Welcome party

Castle Villersexel

Wedding Day

Brunch

Our Wedding

On January 20th, 2024, Thibault had our first date at a cute little cafe in Addison, Texas. I was worried I would be late, given that I was expecting a busy day at work, so I kept my things in the car. I, of course, did need to push the date to a later time, and Thib graciously accepted my changes to the itinerary. Once out of work, I rushed to get ready, hopped in the car, and put on my warmest puffer jacket. I was pretty snug driving there. Once there, I was just about to head inside when I realized that I couldn't unzip my jacket! I spent several minutes sweating in my car and tugging frantically at its zipper. I SO did not want to struggle to take it off at the dinner table! After a 15-20 minute battle, I decided I was just going to have to have the hottest date of my life. I came in, apologized for my tardiness, greeted him warmly immediately asked "can you help me? I'm stuck" Thibault was so sweet and patient and we stood there uncomfortable for a few moments while he freed me. It was the best ice breaker for us because everything after that was easy. We sat at this place for hours talking about culture, travel, languages, and our purpose in life. He was so quick with decisions like flipping a coin or picking a hand to decide where else we'd go that night. I was sure then that this was someone I wanted to know. It was a relief how smoothly things went. He walked me to my car at the end of the night, and after our hug, I decided to go for a kiss on the cheek (as one does with a French man). But in a moment of uncertainty, he leaned in and I happily seized the moment and gave him a proper kiss. I cannot think of a better last first kiss with someone.Ever since then, we have been inseparable. Falling in love, trying new things, meeting our families, traveling, learning from each other and moving in together.On February 23, 2025, Thibault proposed. Saying yes was easy and shortly after we officially married in America, but now we have a wedding to plan and a chance to unite our two worlds. We cannot wait to celebrate our love with all of you in the French countryside!

Our love story

Our Story

Photos

Wedding Party

Q + A

Getting to Villersexel from Major Airports

Airport: Basel-Mulhouse-FreiburgDrive: 1 h 15 mTrain + Taxi: Basel SBB → Belfort-Montbéliard TGV (50 m) → 35 m taxi.At-a-Glance Route: Closest airport, dozens of daily flights from Europe &amp; UK. Airport: GenevaDrive: 2 h 45 mTrain + Taxi: Geneva Cornavin → Bellegarde → Belfort-Montbéliard TGV (~3 h) → 30-45 mintaxi.At-a-Glance Route: Scenic drive around Lake Geneva &amp; Jura. Airport: StrasbourgDrive: 2 h 10 mTrain + Taxi: TER Strasbourg → Vesoul or Lure (~2 h 55 m) → 25 min taxi.At-a-Glance Route: Good low-cost-carrier hub. Airport: Paris CDGDrive: 4 h 15 mTrain + Taxi: CDG TGV → Paris-Est (RER) → direct train Paris-Est → Lure (3 h 45 m) → 25 min taxi.At-a-Glance Route: Fastest if you catch the direct Paris-Est–Lure service. Airport: FrankfurtDrive: 3 h 30 mTrain + Taxi: FRA → Basel SBB (ICE) → Belfort-Montbéliard TGV (~3 h) → 30-45 min taxi.At-a-Glance Route: Direct ICE/TGV links make this smoother than it looks.

Car Rental Options

Airport: Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (EAP/BSL/MLH)Major Agencies: Avis, Budget, Hertz, Enterprise, SIXT – desks on both Swiss &amp; French sides of the terminal. Notes: Choose the Swiss side if you plan to drive in Switzerland; otherwise, the French side avoids extra fees. Airport: Geneva (GVA)Major Agencies: All majors in arrivals; French-sector desks often slightly cheaper.Notes: Book “cross-border permitted” if you’ll drive into France. Airport: Strasbourg (SXB)Major Agencies: Avis, Europcar, Hertz, Enterprise at P3 car-rental centre.Notes: 2 h drive to château. Airport: Paris CDG / ORYMajor Agencies: Full range of agencies in each terminal.Notes: High-speed train can be easier than a 4-h drive. Airport: Frankfurt (FRA)Major Agencies: Large choice in Terminal 1 “Car Rental Center”.Notes: 3 h 30 m drive. Good for guests combining Germany trip. Local pickupsMajor Agencies: Hertz Vesoul, Hertz/Enterprise Belfort, Europcar Lure – handy if arriving by train, then driving the final stretch. Notes: Pre-book; Sunday desk hours are limited.

