Some weddings capture the heart of a place so vividly that they feel like a scene from a dream. Victoria and Michael’s wedding was precisely that—an ode to love, heritage, and the timeless beauty of Venice. Their grand celebration at the historic Palazzo Pisani Moretta was an affair brimming with romance, elegance, and rich Italian traditions, all beautifully documented by the talented Elisabetta Riccio.
Location: Venice, Italy
Style: Luxurious, Glamorous, Romantic
Time of planning: 10 months
Number of guests: 130
Setting: Palazzo
Season: Winter
Victoria and Michael’s journey began in a dimly lit SoHo lounge, where mutual friends set them up on a blind date with one rule—no social media stalking beforehand. Over martinis and an impromptu duet of Lady Gaga’s Shallow, their connection sparked. Countless adventures later, Italy—so deeply rooted in their ancestry and love story—became the only place they could imagine saying “I do.” New Year’s Eve, a night of fresh starts, was the perfect backdrop for the next chapter in their love story.
Inspiration & Concept
The couple envisioned an immersive Venetian experience—an opulent fusion of rich history, candlelit grandeur, and warm familial intimacy. The color palette of burgundy, ivory, and gold set a regal tone, complementing the grand interiors of their venue. Florals by Centrofiorii incorporated lush roses, ranunculus, peonies, and orchids, while custom stationery by Peg & Co. added an extra layer of sophistication.
Every detail of this celebration reflected Victoria and Michael’s love for Italian heritage and timeless glamour. Lusso Events ensured the day flowed smoothly, allowing each moment to unfold naturally. Elisabetta Riccio captured not just the beauty but the emotion woven into every frame, while Anker Prod brought the atmosphere to life on film. Together, they preserved a wedding that felt both grand and deeply personal.
Romantic Boat Ride
Venice’s canals and the iconic glass islands were the perfect stage for a love story like theirs. Wrapped in luxurious winter coats, Victoria and Michael set off on a private boat ride before the celebrations began. The crisp Venetian air and the shimmering reflections on the water made for breathtakingly intimate moments.
It was a fitting tribute to their love for Italy—a serene pause before the whirlwind of festivity, where the breathtaking architecture of Venice stood as a magnificent backdrop to a moment that belonged only to them and their love.
Rehearsal Dinner
The celebrations began with an intimate apéritif at Aman Venice, setting the tone for the weekend. Guests shared laughter and stories, toasting with the iconic espresso martini in hand.
Later, a welcome event at the stunning St. Regis Venice treated guests to a Ginori-themed evening of fine cocktails and exquisite Venetian delicacies, accompanied by live music that added to the enchanting ambiance. The atmosphere was electric, building anticipation for the grand wedding day.
Couple’s Signature Style
On the wedding morning, Victoria slipped into a breathtaking Monique Lhuillier gown adorned with intricate lace and beadwork. Her look was completed by a delicate headpiece, custom jewelry by Diana M Diamonds, and Manolo Blahnik Mary Janes.
Lara Navarrini and Sauro Parrucchiere crafted her sophisticated beauty styling, enhancing her natural elegance. A bouquet of classic white roses balanced Victoria’s ensemble perfectly, adding a touch of understated elegance to her bridal vision.
Michael, channeling Italian cinematic charm, donned a custom Veroumo tuxedo in deep velvet paired with Dolce & Gabbana accessories. Together, they truly epitomized timeless elegance.
Ceremony
The grand hall of Palazzo Pisani Moretta, decorated with cascading white florals and glowing candelabras, was the dreamlike setting for their vows. As Victoria walked down the aisle, arm in arm with both parents, Mi sei scoppiato dentro il cuore played softly, setting an emotional tone.
The moment was nothing short of cinematic, with Victoria’s lace train flowing as Michael dipped her into a touchy kiss, surrounded by golden candlelight and elegant floral arrangements. All the guests looked stylish, embracing dark and black tones, which added to the sophisticated and timeless aesthetic of the day.
Heartfelt vows, a joyful kiss, and an eruption of applause sealed their union, followed by their grand exit to Be My Baby by The Ronettes.
Cocktail Hour
The cocktail hour exuded an atmosphere of luxury with a selection of signature Negronis, admiral spritzes, and espresso martinis served in an ambiance of warm candlelight and classic jazz melodies. Guests mingled amid the palace’s grand interiors, raising glasses to the newlyweds as the evening transitioned into an extravagant reception.
"Every detail was a love letter to Italian heritage and timeless romance."
Private Moment
Before the grand celebration continued, Victoria and Michael stole a quiet moment together—a pause amidst the revelry, just the two of them in the candlelit halls of the palace. It was a moment of pure magic, where the weight of the day settled in, and their journey as husband and wife truly began.
The photographer, Elisabetta, masterfully captured the intimacy of this fleeting yet powerful moment, preserving its essence forever. Despite the dim lighting, which can be challenging to work with, she skillfully captured every detail, ensuring that the atmosphere and emotions of the moment were beautifully preserved.
Decor & Setting
The reception hall was an opulent dreamscape into a winter wonderland—gold chandeliers illuminating lush floral arrangements, soft candlelight reflecting off gilded mirrors, and long banquet tables adorned with classic Venetian elements. Elegant black and white porcelain plates, delicate glassware, and towering white florals created a striking tablescape.
Thanks to the expert planning, every detail exuded sophistication and seamless execution. A beautifully curated seating chart inspired by vintage Venetian tapestries guided guests to their places, while hand-painted masks were gifted as favors, setting the tone for an unforgettable masked ball.
Reception
As the night unfolded, Victoria and Michael made a breathtaking entrance into the grand reception hall, taking in the sight of their beautifully transformed venue. One of the most unforgettable moments for them was witnessing the contrast—having seen the hall in its quiet, empty grandeur before and now experiencing it filled with the laughter, music, and warmth of their closest loved ones.
The menu, crafted by Savour Venice, was a culinary tribute to Italy, featuring handmade pasta, seafood delicacies, and an unexpected showstopper: a Crustada custard dessert. Instead of a single wedding cake, a lavish dessert table overflowed with exquisite Italian pastries and confections, offering guests a true feast for the senses.
The celebration continued as the couple and their guests reveled in a sensory masterpiece—opera performances by seven singers, masked dances, and a midnight ball drop that ushered in the New Year in spectacular fashion. Champagne towers, sparklers, and confetti filled the air, culminating in a euphoric celebration of love, culture, and new beginnings. It had a 90s rave vibe that was reminiscent of Brooklyn Mirage.
Every detail, every embrace, every twinkle of candlelight told a story—one of passion, heritage, and timeless romance.
"This wasn't just a wedding—it was a four-day odyssey."
Advice from the couple:
• Take a moment, scan the room, and breathe in the love around you. Amid the chaos of planning, remember—it’s always about you two.
• Lean on your team, cherish every glance with your partner, and trust that, despite the stress, every moment is a step toward an unforgettable celebration of love.
PHOTOGRAPHER Elisabetta Riccio | VIDEOGRAPHER Anker Prod | PLANNER Lusso Events | VENUE Palazzo Pisani Moretta, Londra Palace, Aman Venice, St. Regis Venice | FLORALS Centrofiori | STATIONERY Peg & Co | CATERING Savour Venice | AUDIO & LIGHTS AFS Service Audio Luci | DJ, SAX & VIOLINIST DJ Sax | SOPRANO Lieta Naccari | MUA Lara Navarrini, Danijela Brozovic | HAIR Sauro Parrucchiere | STRING QUARTET & FOLK TRIO Fix The Music | BOAT Marive Transport | BRIDE & GROOM Victoria & Michael
