Set against the idyllic backdrop of Bordeaux, France, Kaitlyn Murray and Eric Miller’s wedding was a celebration of love, family, and elegant design. With over 100 guests traveling from across the globe to join them, the couple created a day filled with thoughtful touches and unforgettable moments at the picturesque Chateau Gassies.
Location: Bordeaux, France
Style: Elegant, romantic, timeless
Time of planning: 1 year
Number of guests: 100
Setting: Chateau
Season: Summer
Kaitlyn and Eric first met as college students at USC, their paths crossing in a serendipitous encounter at a local bar. Seven years of shared adventures and cherished memories culminated in Eric’s heartfelt proposal in Napa, California, a location close to his heart as it mirrored his parents’ engagement setting. Their vision for their wedding day was clear: a timeless, elegant celebration that blended old-world charm with modern luxury.
Location & Planning
After a year of planning with their talented planners, Josiah and Justin of SAMKOMA, the couple chose Chateau Gassies, a historic estate just outside Bordeaux. The venue’s stunning gardens, symmetrical architecture, and serene ambiance provided the perfect setting for their dream wedding. Kaitlyn and Eric’s design choices, including a white and soft blue color palette, subtly enhanced the venue’s natural beauty without overpowering it.
"Just a quick train ride from Paris, we had over hundred guests join us to celebrate our marriage on a beautiful July day."
Bridal Morning
Kaitlyn prepared for her big day in the chateau’s bridal suite, surrounded by her bridesmaids dressed in soft blue gowns by Show Me Your Mumu. She wore a breathtaking lace gown by Dana Harel, sourced from The Dress Theory in San Diego. The gown’s scalloped hem and open-back design perfectly complemented the romantic French setting.
Her look was completed with an elegant updo styled by Eleonora Hairstyliste, minimal jewelry, and a spritz of Jo Malone perfume. Kaitlyn’s bouquet of white roses and greenery by Maitemach added a timeless touch. As her friends helped adjust her dress and veil, laughter filled the room, setting the tone for the day ahead.
Groom's Style
Eric chose a classic black tuxedo by Canali, exuding timeless sophistication. His groomsmen, outfitted in suits from The Black Tux, brought light-hearted energy as they shared final moments before the ceremony. Together, they embodied the elegant yet relaxed vibe of the celebration.
First Look
The couple’s first look was an emotional highlight, set amidst the tranquil gardens of chateau. Kaitlyn approached Eric, her dress flowing gracefully along the gravel pathway. The moment Eric turned to see her was filled with visible emotion and joy, a quiet moment to take in the significance of the day before the festivities began. The talented team from Still Miracle Photography perfectly documented every detail of their day with precision and artistry.
"Travelling all the way across the Atlantic, from sun-kissed shores of California to charming Bordeaux in France, to celebrate their love was totally worth it for this stunning couple."
Ceremony
The outdoor ceremony took place in the estate’s lush gardens, framed by a floral arch designed by Maitemach . Guests gathered under the summer sun as a string trio from Ensemble Obbligato played “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” Kaitlyn walked down the aisle on her father’s arm, her smile radiant as she took in the sight of her loved ones. “Walking down the aisle and standing at the altar was incredibly surreal,” she shared.
Eric’s father officiated the ceremony, adding a deeply personal touch. The couple exchanged vows filled with emotion and sealed their union with a kiss, drawing applause and cheers. As they walked back down the aisle, guests showered them with white petals, a moment brimming with joy and celebration.
"They looked and felt so relaxed and natural in the enchanting and elegant setting of Château Gassies."
Cocktail Hour
The couple took a serene stroll on the chateau’s grounds, while guests enjoyed a sophisticated cocktail hour, sipping on a selection of signature drinks, including martinis, cosmos, and Aperol spritzes. The estate’s fountain and manicured pathways provided a stunning backdrop for candid photos and lively conversation.
"As our cameras captured every moment, the whole filming crew was swept away by the couple's emotions and their love story. Their feelings kept us inspired and fueled our passion for creating magical photography and films."
Candlelight Reception
The reception took place inside the chateau’s stone-walled dining hall, a romantic space illuminated by countless candles. Long tables were dressed with fine linens, gold-rimmed glassware, and floral centerpieces of white hydrangeas and roses by Maitemach. Each guest’s place was marked with a personalized macaron by Madeleine’s Macarons, adding a sweet and thoughtful touch.
Dinner, catered by Les 5 Sens Traiteur , featured French-inspired cuisine paired with local wines. The couple’s first dance was a magical moment, as they swayed under a canopy of string lights.
"We wanted a romantic setting with lots and lots of candles."
Later, Kaitlyn changed into a sleek satin gown by Cult Gaia for a night of dancing to music provided by British DJ in France.
One of the evening’s most meaningful moments was cutting the cake, made by Supa Dupa Mama, with a knife that had been used by generations of women in Kaitlyn’s family.
"My grandmother made the trip all the way from Chicago to celebrate with us in Bordeaux, it was her first time out of the country, and she helped cut the cake with us using the special knife."
Advice from the couple:
• It’s all about the person you’re marrying – everything else is just a wonderful bonus.
PHOTOGRAPHER Still Miracle | PLANNING & DESIGN SAMKOMA | VENUE Chateau Gassies | FLORALS Maitemach | HAIR Eleonora Hairstyliste | MAKEUP Sunset Life Makeup | DRESS Dana Harel via The Dress Theory | PARTY DRESS Cult Gaia | SUIT Canali | BRIDESMAIDS Show Me Your Mumu | GROOMSMEN The Black Tux | CATERING Les 5 Sens Traiteur | CAKE Supa Dupa Mama | MACARONS Madeleine’s Macarons | STATIONERY Kate Wiseman Creative | ENTERTAINMENT British DJ in France | MUSIC Ensemble Obbligato | FOOD TRUCK Le Rialto Food Truck | RENTALS Be Lounge | TABLETOP & FURNITURE Maison Options