Traveling

What Is Black-Tie Attire? Simple Guide

25 Black-Tie Dresses to Shop Right Now

Read These Tips Before Renting a Tux

Formal Attire: A little less formal than black tie, but still elegant and sophisticated. Pops of color welcome, tux not required. Women in floor length gowns with elegant jewelry and refined clutches.<a href="https://www.theknot.com/content/formal-wedding-guest-dresses" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.theknot.com/content/formal-wedding-guest-dresses</a>Black Tie: A black tie outfit is built around a <a href="https://www.hockerty.com/en/men/dinner-jackets/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">dinner jacket</a>, a <a href="https://www.hockerty.com/en/men/tuxedo-shirts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">dress shirt</a>, <a href="https://www.hockerty.com/en/men/custom-pants/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">formal trousers</a>, a <a href="https://www.hockerty.com/enmen/accessories/bowties/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">bow tie</a>, and polished <a href="https://www.hockerty.com/en/men/tuxedo-shoes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">dress shoes</a>. For women, we can generally assume that “black tie” equals “long.” But that doesn’t mean just any long dress fits the bill. Make sure your dress is rendered in an evening-appropriate fabric: think velvet, chiffon, silk, or lace.<a href="https://www.marthastewart.com/7912329/what-it-really-means-to-plan-black-tie-wedding" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.marthastewart.com/7912329/what-it-really-means-to-plan-black-tie-wedding</a>

Dress Code

About this property Elegant Accommodations: Manoir Saint-Pierre in Villersexel offers a bed and breakfast experience with a swimming pool boasting stunning views, a sun terrace, and a lush garden. Guests enjoy free WiFi throughout the property. Comfortable Amenities: The property features private check-in and check-out services, a lounge, shared kitchen, outdoor play area, electric vehicle charging station, outdoor seating, picnic area, family rooms, bicycle parking, barbecue facilities, and free parking. Delicious Breakfast: A continental breakfast is served daily, including juice, fresh pastries, cheese, and fruits. Guests appreciate the quality and variety of the morning meal. Local Attractions: Located 67 mi from EuroAirport Mulhouse, the property is near Montbeliard Castle (21 mi), Belfort Train Station (24 mi), and Stade Auguste Bonal (24 mi). Boating is available in the surrounding area. Highly rated for its breakfast, castles, and host. Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 9.4 for a two-person trip.

Gîte Chambres d'hôtes Manoir Saint Pierre

About this propertyComfortable Accommodations: Hotel Spa Le Relais Des Moines in Villersexel offers spacious rooms with private bathrooms, free WiFi, and modern amenities. Guests enjoy comfortable beds, work desks, and soundproofed spaces. Wellness and Leisure: The hotel features spa facilities, a sun terrace, and a fitness room. Additional services include beauty treatments, a steam room, and wellness packages. Free on-site private parking and electric vehicle charging are available. Dining Experience: A traditional restaurant serves lunch and dinner with continental and buffet breakfast options. Breakfast includes juice, fresh pastries, cheese, and fruits. The lounge and coffee shop provide relaxing spaces. Convenient Location: Located 66 mi from EuroAirport Mulhouse, the hotel is near attractions such as Montbeliard Castle (21 mi) and Belfort Train Station (24 mi). Boating and cycling activities are available in the surroundings. Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 9.3 for a two-person trip.

Le Relais des Moines Logis

About this propertyComfortable Accommodations: Auberge de la Terrasse in Villersexel offers family rooms with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and free WiFi throughout the property. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and wardrobe, ensuring a pleasant stay. Dining and Leisure: Guests can enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant and unwind at the bar. The hotel features a sun terrace and a garden, providing relaxing outdoor spaces. Additional amenities include an outdoor seating area, terrace, balcony, and sofa bed. Location and Activities: Located 67 mi from EuroAirport Mulhouse, the hotel is 25 mi from Belfort Train Station and 21 mi from Montbeliard Castle. Boating is available in the surrounding area. Walking tours and other activities enhance the guest experience. Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 8.3 for a two-person trip.

