American Romance Meets French Heritage in Bordeaux
Some love stories are written in the stars, and others in the dim lights of a college bar. For Kaitlyn Murray and Eric Miller, their forever began at USC, where a chance meeting sparked a romance that would span seven years. When it came time to propose, Eric chose California’s wine country – Napa Valley – a meaningful nod to where his own parents’ engagement story unfolded decades ago. But for their wedding day, the couple dreamed bigger, looking across the ocean to the romantic landscapes of France.
A French Affair to Remember
On a sun-drenched July afternoon, over 100 guests gathered at the magnificent Chateau Gassies, having traveled from across the globe to witness Kaitlyn and Eric’s union. “It was surreal,” Kaitlyn recalls of the moment she walked down the aisle to “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” performed by a string trio. The bride was a vision in her Dana Harel gown, its delicate lace and scalloped details perfectly complementing the chateau’s old-world charm. Against a backdrop of soft blues and whites, the ceremony, officiated by Eric’s father, unfolded in the chateau’s garden, where every corner seemed to whisper tales of timeless romance.
Where Old World Meets New
Inside the château’s historic stone walls, an enchanting reception tablescape emerged as day transformed into evening. Long tables draped in crisp white linens were adorned with elegant table decorations that perfectly complemented the venue’s timeless architecture. Hundreds of flickering candles cast a warm glow across the reception space, where personalized macarons marked each guest’s place – a sweet touch of French tradition. But it was the small moments that made the grandest impact: the bride’s grandmother, traveling internationally for the first time at 80, helping the couple cut their cake with a family knife that had blessed five generations of marriages before them. Six signature cocktails flowed as freely as the laughter and tears, from classic French aperitifs to modern espresso martinis, embodying the couple’s vision of blending old-world elegance with contemporary luxury.
In a world where weddings often chase the latest trends, Kaitlyn and Eric’s celebration stood apart in its timeless approach. “It’s all about the person you’re marrying,” the couple shares, “everything else is just a wonderful bonus.” And what a bonus their French chateau wedding turned out to be – a perfect symphony of history, heart, and happily ever after.
Special Elements:
- Generations Gathered: The first international journey of the bride’s grandmother
- Family Traditions: A century-old cake knife passing through five generations
- Personal Touches: Six signature cocktails reflecting the couple’s journey
- Musical Magic: String trio performance of “Can’t Help Falling in Love”
Getting Ready
The Ceremony
The Bridal Party
The Bride and Groom
The Reception
The Design & Details
The Venue
The After Party
