As we venture into the heart of Italy for Nancy & Nick’s real wedding, it’s clear that the couple’s vision for a destination celebration was all about bringing people together. With a thoughtful approach to every detail, they created an unforgettable experience for their friends and family from the US and UK.Their decision to opt for substance over style allowed them to focus on what truly mattered – sharing moments with loved ones. Stefano Santucci Photography captured the magic of their time in Tuscany, where Nancy & Nick treated their guests to a warm welcome dinner, featuring delicious pizza and Peroni, as well as an al fresco Italian feast.The couple’s commitment to hosting their friends and family was evident throughout their celebration. From the Church of England hymns incorporated into their Catholic ceremony at the beautiful village church to the simple yet chic decor, everything felt authentic and true to their Tuscan surroundings.To bring a touch of local charm to their big day, Nancy & Nick used fresh produce like lavender, olive sprigs, and lemons to adorn their celebration. The result was an intimate atmosphere lit up by plenty of lanterns and candles, perfect for a relaxed yet refined Italian wedding.
How We Met
Our serendipitous encounter took place in a cozy pub, where the chance meeting of two mutual friends served as the catalyst for our introduction. With no deliberate intention behind it, we found ourselves brought together by a series of unplanned events. Nick’s proposal, on the other hand, was meticulously planned and executed with precision. He chose a breathtaking cliffside in Portofino, a picturesque Italian town, to pop the question, making it an unforgettable experience for the lucky recipient.
The Inspiration
While our wedding celebration was undoubtedly a significant focus, we deliberately allowed the picturesque architecture of Capalbio’s village to be the main attraction. The historic 12th century Church Chiesa Di San Nicola served as the idyllic backdrop for our special day. To maintain the natural charm of Tuscan beauty, we opted for a minimalist floral arrangement featuring white peonies, delicate lavender sprigs, and olive branches, strategically placed around the door and altar.
The Dresses & Flowers
As I prepared for the big day, I chose a stunning Spose Di Gio lace dress and paired it with my mother’s treasured veil. My bridesmaids looked equally radiant in their floral dresses courtesy of PPS Couture. The subtle yet elegant theme continued through to my bouquet, which featured a harmonious blend of white peonies and lavender – the same flowers that adorned the bridesmaids’ arrangements. Meanwhile, the gentlemen wore a thoughtful touch of lavender, further emphasizing the beauty of our special day.
The Ceremony
To make our international guests feel more at ease, we incorporated English hymns into the ceremony. This decision paid off as it encouraged the entire church to sing along, making the experience even more memorable for everyone involved. One of my personal favorite moments was when we played ‘I Vow To Thee My Country’, which added a touch of nostalgia and warmth to the atmosphere. Our string quartet, led by Enrico Peluso from Rome, was outstanding as they performed a range of classical songs that resonated with me, including Canon In D by J. Pachelbel for the bride’s entrance and father-daughter dance. Nessun Dorma and Ave Maria were also impressive highlights. The pièce de résistance, however, was the quartet’s rendition of ‘All You Need Is Love’ by the Beatles during our exit – it left a lasting impression on everyone present. Our priest, Don Mulenga, delivered a heartfelt service that included a special certificate from the Pope, while Nick’s father, a Vicar in the Church of England, offered a personalized Nuptial Blessing. In addition to traditional vows, Nick and I read our own ‘Couple’s Prayer’, which was an emotional highlight for us.
The Photography
When selecting a photographer, we were drawn to Stefano’s impressive portfolio and his warm demeanor during our initial meeting in Florence. Our goal was to find someone who could expertly capture cherished moments with my friends and family on the special day, without overwhelming us with an excessive number of photo opportunities.
Advice for Other Couples
Let go of the pressure to present a perfectly curated life on social media. Allow yourself to simply exist without worrying about capturing the moment, and let the world see you as you truly are.
The Refreshments
The celebration continued well into the night, with a cocktail reception immediately following the ceremony. Guests were treated to a selection of Bellinis, Champagne, and Campari cocktails, setting the tone for a lively evening. A special prosciutto carving station and an Italian cheese table added a touch of authenticity to the proceedings. The pièce de résistance was, of course, the wedding cake – a traditional Italian affair featuring layers of Pistachio and Chocolate filling. To complement this sweet treat, we served stracciatella gelato on the side. But the festivities didn’t stop there. Our Friday Welcome Party featured a fantastic pizza and Peroni party, complete with lawn games and a vintage gelato cart that proved to be a huge hit.
The Venue
As we reflected on our wedding planning journey, a memory stood out – our encounter with Barbara, the hotel manager at Locanda in Capalbio. It all began when we visited the town for a friend’s celebration the year prior to our special day. We were captivated by the untouched charm of Capalbio, the breathtaking views from the hotel and the exceptional culinary delights. Moreover, the relatively short one-hour drive from Rome’s international airport was a significant factor in our decision-making process, especially considering my family’s location in the United States.
The Decor & Details
To create a harmonious atmosphere, we opted for understated floral arrangements that complemented the bride’s bouquet without overpowering the natural surroundings. Meanwhile, string lights and lanterns were strategically placed throughout the venue to add a warm glow. In our approach, we prioritized ensuring our guests had an enjoyable experience while keeping expenses down by streamlining details like decorations and flowers.
Favourite Moment.
As the sun dips below the horizon, we find ourselves leaping into the warm waters of the pool, our arms intertwined and our hearts beating in time to the iconic melodies of Taylor Swift’s most beloved tracks.
The Honeymoon
As we embarked on an Italian escapade, our journey took us from Il Pellicano’s picturesque setting to the stunning beauty of Capri, Ravello, and eventually Venice. Amidst this tranquil backdrop, we learned that allowing at least two nights for relaxation and rejuvenation is crucial. The experience was nothing short of enchanting.The allure of a poolside wedding is undeniable – it’s as if plucked straight from a cinematic masterpiece. Nancy’s exquisite wedding dress, adorned with delicate appliqué on the bodice, exudes romance and charm. Stefano Santucci’s exceptional work once again captured our hearts, while Nancy and Nick graciously shared their breathtaking Tuscany wedding. For those planning their own destination celebration, this experience serves as a testament to the beauty and magic that can unfold.