When we first connected with Anya and Kevin, a radiant couple from Charlottesville, VA, our synergy was palpable—even through the virtual lens of a Zoom call. It wasn't long before we embarked on the journey of planning their dream destination wedding in the picturesque heart of Italy: Tuscany.
At the onset, venue selection took center stage. Guiding them through the nuances of each option, I found myself wholeheartedly advocating for Borgo Stomennano, a mesmerizing estate nestled in the scenic Monteriggioni region. And so began our year-long collaboration, culminating in a three-day celebration amidst the verdant vineyards, fragrant gardens, and iconic cypresses of Tuscany.
Anya and Kevin's vision was meticulous. Beyond the usual wedding essentials, they emphasized elements close to their hearts: soul-stirring music, delectable cuisine, fine wines, and even yoga sessions, given Anya's passion and her circle of yoga instructor friends.
As the festivities neared, the couple, accompanied by their families, immersed themselves in Florence's charm. A series of intimate gatherings set the tone, leading to the grand spectacle at Borgo Stomennano and its neighboring properties.
The festivities commenced with a Welcome Pizza Party. Against the backdrop of a traditional brick oven, guests savored freshly made pizzas, artisanal gelatos, Prosecco, and local wines. Laughter echoed, stories were shared, and the ambiance was nothing short of magical.
On the wedding day, from early morning, preparations buzzed within the historic confines of Stomennano villa. Anya, radiant in her Badgley Mishka Carina dress from Ava Laurenne, epitomized grace and elegance, while Kevin and his entourage added their flair to the day's proceedings.
Under the expert hands of Cherie Spisso and her team, the bridal party radiated beauty. Meanwhile, a symphony of florists, sound engineers, lighting specialists, and caterers orchestrated the grandeur behind the scenes.
As guests gathered, the atmosphere brimmed with anticipation. The floral masterpiece by Stiatti Fiori set the stage for a heartfelt Jewish Chuppah ceremony guided by Rabbi Haim Fabrizio Cipriani. The melodies of 'I'll Follow You Into the Dark' and 'Heartbeats' resonated, intertwining with the seven circles, the couple's vows, and the symbolic breaking of the glass.
Post-ceremony, an elegant aperitivo unfolded hosted by Guidi Lenci, with Aperol spritzes, tantalizing finger foods, and the soulful tunes of DJ Guinness on sax.
Dinner was a sensory delight, set in the garden under the big trees amidst a kaleidoscope of wildflowers, candles, and fairy lights. It was pure magic, full of life, beauty, laughter, great speeches, and, of course, fantastic Tuscan food and wine.
The evening crescendoed with Anya and Kevin showcasing their culinary prowess in assembling the traditional Italian wedding cake and then dancing the night away, culminating in an afterparty that lasted till dawn.
The festivities concluded with a sun-kissed pool party, epitomizing relaxation and camaraderie.
Reflecting on their journey, Anya and Kevin shared with the Jewish Wedding blog Smashing the Glass: "Having a wedding planner was extremely helpful and took away so much stress. We are so glad that we worked with Luba. No matter how well you plan, something will always go wrong, and it will never be what you think. Our wedding was supposed to be amazing weather and for the first time in 10 years, the month of May was the rainiest and coldest it’s ever been in history. We had to make so many adjustments, and in the end, the clouds opened up for our special day. Enjoy the day for the perfection it is, and remember that it’s about you and your partner."
