Amber and Nicholas’ wedding at Tonnara di Scopello in Sicily was a celebration like no other. Inspired by the mythological tales, the couple envisioned a Bacchanalian feast infused with opulent details, rich symbolism, and a touch of theatrical flair.
With the help of the talented planners at Centorose e un tulipano, they transformed this historic venue into an enchanting setting, where guests were welcomed by Maenad performers and dined under the glow of hundreds of candles.
Location: Tonnara di Scopello, Sicily, Italy
Style: Opulent, greek-inspired, mystical
Time of planning: 9 months
Number of guests: 108
Setting: Ceremony – seaside, reception – courtyard, party – sea cave
Season: Fall
The couple’s love story began like a scene from a play—literally. They met in high school during a theater rehearsal, where Amber, a freshman, boldly asked Nicholas, a senior, “Why are your lips so big?”
They played husband and wife piano players in a vaudeville act, sparking a friendship that eventually blossomed into a romance years later. After reconnecting in Amber’s final year of college, they began dating, and eight years into their relationship, Nicholas finally found a way to surprise her with a proposal in his mother’s backyard, complete with a mariachi band and an impromptu engagement party.
Location & Planning
Their wedding at the stunning Tonnara di Scopello in Sicily, Italy, was a breathtaking celebration that combined opulent, Greek-inspired elements with a romantic rustic charm. With 108 guests, the couple transported their loved ones into a world inspired by Roman and Greek mythology. Amber’s fascination with the stories of Dionysus and the underworld influenced everything from the candelabra-draped tables to the pomegranate decor and the Maenad performers welcoming guests with fruit baskets.
Bridal Morning
Amber’s wedding look was a vision of modern elegance combined with ethereal charm. She wore a stunning gown from MUSE by Berta, featuring a delicate lace bodice with floral appliqués that gracefully cascaded into a flowing tulle skirt.
The dress’s sheer, plunging neckline added a hint of contemporary flair, while the light, airy layers of fabric perfectly complemented the coastal setting. Her look was completed with a long, soft veil that trailed behind her, adding a touch of timeless romance as she walked.
Amber’s bouquet was a stunning collection of these blooms, with trailing ribbons that added a whimsical touch. Her choice of accessories was minimal yet impactful, with a pair of elegant drop earrings that added just the right amount of sparkle. Her hair, styled in soft waves by Your Beauty Team, framed her face beautifully, while her makeup highlighted her natural beauty, enhancing her radiant smile throughout the day.
Groom's Fashion
Nicholas chose a modern double-breasted linen suit in light beige that was perfect for the Mediterranean setting. With its sharp lines and impeccable tailoring, it maintained a comfortable feel for the warm September day. A white shirt and a boutonniere of white blooms added a classic touch, and his polished brown loafers completed the look. Nicholas’ ensemble was a perfect balance of formal and casual, reflecting his laid-back yet refined style.
The Ceremony
The ceremony took place on the stunning coastline of Tonnara di Scopello, with the Mediterranean Sea providing a breathtaking backdrop. Amber and Nicholas wanted a setting that felt intimate and connected to nature, and their planners at Centorose e un tulipano brought this vision to life beautifully. Guests were seated in a semi-circle facing the water, creating an immersive experience with the gentle sound of waves in the background.
The aisle was lined with lush floral arrangements of blush and white roses, pampas grass, and wild greenery by Frascati Fiori, leading to a stunning asymmetric floral arch that framed the couple against the sea.
As Amber walked down the aisle, the tulle of her gown softly billowed in the sea breeze, creating a picture-perfect moment. Under the floral arch, they exchanged heartfelt vows, blending sincerity and humor, which perfectly reflected their relationship. Their officiant, a close friend, added personal anecdotes that made the ceremony feel intimate and emotional.
In a fun twist on tradition, instead of tossing a bouquet, Amber threw a crown “blessed by Bacchus” into the crowd, sparking laughter and adding a playful spirit to the ceremony. When they shared their first kiss as husband and wife, applause erupted, seamlessly blending with the gentle sound of the waves.
