Phalakone & Chansouda | Laotian Luang Prabang Wedding

Traditional Laotian Luang Prabang Wedding

Chansouda and Phalakone are a French couple who grew up and met in Paris, moved to Montreal, and then returned to their roots for their Luang Prabang wedding in Laos

They were married in a gorgeous villa, Villa Ban Khoy, a French-Lao house that sits on its own small peninsula between two rivers, the Mekong and the Nam Dong.

Water Pouring Ceremony

In the morning the sun rose over the serene town, casting a soft golden glow over the ancient temples and quiet streets. As we emerged from our guesthouse, we were greeted by a procession of orange-robed monks making their way through the town, collecting alms from the locals.

After making their own humble offering, they joined the traditional “Yam Nam” water-pouring ceremony. Amidst the sound of drums and chanting, they poured water over the sacred statues and offered blessings for good fortune and prosperity.

As the ceremony came to a close, we took a leisurely stroll around the town and along the riverside, where the Mekong River and Nam Khan met. Luang Prabang is an amazing location for a couples photoshoot with so much to offer in a small town.

Baci Ceremony

As with any Luang Prabang wedding, it started with the Baci ceremony. The wedding guests gathered at the enchanting Sunset Villa, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the groom, Phakakone, and his groomsmen, who were set to perform the exhilarating Human Block or ‘Hae Keuy’ ceremony. The energy and excitement of the crowd were palpable, setting the stage for the enchanting Baci ceremony that followed.

Amidst the soft glow of candlelight, the couple was surrounded by loved ones as the Baci ceremony began. The gentle sounds of the Khene, a traditional Lao instrument, filled the air, as the guests offered their blessings and well-wishes to the couple.

As the night fell, the celebration continued with a Western-style Luang Prabang wedding at the breathtaking Villa Bankhoy. With the Mekong River flowing serenely in the background, the couple exchanged their vows, surrounded by the beauty and tranquility of the natural surroundings. It was a wedding to remember, a perfect fusion of traditional Lao and Western customs, a celebration of love, life, and culture.

Luang Prabang Wedding Photography

Luang Prabang wedding in Northern Laos. It is a picturesque destination that has become increasingly popular for weddings in Southeast Asia. Its serene and enchanting atmosphere, coupled with the city’s rich cultural heritage, makes it an ideal location for couples looking to have a unique and unforgettable wedding experience.

The city’s stunning natural beauty provides a perfect backdrop for wedding photos. The lush green forests, rolling hills, and sparkling rivers offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Luang Prabang is also famous for its Buddhist temples. They add an element of spirituality to the wedding ceremony and provide a beautiful and serene setting for couples to exchange their vows.

One of the most popular venues for a Luang Prabang wedding is the Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao, a luxurious and elegant hotel that boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The hotel’s gardens are well-maintained, and the staff is extremely accommodating, making it an ideal location for a wedding ceremony.

Satri House Weddings

Another popular venue for a Luang Prabang wedding is the Satri House, a beautiful boutique hotel with a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. The hotel’s lush tropical gardens and stunning architecture make it a popular choice for couples looking for a romantic and intimate setting.

In addition to its beautiful venues, Luang Prabang offers a range of unique cultural experiences that add an element of local charm to the wedding festivities. The city’s night markets offer a variety of traditional Lao crafts and cuisine, providing an opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Luang Prabang is an ideal location for couples looking to have a wedding that is both elegant and unique. Its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and luxurious venues offer a perfect blend of romance and sophistication, creating an unforgettable wedding experience for all.

Featured in Offbeat Wed Magazine

Offbeat Wed Luang Prabang Wedding

From Phalakone & Chansouda

“Just amazing! We love your work! Thank you so much! :) We are both impressed about the result. We love all shots you took, it’s just fantastic! We’re blown away by the emotion you catch on every image and we are reminded of the laugh and fun of the day. We laugh so hard on some of them! :))) We have perfect pictures to go with our perfect memories! Thank you again from the bottom of our heart!”