Welcome Party

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Farewell Brunch

Oakland Celebration - CANCELED

Our Wedding

Our story begins with a mastermind matchmaker: Matt’s sister, Amie. She happened to live next door to Gaby in Detroit, got to know her, and immediately thought, “Yep… this could work.” One introduction later, the two of us were spending hours on the phone, discovering we had way too much in common for this to be an accident. Cue the beginning of something special (and many very late nights).After dating in Detroit, fate handed us sunshine. Gaby had survived what she calls “11 winters” in Michigan, a heroic feat worthy of a trophy, therapy, or both, when the opportunity came to move back to her hometown of Oakland, California. Matt happily packed his bags and traded snow boots for sunglasses. He has not complained once about missing winter, just as long as he gets his annual snowboard season.Together, we’ve made traveling our love language. We have been fortunate to be able to enjoy tacos in Mexico City, tea in London, roasted lamb in New Zealand, hummus in Jordan, and pastries in Portugal: we’ve basically eaten our way across multiple continents. Every trip has given us memories, inside jokes, and at least one mildly questionable decision.And somewhere among all those flights, food adventures, and passport stamps, Matt completed the ultimate relationship challenge: surviving a McKee family reunion. He walked in brave, walked out accepted--we consider it his official family initiation.From a sister-engineered setup to cross-country moves, travel mishaps, and days filled with laughter, we couldn’t be more excited for our greatest adventure yet: marriage!

Our Story

December 21, 2025

Photos

The house where the wedding will take place is also known as Le Jardin du Couvent. Gaby's grandparents (picture below) bought the convent in 1972 after falling in love with the region. Le Jardin du Couvent was built between 1629-1639 when a 12th century Cistercian abbey was converted into an Ursuline convent and expanded. Our house and garden and the adjoining chapel were part of the cloisters of the convent and were originally used as a place for prayer. A large school room was built later. When the property ceased being used for religious or educational purposes after WWII, ownership reverted to the Duc de Blacas, a hereditary feudal noble and ruler of Provence, who began selling the properties in the 1950s. The house holds a very special place in our hearts. Gaby has spent every summer in Aups since she was two months old. She (and many of you) spent memorable summers putting on plays in the great room, learning French at the patisserie, playing badminton in the garden and flipping monopoly boards in anger on rainy days in the sun room. She couldn't imagine getting married anywhere else and luckily Matt, who spent many of his summers in Gambia and the UK, agreed it was the perfect place to bring our loved ones from around the world. We encourage you to embrace the slower pace of life while you are in Aups. Grab a croissant at the boulangerie and people watch at a cafe. Savor the three hour dinners and the wonderful Provençal cuisine. Drive to the neighboring villages to explore and shop, or pack a picnic and head to the lake for the day (just not Saturday). We love this little village and we hope you will too!

About Aups

We HIGHLY recommend staying in Aups for the wedding weekend for convenience and to avoid driving after wedding events (everything in Aups is walkable to the venue). There are many homes, villas, through Airbnbs and Vrbo available in and around Aups, making it easy for guests to stay close and enjoy the village and Provençal countryside together. We suggest starting your search early for the best selection. Browse local rentals here:Airbnb: <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.airbnb.com/</a>VRBO: <a href="http://www.vrbo.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">www.vrbo.com</a> There are also many hotels in the area, including four in the center of the village of Aups just steps from the wedding venue. These are listed below. Surrounding villages such as Moissac-Bellevue, Régusse, Fox-Amphoux, and Salernes also offer great accommodation options—most within a 10–20 minute drive of Aups. Some are listed below. But please take into consideration that the roads are not well lit at night and are very windy.

Hotels in Aups

Located in the center of Aups and a 5 minute walk from the wedding venue

Le Grand Hôtel Restaurant

The Auberge is located in the center of Aups and is a convenient 5 minute walk from the wedding venue.

Auberge de la Tour

This property is conveniently located in the center of Aups and a 5 minute walk from the venue

Logis Hôtel le Provençal

Located in the center of Aups and a 5 minute walk from the wedding venue.

Hotel Le Saint-Marc

Close and Convenient

Bastide Du Calalou is located in Moissac-Bellevue. It features a heated, outdoor swimming pool, a tennis court and elegant guestrooms that overlook the Aups Valley. The hotel is a 10 minute drive to the wedding venue and just down the hill from the welcome party at Le Bellevue.

Bastide Du Calalou

Other Options (20 min+ from Aups)

A 3-star boutique hotel housed in a 19th century Provençal building in the charming village of Cotignac. However, it is a 20 minute drive to the venue over a winding road. Please take this into consideration as both the Friday night event and the wedding are in the evening.

La Falaise hotel

A beautiful hotel located in the charming village of Cotignac, but a 20 minute drive to the venue over a winding road. Please take this into consideration as both the Friday night event and the wedding are in the evening.