Cocktail Hour
The cocktail hour was a vibrant affair set against the stunning cliffs, where guests mingled and enjoyed the beauty of the Mediterranean surroundings. The atmosphere was both relaxed and festive, with live music playing as guests sipped on signature cocktails prepared by expert bartenders. Local delicacies were served, including freshly sliced prosciutto and traditional Sicilian appetizers, creating an authentic culinary experience that celebrated the rich flavors of the region.
The couple’s creative engagement photos, transformed into printed Playbills, were a delightful addition, allowing guests to get a glimpse into their love story.
With the sun setting over the sea, the courtyard was illuminated by the soft glow of string lights, enhancing the romantic atmosphere and inviting everyone to relax and enjoy the moment before the festivities continued.
The Moment Alone
After the ceremony, Amber and Nicholas took a quiet moment alone to soak in the beauty of the day and the breathtaking surroundings of Tonnara di Scopello.
Nicholas had changed into a more casual yet stylish look—a silk shirt with a delicate floral print paired with ivory trousers, reflecting the relaxed yet elegant vibe of the celebration.
As they walked hand in hand, they shared smiles and laughter, enjoying a few private moments together amidst the cliffs and lush greenery, capturing the essence of their love story in the picturesque landscape.
Then they made their way to the reception area to take in the stunning decorations that awaited them for the evening ahead.
The Decor & Setting
The reception area was a masterpiece of opulent, rustic elegance set in the enchanting courtyard of a historic ruin. Long, golden tables lined with Chiavari chairs were adorned with lush floral arrangements of deep red dahlias, pomegranates, and cascading grapes, echoing the Bacchanalian feast theme. Each place setting featured golden napkins and crystal glassware, complemented by unique tarot card table numbers, adding a mystical touch to the atmosphere. The warm, rich hues of the table linens contrasted beautifully with the greenery and stone walls, creating a sophisticated yet inviting ambiance.
Candelabras with glowing taper candles illuminated the tables, casting a romantic glow that flickered gently in the evening breeze. The table names—Paradiso, Purgatorio, and Inferno—inscribed on rustic stones, were inspired by Dante’s Divine Comedy, further enhancing the ethereal theme of the night. The surrounding walls, lit by soft, amber lighting, framed the scene, making it feel as though guests were dining in a magical, secluded world.
“Little special touches were everywhere.”
Reception
The evening unfolded with a vibrant array of activities, as acrobats, fire dancers, and Maenad performers enchanted the guests with their captivating displays. Amidst the laughter and joy, heartfelt toasts were shared, celebrating Amber and Nicholas’ love and the journey that brought them to this magical night.
“Our wedding planners had the idea of filling the space with candles, using candlelight as the only lighting for dinner, and the overall effect ended up being spectacular - truly like a Bacchanalian feast in the underworld.”
Night & Dances
As the night unfolded, the energy shifted to the electrifying Dante’s Disco Inferno, which was set in a sea cave. Amber surprised everyone with a quick change into a playful, short white dress that was perfect for dancing. The newlyweds took over the dance floor with an impressive salsa routine that set the tone for the rest of the evening. Guests cheered as they twirled and dipped under the string lights, their joyful moves lighting up the night.
“Amber and Nick never had any stressful moments, they had fun in every phase of the planning, trusting us 100%. They did not let themselves be influenced by trends or other people's weddings, and they put their taste and style, and their imagination in every single detail that we proposed to them. Our meetings were very creative and fun brainstorming sessions and this allowed us to go a little further than usual.”
PLANNING & DESIGN Centorose e un tulipano | VENUE Tonnara di Scopello | PHOTOGRAPHER Rosita Lipari | VIDEOGRAPHER Giulio Cantarella | FLORALS Frascati Fiori | MUAH Your Beauty Team | CATERING Peppe Giuffrè | ENTERTAINMENT Eclittica Events | DJ Simone D’ambrosio
