Julia and Haris studied abroad in Vienna, Austria in 2015, falling in love not only with each other but also with the rich history and charm that the city exudes. It became their favorite city, a place filled with memories of sunset strolls through the gardens of Belvedere. So, when it came time to plan their destination wedding, they knew they wanted to return to Vienna.

“It is incredibly charming,” Julia says, “full of rich history and is a quintessential European city. It just felt like the right choice for us.” Vienna provided the perfect backdrop, with its central location in Europe making travel convenient for their 24 guests. 

The wedding was split between two carefully chosen venues that reflected both the couple’s love for history and their modern taste. Their ceremony took place in the Octagon at the Upper Belvedere Museum, a baroque room overlooking the Belvedere’s gardens, a meaningful location for Julia and Haris. “When we studied abroad, we would walk through the Belvedere gardens at sunset on our way home from class,” the bride says. “As soon as we discovered you could get married in the Museum, we were set on having our ceremony there.” After the intimate ceremony, guests explored the museum while family portraits were taken.

For the reception, Julia and Haris sought a more modern vibe. Labstelle, located in the city center, with its clean lines and a stunning blue and orange glass ceiling, was the ideal choice. “The food looked amazing, and they focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients,” Julia says. “It was affordable and 100 percent the right choice for the second half of our wedding day: modern, intimate, and fun!” 

To give their guests a true taste of Vienna, the couple organized a historic tram tour around the city’s famous Ringstrasse, providing snacks and water for the ride. “Our guests loved it!” Julia says. “It was definitely a highlight.” The couple also incorporated a personal touch by giving each guest a handmade boutonniere, a Bosnian tradition they wanted to honor given Haris’s heritage. 

Despite some challenges, including a heat wave leading up to the wedding and a scramble to find umbrellas for potential rain, the day went off beautifully. A particularly memorable moment occurred while taking photos near the Vienna Opera House, when a parade of vintage German and Austrian cars unexpectedly passed by, adding an extra layer of magic to their wedding day.

Looking back, Julia and Haris wouldn’t change much about their special day, though they wish they had built in more time for portraits with each guest. Their advice for other couples? “Make the choices you want for your day because it is your day!”

Vendors: Photographer: Catherine Johanna Photography; Planner: Nora Gstir of Die HochzeitsHummel; Ceremony Venue: Belvedere Museum; Reception Venue: Labstelle; Florist: Atelier La Primavera; Cake: Camille Eder at Torterie Camille; Gown Designer: Anomalie; Groom’s Clothing Designer: Suit Supply; Music: Svato Vodak with Danube String Quartet