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This Pastel Villa Valentini Bonaparte Wedding is the Epitome of Romantic

April 6, 2024 | justine

Choosing the right venue for your special day is crucial as it sets the mood for the entire celebration. It influences everything from the color palette and decor to the overall atmosphere, and this was the case for Savannah and Bennett’s Villa Valentini Bonaparte wedding. They envisioned their day as a charming garden dinner party, with only their nearest and dearest in attendance. With the help of Junebug vendor and planner The Tuscan Wedding, they absolutely nailed it!

At their garden ceremony, a gorgeous pathway lined with pastel flowers led to a gazebo overflowing with blooms, creating a lovely setting for their heartfelt vows. But the floral influences didn’t stop there.  The party afterward featured tables adorned with lush arrangements and the soft glow of candles. Adding to the enchantment, sparkling fairy lights wrapped around, making the whole celebration feel like a magical storybook scene.

The special touches, paired with the beautiful setting, made this event truly remarkable, filled with love and individuality. For a closer look at all the beautiful moments and unique details from this romantic celebration, continue scrolling through these stunning photos captured by Elle Reaux.

The Couple:

Savannah and Bennett

The Wedding:

Villa Valentini Bonaparte, Italy

Bringing their Dream Villa Valentini Bonaparte Wedding to Life With the Help of Trusted Vendors

Our design evolved over the almost two-year planning process. The villa was such a huge focal point that we wanted to keep our color palette within the same family and add complimentary pops of color. Overall, we wanted our day to feel like a romantic garden dinner party with an intimate guest list of only our closest friends and family. From the lush garden-style ceremony to the al fresco dinner overlooking the Tuscan hills, our team of vendors helped us bring our vision to life!

Personalizing The Ceremony Through Collaboration With Their Officiant and Custom Vows

We personalized our ceremony by working closely with our celebrant, Diana, to write vows reflecting our love for each other. Diana also met with us multiple times to better understand our love story and put it beautifully into words in our ceremony. We worked on these vows separately and heard each other for the first time at the altar. They were also beautifully transcribed by our talented calligrapher, Asha. After the ceremony, we were driven away in a white Maggiolone convertible, a personal touch that added some fun to our day.

Crafting a Personalized Wedding Fragrance

We worked with our wedding planner and florist to create a personalized wedding fragrance, which we provided to each of our guests to create a scent memory and allow them to bring the experience home.

Defining Priorities and Collaborating With a Trusted Vendor Team

Set your priorities early and decide what is and isn’t part of your dream wedding. For example, we compromised by having a small guest list (less than 40 people total) and getting married earlier in the year, before peak season. Having the right team makes all the difference. Our wedding planner connected us to some of the top vendors and explored our ideas with complete transparency and her knowledge of the wedding industry. Our photographer had an uncanny sense of our wedding vision. 

Villa Valentini Bonaparte: A Venue Steeped in History and Romance

Villa Valentini Bonaparte is both a beautiful venue and a love story. One of Napoleon’s nieces constructed it to be closer to her husband, who was in exile in Florence. Savannah and I connected to this history because we spent years apart due to our careers, as we each knew we would build a villa for the other.

Setting the Scene with a Romantic Welcome Party Dinner

We would be remiss not to mention our welcome party dinner. Set in the evening, as our guests arrived, the atmosphere was relaxed but lively. The vibe was more earthy and organic, with a nod to the Tuscan scenery. All guests were seated around one long table, making the night feel like a long-awaited return home of loved ones. We wrapped up the night, joining in on a long-standing Italian tradition, the making of the Millefoglie.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Elle Reaux
Event Planning – The Tuscan Wedding
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Villa Valentini Bonaparte
Floral Design – Flowers Living
Catering – Preludio Catering
Cake – Tuscan Wedding Cakes
Officiant – Blessings from Italy
DJ – DJ Matthew
Live Music – Musica evento
Videography – Aberrazioni Cromatiche
Invitation Design – Babooche Calligraphy
Makeup Artist – Cherie Lee Spisso
Wedding Dress – Pronovias Austin
Bridal Accessories – Verstolo
Bridesmaids’ Apparel – Liza Lieberman
Groom’s Apparel – The Black Tux
Rings – Calvin’s Fine Jewelry
Transportation – Salijevic Saban
Favors – Flowers Living

 

Congratulations to Savannah and Bennett for their beautifully romantic Villa Valentini Bonaparte wedding. A huge thanks to Elle Reaux for capturing all the dreamy moments couples can use as inspiration. And a special shout-out to The Tuscan Wedding for planning the whole thing perfectly. To see more amazing events they organize, check out their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding planners.

