A Chic Welcome Celebration at Hotel Château Gütsch in Switzerland
Photographed by Youri Claessens
Perched above the city of Lucerne, Hotel Château Gütsch provided the dreamlike backdrop for Nikita and William’s welcome event — the perfect prelude to their wedding weekend in Switzerland. With its castle-like façade and panoramic mountain views, this historic hotel captured the romantic energy of a destination wedding while offering guests a taste of Swiss hospitality.
Inside, the soirée unfolded across the hotel’s light-filled ballroom, where soft blue drapery and ornate chandeliers set an atmosphere of timeless European style. Guests, dressed in shades of white, mingled over cocktails and conversation as the couple arrived — relaxed, radiant, and ready to celebrate.
The evening reflected what welcome parties are meant to be: warm, unhurried, and effortlessly stylish. Guests toasted with Aperol spritzes and champagne, enjoying canapés that paired local flavours with Mediterranean flair. Each corner of the room told a story — from the vintage travel postcards placed on tables to the custom napkins inscribed with “The Night Before.”
Photographed by Youri Claessens, the celebration was a study in understated joy. His images capture not only the refined interiors of the château but also the moments of connection between friends and family — hugs, toasts, and unguarded smiles that reveal the anticipation of the days ahead.
As the sun set over Lucerne, the evening transitioned into lively conversation and music. It was less about formality and more about togetherness — the kind of celebration that sets the tone for a wedding weekend abroad: full of charm, laughter, and connection in one of Switzerland’s most picturesque venues.
Wedding team
WEDDING PLANNING: @arianeweddings
PHOTOGRAPHY: @youriclaessens & @avietaclaessens
HAIR & MAKEUP: @bridalbeautybylinda
DJ: @djspino