Mesa_Fortunato_EdgyUnderline_A7403212_low

Breathtaking LGBTQ Italy Destination Wedding in an Olive Mill

CATEGORIES

March 19, 2025
Words by Lauren Ertl
Photos courtesy of Sandra Jachimiak

Lauren and Gosuami’s wedding journey was a labor of love, carefully woven with intention and a deep appreciation for the beauty of the Italian countryside. The couple envisioned an intimate celebration reminiscent of a timeless Italian gathering, and they found their perfect setting at Buccelletti Casali and Cantina in Castiglion Fiorentino, Tuscany. 

“With its rustic charm and breathtaking scenery of vineyards and coastal hills, it was a place that set the tone for a warm, minimalist celebration,” Gosuami says.

Thoughtful Details & Personal Touches

From the beginning, Lauren and Gosuami prioritized meaningful details over grand displays. For example, each guest received a personalized postcard with a handwritten note. The couple also incorporated a saxophone player during the aperitif hour, setting the mood as guests enjoyed traditional Italian cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.

Wedding Fashion: A Journey to the Perfect Look

Choosing their wedding attire was an adventure of its own. “After an exhaustive search that included trying on 48 dresses, I finally found ‘the one’—a Chantelle lace gown,” Gosuami says. In a break from tradition, the couple shopped for their outfits together, offering opinions and support along the way. Lauren opted for a classic yet modern look, wearing a stylish white tuxedo paired with black pants and a Gucci bowtie. 

A Weekend to Remember

Lauren and Gosuami’s wedding wasn’t just a one-day affair; it was a full weekend of festivities. The couple rented out the entire village, allowing their guests to turn the celebration into a vacation of their own.

“We kicked off the weekend festivities with a tour of the property, followed by a wine tasting and an enchanting dinner illuminated by 400 candles inside an old olive mill,” Lauren says. The weekend concluded with a stylish white-themed pizza party by the pool, offering a stunning sunset view over the Tuscan countryside.

A Ceremony Rooted in Meaning

Lauren and Gosuami’s wedding day “broke with tradition in the best of ways,” the newlyweds say, “honoring us as an LGBTQ couple with our own customs and style.” 

The couple spent the morning together with their bridal party, toasting with champagne before getting ready in separate rooms. After an intimate first look, they proceeded to their ceremony, which was officiated by Lauren’s uncle, a fellow member of the LGBTQ community.

With only 34 guests in attendance, the ceremony was a beautifully intimate experience set against a breathtaking backdrop of vineyards and mountains. A path of white rose petals led the way, mirroring the intricate lace details on Gosuami’s wedding gown. 

A Cozy, Elegant Reception

Following the ceremony, guests transitioned to a garden reception beside an ancient olive mill, where a long imperial table was set beneath warm string lights. The décor was minimalist yet meaningful, featuring handmade paper menus, floating candles, and a white rose trail. “We wanted to create a cozy, inviting space that felt like a big family reunion,” Lauren said.

The reception began with a heartfelt toast from the couple, followed by a first dance to Until I Found You by Stephen Sanchez and a “La Vie en Rose” cocktail. Guests were treated to a Tuscan feast featuring Black Truffle and Pecorino flan, Porcini mushroom Straccetti with summer truffle, and Chianina beef, all crafted by a local catering company.

For an extra touch of magic, the couple cut into a traditional Millefoglie cake by candlelight before pouring a champagne tower atop a wine barrel. As the night progressed, the celebration moved indoors to the olive mill, where a DJ and a saxophonist kept the energy high on the dance floor, ensuring a night to remember.

Advice for Future Couples

Reflecting on their wedding planning experience, Gosuami highlights the importance of communication and attention to the little things: 

“I can’t emphasize enough the importance of sharing every detail of your mood board with your wedding planner. From where you envision the flowers and chairs to the signs and every other element, it all matters! Schedule a walkthrough and go over even the tiniest details before the big day. It may feel like a lot of work, but it’s much better than discovering something is wrong or out of place on the day of your wedding—especially if it doesn’t match your vision for your special day!”

Vendors: Photographer: Sandra Jachimiak Photo; Planner: Renee Buccelletti; Venue: Buccelletti Casali & Cantina; Cinema and Video: Little Nostalgic Moments; Tuxedo and Mens Attire: Hugo Boss; Ring Designer: Brilliant Earth; Jewelry: Verstolo; Makeup Artist: Giulia Ceccherini Makeup; Apparel: Sew in Love; Caterer: Cortona Catering; Floral Designer: IF Designer; Dress Designer: Made with Love Bridal; Dress Store: Lovely Bride NYC; DIY or Handmade Goods Designer: EdgyUnderline

Queen Kapiolani Weddings
exquisite vacations
Destination I Do Podcast
Celebrity Cruises for honeymoons
destination wedding bridesmaid dresses
person laying by pool
dark haired woman in bright green patterned bridesmaid dress
Antler Luggage

Find a Vendor

Access our list of vendors based on your destination location.