September 16, 2017 Dominic and Annette went back to their roots when they invited friends and family to celebrate their wedding in Florence. Surrounded by the love of their guests, this couple was able to incorporate customary Italian wedding traditions and personal sentiments to make for a truly remarkable occasion.

This was a particularly special event because for the entire day the work of The Tuscan Wedding was filmed and showcased, for a wedding TV show airing next year. However, perhaps the most exciting and unique aspect of this wedding was the location! This Italian American family enjoyed the wedding ceremony amidst the historic elegance of the Santa Maria Novella church, one of the most beautiful and famous churches in all of Florence!

The groom accompanied by his mates arrived first, dressed in classic black tuxedos. Soon to follow was the bridal party. Each of the ten bridesmaids wore a custom gown in varying shades of taupe, olive, and mauve; this scheme perfectly fit the Tuscan atmosphere. The maid of honor wore a dress all her own—a sand colored gown with a V-neck, covered in lace and jewel embellishment. The, real showstopper was of course Annette’s white wedding dress. A stunning off the shoulder, lace gown, with a natural waistline, luxurious train to stretch the length of the aisle, and a veil to match. Continuing the Tuscan inspired color and floral theme, the bridal bouquet was composed of ivory, purple, and yellow roses, blossoming from Italian olive and eucalyptus branches.

Once the parties made their way inside the magnificent venue, complete with a grand and historic altar decorated with flowers and candles, the magical ceremony commenced. To the music of the church organist, Annette’s loving father escorted her down the aisle to meet her groom. The ceremony was a traditional catholic mass; members of the family read a few passages from the Bible, and Annette and Dominic professed their love to each other with wedding vows.

In traditional Italian style, the guests exited the church first, while the Bride and Groom signed their marriage certificate. Upon their exit, they guests celebrated them with a parade of bubbles, showering the newlyweds with love! Outside there was also a vintage Italian car, rented by The Tuscan Wedding, waiting to escort them to the Villa di Medicea Lilliano for the reception.

Upon arrival, guests were lead to the rooftop terrace, overlooking the beautiful Tuscan countryside and the city of Florence. Here they enjoyed an aperitif and signature cocktails, while waiting for the happy couple. Annette and Dominic, now husband and wife, soon made their way up to the terrace where they were welcomed by a gorgeous sunset, lighting up the pink and orange sky.

Once the guests moved down to the reception hall, a close friend of the couple started the party with custom introductions for the bridesmaids and groomsmen, who had choreographed a special, fun entrance! Then the guests were truly moved by the couple’s first dance followed by the dances with their loving parents.

The reception hall was another grand centerpiece of the day. The head table was designed special to seat the guests family-style, in an Eden of greenery and romantic lighting. A rustic wooden structure built above the table was draped in eucalyptus branches, flowers, and twinkling lights to enhance this regal fairytale wedding.

The four-course dinner brought forth the best of Tuscany’s famous cuisine, and for dessert, this couple embraced another beloved Italian tradition by having a Millefoglie wedding cake assembled right before their eyes.

After cake it was time for everyone to kick off their heels and hit the dance floor, and the rest…is history!