Wisconsin couple Rachel and Matt have an affinity for Italy (we know, they totally get us) and wanted to share this special destination with guests locally before jetting off there to honeymoon. Luckily, they happened upon Villa Terrace overlooking Lake Michigan—an Italian Renaissance style villa and art museum right in their city. Gracious Events helped them pull it off, and new vendor guide member, photographer Meghan Lee Harris shared the dreamiest fine art images of the day. Looking at them, you’d never know this was a Milwaukee wedding, not a distant Tuscan villa!
Rachel stunned in a romantic lace Neta Dover wedding dress with detached sleeves (as you’ll see below). And silky champagne bridesmaid dresses added an extra touch of elegance for an Italian-inspired affair. Find your dream wedding and bridal party attire in the 100LC shop >>
What a beautiful spot for bridal portraits!
The venue’s old world charm and marble statue of Mercury, the mythical messenger of Gods, greeted guests as they entered the courtyard. As they continued to make their way to the terracotta tiled terrace, chairs were adorned with olive leaves—a Tuscan staple—and situated facing the dazzling clear waters of Lake Michigan where their eyes quickly fixated. It was a remarkable sight to behold just steps from the quiet and unassuming Milwaukee sidewalk just moments ago.
The venue and its lush gardens, coupled with Rachel’s incredible eye for fashion, made the day all the more iconic. Having chosen a private First Look, Rachel wanted the ceremony to still feel grand and unique in its own right, so with her love of design created with her very hands a romantic cathedral veil with intricate lace to match her sweetheart gown and gloves.
Following the ceremony, guests were invited back to the courtyard to enjoy Rachel & Matt’s signature drink, a classic Italian Aperol Spritz, of course!
Was there ever a more Italian wedding moment than this celebratory entrance?!
Guests continued to enjoy the intimate ambiance beneath Italian columns before making their way to the Terrace for a candlelit dinner elegantly styled by Gracious Catering and Events. Mussels and pasta made way to tables for an evening of mediterranean cuisine and conversation al fresco. A perfect way to conclude their romantic Italian Villa themed fete before sending them on their tour of Italy.
Congrats to Rachel and Matt on their gorgeously Italian Milwaukee wedding!
Photography: Meghan Lee Harris | Wedding Venue: Villa Terrace in Milwaukee, Wisconsin | Event Planning: Gracious Events | Catering: Gracious Events | Invitations: Paper Source | Wedding Dress Designer: Neta Dover | Wedding Dress Store : Mira Couture | Floral Design: Gracious Events | Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Shona Joy | Groom’s Attire: The Black Tux | Groomsmen’s Attire: The Black Tux | Rentals: Canopies Events with Distinction | Cake: Simma’s Bakery | DJ: Milwaukee Airwaves | Hair & Makeup: The Bridal Beauty Team | Weddings Rings: Melanie Casey