Logis Auberge de la Terrasse

Handy Nearby Towns (20-40 min by car)

Vesoul&nbsp;– Grand Hôtel du Nord, ibis Vesoul. Direct rail to Paris &amp; Basel.Belfort&nbsp;– Mercure Centre, Best Western Gare. Historic old town &amp; the famous Lion statue.Montbéliard&nbsp;– Ibis Styles, Hotel Bristol. Near Peugeot Museum &amp; TGV station.

Motorway:&nbsp;A36 exit 28 (Lure) → château 12 km.Parking:&nbsp;Plenty of free spaces on-site.Walking:&nbsp;The whole village is &lt; 10 minutes on foot—feel free to wander!Emergency:&nbsp;Dial&nbsp;112&nbsp;in Europe (or&nbsp;15&nbsp;for medical,&nbsp;17&nbsp;for police,&nbsp;18&nbsp;for fire).Weather in late July:&nbsp;Avg 26 °C daytime / 15 °C night. Pack a light jacket for caves (7 °C) and the evening dance floor.

Where to Stay

Things to Do Nearby

Top Picks (≤ 1 hour) Tour the Château de Villersexel&nbsp;– guided visits on non-wedding days.Canoe the Ognon River&nbsp;– rentals 10 min away; gentle currents &amp; picnic spots.Citadel of Belfort &amp; the Lion&nbsp;– iconic Vauban fortress (50 min).Musée de l’Aventure Peugeot&nbsp;– classic-car heaven in Sochaux (45 min).La Planche des Belles Filles&nbsp;– scenic Jura hike &amp; Tour-de-France summit (1 h 5 m). More Day-Trip Ideas Château Fort d’Oricourt&nbsp;(20 m) – medieval double-walled fortress.Chapelle Notre-Dame-du-Haut, Ronchamp&nbsp;(30 m) – Le Corbusier’s UNESCO chapel.Luxeuil-les-Bains Thermal Spa&nbsp;(45 m) – Roman hot springs + Renaissance town.Gouffre de Poudrey&nbsp;(50 m) – spectacular underground chamber, 7 °C year-round.Grotte d’Osselle&nbsp;(55 m) – Europe’s oldest show cave &amp; bear fossils.Musée Gustave Courbet, Ornans&nbsp;(1 h 05 m) – birthplace of the realist painter.Cité de l’Automobile, Mulhouse&nbsp;(1 h 15 m) – world’s largest car collection.Route des Vins du Jura&nbsp;(1 h 20 m) – taste Vin Jaune &amp; Comté cheese in Arbois and Château-Chalon.Plateau des 1000 Étangs&nbsp;– full-day hike through “Little Finland” lakes. Restaurant Favourites in Villersexel Le Relais des Moines&nbsp;– modern French tasting menus (spa packages available).Auberge de la Terrasse&nbsp;– rustic classics; try the pike-perch with Vin Jaune sauce.L’Alambic&nbsp;– casual wine bar with charcuterie boards.Café Pizzeria du Centre&nbsp;– kid-friendly pizzas &amp; crêpes.

One or Two Day trips from Villersexel

Strasbourg

Strasbourg – One-Day Cultural EscapeWhy goA vibrant European capital blending French and German influences, ideal for guests who want culture, architecture, and food in one day.What to visitStrasbourg Cathedral (interior + astronomical clock)Petite France historic quarterBoat cruise on the Ill River (optional but recommended)Place Kléber and city center shopping streetsWhere to eatTraditional Alsatian winstubs (tarte flambée, choucroute)Riverside restaurants in Petite FranceBrasserie-style lunch near the cathedralDistance from Villersexel~140 km | ~2h15 by car Getting thereBest by carTrain possible via Belfort / Mulhouse but longerBest forFirst-time visitors to eastern FranceArchitecture and history loversWhat else to knowVery walkable cityParking garages available near the old townStrasbourg – Two Days of History &amp; GastronomyDay 1Cathedral, Petite France, boat cruiseDinner in a traditional winstubDay 2European Parliament areaMuseums (Alsatian Museum or Modern Art Museum)Wine bars and relaxed evening strollsStay overnightCity center or Petite France area Best forGuests who want a slower paceFood and wine enthusiasts

