Pastel Blue and Purple Set an Enchanting Tone at This Wedding at Cactus Moon Lodge in Dripping Springs, Texas
The unlikely beginning of Mikaela Volpicelli and Britton Gammons’ love story unfolded in the heart of San Diego. Mikaela recalls, “He was my neighbor. I essentially got hollered one day off his balcony, and the rest was history.” This serendipitous moment marked the start of an undeniable connection: they were instantly inseparable. Within months, they found themselves moving in together and welcoming a puppy into their burgeoning family. Mikaela had always joked that her “ONE request for a proposal was always ‘make sure I look good and make sure my nails are done.’” Yet, on the day Britton chose to propose, neither wish was granted. Instead, what unfolded was an adventure on a random Wednesday afternoon, a hike that would lead them to an unforgettable moment. Unbeknownst to Mikaela, Britton had orchestrated a grand plan involving a steep hike in Eugene, Oregon, complete with a hidden photographer, a bracelet engraved with their significant date and a setting adorned with rose petals, a blanket and flowers from his grandmother’s garden—all culminating in a proposal amidst the natural beauty of the mountaintop.
Clad in no makeup, a baggy t-shirt and leggings covered in their dog Sunni’s hair, Mikaela stood, nails painted in a kaleidoscope of colors from her niece’s first birthday party. The setting and the moment were far from the polished scenes often imagined for proposals, but for Mikaela, it was perfect in its authenticity. “It was still so special and genuine, I truly wouldn’t have changed a thing,” she details, touched by the lengths to which Britton went to surprise her. Overwhelmed with emotion and caught off guard by the proposal, she realized, “I was SO surprised, so to that regard, he nailed it.”
As they began planning their special day, Mikaela mused, “We wanted a uniquely intimate venue that could host our wedding party for the weekend and be the perfect backdrop to the Texas Hill Country.” Their vision was clear: to marry the rustic charm of the state with the vibrant hues of their beloved springtime—a bold juxtaposition against the amber tones of the October setting. Their plan was to create an experience that was both visually stunning and deeply personal, setting the stage for a celebration that would reflect their journey together.
Outfit choices for the day were as deliberate as their venue selection, with each outfit telling a part of their love story. Britton, ever the embodiment of timeless elegance, “wanted a timeless, classic look with a black tux,” mirroring the grace with which he navigated his life alongside Mikaela. The bride, in contrast, envisioned herself in “a modern, romantic gown.” Her dress represented new beginnings, adorned with floral and lace detailing that whispered tales of spring amidst the fall.
As the day dawned, guests gathered on the balcony overlooking the rolling hills and verdant trees surrounding the venue. The arch was bursting forth with lavenders, blushes, yellows and magentas bathed in the golden light of the setting sun. As Mikaela walked down the aisle, the world seemed to stand still. “Our heartfelt ceremony was officiated by our very best friend Lauren Moreland (aka ‘Lomo’),” the bride reflects.
The cocktail hour that followed was a tribute to their shared adventures, with every detail, from the psychedelic mushroom-themed “I Love You So Mush” seating chart to the vintage baby blue telephone used as an audio guestbook, a nod to their unique narrative. Guests marveled at the creativity, immersed in an atmosphere that was quintessentially Mikaela and Britton. As the evening air filled with the sounds of merriment, it was clear that this was no ordinary celebration.
The reception unfolded under the stars, where the night was lit by the twinkling lights strung above. The first dance saw Mikaela in “a silk mini dress with feather trim from Untamed Petals,” a surprise that left guests in awe. As they danced, it was as if the world faded away. As the night gave way to a silent disco afterparty, the air buzzed with energy. Britton, taking on the role of DJ, filled the space with house music. Guests adorned in neon cowboy hats danced the night away, making those memories that the newlyweds sought to design with their nuptials.
Reflecting on their wedding, the new Mr. and Mrs. offer a piece of wisdom to those embarking on their own wedding planning adventures: “Hire a wedding planner you love and trust!” Their words are a reminder of the peace and joy that comes from knowing you’re in capable hands. They add: “We had planned to say our personal vows during the first look, but due to time constraints pre-ceremony, we decided to exchange them after the ceremony with just our photographer.” This was a decision that, in retrospect, added an intimate layer to their celebration, allowing them to savor the moment fully.
