Danielle and Brandon, a vibrant couple from Miami, Florida, brought their dream of a romantic wedding to life at the enchanting Villa Cipressi on Lake Como. With a small guest list of just 14 close friends and family members, they spent two years meticulously planning every detail of their special day, ensuring it would be a perfect reflection of their love story.
Location: Lake Como, Italy
Style: Modern, elegant, all-white
Time of planning: 2 years
Number of guests: 14
Setting: Villa
Season: Spring
Danielle and Brandon’s love story began in Los Angeles, where their paths first crossed in 2018. Danielle, a former hockey player turned dancer, and Brandon, a martial arts enthusiast with a love for baseball and books, found a connection that went beyond their differences. Their relationship blossomed, and in February 2020, Brandon proposed to Danielle at sunset on Pismo Beach, sealing their bond with a stunning engagement ring. Just three months later, they decided to spend the rest of their lives together.
Their first trip to Italy in 2022 introduced them to the captivating beauty of Villa Cipressi, a historical gem nestled by the serene waters of Lake Como. The villa, a stunning complex of buildings and gardens dating back to the 1400s, immediately enchanted the couple. Its breathtaking botanical garden, with terraces and staircases descending gracefully to the lake, offered the perfect setting for the modern, elegant, and romantic wedding they envisioned.
Bridal Morning
Danielle’s morning began with a touch of glamour, thanks to Elena Panzeri, who created dramatic makeup with a natural glow and perfectly styled hair. Danielle’s wedding dress, designed by Tom Sébastien, was a masterpiece of modern elegance, featuring intricate 3D hand embellishments that added a delicate charm.
Her shoes, from Bella Belle Shoes, were the perfect blend of elegance and youthfulness, completing her bridal look. The bridal bouquet, crafted by Flowers and Me, was a beautiful arrangement of white roses, symbolizing purity and love.
Ceremony
The ceremony took place on a terrace overlooking the lake, under a delicate floral arch of white blooms and lush greenery. The decor perfectly complemented the serene beauty of the surroundings, with soft white petals lining the aisle and a gentle breeze rustling through the leaves. The intimate gathering of family and friends witnessed Danielle and Brandon exchange heartfelt vows, sealing their commitment to each other in this breathtaking setting.
The talented Carlo Zanetti Filmmaker was behind the lens, capturing the magic of the day in a cinematic style that highlighted the beauty of Lake Como and the couple’s heartfelt emotions. Each scene, from the tranquil waters of the lake to the joyous moments of the ceremony, was beautifully documented, allowing Danielle and Brandon to relive their special day forever.
Aperitive
Following the ceremony, guests were treated to a delightful cocktail hour inside the villa. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and joy as they savored exquisite Italian delicacies and sipped on refreshing cocktails.
With the stunning view of Lake Como as their backdrop, Danielle and Brandon created a champagne tower on the balcony of Villa Cipressi, using bottles of Moët & Chandon to fill each glass in a spectacular cascade.
Moment Alone
Amid the excitement of their wedding day, Danielle and Brandon found a few precious moments to be alone together. The newlyweds set off on a romantic boat ride aboard the iconic Riva Aquarama, often referred to as “the Ferrari of the sea” for its sleek design and exceptional performance. Gliding across the shimmering waters of Lake Como, they embraced this quiet time away from the festivities, taking in the breathtaking views of the picturesque shoreline.
Decor & Setting
As the sun set over Lake Como, Danielle and Brandon welcomed their guests to the reception held on the villa’s open terrace. The couple arrived early, eager to see the beautifully set tables adorned with minimalist vases of white flowers and lit candles. The setting, with its chic yet understated decor, created a warm and intimate atmosphere. The soft linen napkins and delicate floral arrangements added to the elegance of the evening, with the pergola overhead adorned with gypsophila clouds and Italian lights, casting a soft glow over the festivities.
Reception & Party
Dinner was a feast of Italian flavors, carefully curated to delight the guests. As they savored each course, heartfelt toasts filled the air, with family and friends sharing stories, laughter, and well-wishes for the couple.
The cake-cutting ceremony was a highlight of the night. A three-tier cake, adorned with delicate white orchids, stood under the same floral arch that had framed their vows. With the Beatles’ “And I Love Her” playing softly in the background, Danielle and Brandon shared this sweet moment, surrounded by their loved ones.
After that guests made their way inside the villa, where the celebration continued. The intimate space was filled with music as the DJ began playing, setting the perfect tone for an unforgettable night of dancing and joy. The lively beats and shared laughter echoed through the villa, adding the perfect ending to their magical day by Lake Como.
VIDEOGRAPHER Carlo Zanetti Filmmaker | PHOTOGRAPHER Cristina Viadana | PLANNER Michela Lunardi Events | VENUE Villa Cipressi | DRESS Tom Sébastien | SHOES Bella Belle Shoes | SUIT Indochino | FLORALS Flowers and Me | CELEBRANT Cerimonie Laiche | MUAH Elena Panzeri Makeup | BOAT Como Classic Boats
