I find them to be pretty informal, too. There are times when I don't have a lot of energy to do a full 36 card reading at once (so I print out the reading and meditate in the tub, or whatever, and don't rush).
Now, I've not used Sylvie's method, but I think anyone who works with Lenormand for a long time comes up with their own methods, and it's not that difficult. For predictive work, it is indeed easier than tarot, but remember that this is not tarot. Lenormand is a much more straightforward 'language'. One word (symbol) per card, though of course the words can be combined in a myriad of ways. So get to know the language a bit, play with it, and follow whatever Sylvie's teaching you.
I guarantee that sooner or later (and probably sooner) you're going to get some 'hits' so direct that it starts making a great deal of sense - and it's not especially wearing.