Location: Lucca, Italy
Setting: Villa
Season: Fall
How long did the couple plan the event: 6 months
Number of guests: 150
Wedding theme/style: Glam, colorful, cheerful, funny.
Tahani and Ahmed’s journey began four years ago at a New Year’s party. Their connection was instant, leading to a beautiful relationship filled with love. Ahmed planned a memorable proposal a week after Tahani’s birthday. He took her on a staycation to Zaya Nurai Island, just outside Dubai. After a day by the pool, he led her down a rose-petal path on the beach and proposed: “I had no makeup, and my hair was a mess after the pool,” laughed Tahani. They celebrated their engagement the next day with family and friends.
Their wedding took place at the stunning Villa Reale di Marlia, nestled in the picturesque northern Tuscany region. This 15th-century Italian Renaissance villa is known for its beautiful gardens, adjacent villas, and charming follies within the estate.
The wedding theme was a vibrant mix of colors, creating a joyful and lively atmosphere. Silvia Bettini, the wedding planner, said, “It was a very colorful and cheerful wedding, with multicolor tones. A strong match was studied, but everything has been done with mastery. There were crystal chandeliers matched with multicolored decorations; there were no shades but a set of colors.”
Tahani shared that on the morning of the wedding, she had a mix of emotions—happy, nervous, and excited. Her bridal look was a reflection of her personal style. She wore a stunning Vivienne Westwood dress, complemented by gloves from the same designer. Her veil was from Bride Avenue in Dubai, and her shoes were from Magda Butrym. Tahani’s jewelry, a gift from her mother, was custom-made and added a sentimental touch to her ensemble. She wore Flowerbomb perfume by Viktor & Rolf, a favorite since her teenage years, and opted for a simple, fresh makeup look by Giulia Makeup Firenze. Her bouquet was thoughtfully chosen to complement the ceremony location, with a small ribbon featuring a picture of her father tied around it, symbolizing his presence as she walked down the aisle.
Ahmed’s custom-made suit and shoes from Boss created a stylish look, with an orange boutonnière matching Tahani’s bouquet. Inside his jacket, his tailor had stitched their wedding date and names, adding a personal touch.
The aperitif was in front of the villa, which served as an exquisite backdrop. After that the guest went to the villa’s beautiful backyard for the ceremony: “It probably was the most touching part. When the couple arrived, a tear was shed,” shared Silvia Bettini. The couple’s heartfelt vows and the love shared among the guests made the ceremony truly memorable. “Ahmed was over the moon with excitement and joy, and he couldn’t stop smiling during all of the celebrations,” commented the planner.
After the ceremony, Tahani and Ahmed had a moment alone, beautifully captured by Barbarossa Studio. The photographer’s ability to seize the soul of their love and the stunning surroundings of the villa added a timeless quality to their wedding photos. “They were very funny, loving and warm,” Silvia added.
Silvia Bettini did a marvelous job in creating this perfect, colorful evening: the decor featured colorful floral arrangements, crystal chandeliers, and elegant stationery by Loveday. The tables were adorned with vibrant flowers in hues of blue, red, orange, and white, creating a visually stunning display. The centerpiece chandeliers added an elegant touch, illuminating the evening with a soft, romantic glow. Each table setting was meticulously arranged, with gold-rimmed glassware and plates that complemented the overall theme. Silvia’s attention to detail and her ability to blend various elements seamlessly made the reception truly unforgettable.
In keeping with Italian tradition, pastry chefs constructed the cake in front of the guests, adding a unique and interactive element to the celebration.
Guests enjoyed signature cocktails and a dinner catered by Galateo Ricevimenti, accompanied by continuous music. The centerpiece of the evening was a shiny white dance floor where guests danced the night away. The DJ, flown in from Dubai, kept the energy high, creating an unforgettable party atmosphere.
PLANNER Silvia Bettini Wedding & Event Planner | VENUE Villa Reale di Marlia | VIDEOGRAPHER Carlo Zanetti | PHOTOGRAPHER Barbarossa Studio | MUAH Giulia Makeup Firenze | STATIONERY Loveday | CATERING Galateo Ricevimenti | FLORALS Riccardo Ciceri | AUDIOVISUALS Kaleydo