Hôtel Lou Calen

La Bastide De Tourtour Hotel &amp; Spa is an elegant family home nestled in a 4 hectare park. The house offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area and has many relaxing facilities. such as a pool and tennis court.The 16 minute drive from the wedding venue in Aups over a dark and winding road. Please take this into consideration as both the Friday event and wedding take place in the evening.

Bastide de Tourtour

For guests looking for a truly unforgettable wedding weekend, there is the magnificent&nbsp;Château de Berne, a five-star Relais &amp; Châteaux estate nestled amidst the vineyards of Provence.&nbsp;The Chateau is a winding yet scenic 25 minute drive from our venue in Aups, Please take this into consideration as the both the Friday night event and the wedding will occur in the evening

Chateau de Berne Hotel Spa Cellars

Lodging

We recommend that you fly into Nice or Marseille and rent a car to get to Aups. Aups is difficult to get to via public transportation and if you want to explore the neighboring towns, you will need your own transportation. There are no Ubers/Lyfts in Aups and there are limited taxis available (see below).

Airports

Nice (NCE) is the nearest and most convenient airport. It's about a 1.5–2 hour drive to Aups by car. Or a 50 minute train ride and then 30 minute taxi from Les Arcs. Marseille (MSE) is about the same distance by car (1.5-2 hours). Or a 30 minutes bus ride to the train, 1.5 hour train ride to Les Arcs and then a 30 minute taxi to Aups.

Trains

From Nice: Take the airport Tram (or 8 minute walk) from terminal 1 at the NCE airport to Nice Saint-Augustin train station. Take the [TER] Marseille-St-Charles line to Les Arcs–Draguignaun (50 minutes), followed by a 30-40 minute taxi to Aups. From Marseille:You will have to take a 30-40 min bus ride from the airport to Gare St. Charles, then walk to the Marseille St Charles line. Take the [TER] Marseille-St-Charles to Les Arcs–Draguignaun (1 hour 25 min). Followed by a 30-40 minute taxi to Aups.

Taxis

Aups Taxis:Call Stephane Lamblin: +33-06-49-48-83-99 Mousissac-Bellevue Taxis:Taxi NathalieWeb: taxinathaliemoissacbellevue.comPhone: +33-06-20-74-82-89

Transportation

Wedding Map

Provençal Market Days (8:00 AM - 12:30 PM)Experience the bustle of an authentic market, perfect for finding local cheeses, olives, lavender, textiles, and unique souvenirs. Aups:&nbsp;Wednesday &amp; Saturday&nbsp;mornings. Aups market days take place in the square in front of town hall. Address: 83630 Aups, France Cotignac:&nbsp;Tuesday&nbsp;morning. (Lively market under the plane trees)Address: 10 Rue Bonnaventure, 83570 Cotignac, France(Get there before 9am to ensure you can find parking) Salernes:&nbsp;Wednesday &amp; Sunday&nbsp;mornings. (Known for local ceramics and pottery)Address: Cr Théodore Bouge, 83690 Salernes, France Riez: Wednesday &amp; Saturday mornings. The drive to Riez passes the lake and lavender fields.Address: Mairie Place de la Mairie, 04500 Riez

Provencal Market Days

Near Aups

You pass through this village on the way up to Aups. There are a number of caves you can visit. The square is pleasant with several restaurants and a great patisserie and ice cream shop.&nbsp;Walk around the old town to imagine feudal times.&nbsp;Bonus- one of Becky McKee's favorite home goods/antique stores, is just on the right after the church.

Villecroze

Roughly&nbsp;9 km&nbsp;from Aups, Salernes is nestled in the Bresque valley and is known for its medieval quarter and craft ceramics tradition.&nbsp; A great option for artisan shopping (especially ceramics) and a quieter village vibe.The shady valley makes for a pleasant stroll even during a warm Provençal afternoon.

Salernes en provenance

Cute village with a beautiful view. Great for sunset drinks and food.

Tourtour

This is a town with great caves and wonderful shops and food to explore. Highly recommend!

Cotignac

Moustiers is a beautiful village about 30 minutes from Aups known for its ceramic pottery with a very interesting history.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

If you like lavender and sunflowers, we suggest you drive along the Route de la Lavande near Moustiers.

Route de la Lavande

Beautiful and easy hike to a waterfall. Cute town to wander around.

Sillans la cascade

The “Grand Canyon of Europe.” Ideal for hiking, kayaking, swimming, or scenic drives. Just a short 25 minute drive from Aups on the way to Moustiers you can see the beautiful gorge flow into Lake of Sainte-Croix. Strap up your hiking boots, rent a boat to explore or simply admire the views from the lookout off the bridge. There’s no bad option when checking out the “grand canyon of Europe”!

Pont du Galetas

1-2 Hours from Aups

Both Gaby and Becky studied in this town; Gaby in high school and Becky for a year of university. There are great shops, restaurants and museums. If you are a fan of Paul Cézanne and other impressionists, this is definitely worth a visit.

