When a secret proposal becomes a real wedding…
The story of this beautiful couple from Miami is one out of a fairytale.
The groom contacted me 2 months before the wedding. He wanted to travel to Italy with his sweetheart to propose to her on her birthday and marry her a few days later. He took it upon himself to plan all the details of the proposal and the wedding (when usually it’s the bride who does it!).
The proposal took place in August among the Chianti vineyards at sunset with a breathtaking view of the Tuscan landscapes. Thinking that she was just going to see the grapes that were ready for harvest, the future bride was surprised to see a circle of white candles on the ground. As she approached the candles, their song “Eso Y Más” by Joan Sebastian started to play. She began to cry from happiness, telling him “It’s our song babe!” The future groom got down on one knee and proposed– and she said yes! Every moment was documented by our stealthy photographers and videographers who captured everything while hiding in the vineyards. The high emotions didn’t end there, as there was another big surprise was waiting for the bride: their families and close friends secretly flew in from Miami to celebrate with them! Their engagement dinner took place at a family-owned Tuscan restaurant where they enjoyed the local wine and Florentine steak and basked in the authentic Tuscan dining experience.
In the days after, we raced against the clock to finalize all the wedding details. The bride’s best friends/bridesmaids selected seven dresses for her to choose from, and she chose two wedding dresses which were adjusted in just two days. This wasn’t easy– not only did we navigate a short turnaround time, but this took place during an Italian national holiday when most stores were closed! The results were incredible, and the bride added a classy Swarovski accessory to her hair to further underline her natural beauty and elegance.
The ceremony and reception took place at the charming historical Villa Le Fontanelle on the hills of Florence. It was a very hot afternoon in August, so most guests took off their shoes, including the bride who walked down the aisle barefoot. A classical duo played their favorite songs which created the most romantic atmosphere. A true highlight of the ceremony was the exchanging of vows, where their sweet words to each other touched all the guests. The decor was picturesque: the dining table was lined with pristine white roses whose green leaves perfectly tied in with their surroundings, while the array of candles created a dreamy ambiance and illuminated the night as the sun slowly set. The groom, being a chef, cooked pasta with pecorino cheese for all of the guests. At the reception, everyone celebrated and danced the night away with music from a live Italian band and lots of bubbly Prosecco.
With an enchanting venue, delicious food, stunning decor, and, of course, a couple who was completely enamored with each other… this wedding was like a real fairytale.
- Wedding Planner: Victoria Donkina – Carpe Diem Events
- Venue: Villa Le Fontanelle | Florence | Tuscany
- Videographers: Emotional Movie
- Photographers: Facibeni Fotografia
- Dress: Pronovias
