For the palette, we leaned into deep romance, drawing inspiration from French red wines.
Tell us a little about yourselves, what you do, what you love…
Rachael works in the beauty industry, partnering with some of the world’s leading brands to provide sustainable packaging solutions. She is deeply passionate about protecting the environment and reducing reliance on single-use plastics. Hiram is a cosmetic dentist with a discerning eye for aesthetics, dedicated to helping his patients feel their most confident and beautiful. Outside of work, the two are rarely still—you can often find them hiking, climbing, or camping, chasing the outdoors together. Equally, they relish quieter moments: lingering over a glass of wine on the patio of their neighbourhood bar, or curled up at home with a film and their two beloved cats.
How/where/when did you meet – and what were your first impressions?
We first crossed paths at our local climbing gym in Salt Lake City. For Rachael—who never considered herself a romantic—there was an immediate and undeniable recognition: this was her person. After just one climbing date, our commitment to one another was absolute. From that moment on, we moved through life as a team. We share a steadfast belief that we are two souls destined to find each other, and together we’ve discovered not just love, but a profound sense of home.
Tell us about the vision you had for the mood and style of your wedding.
Our vision came to life the moment we discovered Château Engalin. The venue embodied everything we hoped to capture: artistic, romantic, and unapologetically bold. Its grounds exude old-world grandeur, while the interiors carry an eclectic, sensual charm. For the palette, we leaned into deep romance, drawing inspiration from French red wines—shades of bordeaux, burgundy, and merlot flowed through the florals, linens, and tablescapes, infusing every detail with richness and intensity.
What styling and visual elements worked best for you?
The florals were the most meaningful design element, woven throughout the weekend as a tribute to Hiram’s late grandmother, whose favorite flower was the calla lily. At the welcome dinner, white calla lilies cascaded in sculptural waves from a bespoke steel installation, illuminated solely by candlelight. During the ceremony, burgundy callas stood out against the weathered stone of the Rose Chapel ruins, offering a quiet, fragrant homage amidst the grandeur of the setting.
What did you enjoy most about the planning process, and do you have any tips?
Planning a wedding abroad meant surrendering control—something far easier said than done. From our first conversation with Château Engalin’s in-house planner, Lou French, we knew we were in the best of hands. Lou intuitively understood our vision: dramatic florals, moody tablescapes, and a design that defied convention. Together with floral designer Alice Rangayen of Jungle Utopia, she formed a creative partnership that was nothing short of alchemy. They designed an atmosphere so immersive and true to us that it felt like stepping into a living work of art.
Our advice to other couples: let every decision reflect you. The wedding world is filled with inspiration and tradition, but the most memorable celebrations are those that are deeply personal and authentic.
Tell us about your vendors.
Our wedding was defined by the artistry of three extraordinary women: planner Lou, photographer Daria, and floral designer Alice. Individually, they are creative forces; together, they formed a seamless team whose synergy elevated every detail. Their collective talent, vision, and style transformed the weekend into something far beyond what we had imagined—a celebration that felt cinematic, yet profoundly personal.
Tell us about your main outfits.
For me, the choice was effortless—it was always going to be Cinq. The New York–based label captures a rare kind of bridal magic: designs that are simultaneously timeless and modern, understated yet romantic. When I slipped into the Mayce gown, named after the designer herself, it felt as though it had been created just for me, waiting for this very moment at Château Engalin.
Tell us about your wedding and engagement rings.
We designed custom rings with our family jeweller in Salt Lake City. Mine is a striking pear-cut solitaire set east–west in a bold gold band—classic yet distinctive. Hiram’s is a simple but substantial gold signet, understated in design but weighty in presence.
What were one or two elements you were happy to spend more on?
Our greatest dream was to create a weekend where our closest family and friends could gather under one roof—relaxed, present, and fully immersed in the joy of celebration. Because so many had travelled far, we wanted each detail to feel intentional and generous. Food was central to this vision: an on-site chef crafting exquisite meals from fresh, local ingredients, every plate a feast for both the palate and the eyes.
Was there a favourite moment you will treasure always?
We knew the weekend would pass in a blur of joy, so we set aside intentional time just for us. On the morning of the wedding, we broke tradition and began the day together. Beneath Château Engalin’s grand cedar tree, we shared coffee and exchanged handwritten vows. For a moment, the world fell away, leaving only the two of us.
Some of the most treasured memories, though, were completely unplanned. One of the boldest was an impromptu boudoir shoot in the sultry bridal suite, just before I slipped into my Cinq gown. With photographer Daria Walter behind the lens, we captured a few playful, intimate frames as a surprise for my soon-to-be husband—photographs we will cherish always.
BRIDE Rachael, @cheechinthewild GROOM Hiram, @hemaynez LOCATION Château Engalin, Mauvezin, France, @chateau.engalin PHOTOGRAPHER Daria Walter Photography, @dariawalterphotography VIDEOGRAPHER Leon LD Photography & Antony Lancashire of Antony & Léon Lancashire Photography, @leon_ld_photography, @antonylancashire CONTENT CREATION Memoir Bella, @memoir.bella; Daria Walter, @dariawaltercontent STYLIST & PLANNER French Bague-ette, @french_bague_ette FLORIST Jungle Utopia, @jungleutopia CELEBRANT Bride’s Brother – Jack Fecteau, @jackfecteau ENTERTAINMENT Live Music – True Troubadour, @truetroubadour via Fix The Music, @fixthemusic; DJ + Vinyl Party – Goood Waves DJ, @gooodwaves HIRE, CATERING & CAKE Château Engalin, @chateau.engalin STATIONERY & SIGNAGE By the bride RINGS Custom Made – Philip & Co, @philipandco BRIDE’S DRESS CINQ via Frankie Jane Couture Bridal, @shop_cinq, @frankiejanecouturebridal BRIDE’S SHOES Larroude, @larroude MAKEUP Angie Chabot Makeup, @angiebridalmakeup ESTIES Nurse Jackie, @aestheticnurse.jackie; Abby Bradley, @abbyb.aesthetics HAIR Styling – Sarah Fekir, @sarah_fekir; Color – Noelle Myers, @strandsofhoney BRIDE’S FRAGRANCE Acqua Di Gioia – Giorgio Armani, @giorgioarmani GROOM’S SUIT & SHOES Tailor Cooperative, @tailorcooperative GROOM’S ACCESSORIES Custom pet engraved cuff links – Anavia Design GROOM’S FRAGRANCE YSL, @yslbeauty
