The more weddings that I'm lucky enough to see as the Real Weddings editor, the more I'm amazed at how much Wisconsin has to offer. It's easy to think of the wooded, rustic style with which the state is often associated. And as American's Dairyland, cows and barns are a given. But then I come across a wedding such as Becky and Dan's, which took place on the vineyards of Villa Bellezza in Pepin, and it's as if being transported to a European destination. The vineyards and venue styling lend an Italian touch, while vintage, soft details add charm and sophistication. All of it is captured remarkably by Nicole Spangler Photography, bringing you the feel of being whisked away on a transatlantic trip. Take some time to get away with this beautiful big day...
From the Bride:
Becky and Dan decided that a vineyard in a small Wisconsin town would be the perfect setting for their special day. The couple lives in Stillwater, MN, and had searched for the right vineyard venue close to home, but found the ideal site in Pepin, WI. The breathtaking vineyard, Villa Bellezza, provided a little Italian getaway right in the Midwest, including gorgeous vineyard views and a picturesque fountain in the Piazza. The owners were more than accommodating and the event staff was genuinely helpful--not to mention, the delicious wine! All in all, it was the absolute perfect place to host a wedding.
The day was captured by the truly talented, Nicole Spangler of Nicole Spangler Photography. Nicole met the engaged couple over a year and a half before the big day and the length of that relationship is evident in all of her photos. The setting for September 27th, 2014, could not have been more idealistic: sunny, warm, and full of emotion. The flowers were shades of pale pink, green, purple, and blue. The bride’s bouquet included roses, hydrangeas, and even berries, arranged with rustic romance. Flowers were also a delicate detail hung on the wood arbor that was the backdrop to the outdoor ceremony in front of the vineyard aisles. The groom is a very handy guy and created an outline of the vineyards logo out of steel to act as a standing altarpiece. It was such a unique piece and now resides in the married couple’s backyard as a charming reminder of their wedding day and lifelong commitment.
Pastor Tom Nyman officiated the ceremony and added a personal touch with stories of Dan growing up. He had been the Pastor who baptized Dan as a child and had watched him transition into an adult over the years. During the ceremony, Becky’s sister, Amanda (a professional opera singer), and her husband Jack, brilliantly performed “Can’t Help Falling in Love with You” as a duet with Amanda singing and Jack playing guitar. The reception tables were accessorized with an assortment of wire wine caddies and baskets of all different shapes, sizes, and colors. Villa Bellezza wine bottles, colored glass bottles, and a hint of flowers completed the centerpiece look. Stamped “D&B” wine glass charms made of cork were at each table setting as favors for guests. After dinner, guests could move into the Tower to get out on the dance floor, take funny pictures with family and friends in front of a backdrop and lights, or grab a drink from the marvelous dark-wood bar. Guests could also step outside the Great Hall to the DIY Cigar Bar. A “Groom’s Cigar Bar” sign was displayed next to a box of Romeo Y Julieta Cigars and personalized matchboxes that read in glittered green print “Sparks Flew D&B” for guests to enjoy. Lights were strung to set the tranquil scene and many chairs were arranged for a relaxing lounge in the warm fall air. The outside scene provided a very cool 50’s Hollywood vibe that was captured in many moonlight pictures.