Aix-en-Provence 

Walk the legendary&nbsp;La Croisette&nbsp;promenade, lined with palm trees, luxury boutiques, and although the wedding is two weeks after the famous Palais des Festivals (home of the Cannes Film Festival May 12-23 2026). Check out the mega-yachts in the harbor and enjoy a chic coffee at a seaside café

La Croisette - Cannes

This town blends old-world charm with ultimate glamour. Wander the picturesque&nbsp;Port de Saint-Tropez&nbsp;to admire the vibrant fishing boats alongside magnificent yachts. Browse the famous&nbsp;Place des Lices Market&nbsp;(Tuesdays &amp; Saturdays) or spend an afternoon lounging at the luxurious&nbsp;Pampelonne Beach&nbsp;clubs.

Port de Saint-Tropez

One of our favorite beaches to visit. Right outside St. Tropez (so you avoid the major traffic). Beautiful sandy beach with mattresses and a Thai fusion restaurant. Windy roads to get there, but worth the drive.

Cabane Bambou

Nice

A market in the heart of Old Town, Nice with tons of restaurant options as well a variety of markets. See times below. Flower Market&nbsp;(Marché aux Fleurs):&nbsp;A major highlight, selling beautiful blooms, small plants, and local scents like lavender. Open Tuesday-Sunday 6:30am-1:30pm Food Market:&nbsp;Abundant fresh fruits, vegetables, olive oils, local cheeses, spices, and regional specialties, with Italian influences nearby. Open Tuesday-Sunday 6:30am-1:30pm Antiques Market: The square transforms into a flea market with antiques and collectibles.Open&nbsp;Every Monday 7am- 4pm Evening Market&nbsp;(Summer):&nbsp;From June to September, an artisanal night market offers crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.&nbsp;Open Everyday 6pm-midnight

Cours Saleya

If you arrive in Nice, France, we highly recommend taking a stroll down the famous&nbsp;Promenade des Anglais, a stunning waterfront walkway. Get lost in the narrow, colorful streets of Vieille Ville&nbsp;(Old Town), and make sure to visit a local market like the&nbsp;Marché aux Fleurs&nbsp;(Flower Market) for a true taste of Niçois life.

Promenade des Anglais

Get ready for your first taste of the French Riviera magic! For those arriving in Nice a little early, we recommend that you take a moment to savor the sun at&nbsp;Castel Plage. Castel Plage&nbsp;is a renowned private beach and restaurant that embodies the quintessential glamour of the Côte d'Azur. If you plan on making a visit we highly recommend making a reservation in advance!

Castel Plage

Restaurants

Traditional Provençal cuisine with a nice terrace.

 Le Provençal

Solea

New restaurant in Aups. Small plates and fresh ingredients.

Feu Les Délices du monde

Traditional French cuisine. They also have wine tasting.

Le Saint-Marc

Pretty outdoor courtyard, family friendly, good pizzas.

Auberge De La Tour

Traditional Provençal cuisine in a cozy setting.

La Table de Tourtour

The essential in Moustiers. You will fall for the inventive and unpretentious cuisine of Johnny who officiates alone in the kitchen.Marine, for her part, signs the desserts and welcomes you to Le Couvert for a moment of indulgence and relaxation.

Le Couvert

Bruno’s Restaurant (“The Truffle King”) Interested in trying and seeing the most truffle one can ever imagine? Try this world-famous dining experience specialized in truffles. A must-try for food lovers. Reservations required.

Chez Bruno

This seaside restaurant mixes bistronomic cuisine, enhanced by beachside views. Open from 10am- midnight

One of Gaby’s favorite restaurants to eat if we are lucky enough to get reservations. This is a charming local spot serving Provençal dishes in a relaxed setting, perfect for a casual meal with regional flavors. Reservations are difficult to come by and Matt is convinced this place doesn’t exist since he’s never gotten the chance to snag a reservation. Becky found that the reservations open two weeks in advance. If you are inclined to try your luck in this beautiful restaurant.

La Merenda

Wonderful seafood and oyster bar with a view of the bay. Reservations required.

Les Bains du Castel

Wineries

Chateau Thuerry

Domaine Rabelles

Le Domaine Saint Jean

Château La Coste

Things to Do 

Wedding Party

Registry

Think polished and stylish, appropriate for an evening outdoor garden celebration. Dresses, jumpsuits, dressy separates, suits or blazers are all welcome. No jeans, please.The ceremony and reception take place on a lawn so we do not recommend stiletto heels.

Dress Code

<a href="https://www.healpalestine.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Heal Palestine</a> <a href="https://www.plannedparenthoodaction.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Planned Parenthood</a>

Gabrielle & Matthew

Gabrielle & Matthew

Photos

December 21, 2025