One Couple's Whimsical Fantasy-Inspired Wedding at Bella Collina in Montverde, Florida

Actors Christina and Matt looked to Middle-Earth when planning their wedding. “We wanted to capture that cozy feeling you get from The Lord of the Rings, with the illusion that you’re in an overgrown fortress,” Christina says. For the ceremony, which their college theater professor officiated, they channeled the fictional Rivendell valley with smilax and ferns, then went for a festive “Shire” vibe for the reception. A warm palette, bistro lights and loose arrangements of mums, ranunculus, hypericum berries, pomegranates and more completed the look. “Matt wore a forest green diamond-patterned tux that resembled dragon scales,” Christina says. “It fit perfectly with The Lord of the Rings fantasy vibe we were going for.”

Scores from the pair’s favorite movies played during cocktail hour and dinner, including tunes from Star Wars, E.T. and Ratatouille.  

Guests dined on a rustic comfort-food menu of chicken piccata and true whipped potatoes. The couple served pineapple coconut, baked apple and peach cobbler flavored cakes. “It was amazing to celebrate our love in front of those we hold dearest on our own dorky terms,” Matt says.