This couple enjoyed all that Italy had to offer during their beautiful nuptials in the historic city of Rome.

“Michael and I knew we wanted a very private wedding with only our closest family and we wanted our guests to have a memorable experience – one they would talk about for years to come,” says the bride. “Italy, especially Rome, made a stunning setting for our week together.”

Michael and Heidi wanted their guests to revel in the historic charm that is represented throughout all of Rome.

“We hired a professional guide to take our families on a panoramic photo tour just before sunset while Rochelle [our wedding planner] whisked us around Rome taking our photos,” recalls the bride.

The bride claims they are “definitely not the crafty type,” but by the looks of this wedding they (including the wedding planner) sure did a great job. “Pinterest gave us some great ideas for floral arrangements,” says the bride. “I visited blogs like Grey Likes Weddings and Destination I Do for ideas to customize a color scheme and create check-lists so no detail would be overlooked.”

The couple’s traditional ceremony was beautiful and the architecture surrounding them was stunning. Soon after, the bride’s Italian grandfather stole the show during the reception with the heartwarming solo he performed for the bride and groom. “They [the band] identified he was a singer and handed him the microphone to [the song] ‘That’s Amore.’ He perfectly recited the lyrics in both English and Italian,” says Heidi.

“We had a wedding that was uniquely us and one most girls only dream of!” says the bride. “The elements of the sea roaring during our reception and the sunset over Rome in our photos are unprecedented.”

The bride’s advice: “Create a timeline that gives you plenty of room for curveballs leading up to and during your day. Interview and select a wedding planner who you can trust to create a smooth, stress-free event and hire the most amazing photographer you can find. Photos are what you will have to share the event with those not there and recreate the magic you felt on that day.”

Vendors: Photographer: Rochelle Cheever, Wedding Planner: Martina Coppino, Ceremony/Reception Site: The Cesar Restaurant, Florist: Loreta fioro, Ladispoli, Stationery: Pink Tomato Press, Makeup: La Posta Vecchia Beauty Club, Hair: Erica Marhofer, Gown Designer: One-of-a-kind, Lavender Bridal Salon, Groom’s Clothing Designer: Hart Schaffner & Marx, Shoe Designer: Michael Kors, Jewelry/Rings Designer: Custom, MK Designs Michelle McGuinnes 216-215-5253.