Political functions and romance don’t typically go hand-in-hand, but for one destined couple, it was the start to a life even a Disney princess would go green with envy over.

Gina found herself attending George Washington University while Scott was in and out of D.C. for his job in politics. The two ended up at the same political event and the rest is history. “Having just moved to D.C., I thought I should learn a little more about the political process firsthand, but didn’t know I would find a husband instead!” recalls Gina.

When it came time to decide on where to have their wedding, the destination was an obvious choice. Gina already spent much of her time in Tuscany running a passion project and family business: an exquisite collection of restored 12th century villas and boutique hotel called Monteverdi in the medieval village of Castiglioncello del Trinoro. This is where 130 friends and family joined them from all over the U.S. and Italy to experience an unforgettable celebration.

The ceremony setting turned out to be symbolic in more ways than one. Gina’s father’s favorite place in the village is the town’s oldest structure: the medieval archway. “We actually had not planned on using the arch in the ceremony at all, until our designer, David Beahm, said off-handedly, ‘It’s too bad we can’t do the ceremony right here under the arch.’ Scott and I both looked at each other and knew instantly it had to be the place,” says Gina. The archway is symbolic of new beginnings as well as persistence and strength, so it made sense that the couple passed through the archway with all their guests.

“The inspiration for our reception was a glass of Champagne…everything from the tablecloths to the centerpieces had a feeling of elegant sparkle.” Outside of the gorgeous setting, music took center stage for the reception with Rhythm Collective performing and Grammy award winning, Steve Tyrell serenading the father/daughter dance.

Gina and Scott didn’t say goodnight until the sun came up and Gina took one last look at the stunning décor. “When we came out again, all of it – every chair, every tablecloth and every flower – was gone, as if it had never happened. It was a nice metaphor for looking forward to the life ahead of us, rather than dwelling, even on the good things, in the past.”

VENDORS: Event Design and Production for Rehearsal and Wedding: David Beahm Experiences, Photography: Kelly Fajack, Ceremony/Reception Site: Monteverdi, Tuscany, Italy, Florist: David Beahm Experiences, Rentals Rehearsal and Wedding: Preluddio Noleggi, Lighting and A/V Production Manager Rehearsal and Wedding: Alessandro Dal Pra, Lighting and A/V Production Company Rehearsal and Wedding: Net Service Events Factory, Entertainment Rehearsal and Wedding: Elan Artists, Special Guest Entertainer Rehearsal and Wedding: Steve Tyrell, Catering Rehearsal Dinner: Dopolavoro La Foce, Catering Wedding: Monteverdi Tuscany, Wedding Stationery Suite: Red Bliss, Transportation: Il Girasole, Videography: Elysium Productions, Welcome Baskets: created by the Bride with components from Eataly, Save the Date: created by the bride accompanied by wine from Tenuta Valdipiata, Bride Rehearsal Dinner Dress: Marchesa, Bride Rehearsal Dinner Shoes: Christian Louboutin, Groom Rehearsal Dinner Suit: Moods of Norway, Groom Rehearsal Dinner Shoes: Tod’s, Bride Wedding Dress: Giada Curti Haute Couture, Bride Wedding Shoes: René Caovilla, Hair and Makeup: Mary Curran, Groom’s Tux: designed by the Groom at Wingtip, Groom’s shoes: Hugo Boss, Rings: J. Landau, Los Angeles, LED Light Sculpture: Andres Amador

This article first appeared in Destination I Do’s Spring/Summer 2016 issue. You can order a copy here.