Location: The Dolomites, Italian Alps, Italy
Setting: From Lago di Braies to the top of an unnamed mountain
Wedding season: Summer
The number of guests: Just the bride and the groom
Wedding theme/style: Dreamy, romantic, fairy, helicopter elopement.
Katie and Lee’s paths crossed as mutual friends. Their connection deepened when Lee, who was buying a home, sought Katie’s expertise in the industry. Lee asked Katie to lunch, and from that moment on, their story unfolded like fate. It’s actually quite funny how it all happened! They were discussing his home financing over the phone, and as they were about to end the conversation, Lee said, “We should grab lunch sometime!” However, Katie misheard him and just replied with a quick “Bye!” before hanging up. Oops! But she quickly realized her mistake and had to call him back to accept his offer for a date.
Neither of them had any interest or time in casually dating as they both had full lives with responsibilities. Although their first attempt at setting up a lunch date had a miscommunication, they eventually went on a date and discovered they had shared experiences and similar goals which led them to want to spend the forever after with each other.
Katie and Lee chose to have an intimate elopement in Italy that would be a fairy reflection of the unique and deliberate relationship they had built. The couple had felt so blessed in their relationship by blocking out the outside noise and they wanted the big day to reflect that as well. Through careful planning and collaboration with their wedding planner, they created a personalized and unforgettable experience that truly celebrated their love!
The wedding took place in the beautiful and scenic Dolomites in Northern Italy – a location that would provide a dreamy and romantic atmosphere. When the bride saw pictures from the Dolomites, she knew the views would be breathtaking and no matter what they did, they would have a stunning day. They explored various locations, from Lago di Braies to the top of an unnamed mountain as no one had ever been there before, and even had their vows exchanged there, in the exclusive and magical setting , ensuring a truly special and unforgettable experience for the couple alone. It was a magical experience left all just to Lee and Katie.
On the morning of her wedding, the bride had a memorable and magical experience. Jlenia, the wedding planner of the couple, provided valuable suggestions for hair and makeup, and Ulli Thomaseth skillfully transformed the bride, starting early in the morning to ensure she looked her best. Filled with excitement, the bride’s morning was a picture-perfect start to her special day.
The bride’s wedding dress choice was a momentous decision. With the assistance of her best friend, who worked in the couture dress industry, she had the opportunity to try on her dream gown, “Amber,” by renowned designer Sassi Holford. From the first moment she laid eyes on the dress, it was clear that it perfectly captured the bride’s vision for her dream wedding day. But Katie’s friend had never let her try it on because she wanted Katie to put a wedding gown on when she was truly engaged and excited to walk down the aisle. Made of a beautiful silk satin blend, long sleeve, flowing gown exuded a subtle charm and added an extra touch of magic to the bride’s overall look.
With a keen sense of personal style, Lee was determined to look his best on his special day. Choosing a black suit exuded sophistication and timeless charm, fitting perfectly with the overall aesthetic of the wedding.
While initially worried about they would miss their family and friends, the bride and groom were inspired by their unique time together and managed to create irreplaceable memories that focused solely on their love and commitment to each other as they celebrated their special day in a company of just each other.
As the early morning light cast a soft glow over the serene waters of Lago di Braies, Katie and Lee prepared for their much-anticipated first look. With bated breath, they stood on the shores, ready to catch a glimpse of each other before the chaos of the day ensued.
After Katie and Lee had their emotional first look, they embarked on a romantic boat trip as part of their dreamy and unique wedding day.
After their boat trip, Katie and Lee continued their wedding day celebration in various locations throughout the Dolomites. They embarked on a helicopter ride to explore and find the perfect mountaintop location to exchange their vows.
With the assistance of their wedding planner, Jlenia, they landed on an unnamed mountain, creating a truly unique and unforgettable experience. It was actually her idea to fly to the top to ensure Lee and Katie had such a unique experience.
From Katie: “Jlenia knew the area and had been a dedicated wedding planner in the Dolomites for years. Not only did she speak multiple languages, but EVERYWHERE we went she knew everyone. She had a plan a, b, and c for the entire day. She was a God sent and I could not recommend her more.”
On top of the mountain, in the midst of breathtaking views, Katie and Lee shared heartfelt vows, surrounded by only nature and their love for each other. It was a deeply intimate and emotional moment that encapsulated the essence of their relationship.
From Katie: “When I think of my wedding day, my mind goes straight to my now-husband in tears on the top of a mountain vowing to love me forever. All I see is him. And mountains as far as the eye can see. There is no other memory but he and I. That was important to me. I didn’t want to have any distractions. Lee and I worked so hard to find each other: we deserved a day filled with the memory of our love for each other.”
Throughout the day, the sweet birds were accompanied by their wedding photographer, Magda from Fotomagoria, who captured the romantic and dreamy atmosphere of their wedding. Magda’s distinctive style and enthusiastic approach made the photography experience joyful and memorable.
Katie shares about her experience of working the Magda: “Magda’s talent certainly defines her work. But what sets Magda apart is that she has FUN with you! We had an absolute blast with Magda despite only having just met each other. She gave wonderful direction, and I felt she was just as excited as Lee and I were to be a part of the special day. Her excitement shined through all that she was trying to capture.”
After exchanging their vows, Katie and Lee continued their wedding day by enjoying a lunch in the Dolomites with breathtaking views. They savored delicious food while surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Italian Alps. Afterward, the couple ventured to a museum in the area, immersing themselves in art and culture.
The sight of the beautifully designed cake brought an exclamation of delight from the newlyweds and added a touch of elegance to their already unforgettable special day.
The duo’s wedding day encapsulated the essence of a truly remarkable and unique celebration, leaving them with cherished memories that will forever hold a special place in their hearts.
From Katie: “I wanted to look back and be able to envision it as something I could have dreamed of in my slumber. Almost like a dreamy, moody, romantic, fairy tale of sorts… I wanted a day that had never been and a day that could never be replicated. Lee and I wanted our very own unique experience that no one had ever or would ever experience. That would make our day, truly OUR day. And we were able to accomplish just that!!”
Advice from the couple:
• Your wedding day doesn’t have to fit in a conventional idea of walking down the aisle or a reception filled with hundreds or people. If you want a unique experience for your wedding day: you can have just that. And you can have it without regrets. While we DID miss our family and friends, we created memories that will never be replaced.
• Trust your vision and make this day about you and your husband/partner. In the end, it’s about your memories. What do you want your mind to flash to when you think of your wedding day? Let whatever that is guide you when you plan your day.
PLANNER & DESIGNER Dolomites Wedding Planner | PHOTOGRAPHY Fotomagoria | VIDEOGRAPHY Luno Films | FLORALS Florale Werkstatt | CAKE Garage Patisserie, Katie Medlin Skaggs | MUAH Ulli Thomaseth | WEDDING DRESSES Sassi Holford, Allison Webb | SHOES Gucci |
