beautiful country residence. Thereafter, the chateau went through many changes and upgrades throughout The Renaissance, The Classical Era, The Revolution, and now to present day.

Question

How should I get to the venue?

Answer

You can get to the chateau from Paris by train (TGV high speed train : 1hr) or by car (2hrs 45min). The train station is Saint Pierre Des Corps. There will be shuttles from the train station to the chateau on Saturday afternoon starting at 2pm. You may also want to consider renting a car. You can still take the high speed train from Paris and pick up your car at one of the many rental agencies at the Saint Pierre train station. The recommended taxi company Arnotours can also be used. You can make reservations ahead of time or schedule them as needed. TAKE NOTE trains in Paris are usually very timely. They are typically posted at the station 20-30 min prior to boarding and the platform will close 5 min prior to the train time. So, it’s best to be early so that you don’t miss it!

Question

What should I wear?

Answer

The dress code for the wedding is black tie optional. The men can wear tuxedos or suits and the women can wear formal attire. Above all else, we want everyone to be comfortable and feel their best! We want you to wear whatever you want, but if you would like some guidance on what to wear I've listed a Pinterest board for some inspo! Feel free to lean into the French/Regency inspired aesthetic, think Bridgerton! https://pin.it/1egIm8xha Inspo for Saturday: https://pin.it/3bn1hsIwC Inspo for Sunday: https://pin.it/3wUlA3naj

Question

What's the weather like?

Answer

Loire Valley tends to be a little bit more temperate than in Paris (phew!) During the wedding weekend, the average temperature tends to be around 75 degrees. It can get cooler at night, so you may want to bring a little jacket as our moms would say :)

Question

What should I do during the day on Sunday and Monday?

Answer

Anything you want! You may want to explore Loire Valley (see recommendations below) or stay and relax at the chateau The chateau has a pool, tennis courts, hiking trails, and bikes for rental. Feel free to explore the Tomato Conservatory with more than 700 varieties of tomatoes. You can stop by the Bar à Tomates, an open-air kitchen featuring farm to table bites. You may also want to check out the dahlia garden, featuring beds of over 400 different varieties and colors. On the premise, there is a 19th century English style park filled with 40 acres of cedar, sequoia giganteum, oaks, chestnut trees, and many other varieties to discover.

Question

Loire Valley recommendations?

Answer

Loire Valley is known for it's castles, wines, and gardens - the trifecta if you ask us! There are over 300 castles and many different places to explore, eat, drink, and enjoy. Here are some of the top places to visit (but the list could truly go on!) CHATEAUS - Château de Chenonceau - commonly known as the castle above the river, it is a french landmark known for its architecture and rich history. Hit the L'orangerie for lunch! - Château de Villandry - famous Renaissance gardens, which include a water garden, ornamental flower gardens, and vegetable gardens - Château du Clos Lucé: located in the heart of Amboise, a charming town close to the wedding chateau. It was the final resting place for Leonardo da Vinci. You can take a tour through the chateau, the beautiful park, and Leonardo da Vinci's galleries - Château royal d'Amboise - a more quaint castle but stunning interiors, manicured gardens, and stunning views of the Loire River - Château de Chombard - honorable mention because it is that beautiful, but it's about an hours drive from the wedding chateau WINERIES - Domaine Huet - L'Échansonne: A renowned winery in the area known for their use of the white Chenin Blanc grape, located 14 minutes from the wedding chateau. You may want to call or email to reserve a time! - Caves Ambacia: taste wines from all over Loire Valley, and you can check out their wine cellar too - Rendez-vous dans les vignes: A great option for a guided wine tour TOURS - Place Plumereau: a lively historic square in the Old Town with picturesque timbered houses and many restaurants/cafes to choose from - Cathédrale Saint-Gatien: a stunning Gothic cathedral known for its intricate façade, stained glass windows, and its rich history - Musée des Beaux-Arts: a former 18th century mansion with a collection of fine art RESTAURANTS (Amboise/Tours) - L'ecluse - Le Bistrot du Marché - Le Terminus - L’auberge du Prieuré - Le Céci’Bon If you love food like us, check out the Michelin guide!

Question

Paris recommendations?

Answer

HOTELS The Heart of Paris is the 1st arrondissement and is often ranked as the best area in Paris for first-time visitors. - Madison Hotel: A charming smaller hotel in the heart if the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood. It's easy walking distance to many paris locations. - Park Hyatt Paris: A luxury hotel option, it is walking distance to many popular museums and attractions. - The Hoxton: An 18th century mansion with a modern twist in a great location. - Hotel Caron de Beaumarchais or Jules & Jim: Located in Les Marais, one of Paris's coolest neighborhoods. It is near many lively bars, restaurants, and nightlife - Hotel Therese: The hotel is tucked away on a quiet street just a quick walk to the Louvre museum and easy access to so many of the great Paris first-time tourist spots on your must-see list. - Airbnb can also be a great option with great views!