City Hall Ceremony in Lyon, France Elopement Photo Award

A stolen kiss between the couple inside a softly lit gastronomic restaurant.

A love story set in the heart of Lyon — intimate, vibrant, and full of soul.This mini-reportage follows a small wedding celebrated with twenty-five cherished guests, where every moment felt rich with intention and joy.

It begins in the cobbled streets of Lyon’s 2nd arrondissement, as friends and family make their way on foot to the local mairie. The ceremony is all smiles and shared emotion — light, sincere, and full of joy. The exchange of vows is heartfelt, moving, and warmly received by the guests.

As the couple steps out into the street, a close friend picks up his guitar and begins to play — setting the tone for what follows: a group photo packed with smiles, laughter, and the groom’s carefree surfer hand sign. The walk continues through the old town’s stone streets, heading toward a tucked-away gastronomic restaurant on the Presqu'île.

Inside, between fine bottles of wine and delicate dishes, the couple shares a kiss — a quiet, unposed moment in the middle of it all. Speeches in French and Brazilian Portuguese bring the room to life, alternating tears and laughter as glasses are raised. A young guest helps himself at the buffet. The couple stays close throughout — laughing, whispering, exchanging looks that say everything.

This kind of intimate setting felt like the perfect match for their day: simple, joyful, and deeply personal.

The ceremony begins in a burst of happiness. The couple says “yes” with bright smiles, their joy mirrored by friends and family gathered close in the intimate room.

Guests walking down a cobbled street toward the restaurant following the ceremony.

A young guest helping himself at the buffet.