Burgundy and Gold at Chateau Gassies, Bordeaux

Alena got ready in one of the chateau bedrooms, silk robe on, champagne in hand, her ivory wedding dress hanging by the arched window. Pearl drop earrings caught the morning light as she sat on a tufted bench, the white mini dress she would change into later already laid out nearby.

Rows of white chairs lined a gravel aisle through the formal gardens, leading to a floral altar of white hydrangeas, blush garden roses, and trailing greenery. The couple exchanged vows twice: once outdoors under open sky, once inside the stone chapel with its tall arched windows and wrought-iron chandeliers. Cathedral-length veil, tulle ballgown with 3D floral applique, and the sound of applause echoing off old stone.

Alena wore an off-the-shoulder white tulle ballgown with three-dimensional floral applique along the bodice, a deep V-neckline, and a cathedral-length veil. For the evening, she changed into a short structured satin mini dress. The bridal portraits ranged from the chateau steps to the formal garden paths, each frame grounded by the cream limestone and white shutters behind her.

Wedding photographer Nastia Vesna shot on the chateau steps, by the reflecting pool, and across the open lawn, mixing natural light with the architectural lines of the facade. One frame: the groom carrying the bride at a run across the grass, both laughing. Another: a quiet kiss by the water, pearl earrings catching the last warmth.

Burgundy charger plates, gold flatware, and mauve-pink glassware set the tone for each round table inside the reception hall. White ranunculus, blush garden roses, and cascading greenery spilled from low centerpieces, while the sweetheart table overflowed with cream and blush blooms against the limestone walls. The couple cut their cake under a sparkler fountain, then danced until the parquet floor shone.