Eloping in Paris!

That sounds so romantic and exciting! Your hotel can probably give you recommendations on those things you need help with.

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I agree! I would speak with the hotel concierge!

Hi Kaylee, I live in Paris. Where are you staying? There are several amazing florists all over the city, so finding a bouquet will be a snap. I suggest you try small flower shops, as chains often try to rip you off.
Traditional American wedding cakes are harder to find. If you aren't that bothered by tradition, may I suggest going for afternoon tea? You can wear a pretty dress and sit in some of the most beautifully decorated hotels in the world while sipping tea and eating cake all afternoon. In my opinion the Peninsula or Crillon is best.
For pictures, get dressed in your wedding clothes and head to a chateau, Versailles, Chantilly, Fontainebleau etc. For a small entrance fee you can enjoy the gardens and make picture magic as long as you are discreet. PS all museums and chateaus are free entrance on the first Sunday of the month. There are also some amazing public parks. Or simply any bridge on the Seine. Or climb up to the Sacré Cœur. Food in Paris is easy. Depending on your budget and preferences. If you want something exclusive, make sure to reserve. And note that many places are closed on Sundays and Mondays. Also lunch in fancy restaurants is always cheaper than dinner.
Hope this helps!

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Hi Samantha! Thanks so much for your advice.

We're staying in the Madeleine Haussmann hotel (near L'église de la Madeleine). Any ideas for florists or food near there? We're not at all tied to a wedding cake, just something small that we can enjoy as a part of the tradition! I love the idea of afternoon tea.

We were actually considering doing some wedding dress pictures in the Palace of Versailles... Do you think this will be allowed? I know things can get tricky with having a photographer / permit / etc.

View Quoted Comment I would do a quick Google map search for a florist in that area. It is a bit of a business district/shopping area where you are staying. When it comes to food I would move around a bit, Paris is very walkable and has decent transportation. If you want to find restaurants just put the word 'meilleur' in front of what you are looking for (boulangerie, restaurant, pâtisserie, bar etc.) A nice simple French fare would be at le Petit bouillon Pharamond. Inexpensive and authentic almost exclusively Parisians. A fancy meal could be la Dame Du Pic. And take some time to sit at cafes and people watch. Service here is about letting you sit and enjoy your time. Also, please tip. It's not a requirement but a couple of Euros change is always appreciated.
I would not count on taking pictures inside the palace. It will be full of tourists and honestly the rooms are fairly small. You would not be allowed to pose long enough to take meaningful photos. No permits needed, just discretion.