A Love Story Born Under the Same Stars

Stephania and Ethan’s connection is nothing short of serendipitous. “Unofficially, we met the day we were born,” Stephania shares. “Our mothers were in the same hospital room!” They reconnected in high school and their bond persevered through distance and different continents. As Stephania says, “It was meant to be since the day we were born!” This destiny propelled the couple to find each other and, eventually, to say “I do” under the Tuscan sun in a destination wedding in Siena, Italy.

Destination Wedding: Sharing the Passion for Travel

Having explored most of Europe together, a destination wedding was a natural choice for this travel-loving couple. “We had 117 loved ones travel from all other the worlds, Canada, USA, Sweden, Italy, England, Australia and Macedonia. It was the perfect size for us and gave us the opportunity to spend quality time with all of our guests during those five days at the villa,” the bride recalls. For Stephania, the location held an even deeper significance: reuniting her Nonna with family in Italy after 52 years.

Finding Villa Catignano: A Tuscan Dream Come True

Italy, Stephania’s favorite European destination, was the clear winner. Scrolling through social media, Stephania stumbled upon Villa Catignano and instantly fell in love. “It is absolutely stunning,” she exclaims. The venue’s Tuscan charm, nestled amidst the Chianti countryside, offered the perfect blend of elegance and functionality, accommodating guests and hosting all the festivities. “We hired Lusso Events,” Stephania says, “as [our planner] Tracey is often involved in many events that take place at the Villa. Any issue we faced, she took care of it for us.”

A Ceremony Reflecting Their Love Story

The couple’s ceremony, held in a stunning church in Siena, was a beautiful blend of traditions. “The priest we chose was very inclusive,” Stephania explains, “We had special speakers deliver well wishes in Italian, English, and Arabic, making it feel like all parts of us were included.”

Unique Reception at Villa Catignano

As for decorating, we did not need to do much as the ambiance of the villa was spectacular on its own. We wanted to keep to that Tuscan villa theme and tie in our colors, which were gold and burgundy. We had an artist come in to paint us at the Villa which was one of my favourite special elements we had on our big day. He was a hit and everyone loved him, plus now we have a special keepsake from our big day that we cherish.

Planning from Afar: Challenges and Triumphs

A pre-wedding visit proved invaluable. “Going to the site allowed us to finalize almost all of the major decisions. We did that over the course of three days, meeting at the villa, church, caterers, florist, etc. It was nice to get it all done at once,” Stephania says. While COVID-related postponements required adjustments, the supportive wedding planner and venue staff made the process smooth.

Stephania’s Golden Advice for Destination Weddings

“I am grateful I did not let the guilt get the best of me and prevent me from following my dreams to get married abroad,” Stephania says. “Giving people different options that may suit their budgets and enough time to save would be my number one advice.”

So, if you’re considering a destination wedding in Siena, Italy, take a cue from Stephania and Ethan’s magical celebration.

Vendors: Photographer: Sarah Anne Photography; Wedding Planner: Lusso Events; Ceremony: Ingisgne Collegiata di Santa Maria; Reception: Villa Catignano; Florist: Flowers Living; Stationery: Adoration; Cake: Class Ricevimenti; Hair & Makeup: The Porfirio; Gown Designer: Maria Farbinni; Wedding Party Attire: ASOS and Show Me Your Mumu; Decor: Peg & Co; Bar Service: Event in Bar; DJ & Lighting: AUDIOVISUAL; Band: The Puppets Band Italy; Caterer: Class Ricevimenti; Videographer: WhiteLife Studio; Painter: Amalfi Wedding Essence