An enchanting Italian garden-inspired wedding actually in Oregon

Chateau de Michellia wedding

In December of 2019, Dillon messaged Juliette on Instagram, but because he had a large Instagram following, she was skeptical that he was trying to sell her something or get her to join some sort of program. He was persistent, however, and continued to ask her about the Portland, Oregon area before eventually asking her on a date. He ended up moving to Portland from North Carolina for work, but when the work relationship fell through, Dillon stayed in Portland for love. He surprised Juliette by proposing after brunch in Bend, Oregon on a walk at nearby Drake Park. The wedding aesthetic was inspired by the couple's future European honeymoon that would entail traveling through the romantic landscapes of Italy. Drawing inspiration from Venice, Florence, Rome, and Lake Como, Loujune Designs helped Dillon and Juliette create a backyard Italian garden romance at Chateau de Michellia captured by Michaela M Visuals.

watercolor venue wedding invitations

A dress to match the venue's grandeur

With the wedding inspired by Italy’s grand style, Juliette did not hold back when choosing her Martina Liana Luxe dress. Adorned with intricate details and featuring a stunning 9-foot train, the gown showcased a plunging sweetheart neckline over a bodice of textured tulle with 3D floral accents. The sheer back highlighted the structured corset, complete with a row of fabric-covered buttons for a timeless touch. Layers of gathered tulle created a feathery ballgown skirt, making a breathtaking statement as she walked down the aisle. Sparkles throughout the dress echoed the surrounding flowers and gardens, while her Gucci shoes added an Italian flair since the brand began in Florence, Italy.

a-line ruffle ballgown

Local jewelry in rose gold and florals

Juliette wore handmade local jewelry inspired by rose gold and floral motifs for her earrings and necklace. Her hair was styled half-up, half-down, evoking a relaxed, romantic vibe, as if she had just stepped out of a garden party. Her makeup featured neutral tones to enhance her natural beauty.

light tan suit

Lightweight bamboo suiting

Dillon complemented Juliette's look in a tan and neutral suit, paired with a linen pink tie that resonated with the garden theme. His bamboo suit offered lightweight comfort, and he accessorized with gold jewelry and brown shoes, capturing the essence of Italian elegance. Dillon's brother complemented him in a sand-colored suit paired with a tan tie, completing the look.

off-white rose bouquet

Embracing a garden theme

The wedding party embodied an Italian garden theme with the maid of honor in a stunning Mac Duggal gown in soft pink. This open back high neck side ruched gown was made from satin, showcasing a graceful halter neckline that framed her shoulders. The ruched waist added flattering definition, while the thigh-high slit lent a touch of drama.

Italian chateau wedding ceremony

teak furniture

neutral rose ceremony flowers floral arrangements for railings

ruffled wedding ballgown

Making the most of the venue's gardens

Chateau de Michellia was a hidden gem that their planner, Katelyn Huntersimms, discovered in their home state of Oregon that would fit their vision perfectly. It was simply meant to be as the chateau began taking reservations as soon as Juliette and Dillon needed to reserve a venue. As a European castle nestled into the Oregon countryside, all of the decor was European as well as the statues and gardens around the estate.

crystal lamp

Capturing the essence of Italy

Juliette wanted to capture the essence of typical Italian street life, featuring opera singers, live painters, and poets to enhance the atmosphere for the guests and really transport them to another country.

family style wedding reception seating

Family-style reception seating

Surrounded by lush gardens and beautiful roses courtesy of A la Chloe, the reception embraced a warm, family-style atmosphere with rustic wooden tables and place settings throughout. It took place in the center of the grounds with the stunning European castle behind the group.

teak furniture rentals

copper and white seating chart blue and white floral table numbers

fabric menus

Blush pink and white color palette

They embraced blush pink and white accents, complemented by linen menus and brown details that accentuated the wooden setting of the venue. Each table was adorned with thick floral arrangements that were intended to give a “wildflower feel” and featured romantic chandelier lighting with shepherds hooks to set the mood while candles flickered at the tables. Each place card had the image of “the last kiss of Romeo and Juliet” on the wax seal to incorporate the Italian love story and play off of Juliette’s name.

toffee roses

Romantic Italian-inspired menu

The menu was equally Italian-inspired, featuring charcuterie boards, handheld pizzas, and a Caprese chicken dinner by Willabys Catering. Every detail of the three-course menu echoed the romance of Italy, a theme that also held special meaning for Dillon, who has Italian heritage from his grandfather. A stunning four-tier wedding cake from Dream Cakes complemented and completed the meal.

drink toppers

Edible drink toppers

Drinks were adorned with monograms for an elevated yet trendy accent.

garden-inspired outdoor wedding reception

A reception favorite: The shoe game

One of Dillon’s favorite moments was the shoe game, where the bride and groom playfully debated who was better at various scenarios of life.

blue and white wedding cake

From the bride: Her favorite part

My favorite part of the reception? It’s hard to choose! The intimate moments with Dillon were truly special, especially our first dance, when it felt like we were the only ones in the garden, almost floating. Hearing heartfelt toasts from my family and a personalized poem from a family friend added such a meaningful touch to the day.

outdoor blue hour wedding reception