This wedding shows how important the venue is in creating a memorable celebration. As you plan your big day, remember that where you choose to have it matters. Check out our complete guide for helpful tips and advice on picking the perfect spot. Your path to a dream celebration starts with finding the right backdrop!

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Everything to Know About Buying Wedding Bands

April 5, 2024 | riley
wedding bands flatlay

Image by Kailash

Planning a wedding involves making countless decisions, each contributing to the magical day you envision. One of the biggest decisions, however–that has nothing to do with the wedding itself–is choosing the perfect wedding bands. From understanding who traditionally pays for them to finding the right jeweler, there’s more that goes into the decision than you may initially realize. To ensure you’re well-equipped with all the information you need to know to get the ring of your dreams, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about buying and styling wedding bands.

Who Pays for the Wedding Bands?

The tradition of the groom purchasing the wedding bands dates back centuries, symbolizing his commitment to providing for his bride. However, times are changing, and modern couples often share financial responsibilities–including the cost of wedding bands. While no two stories are the same, the bottom line is to do what makes the most sense for you and your partner. To ensure you’re on the same page, always keep open lines of communication about finances. This goes for everything wedding-related. 

wedding bands flay lay

Image by Maria Bryzhko

How Much Do Wedding Bands Cost?

Wedding band prices vary widely depending on factors such as metal type, design, gemstone, and brand. On average, couples can expect to spend anywhere from $500 to $3,000 per band. However, you can find bands that are more affordable or more expensive than this range, so use these numbers as a loose jumping-off point. 

Establishing a budget early on and exploring various options within your price range is crucial to finding the perfect balance between quality and affordability.

Recommended Reading: How to Create the Best Wedding Budget for You and Your Partner

Where to Buy Wedding Bands?

When it comes to purchasing wedding bands, you have several options to consider:

  • Brick-and-mortar jewelry stores – Visiting a local jewelry store offers personalized assistance from experienced staff and the opportunity to try on different styles in person. However, prices may be higher, and the selection limited compared to online options.
  • Online – Online jewelry retailers offer convenience, competitive pricing, and a vast selection of styles, all within a click of a button. While this can be extremely easy, it’s important to read customer reviews and verify return policies before making a purchase. If you’re looking to do some online shopping (or you’re just looking around to get an idea of what you like), some of our favorite online retailers include:
  • Custom Jewelers – Lastly, working with a custom jeweler may be the perfect choice for couples searching for a truly unique and personalized wedding band. While this route may be more expensive, it allows you to bring your vision to life and create a one-of-a-kind piece that reflects your love story.

When to Buy Wedding Bands?

Timing is crucial when it comes to purchasing wedding bands. It’s recommended to start shopping for wedding bands at least three to four months before your wedding date to allow ample time for browsing, sizing, and any necessary changes. Remember that custom or engraved bands may require additional lead time, so plan accordingly to avoid last-minute stress.

wedding bands flat lay

Image by Jaime Denise

How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Band

Choosing the perfect wedding band involves considering several factors to ensure it aligns with your personal style and preferences:

Metal Options

Wedding bands are available in various metal options, each with its unique characteristics and aesthetic appeal. Common choices include:

  • Gold – Classic and timeless, gold wedding bands are available in yellow, white, or rose gold, offering versatility to suit different skin tones and tastes.
  • Platinum – Known for its durability and hypoallergenic properties, platinum is a popular choice for wedding bands. It’s loved because of its lustrous white sheen and longevity.
  • Titanium – Lightweight and durable, titanium wedding bands are highly resistant to scratches, making them ideal for active lifestyles or those with metal sensitivities.

Consider Your Personal Style

Your wedding band should reflect your unique personality. Whether you prefer classic, vintage, modern, or minimalist designs, choose a band that resonates with you and complements your lifestyle and overall daily style. 

Alternatively, if you and your partner are seeking something more unique, opt for custom-made designs that incorporate elements of their personality and your shared experiences. From intricate patterns inspired by a trip you took together to custom engravings of meaningful dates or symbols, these small additions help make your ring truly one-of-a-kind.

Coordinate with Your Engagement Ring

If you plan to wear your wedding band alongside an engagement ring, consider how they will complement each other. Options include:

  • Matching Sets – Opt for a matching wedding band designed to complement your engagement ring, creating a cohesive look.
  • Complementary Designs – Choose a wedding band with complementary design elements or gemstone accents that bring out the beauty of your engagement ring without overshadowing it.
  • Mixed Metals—We know this one isn’t for everyone, but if you’re not afraid of going a bit outside the box, experiment with mixing metals to create a unique and personalized look. For example, pair a white gold engagement ring with a rose gold or yellow gold wedding band for added contrast and visual interest.

