A Christmas Elopement in Paris

What’s more perfect and romantic than a Christmas elopement in Paris?! Betsy and Kala journeyed from their home in Hawaii to exchange vows in a lovely and intimate salon in Paris, complete with a fireplace decorated with chic his and hers stockings, champagne, a glam and golden tablescape for a gourmet dinner, and a first dance surrounded by Christmas cheer. And of course, an elopement in Paris wouldn’t be complete without taking in the sights. Catherine O’Hara captured every moment and Fête in France helped them plan the perfect celebration!

A romantic Christmas elopement in Paris, France

The Proposal

“Contrary to the norm, I proposed to Kala on Christmas morning 2015. The scene was set in our cozy little love nest. While Kala was still asleep I baked our favorite chocolate chip cookies and prepared a decadent hot cocoa with marshmallows all spread out on a fur throw opposite our Christmas tree. He awoke to find me waiting to open & exchange our gifts, the last of which was his koa wood engrained wedding band. Kala had already purchased an engagement ring for me which failed to arrive in time so I asked ‘This Christmas has been absolutely perfect, there’s just one thing missing.’ To which he replied ‘I know, we’re missing a ring.’ and I replied while removing a cleverly cached ring box from the center of our tree ‘No, I’ve got it right here.’ Kala’s smile was bright enough to light a night sky and he happily accepted. Best decision I ever made.”

Favorite Moments

“Looking back now, our favorite parts of the day were when we took photos on location throughout Paris, us being fairly private people we felt naked being photographed with hoards of people staring at us, but Paris being so romantic all of the positive feedback we received from the locals was really reassuring. I found it hilarious that ‘ooh la la’ was an actual thing! Even greater than taking in the scenes with our wonderful photographer in tow was the private time Kala and I had in our ballroom at the Champs Elysees. We danced across the parquet floors to our favorite music and being surrounded by the gold gilded walls made me feel like an absolute queen. Sharing one another’s company in such an intimate setting was absolutely perfect, there was no one else in the world but us.”