Channeling all the Princess Diaries vibes with Michaela and Abe’s Villa Terrace Engagement Photos in Milwaukee.

She squeezed me tight as her joyful “I had SO much fun today!!” echoed throughout the infamaous Mercury Courtyard.

Lemon trees laden with lush fruit surrounded the Italian inspired Terrace in downtown Milwaukee. On a sunny weekday afternoon, creaking wood floors and terra cotta tiles led Michaela & Abe from room to room of the historic Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum.

“We really love finding super extravagant recipes (like beef wellington) and sipping on cocktails while cooking the whole meal for hours together.”

While there was neither beef wellington nor cocktails there WAS lemon trees, bubbling fountains, and so much sunshine.

Milwaukee Villa Terrace Engagement Session

Like true royals, they opted for formal jewel tones outfits. The contrast of Michaela’s ruby red silk gown juxtaposed against Abe’s soft linen shirt popped against the warm moody tones inside the Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum.

Villa Terrace was built in 1923 and originally served as a family home. The Smith familys’ children grew up running through the courtyards, splashing in the sculpted fountains, and laughing down the halls of the Italian Renaissance inspired halls. The Queen of Genovia herself would be in awe! 😉

Hand in hand, Michaela and Abe stole hidden kisses in the Library, the only witnesses were the Queen-Anne style bookshelves overflowing with historical books.

Winding through the Great Hall, past the original paintings dating to the 1800’s, they stepped through lemon tree lined door ways. The Terrazzo della Luna (Terrace of the Moon) overlooks the incredible Renaissance Garden and Milwaukee Bay. Between the potted lemon trees, Michaela and Abe whispered what their first impressions of each other had been and what they loved most about each other.

Engagement Photos Milwaukee

They aspire to be life long learners, whether it is continuing education or picking up new skill or hobbies. They strive to expand their horizons at every point but enjoy being goofy together as well. Their circle of people is at the center of their lives.

Here’s what Abe and Michaela are passionate about in their lives:

Abe – learning, personal growth, sweet babies Luna and Bella (pups)
Michaela – true crime (murderino)[ our favorite kind of people ;)] , reading, sweet babies Luna and Bella (pups)
Both – life-long learning and personal growth, family, Brooklyn-99

Taking their love of adventures into stride, they chose a new place that they’d never been to for their session- resulting in these Milwaukee Villa Terrace engagement photos! And what a grand new adventure this was!

Indoor Photo Locations Milwaukee

Villa Terrace hosts a variety of both indoor and outdoor locations, aside from the above mentioned Library and Renaissance Garden. One of our very favorite rooms is the Zuber Gallery- named for elaborate floral wallpaper from the Zuber Wallpaper company. This totally unique indoor Milwaukee photo location is one of our favorites; it’s a space that has an out-of-the-norm background.

Speaking of Milwaukee gardens- wait until you see this urban garden inspired wedding at Vista MKE!

Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum

During the second half of their session, Michaela and Abe changed into “casual garden party” outfits. Light, breezy, and comfortable, the matching blue tones gave an ethereal feel against the tans and creams of the Mercury Courtyard. On the intricate mosaic path, they danced to their first dance song; the music echoed between the Tuscan columns.

Michaela and Abe’s Milwaukee Villa Terrace engagement photos are soft, glowing, natural and FUN – and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

When their session ended and their sneak peek went up- they sent us the sweetest, most excited email!

Sassy, sweet Michaela & strong, light-hearted Abe- thank you for this incredible adventure together in Milwaukee