It’s hard not to fall in love with Italy, once you’ve set food on her lands; whether it’s for her unforgettable natural beauty, the impeccable preservation of her history in every landmark and ancient ruin, the cheerful, welcoming people, or the incredible cuisine, many find it difficult to leave once they’ve arrived. When it comes to celebrating love itself, many couples like Nicole and Zack simply can’t imagine a more romantic backdrop for their special day, making Italy a number one destination for gorgeous destination weddings.
In Nicole and Zack’s case, flying in with friends and family from San Francisco and around the world to host a ceremony in the incredible Villa Le Fontanelle meant that it was essential to have not just an acquaintance, but a team of experts with the experience, expertise, and connections to make sure no flower was left un-arranged or napkin unfolded, and that every aspect of the wedding was as picture-perfect as could be. Thankfully, they found The Tuscan Wedding, who made sure every detail of their special day was perfectly composed, letting Nicole and Zack truly let loose and enjoy their day to the fullest.
And what a full day it was! Nicole began her day in one of Villa Le Fontanelle’s spectacular suites, sharing a glass of Prosecco with her bridesmaids and friends as Hair and Makeup artist Cherie worked her magic, leaving Nicole with soft pink lips and cheeks, and a gentle, shimmery eye makeup look in pink, brown and gold. The bride’s long blond hair was left down and waving naturally, a fresh and romantic look that matched her A-line ivory gown covered in beaded and embroidered flowery lace appliques, the spaghetti straps and deep v illusion cut adding a hint of allure and completed with a long, flowing tulle veil to complete the look.
Zack, on his end, shared wine and laughter with his family and groomsmen, all smartly dressed in black tuxedoes and shiny black patent leather shoes. The groom had accentuated his dress shirt with black and gold buttons and similar cufflinks, as well as a simple but elegant black and gold Seiko watch. An obligatory “blues brothers” inspired photograph was shot with the talented photographers at Purewhite, but nothing matched the wide smile he held when he and Nicole saw each other for the first time. As the bride walked down a white cloth aisle, white blooms flowing gently behind her, it was like a moment from any fairytale, a prince-and-princess finally reunited as guests watch from white iron-wrought garden chair and fanning themselves with complimentary white fans under the summer sun. Vows were read, and the officiant gave the newlyweds a radiant smile when they finally said “I do”, to the cheers of their family (and Nicole herself!)
Afterwards, of course, came the rest of the fun – as the bride and groom took stunning photos on the stone terrace by the balcony, overlooking a sunlit Florence, a golden three-shelf metal open bookcase held every guests’ champagne glass with a name, inviting them to find their own glass and seats. The shelf was decorated in a gorgeous all-white floral arrangement on the corners, with lit candles in glasses on the bottom shelf – all to match the equally stunning dining area. Wedding Music and Lights had created a dreamy atmosphere with simple golden lights and rustic, charming small lanterns hung from a wooden trellis under a canopy of draped, flowy cream cloth curtains. Below the long dinner table had long white tulle table runner over a white tablecloth, vases full of white roses, carnations and sweet pea flowers artfully designed by Flowers Living to match the Bride’s gorgeous bouquet, and white candles in crystal candlesticks.
Guests eagerly took a seat after tasting some iconic and utterly delicious Aperol Spritz in delicate crystal glasses, eager to taste the delicious full-course meal prepared by Roland’s on plates rimmed in silver, with baby blue cloth napkins and silver utensils. The bride and groom, of course, could not miss their own celebration dinner, and they joined happily with Aperols of their own as their friends and family dedicated speeches that left all laughing, grinning, and wiping tears of joy.
The night could only end in pure celebration, of course, under a disco ball hung in the center of a giant, antique chandelier, where spotted lights filled the room and illuminated Nicole and Zack’s first dance. Afterwards, Nicole took the opportunity to get comfortable in a simple but elegant satin top and matching pants and joined Zack and all her guests to dance to the beats of DJ Audiodress, cocktails in hand and enjoying her party to the fullest as the sun set outside through the windows, painting the sky in blues, pinks, and golden yellow. Both Zack and Nicole knew, they’d never have a party like this, in a place as special with as many of their loved ones, and they were so grateful to have had the experience, with The Tuscan Wedding’s help!