Dijon

Dijon - One-Day Burgundy EssentialsWhy goElegant, historic, and compact—Dijon delivers Burgundy culture without needing a car once there.What to visitPalace of the Dukes of BurgundyOwl Trail walking route (self-guided)Historic center streets and squaresMustard shops and gourmet boutiquesWhere to eatTraditional Burgundy bistros (boeuf bourguignon, escargots)Casual lunch spots near Place de la LibérationDistance from Villersexel~120 km | ~1h45 by car Getting thereCar or train (via Belfort / Dijon) Best forFood loversElegant city strollsWhat else to knowFlat, easy walkingExcellent souvenir shopping Dijon – Two Days of Wine &amp; HeritageDay 1Old town, palace, historic walking tourDinner with Burgundy wine pairingDay 2Half-day wine excursion (Côte de Nuits or Côte de Beaune)Wine tastings or vineyard visitsStay overnightHistoric center hotels Best forWine-focused travelersCouples

Colmar

Colmar – One-Day Fairytale TownWhy goOne of the most picturesque towns in France—perfect for photos and relaxed exploration.What to visitOld townLittle Venice canalsUnterlinden Museum (optional)Where to eatAlsatian restaurants in the old townWine bars serving local Riesling and GewürztraminerDistance from Villersexel~115 km | ~1h50 by car Getting thereBest by car Best forRomantic couplesPhotography loversWhat else to knowCompact and calmVery popular—arrive early in peak season Colmar – Two Days with Alsace VillagesDay 1Colmar old town and canals Day 2Alsace Wine Route villages (Eguisheim, Riquewihr)Wine tastings and scenic drivesBest forSlow travelWine and scenery

Beaune

Beaune – One-Day Wine Capital VisitWhy goThe heart of Burgundy wine culture, refined and accessible.What to visitHospices de BeauneHistoric wine cellarsOld town streetsWhere to eatWine-focused restaurantsCasual lunches with local winesDistance from Villersexel~145 km | ~2h by car Getting thereBest by car Best forWine loversShort luxury experience Beaune – Two Days Immersed in VineyardsDay 1Beaune town and cellars Day 2Côte de Beaune vineyardsWinery visits or cycling through vineyardsBest forBurgundy enthusiastsRelaxed luxury travel

Besancon

Besançon – One-Day Nature &amp; History BlendWhy goAuthentic, scenic, and less touristy—excellent balance of city and nature.What to visitVauban Citadel (UNESCO site)Old town streetsDoubs River viewpointsWhere to eatTraditional Franche-Comté cuisineRiverside cafésDistance from Villersexel~55 km | ~1 hour by car Getting thereEasy by car or train Best forHistory loversGuests wanting a quieter option

Annecy

Two-Day Alpine Lake &amp; Old Town ExperienceWhy Annecy is specialAnnecy is one of the most beautiful towns in France, combining:A medieval old town with canalsOne of Europe’s cleanest lakesAlpine mountain sceneryIt feels romantic, refined, and memorable, making it an excellent choice for guests extending their stay after the wedding. Suggested itineraryDay 1 – Old Town &amp; LakeMorningWalk through Annecy Old TownExplore canals, cobblestone streets, and pastel buildingsVisit Château d’Annecy for panoramic viewsLunchCasual restaurant or café in the old town AfternoonStroll or bike along Lake Annecy promenadeOptional boat cruise on the lake (1 hour)EveningDinner at a lakeside restaurantSunset walk along the waterDay 2 – Nature &amp; RelaxationMorning swim (summer) or lakeside walkCoffee along the canalsOptional short hike or bike ride near the lakeLeisurely lunch before departureWhere to eat (style guidance)Lunch: Old town bistros, cafés along canalsDinner: Lakeside restaurants with Alpine cuisineSpecialties: Fondue, raclette, tartiflette, freshwater fishDistance &amp; logisticsFrom Villersexel: ~220 km | ~3 hours by carGetting there:Car recommendedTrain possible (longer but scenic)Best forCouplesNature and scenery loversGuests planning a post-wedding mini-honeymoonPractical tipsVery walkable townBook hotels early in summerComfortable walking shoes recommended

