D&T | A whimsical winter wedding in Paris' Musée des Arts Forains

After a long engagement, D&T chose Paris to finally tie the knot surrounded by fifty of their close friends and family. An intimate affair where their two cultures merged in an atmosphere inspired by fantasy worlds and the roaring 20s that took place in one of the capital's most captivating venues: the Musée des Arts Forains. From a traditional Chinese ceremony honoring the bride's roots to a Jewish ceremony under a winter huppah, funfair games and a lion dance, everything was designed to reflect the pair's identity and delight their guests. A day that reminded us of the power of love to bridge differences and transcend borders.

Organisation & design: Meraki Mariages | Photography: Nomadic Mariages

The Musée des Arts Forains: a venue like no other

The Musée des Arts Forains is a venue as famous as it is wrapped in mystery. Few images circulate of the events that unfold here, contributing to the reputation of this private museum dedicated 20th century fairgrounds arts. As guests enter the venue, they are immediately transported in time and disconnected from the outside world - creating a highly theatrical experience they will not soon forget. For D&T's wedding, we took inspiration from the location and from their own world, instilling otherworldly beauty, playful and whimsy details into the experience. Hosting a reception in the Musée des Arts Forains is technically challenging due to the number of restrictions that apply, but we would do it hundred times again.

Organisation & design: Meraki Mariages | Photography: Nomadic Mariages

Their love story

For nearly nine years, they were pen pals, colleagues, friends and unwavering supporters of each other. They shared the same hobbies, travelled the world side by side, debated boundless theories, built non-profit that earned funding, took turns leaping into new jobs and even crossed continents for each other. Until one Christmas Eve, they arrived at Brown Station in Paradise Bay, Antarctica. "At the top of a glacier, he told me to look at 'the penguins on the ridge'. When I lowered the binoculars, there he was, on one knee in the snow, hands trembling, asking me the timeless question. I fell into his arms with tears streaming down my face and said yes", she recalls. The sweetest part of the story? She had a ring in her pocket too. She'd planned to be "that woman" but he beat her to it -- and they had unknowingly chosen the same ring.

Organisation & design: Meraki Mariages | Photography: Nomadic Mariages

The vision: A deeply personal celebration of love

D&T's priority was to craft a deeply personal celebration with a strong focus on guest experience. From a welcome station featuring hot chocolate and marshmallows to warm the guests on a cold winter day to a generous buffet of delicacies, a French gastronomy menu, surprise entertainment (of course, the evening featured an impressive Lion Dance performance) and heartfelt speeches, no stone was left unturned to wow their guests and ensure they were comfortable. Inspired by the bride's winter wonderland vision and the venue itself, the design became quiet inspiration - enhancing without overpowering. Shades of red, subtle gold accents and greenery brought warmth and enchantment, and a carefully designed soundscape accompanied guests throughout the evening.

Organisation & design: Meraki Mariages | Photography: Nomadic Mariages

Respectful of the privacy of our couple, we only share these sneak peaks. For the rest, you had to be there to live it. I can't thank D&T enough for their trust and kindness throughout the entire process.

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The Team

Wedding planning & design: Meraki Mariages

Venue: Pavillons de Bercy - Musée des Arts Forains Catering: VIP Traiteur

Flowers: Gigi for Meraki Mariages Rentals: 126 Events

Live watercolour artist: Rachel Wetk Lion dance: Paris Lion Sports Association DJ: Victor / DJ Gossi

Tea ceremony production, hair & make-up and Chinese music: Association Boyan Rabbi: Rabbi Haim / La Sinagoga Abierta Babysitting and children activities: A Wonder Events

Stationary & signage: Meraki Mariages

Photography: Nomadic Mariages 

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