From Tinder to the French Riviera: Yana & Aston’s Dream Wedding at Domaine du Mont Leuze

Love Story

“We met on Tinder, a platform where no one expects to find true love.” What began as a casual Tinder connection during the pandemic quickly blossomed into something neither Yana nor Aston had anticipated.

Their first date had a uniquely pandemic twist—Aston picked Yana up in a taxi when face masks were still mandatory, meaning they spent the first part of their date conversing without seeing each other's full faces. Despite this unusual beginning, the chemistry was undeniable.
"Our first date was amazing, and we didn't want it to end," Yana remembers. Though Yana describes herself as "stubborn" and initially found it difficult to express her emotions, a trip to Ukraine changed everything. "I realized how much I loved Aston," she admits. "When I told him how I felt, we both knew we would spend our lives together."

The proposal came during a romantic getaway to Paris at the stylish Hôtel Costes. As they were preparing for dinner one evening, Aston surprised Yana with the question she'd been waiting for. "Yana, I think you forgot something," he said casually, before dropping to one knee with a beautiful ring in hand. "I was so shocked that I couldn't even understand what he was saying," Yana confesses. "Aston had to repeat himself, and after he did, I finally said, 'Yes!'"

The couple spent a full year meticulously planning their dream celebration. After considering Italy, Monaco, and Paris, they stumbled upon Domaine du Mont Leuze in Villefranche-sur-Mer and were instantly captivated by its breathtaking views and unique location. "We instantly knew it was the perfect place since the French Riviera is one of our favorite vacation spots," explains Yana.

“The South of France truly is one of the best places to celebrate such a special occasion,” they agree. “We wanted to create an unforgettable party where our guests could have fun and feel special." With 40-50 close friends and family in attendance, they opted for a sophisticated black-tie dress code.

Adding to the celebration's uniqueness was the timing—the couple was also able to celebrate Aston's birthday, which fell on September 29, the day after their wedding. "We felt so much warmth, love, and happiness on that day," reflects Yana. "It was truly the best day of our lives."

Morning details

The morning of September 28th brought clear skies and gentle breezes sweeping over the hills of Nice – nature's blessing on a love story years in the making. Beyond the elegant green palette that would grace their celebration, Yana and Aston had woven tender threads of meaning through every detail of their day.

Bride getting ready

Yana's preparation took place in a stylish vintage room. The space was filled with elegant antique furniture and soft natural light streaming through sheer curtains. Her makeup and hair artist created a timeless, elegant look that enhanced Yana's natural beauty.

The bride was truly stunning in her gown, a breathtaking mermaid-style dress in luminous ivory satin. What made the dress truly spectacular was the three-dimensional floral appliqués that adorned the train, creating a garden of delicate ivory roses that caught the light with each movement. The train extended several feet behind her, creating a magnificent silhouette against the vintage room's wooden floors. She completed the ensemble with a simple choker necklace that added a touch of refinement without distracting from the gown's stunning details.

Groom getting ready

Aston prepared for the wedding day in solitude, taking his time to perfect every detail of his appearance in an elegant setting. Rather than the nervous jitters often associated with grooms on their wedding day, he exuded confidence and calm as he dressed in his sophisticated attire.

Photoshoot before the ceremony

Before the vows, Yana and Aston shared an intimate stroll through the venue’s scenic terraces, with the Mediterranean stretching endlessly behind them. Every glance, every touch was effortless—just two souls soaking in a moment that felt suspended in time.

Ceremony

As the afternoon sun bathed Domaine du Mont Leuze in a golden glow, loved ones gathered beneath the open sky to witness Yana and Aston’s vows. With laughter mingling with happy tears, the couple promised forever in a ceremony as heartfelt as it was breathtaking. One of the most tender moments came as they exchanged rings, the Mediterranean glistening behind them—nature itself seeming to celebrate their love.

Photoshoot after the ceremony

With the stars above and celebration in the air, Yana and Aston shared a quiet moment—just the two of them, glowing in the magic of being newlyweds. Her sparkling gown shimmered with every step, his gaze never leaving her. Laughter, kisses, and a touch of mischief turned this photoshoot into a snapshot of their forever: effortlessly glamorous, wildly in love.

Wedding Venue & Decor

Domaine du Mont Leuze proved to be everything the couple had hoped for and more. Perched high above Nice with panoramic views of the Mediterranean coastline, the historic venue provided a naturally romantic setting that needed only subtle enhancement.

The couple's green color palette was incorporated throughout the decor, from the abundant foliage that adorned the ceremony space to the tablescape at the reception. Crystal glassware and fine china reflected the warm glow of countless candles, creating an atmosphere of intimate luxury.

Reception

As the sun began to set over the Mediterranean, guests gathered for a reception that perfectly balanced elegance with joyful celebration.
The couple made their grand entrance as husband and wife to thunderous applause before taking to the dance floor for their first dance—a carefully choreographed routine that surprised and delighted their guests.

The culinary experience was a highlight of the evening, featuring a sophisticated menu of French-Mediterranean fusion cuisine paired with fine wines from the region.

As promised, entertainment took center stage throughout the evening. The Ukrainian saxophonist performed during cocktail hour and dinner, creating an atmosphere of sophisticated charm, while the DJ kept the dance floor packed well into the night—notably without a single ABBA or Bruno Mars track!

The couple credits much of the seamless experience to their incredible team. “We found our stylish photographer, who captured every memory in the most magical way,” Yana shares. “We were blown away by the wedding photos, videos, flowers, food, drinks, and even the company that took care of Yana's wedding dress on the day.” Having no prior experience with wedding planning, Yana discovered their planner, Caroline, on Instagram—a decision that proved invaluable.
“She made everything so special,” Yana says. “Thanks to her hard work and attention to detail, we were able to fully enjoy every moment of our big day.”