A Journey Through Time: The Historic Charm of Château de Mairy

My Wedding : A French Venue - Château de Mairy

    I am in my Marie Antoinette era! When Prince Joachim of Belgium and I were in the process of selecting a wedding venue, we were puzzled about where to choose. America? Belgium? Italy, maybe ?

    Finding a venue was about finding a space that resonates with our personal story, so for those who are not aware of our background we are both French.

    I chose Château de Mairy because it is also about stepping into a dreamlike fairytale story that unfolded since the late 17th century. Nestled in the heart of France’s prestigious Champagne region in the quiet village of Mairy-sur-Marne, this estate is more than a picturesque backdrop. The castle is a classified "Monument Historique" that preserved the echoes of French nobility and international royal intrigue.

Architectural Origins: A Peer to Versailles

    The story of the château begins at the close of the 1600s, specifically in 1676. It was built during the reign of King Louis XIV and designed during a golden age of French architecture characterized by symmetrical grandeur and opulent detail. The estate was originally commissioned by French nobles who served as high-ranking advisors and consultants to the Sun King himself.

    Unlike many estates modernized over the centuries, Mairy retains its authentic 17th-century soul. Guests today walk on original stone floors and look through the same window frames that have overlooked the Marne countryside for over 300 years. The interior is a living museum of period-specific furniture, sculptures, and antique pictures, offering an immersive experience for history-loving couples.

The Royal Exile: A King’s Secret Refuge

    One of the most fascinating historical footnotes of the château involves the British monarchy.

    Following the Glorious Revolution of 1688, King James II of England, also known as King James VII of Scotland, was forced into exile. Historical accounts identify Château de Mairy as a regular French hideout for the exiled King and his wife.

    When we visit the château in the spring before our wedding, my fiancé and I will be walking through the grand salons. I will literally be treading the same floorboards once used by the great-grandson of Mary, Queen of Scots. This royal connection elevates the venue from a beautiful country house to a site of international significance, providing a sense of gravitas for any wedding celebration.

A Legacy of Family Stewardship

    The preservation of the estate is largely due to its remarkable continuity of ownership. From its initial construction at the end of the 1600s until as recently as 2004, the château remained in the hands of the same lineage: the Loisson de Guinaumont family. The last of this line, the Count of Guinaumont, stewarded the property until his death at the age of 98.

    This nearly 250-year period of single-family ownership prevented the fragmentation often seen in other French estates. Today, the property is owned and operated by a generous family who transitioned the private monument into a welcoming haven for "wedding lovebirds". Their daughter, Romanie Vetters, serves as a talented florist and event planner, ensuring that modern celebrations honor the estate's historical roots.

The Grounds: Ten Hectares of Pastoral Grace

    The estate spans ten hectares, or 25 acres, of varied terrain. This offers multiple stages for our wedding weekend:

    

The Private Chapel: A centerpiece of the property, this centuries-old chapel is a favorite for intimate blessings and vow renewals. While the original windows were lost to a bomb in 1944, they were replaced in 1954 by an artisan glassworker, blending modern resilience with ancient stone.

The Gardens and Parkland: The grounds feature formal French-style landscaping, a quiet pond, and giant trees that provide natural shade for outdoor "feasting tables." A signature look for Mairy weddings, our guest will enjoy a fresh spring breeze during the morning celebrations. 

Unique Outbuildings: The estate still contains its original tower, gatehouses, and a former staff house, all of which have been converted into comfortable accommodations for up to 35 guests.

Practical Magic: Planning Our Historical Celebration

    While the history is ancient, the venue is exceptionally well-equipped for 21st-century gatherings:

• Accommodation
• The château offers 17 individually decorated guest rooms, each maintaining its unique period character, including authentic elements in the bathrooms such as antique bathtubs.
• Versatility
• The venue can accommodate various wedding sizes, from small intimate gatherings to larger celebrations in a marquee on the lawn that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
• Ideal Location
• Located just 10 minutes from the train station in Châlons-en-Champagne, the venue is approximately 90 minutes from Paris, making it accessible for international guests.

    Our May 2nd wedding at Château de Mairy is the best, most ideal choice for us. We are now a part of a timeline that spans over three centuries. It is a venue where time seemingly stands still. It is where the legacy of King Louis XIV, the exile of James II, and the long-term care of the Guinaumont family meet the first day of our new life together. When  my fiancé and I sip champagne in the very region that perfected it, I am not just hosting a party. I am adding another chapter to a rich and enduring French legacy.