Belfort

One-Day Historic Fortress &amp; Scenic Views TripWhy visit BelfortBelfort is known for its dramatic hilltop citadel, historic fortifications, and the iconic Lion of Belfort sculpture. It is compact, culturally rich, and very easy to visit in one day, making it an excellent option for guests staying near Villersexel.Belfort also offers panoramic views of the Vosges Mountains and surrounding countryside, combining history with nature.Suggested itineraryMorning – Citadel &amp; LionWalk up to the Citadel of BelfortSee the Lion of Belfort, carved directly into the rockExplore fortifications and viewpointsVisit museums inside the citadel (optional)LunchLunch in Belfort’s old town or near the citadelChoose a traditional brasserie or casual restaurantAfternoon – Old Town &amp; Relaxed StrollWalk through Belfort’s historic centerCoffee break in Place d’ArmesOptional short walk in nearby green spacesWhat to visitLion of Belfort (symbol of the city)Citadel of BelfortOld town streets and squaresScenic viewpoints overlooking the regionWhere to eatTraditional brasseries in the city centerCasual cafés and bakeries for lunchLocal specialtiesAlsace and Franche-Comté inspired dishesRegional cheeses and sausagesDistance &amp; logisticsFrom Villersexel: ~40 km | ~45 minutes by carGetting there:Very easy by carTrain also availableBest forHistory enthusiastsGuests wanting a short, rewarding day trip Visitors interested in military architecture

Montbeliard

Half-Day or One-Day Easy Cultural TripWhy Montbéliard is a great optionMontbéliard is close, calm, and easy, making it ideal for:Guests with limited timeOlder guestsFamiliesIt offers a light cultural experience without travel fatigue.Suggested itineraryHalf-Day VisitVisit Château de MontbéliardWalk through the historic centerCoffee or lunch in the pedestrian areaFull Day (Relaxed)Castle visit in the morningLunch in townAfternoon stroll or shoppingReturn to Villersexel early eveningWhat to visitChâteau de Montbéliard (museum + views)Historic city centerPedestrian streets and cafésWhere to eatTraditional Franche-Comté restaurantsSimple brasseries and cafés in town centerLocal specialtiesComté cheeseSaucisse de MontbéliardDistance &amp; logisticsFrom Villersexel: ~45 km | ~45 minutes by carGetting there:Very easy by carTrain also availableBest forShort outingsGuests staying close to the wedding locationLow-effort sightseeingPractical tipsEasy parkingFlat and walkableCan be combined with Besançon or Belfort

Arbois

One or Two Days in the Jura Wine RegionWhy Arbois is uniqueArbois is the heart of Jura wine country, known for:Small-scale vineyardsUnique wines not found elsewhereAuthentic, non-touristy atmosphereThis is an excellent alternative to Burgundy for wine lovers seeking something different.Suggested itineraryDay 1 – Town &amp; WineWalk through Arbois old townVisit 1–2 local wine cellarsLunch in town with Jura wine pairingScenic drive through vineyardsDay 2 – Nature &amp; CountrysideVisit nearby waterfalls (Cascade des Tufs, Hérisson area)Light hike or countryside walkLunch at a countryside restaurantWhat to visitArbois Old TownLocal wine producers (Vin Jaune, Savagnin, Poulsard)Jura countryside and vineyardsWhere to eatRegional restaurants featuring Jura winesCasual bistros with local cuisineLocal specialtiesChicken with Vin JauneComté cheeseJura white winesDistance &amp; logisticsFrom Villersexel: ~90 km | ~1h30 by carGetting there:Car required for flexibilityBest forWine enthusiastsGuests seeking authentic FranceSlow travel loversPractical tipsLess crowded than BurgundyReservations recommended for tastingsIdeal for a peaceful overnight stay

Gwynne & Thibault

Gwynne & Thibault

Photos