Location: Venice, Italy
Setting: All of Venice
Wedding season: Late Summer
The number of guests: Bride and Groom
How long did the couple plan the event? 19 months
Wedding theme/style: Timeless, sophisticated, effortlessly elegant, vintage.
Elizabeth and Will’s love story began when they met as coworkers in Wisconsin. Despite both dating others at the time, their connection blossomed after Will returned from an Air National Guard deployment. Over the years, they navigated a long-distance relationship, pursued individual dreams, and, after a magical proposal at the Memphis Zoo, decided to spend their lives together.
The couple’s special day unfolded against Venice‘s captivating beauty. This charming city held a special place in their hearts since a memorable visit in 2018. Then Will had a two-week work trip to Italy, and Elizabeth flew out to meet up with him. It was her first trip to Europe. They ended up traveling to Venice, where the lovebirds spent 24 hours. They decided to get lost, pick random directions, drink wine, and have fun. As a result, that night became their favorite one, and now every corner seems to hold their cherished memories.
The wedding theme exuded simplicity and elegance, capturing the essence of European architecture and the Victorian era.
The bride wore a gown by Elizabeth Fillmore for the wedding day, featuring long sleeves and a high neck. It was the first dress she tried on, and when Bev, an employee at GIGI’s in Milwaukee, looked at her, she said: “Elizabeth, that’s your dress.”
Her accessories included favorite earrings from RingDesire and a purse from William’s grandmother at her wedding in 1965.
With makeup and hair by an outstanding Italian artist, Linda Lynn, the bride’s look showed Victorian charm with a touch of 1920s vibes. An elegant low bun was a must to complement the dress’s neckline. So gorgeous!
William looked sophisticated in a peak lapel tuxedo by Paul Bentley, featuring a pleated shirt with black buttons — a perfect blend of classic and vintage. His ring had “one day closer” engraved inside, reflecting the couple’s resilience during extended periods apart.
The couple’s vision was clear – an intimate, stress-free celebration where the spotlight remained firmly on them. It was just them and their team.
“It would have been too easy to get caught up in trying to please everyone else had we had guests. I said numerous times during our day, “Whatever happens, happens, I don’t care”. And I honestly didn’t care. It was stress-free, and I could live in the moment and be happy. We both agree we made the right decision. It was the best day ever, which is so I to say, but it really was” – the bride says.
Against the backdrop of St. Mark’s Square, near the Doge’s Palace, Elizabeth and Will exchanged vows. The bride walked down the symbolic “aisle” to the soulful instrumental rendition of “At Last” by Etta James, and the ceremony concluded with the timeless melody of “Days Like This” by Van Morrison, weaving musical enchantment into their Venetian love story.
The newlywed photoshoot at the square was unexpectedly decorated with a flock of pigeons. “We were having photos taken, and suddenly, we were swarmed with birds. A huge shock. Then I felt a man put birdseed in my hand, creating even more of a shock for everyone as birds climbed all over us.” It definitely created unforgettable memories!
Elizabeth and Will, surrounded by their intimate team, embraced the charm of Venice. Gelato, pizza near canal, and the delightful stumble upon an antique store, adding unexpected joy. The whole city was their venue.
After that, the lovebirds opened letters their closest loved ones wrote for them, making them keepsakes. It was a couple’s unique way to include their families and friends in their celebration.
The evening unfolded with viewing the city from the water, something the couple hadn’t done before in Venice. They took a private boat tour to the church of San Giorgio Maggiore, where they had their first dance. The church, unexpectedly open, added a touch of enchantment.
Hair and makeup artist Linda Lynn pulled the bride’s hair back into another low bun to avoid hair in her face on the boat. This thoughtful step provided comfort and gave the feeling of a new, more evening look.
As the sun set, the couple viewed the charming city lights from the water. The day concluded with the couple sharing a private dinner overlooking the Grand Canal, a magical moment that brought tears to Elizabeth’s eyes as they bid farewell to their dedicated team.
Advice from the couple:
• Do what you want to do. It’s your wedding not your family’s. Identify what’s most important to you and don’t skimp on it. For us it was the photographer. A wedding planner is worth it. Even though we didn’t have as much to plan as a traditional wedding with guests, we had a lot going on in our personal lives. Mari kept us on track and recommended vendors she knew will deliver the vision.
MUAH Linda Lynn | PLANNER Marigiulia Sella Weddings | PHOTOGRAPHER Sierra Katrina | VIDEOGRAPHER Memento Story | BRIDAL DRESS Elizabeth Fillmore | BRIDAL BOUTIQUE GIGI | CELEBRANT Gintare Macijauskaite | FLOWERS Pretty Flowers | STATIONERY Komoko Studio | DINNER Restaurant St. Regis | BOAT TOUR Venice Taxi Boat
