Location: Amalfi Coast, Italy
Setting: Ceremony – church; Reception – villa
Season: Summer
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
The number of guests: 100
Wedding theme/style: Romantic and elegant with a touch of European charm.
Daniel and Amelia, both attorneys residing in Miami, Florida, met during Amelia’s first day at the University of Miami’s law school. Daniel, the Dean’s Fellow for her civil procedure class, soon became a supportive friend. Their bond strengthened during Amelia’s final year when Daniel helped her prepare for a mock trial. Their lives were forever intertwined after a triumphant “not guilty” verdict and a celebratory drink. Daniel proposed to Amelia in the Florida Keys on their second anniversary, a place filled with childhood memories for both.
With its dramatic cliffs and azure waters, Amalfi became the dreamscape for Daniel and Amelia’s wedding. This enchanting event, captured through the lens of the talented Lauren Alatriste, was magical. Lauren’s ability to encapsulate the essence of each moment turned their wedding album into a timeless treasure full of vivid emotions and breathtaking views.
WELCOME DINNER
The celebration began with a chic welcome dinner in true “Dolce Vita” style. The couple hosted their guests at a picturesque restaurant overlooking the Amalfi Coast, setting the tone for the weekend with flowing prosecco, vibrant limoncello, and delectable Italian cuisine.
Daniel donned a tailored suit that exuded sophistication and style. The suit was complemented with a crisp white shirt and loafers, balancing casual elegance with a nod to Italian sartorial tradition.
Amelia dazzled in a Galia Lahav gown that perfectly embodied Mediterranean elegance. The off-the-shoulder satin dress, with its delicate draping and thigh-high slit, highlighted her graceful silhouette. Paired with stunning Manolo Blahnik heels, Amelia’s look was a harmonious blend of classic and modern glamour. She accessorized with a chic clutch to resemble a vintage Italian book cover, adding a whimsical and personal touch to her ensemble.
Tables were dressed in linens featuring intricate Italian tile patterns, echoing the region’s rich cultural heritage. Centerpieces of fresh lemons and local florals added color and fragrance, enhancing the overall ambiance. The dinner setup was intimate and inviting, with a backdrop of the sparkling coastline adding to the magical atmosphere.
WEDDING DAY
Amelia developed a lifelong love for Italy after a family trip to watch her brother, Alex, race in a regatta on Lake Garda. Years later, she and her family returned to Italy to visit the town of Ravello on the Amalfi Coast, which is coincidentally similar to the bride’s maiden last name.
I thought it was the most magical place for a wedding, and it became my dream to get married here. After getting engaged with Daniel, we visited the Amalfi Coast and confirmed it was the perfect place to celebrate our love with their closest family and friends.
The bride began her day surrounded by her closest friends and family at the breathtaking Villa Eva. The serene morning light filtered through the villa’s windows, casting a golden glow on the suite. Amelia, donning a delicate lace robe with feathered sleeves, sipped champagne with her bridesmaids on the terrace, which offered stunning views of the Amalfi.
Amelia’s transformation began with the skilled hands of the Beauty Livery team, who crafted her bridal look to perfection. Her makeup featured a soft, romantic palette with subtle highlights accentuating her natural beauty. Her hair, styled in loose, cascading waves, framed her face beautifully and added a touch of elegance. As she slipped into her exquisite Berta gown, with its intricate lace detailing and fitted silhouette, her bridesmaids couldn’t help but admire her radiant beauty.
Meanwhile, Daniel spent the morning with his groomsmen in a nearby villa. The morning was a mix of relaxed preparation and excitement. Amelia’s brother, dressed in a naval officer’s uniform, added a special touch to the gathering, symbolizing the family’s proud tradition of service. The groomsmen, dressed in classic tuxedos, shared a toast with Daniel, sipping on their favorite Italian beers as they exchanged words of encouragement.
Daniel’s own preparation was a testament to his impeccable style. He donned a Suit Supply tuxedo paired with Tom Ford shoes, the look completed with a bowtie and a sophisticated watch.
Amelia and Daniel chose the lush gardens for their first look, surrounded by verdant greenery and the stunning backdrop of the Tyrrhenian Sea. When Daniel turned to see his bride for the first time, his face lit up with awe and emotion. Lauren Alatriste‘s photography captured every nuance of this poignant moment, from the tender smiles to the tear-filled eyes. The serene surroundings seemed to fade as they shared a tender kiss, leaving only the two of them in the world.
The final touch of the bride’s look was the customized overskirt and stunning veil from Galia Lahav, which added a regal flair to her ensemble. Amelia felt every bit the princess as she looked at herself in the mirror, the anticipation building for the moment she would walk down the aisle.
The ceremony was held in the magnificent Duomo di Amalfi, a historic and awe-inspiring cathedral. Its Arab-Norman and Romanesque architecture provided a grand yet serene backdrop for the lovebirds’ vows.
A hush fell over the congregation when Amelia walked down the aisle, escorted by her brother in his military uniform and her mother in an elegant gown. Waiting at the altar, Daniel was overcome with emotion at the sight of his bride.
After the ceremony, Lauren captured enchanting photos of the newlyweds amidst the venue’s spectacular backdrop. The intricate marble stripes and ornate arches framed the couple in a setting that radiated historical grandeur and romantic charm. The bride’s gown, with its flowing tulle and intricate lace details, perfectly complemented the timeless beauty of the architecture. Meanwhile, the groom’s classic tuxedo stood out against the rich textures of the venue.
Villa Eva provided a stunning venue for the reception, with its beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast. The ambiance was magical, illuminated by twinkling fairy lights that created a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The decor was enchanting, with opulent chandeliers casting a soft glow over the elegant floral arrangements that adorned each table. Amelia’s beloved orchids and roses were in full bloom, adding a touch of her style to the decor. Guests were treated to a six-course Italian meal featuring local specialties like lemon ravioli, which delighted their palates and added an authentic taste of Italy to the celebration. Signature cocktails, including espresso and dirty martinis, were a hit among the guests, while a charming gelato cart offered their favorite flavors, providing a delightful treat that everyone enjoyed.
The evening was animated by a talented saxophonist and a lively DJ, who played a mix of “Miami” hits, salsa, and Latin rhythms, paying homage to Amelia’s Cuban heritage. The highlight of the evening was a stunning cake adorned with fresh berries and delicate decorations.
Advice from the couple:
• Prioritize what matters: celebrating love with your partner and loved ones. Delegate tasks when you can, take breaks, and enjoy life with your partner outside of wedding planning. Most importantly, trust your instincts to make decisions that are true to you, not just to others’ expectations.
PHOTOGRAPHER Lauren Alatriste | PLANNER Mr. and Mrs. Wedding in Italy | VIDEOGRAPHER Giovanni De Rosa | MUAH Beauty Livery | ON-SET STYLIST Danielle Parets | MUSIC Bravo Wedding Music | RENTALS Antares Events | VENUE Villa Eva | DRESS Welcome dinner: Galia Lahav, Wedding day: Berta customized by Galia Lahav | BRIDE’S SHOES Welcome dinner: Manolo Blahnik, Wedding day: Jimmy Choo | BRIDE’S PERFUME Delina by Parfums de Marly | BRIDAL CROWN Maria Elena Headpieces | TUXEDO Suit Supply | GROOM’S BOWTIE AND SHOES Tom Ford | GROOM’S COLOGNE Amyris Homme Maison Francis Kurkdijan
