A wedding tale in Québec City, the planner’s interview

We asked Sarah Demers, our wedding planner, a few tips about organizing a wedding in beautiful Québec City

- Why do you think Québec City attracts so many couples for weddings?
Undoubtedly, our city’s atmosphere is unique. When you propose or when you get married in Québec City, you put the emphasis on charm and romance because the settings and the architecture are just gorgeous. You will always find a lovely spot to immortalize the moment: the Dufferin Terrace, the Petit Champlain district or simply an antique brick wall from a random historical house! Quebec City is perfect for lovers, should you want to discover it with a ride in a horse drawn carriage or simply by wandering the picturesque cobblestoned streets. Also worth mentioning, us Quebecers, have a solid reputation for being the most welcoming and considerate hosts!

- What would be the best season to organize a wedding in Québec City?
To my opinion the best season for weddings in Québec City would be fall. The color foliage and the hustle-bustle in Old Town make it such a vibrant place! The sun is bright but the days are cooler (the bride won’t suffocate in her gown!) and a last drink under the stars is still possible, and oh so romantic!

- What are the local traditions that you often integrate into weddings?
Our chef mostly works with local products and growers in order to have our guests discover the (delicious) savors from Québec. Additionally, when it’s time for the couple to choose a wedding gift for their guests, I often suggest to pick something local like the castle’s honey, maple butter, handmade soaps or some gorgeous engravings made by Old Québec’s artisans.

- Any tips about the food?
I always recommend the couple to choose something they like and not worry too much about the guests desires, it’s their wedding after all! When they’re not from Québec it’s nice to present local items, like Grand Veneur blueberry sauce from Lac St Jean or appetizers with Charlevoix or Portneuf cheese. Very often the main focus is put on decoration and music so that everyone dances until dawn but it’s also important to create the ‘wow effect’ with the food, because it will be the main conversation topic! Remember our grandmothers saying out and loud that to win a man’s heart you need to win his stomach first…Food is so important in people’s life, you don’t want to neglect that aspect.

- Any memory of a wedding you will never forget?
Each and every couple I have met have their own unique story. My favorite weddings though, are the ones with little personal touches. It’s always adorable to recognize those touches in menu choices, decors, or even music, it feels so special. Recently we organized an outside ceremony in the park, followed with a flight of monarch butterflies. When on paper, you wonder the final effect but I guarantee you, when it happened, and by observing the look on guests faces it was absolutely stunning! A magical moment!

Sarah Demers is the wedding specialist at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac. Her focus is on making this special day stress-free and one that you and your guests will never forget. Her attention to detail will ensure that everything, from the ceremony to the nuptial reception, will reflect all your expectations and inspirations. To begin planning your special day, contact Sarah by telephone at 418-691-2151 or by email at sarah.demers@fairmont.com

To see our most stunning wedding pictures, follow Fairmont Le Château Frontenac on Pinterest www.pinterest.com/fairmontlcf/