Set against the timeless beauty of Rome, Angela and Carmine’s wedding was a celebration of love, heritage, and heartfelt intention. From a sacred ceremony in a Romanesque basilica to a golden-hour reception overlooking the Eternal City, every detail reflected their shared values and style. With family roots in Italy and hearts full of joy, they brought their vision to life with elegance, warmth, and unforgettable moments under the stars.
Location: Rome, Italy
Style: Classy, elegant, simple
Time of planning: 1 year
Number of guests: 150
Setting: Ceremony – church, reception – courtyard
Season: Summer
Some love stories begin with a spark; theirs began with a simple introduction that lit the way forward. Angela had heard of Carmine through mutual friends, and one day, in the most unexpected of places — a nearby town — they crossed paths. From that moment on, everything else fell beautifully into place. Their journey came full circle in Italy, the land of their heritage and shared memories. After cheering on their beloved Napoli in a Champions League match against Milan, Carmine brought Angela to the ancient towers overlooking his parents’ hometown of Summonte. With the sun dipping below the horizon and the quiet hills stretching around them, he asked her to marry him.
Bride's Look
Angela wore the lace dress of her dreams — a mermaid-style, off-the-shoulder gown by designer Lihi Hod, complete with delicate sleeves and a softly flowing train. She paired it with classic Manolo Blahnik heels and radiant hair and makeup by the fabulous Giorgia Bertoldi. Her look was completed by a graceful bouquet of white roses, orchids, and baby’s breath, perfectly echoing the refined, textured space around her and capturing the warm, romantic spirit of the day.
The reveal to bridesmaids was a moment full of pure joy and emotion. As Angela stepped into the room in her stunning gown, her dear friends — dressed in sleek, silver satin — lit up with surprise and admiration. Even the flower girl stood in awe, adding a sweet touch to the already heartfelt scene.
Groom's Fashion
Carmine looked effortlessly sharp in a classic black tuxedo with a crisp white shirt and sleek black bow tie. His tailored three-piece suit gave him a timeless, refined silhouette, perfectly suited to the elegance of the day. Finishing touches included polished black dress shoes, a set of black onyx cufflinks, and a spritz of Dior Sauvage — adding a signature scent to his confident, modern style. The look was sophisticated yet understated, a perfect match for his bride’s graceful beauty.
Ceremony
The ceremony took place at Basilica San Saba, a true jewel of Romanesque architecture. Its old-world charm and timeless beauty captivated them from the moment they first visited — it was exactly what they had envisioned for exchanging their vows. The aisle was lined with classic stone urns overflowing with soft arrangements by Sartoria Floreale, featuring baby’s breath, white roses, and hydrangeas, creating a romantic, cloud-like feel against the backdrop of the historic space. With centuries-old frescoes surrounding the altar, every detail felt both sacred and serene.
The ceremony unfolded like a dream from the very first moment, with Angela arriving in a vintage car, her lace veil trailing as she stepped into the church. A traditional ceremony was deeply important to both her and Carmine, and having the mass celebrated in both English and Italian made the moment even more meaningful for them and their families. Set beneath the church’s elevated ceilings, the exchange of vows felt other-worldly.
"Guests are still talking about how magical it was!"
Reception
Angela had a clear vision for their wedding day — timeless, elegant, and deeply personal. As Italian-Americans, she and Carmine always knew they wanted to get married in Italy, and choosing Villa Miani as their venue was the easiest and best decision they made. Rather than drawing from a specific inspiration, their celebration became a true reflection of their style and shared values — set in a city that holds a special place in their hearts.
With the incredible guidance of their planner, Denise More, every detail came together seamlessly, creating an unforgettable setting that felt both intimate and grand, just as they had dreamed. Round and long tables dressed in crisp white linens and gold-rimmed chairs created a luminous, regal setting under the open sky. Golden vases filled with orchids and baby’s breath added softness, while crystal glassware and gold-accented plates completed the refined look. As the Roman sun set, candlelight cast a warm, dreamlike glow over the evening.
The reception began as golden hour faded into twilight, with guests gathering on the terrace to celebrate. Angela and Carmine’s wedding cake was a true showstopper — elegant, sculptural, and utterly romantic. The towering design featured smooth white tiers adorned with cascading sugar flowers that mimicked delicate ruffled petals and full-blown roses.
Angela and Carmine shared their first dance under a canopy of stars, with the softly lit façade of the villa. Surrounded by all their favorite people, the moment felt both cinematic and deeply personal. “This will be the only time in your lives where all of your favorite people are together in one place,” someone had told them — and they held on to that truth. They paused to block out the noise, take a slow look around, and soak in the scene. That mental picture of their loved ones — laughing, clapping, and celebrating — will stay with them forever.
Beneath the Roman sky, Angela and Carmine danced, toasted, and celebrated surrounded by the people they love most. The energy was electric, and the music brought it all to life — blending classics and favorite hits from both sides of their families, creating a soundtrack that perfectly matched the spirit of the celebration. Every emotion, every glance, every golden detail was beautifully captured by Elena Baranchuk, whose artistry turned fleeting moments into lasting memories.
"Working with Denise More and team made planning an overseas wedding seamless. She really understood my vision and was able to make it a reality."
Advice from the couple:
• Simply be present. Be sure to focus on each other through the many emotions and amidst all the excitement and remember why you chose to spend your lives together.
PLANNER Denise More | PHOTOGRAPHER Elena Baranchuk | VIDEOGRAPHER Paolo Furente | CEREMONY VENUE Basilica San Saba | RECEPTION VENUE Villa Miani | FLORALS Sartoria Floreale | MAKEUP Giorgia Bertoldi | DRESS Lihi Hod | SHOES Manolo Blahnik | CATERING Relais Le Jardin | STATIONERY Ricardo Palazzi & Cerrone Nozze | MUSIC RM Events & Weddings | LIGHTING & AUDIO Tecnoservice 2000 | BRIDAL CAR Canestri Autonoleggi | TRANSFER Gianesi Bus