Get the Right Fit

This is most likely going to sound obvious, but proper sizing is essential for comfort and security when it comes to wedding bands. Visit a jeweler to have your ring finger measured accurately, considering factors such as temperature, humidity, and time of day. Keep in mind that wider bands may require a slightly larger size for a comfortable fit, so be sure to try on different styles to find the perfect match.

Stacking Wedding Bands with an Engagement Ring

Stacking wedding bands with an engagement ring has become a popular trend, allowing you to customize your set and express your individuality. Here are some tips for achieving the perfect stack.

Choose a Contoured Band

If your engagement ring has a unique shape or setting, opt for a contoured wedding band that fits snugly against it. This ensures a seamless and cohesive appearance while minimizing gaps between the rings.

Consider Symmetry

Aim for symmetry and balance when stacking wedding bands with an engagement ring. If your engagement ring features a center stone, consider flanking it with matching or complementary bands for a cohesive and harmonious look.

Embrace Variety

Don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles, textures, and widths to create a unique and personalized stack. Whether you prefer a sleek look or a bold and eclectic vibe, the possibilities are endless.

From understanding who traditionally pays for them to mastering the art of stacking them with your engagement ring, there’s a lot to consider when choosing your wedding bands. By following the tips and guidelines in this guide, you’re all set to start looking. Start by taking a look at these diamond wedding bands that will complement your engagement ring. And, of course, don’t forget about insurance!

wedding bands pinterest graphic

Image by Matteo Lomonte

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This Couple Brought The Outdoors Inside At Their Natural Whispering Thorns Wedding

April 4, 2024 | justine

Kayla and Daniël opted for a natural theme for their wedding due to their profound love for nature. Despite their preference for an indoor setting, they aimed to capture the essence of the outdoors. This led them to select Junebug vendor and venue Whispering Thorns, a decision that proved to be just right as it aligned perfectly with their vision. Their big day exuded an ethereal and modern vibe, featuring a charming glass venue and chapel, dreamy florals, and timeless attire.

With breathtaking views of the Lowveld grasslands surrounding them, the venue’s contemporary design and indoor-outdoor ambiance provided the ideal backdrop for the festivities. The ceremony unfolded against a stunning panorama of the property, creating a picturesque scene. As guests moved to the lavish reception, they were welcomed by tablescapes adorned with candles and lush arrangements. To add a final touch of elegance, a glittering ceiling installation cast a soft glow over the space, enhancing the romantic atmosphere.

If you want ideas for a wedding that mixes modern style with amazing views, this has everything you need. Check out these lovely pictures taken by Light Burst Photography to see all the details up close.

The Couple:

Kayla and Daniël

The Wedding:

Whispering Thorns, Mpumalanga, South Africa

How Nature Inspired Their Whispering Thorns Wedding

We picked a natural theme for our wedding because we love nature. The venue, especially the glass chapel, matched this theme perfectly and made us feel like we were part of the outdoors. We chose Whispering Thorns because we wanted to be indoors while feeling close to nature. The glass chapel was just right for our dream wedding.

Making Memories During the Whispering Thorns Wedding Planning Process

The best part of our day was celebrating with loved ones. Our advice for couples? Treasure every step of planning your wedding. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so savor every moment.

Farm-to-Table Wedding Favors That Came From the Family Farm

We chose to give honey in beautiful glass bottles as wedding favors. This idea aligned perfectly with our theme and added a personal touch to our celebration. The honey came from my parents-in-law’s farm, making it even more special. We gathered together to create these lovely favors, which looked beautiful on the tables at the wedding.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Light Burst Photography
Event Planning + Ceremony Venue + Reception Venue + Catering – Whispering Thorns
Cake – Royal Treats
DJ – Jaydon Mark
Videography – Ballantyne Film + Photo
Invitation Design – 4keepsakes
Makeup Artist – Edge Beauty
Hair Styling – Matte & Ash

 

Congratulations to Kayla and Daniël on their Whispering Thorns wedding, which beautifully brought the outdoors in. If this venue won over your heart, too, check out their profile in our vendor directory for more celebrations hosted at this stunning space. 

Achieving a memorable celebration is within reach in various ways. Finding the perfect location is the first step. Whether you’re planning a small or big wedding, you can discover the venue of your dreams in our directory of the world’s best wedding venues.

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