From a chance meeting in a USC college bar to a romantic proposal in Napa Valley – where Eric’s parents had their own engagement – Kaitlyn Murray and Eric Miller’s love story took them on a seven-year journey that culminated in a luxury wedding at Chateau Gassies a unique venue located near Bordeaux train station. For their wedding day, they dreamed beyond California’s wine country, finding their perfect setting across the ocean in France
A Luxury Wedding at Chateau Gassies, Bordeaux
On a bright July day, this 18th Century Chateau near Bordeaux welcomed over 100 guests from around the world. The chateau’s garden, decorated in soft blues and whites, set a romantic scene for their ceremony. The historic stone walls and timeless architecture created an atmosphere of old-world elegance, while contemporary touches brought fresh energy to the celebrated space.
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Wedding Planning by Samkoma World & Photography by Still Miracle
Kaitlyn walked down the aisle to “Can’t Help Falling in Love” played by a string trio, wearing a Dana Harel gown whose lace and scalloped details seemed made for the chateau setting. Eric’s father officiated the ceremony, adding a personal touch to their French celebration.
As evening approached, Samkoma World transformed the space inside the château’s historic walls. This Chateau wedding venue’s original stone walls, exposed wooden beams, crystal chandeliers, and antique mirrors set the scene for an unforgettable celebration. Long tables dressed in crisp white linens glowed under hundreds of candles, while personalized macarons marked each place setting. The celebration combined French tradition with modern style—six signature cocktails flowed throughout the night, from classic French aperitifs to espresso martinis.
Among the grand moments, Still Miracle captured the small touches that made lasting memories: Kaitlyn’s 80-year-old grandmother made her first international trip to be there, helping the couple cut their cake with a family knife that had blessed five generations of marriages. In this setting where history met heart, Kaitlyn and Eric created their own perfect beginning, proving that while trends come and go, true romance remains timeless.
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
