Savina + Austin’s Romantic Villa Terrace Wedding

A Villa Terrace Wedding in Milwaukee, WI

A Villa Terrace Wedding in Milwaukee

Savina and Austin’s wedding at The Villa Terrace in Milwaukee, WI was the definition of romantic, elegant, and fun. With just over 70 of their closest friends and family gathered in the lush Italian-style gardens, it felt intimate yet celebratory. From their sweet first look to dancing under the terrace lights, their day was filled with joy, laughter, and so much love.

How They Met

These two first connected as sophomores at UW–Madison thanks to a mutual friend who insisted they’d be perfect for each other. Their conversations started over Snapchat (Savina swears Austin wouldn’t have made the first move otherwise!), but once they finally met up in person, everything clicked. Their first date at The Old Fashioned in Madison was a freezing January night, but the cold didn’t matter. They were instantly comfortable, and the rest is history.

The Proposal Story

Fast forward to December 2023. Austin wanted their engagement to be a day Savina would never forget. With the help of her mom, he convinced her to return early from visiting family so he could plan a Chicago day-date filled with ice skating, exploring the city, and a cozy evening by the Christmas tree. When Savina opened what she thought was a jewelry gift bag, she found an empty box inside, only for Austin to pull the real ring from his pocket, drop to one knee, and ask her to marry him. Between the candles, wine, and twinkling tree lights, it was the perfect proposal. The next day, Austin surprised Savina with a brunch celebration with both of their families, a detail that made her feel even more loved.

Favorite Moments from Their Villa Terrace Wedding

Weddings at Villa Terrace in Milwaukee already have a magical backdrop with Lake Michigan views, manicured gardens, and timeless architecture. But what made this day unforgettable was the way Savina and Austin embraced it all, even the unexpected.

During their first look, a light rain began to fall. Savina’s tears were a mix of pure joy at seeing Austin and a little worry about the weather. But their happiness never wavered. The skies held off just long enough for them to exchange vows in the garden. And in the most poetic timing, the rain picked up as they were pronounced husband and wife, falling like celebratory confetti.

Dinner plans shifted from the terrace to the courtyard, but it turned into something even better. Guests moved fluidly through the villa’s gardens, terrace, and courtyard, experiencing the full beauty of the venue. Later, Savina said she was actually happy it rained because it made their day more magical than she could have planned.

Cocktail hour in the courtyard buzzed with laughter and clinking glasses before the heartfelt speeches, and their first dance under the twinkling lights was picture perfect. When Austin and his mom broke out into a choreographed dance, everyone cheered and laughed along, setting the stage for the surprise bridesmaid + groomsmen performance that brought the house down.

As photographers, one of our favorite moments was sneaking away with Savina and Austin for golden hour portraits in the gardens. The Villa Terrace skyline views and soft lake breeze gave us the dreamiest backdrop for their newlywed portraits – it’s truly one of those venues that seems to transport you into another world.

Every single person there talked about how Savina and Austin’s love is inspiring, and you could feel that energy woven through the entire day. It was a celebration that flew by in the best way.

Vendor Love:

Planning Your Own Villa Terrace Wedding?

If you’re dreaming of your own Villa Terrace Milwaukee wedding, imagine saying your vows in the garden with Lake Michigan as your backdrop, sipping cocktails in the courtyard, and dining al fresco surrounded by timeless Italian-inspired architecture. Rain or shine, this venue is endlessly photogenic and unforgettable.

Planning your own Milwaukee wedding? Whether you’re drawn to Villa Terrace or another lakefront venue, we’d love to document your story. Reach out here to start the conversation!

💬 Curious about what it’s like to get married at Villa Terrace? Drop your questions in the comments or send us a message—we’d love to help!

Savina + Austin’s Romantic Villa Terrace Wedding | Milwaukee Wedding Photographers

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