A Modern, Timeless, and Romantic Chateau de Lis Wedding

Written By Cody Bentley

When I think back on Sonja and Alex’s Chateau de Lis wedding, I remember sunlight spilling across the gardens on a perfect June afternoon. The air carried that unmistakable anticipation that only a wedding day can hold; joy, tenderness, and the sense of something beautiful about to begin.

Chateau de Lis in Oregon City is the kind of venue that feels like it belongs to another world. Its stone architecture and manicured grounds create a timeless backdrop, but what I love most about this space is how it embraces both elegance and intimacy. For Sonja and Alex, it was the perfect place to gather their loved ones and celebrate their modern, yet deeply romantic vision.

When I first saw Sonja, she was luminous in a lace gown that seemed made for her. The delicate detailing mirrored the soft textures of the florals we designed, adding to the feeling of effortless romance. Her bridesmaids wore striking black gowns, which created a bold contrast and made the all-white florals stand out even more. Together, the look was modern and refined, yet timeless in the way it will still feel beautiful decades from now.

The ceremony took place outdoors under the June sun. One of the most meaningful details was the altar itself. Sonja’s father had lovingly built the wooden platform where the couple would exchange vows. It was more than just a stage; it was a gift of devotion, a foundation built by family that would hold their promises.

Surrounding the space, we filled the aisle with lush white florals, designed to feel immersive and romantic while keeping the palette refined with only minimal greenery. This choice was so intentional for Sonja, she wanted her wedding to embody modern romance in its purest form.

As a wedding florist, I always remind myself that the day belongs to the couple, and sometimes that means things shift in ways that call for creativity. Originally, I had planned to use our ceremony florals to frame the couple’s sweetheart table. But at the last moment, Sonja and Alex decided they wanted to sit with their guests instead.

That change sparked inspiration. Instead of letting the ceremony installation fade into the background, we reimagined it by planting the pieces along the garden patio railing at the reception. It was such a small adjustment, but it transformed the atmosphere; florals climbing the space like a living backdrop that framed the dinner, dancing, and toasts. It turned out to be one of my favorite parts of the design.

The reception carried the same mood of romance and togetherness. With the sun setting over the chateau, the florals glowed softly against candlelight, echoing the joy in the air. Guests gathered for dinner, music, and laughter, surrounded by an atmosphere that was both celebratory and intimate.

It felt exactly as Sonja had envisioned, modern and timeless, filled with love, yet never overdone. Just like the wabi-sabi philosophy that inspires me, the beauty was in the way it all came together naturally: family-built touches, last-minute adjustments, and the joy of a couple who couldn’t stop smiling at each other.

After the day was done, Sonja shared a note that touched me deeply:
“I just wanted to say a huge thank you for the absolutely beautiful flowers you created for our wedding. Everything turned out so stunning, and the florals were truly a dream—they added so much beauty to the day. I couldn’t have asked for more.”

Sonja and Alex’s Chateau de Lis wedding will stay with me as a reminder of why I love what I do. It was a day of sun and joy, of romance made timeless by flowers, family, and the kind of love that transforms a place into a memory.

If you’re dreaming of florals that will weave your story into your wedding day, I would love to bring your vision to life. Contact Seedling Floral to begin planning your own unforgettable celebration. Inquire here!

Wedding Vendor Team

Cody Bentley
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