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Tuscan Castle Wedding Complete With Rain Showers

May 14, 2021 | riley

A castle, a rain shower, and a ceremony full of song–what more could you want in a wedding? Mel and Eugene’s Tuscan castle wedding at Castello il Palagio was the perfect combination of elegant and lively. While they could’ve let the rain during their music-filled outdoor ceremony get them down, the couple kept spirits high when they moved indoors to continue the nuptials.

After rain-soaked “I do’s” and taking stunning portraits in the vineyard, the newlyweds partied the night away with friends and family at a reception fit for royalty. With the help of CG Wedding & Event Designer, the couple transformed the space into an Italian dream using eucalyptus and olive leaves, candles galore, and gold decor. And of course, we can’t forget to mention Mel’s forest green one-shoulder Sarah Boadu reception gown and Eugene’s all-white outfit change–talk about taking wedding fashion to the next level.

One look at these photos beautifully captured by Benni Carol Photography, and you’ll be ready to galavant around the Tuscan countryside.

The Couple:

Mel and Eugene

The Wedding:

Castello il Palagio, Tuscany, Italy

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Why A Tuscan Castle Wedding

We are really proud of the choice we made for our wedding venue. Just when we thought we had found our dream location, Claudia encouraged us to see one more–Castello Il Palagio–and we fell in love. It was classic, romantic, and surrounded by vineyards. It was crucial to have a venue that could host our wedding both inside and outside, with stunning options in both cases. Even though the weather proved to be quite unpredictable on our wedding day, we were able to relax and have a great experience without worries or regrets.

Wedding Advice From The Bride

During our wedding planning process, we struggled a lot with COVID restrictions. Nevertheless, amid a pandemic, we had the most beautiful wedding in Florence. Looking at world events today, we cannot believe that we were even able to have our wedding. Not to mention flying out 90 guests from London—no one caught COVID due to our planner’s diligence and safety precautions—and us having the best day of our lives. Claudia–of CG Events–was nothing short of amazing. Our wedding was originally scheduled for June 4th, 2020, but took place–by nothing short of a miracle–on September 20th, 2020. So my best advice to all the couples out there would be to try and stay positive even if things don’t go as initially planned. And trust your wedding vendors.

Traditional Italian Wedding Day Vibes

We were looking for a typical “Tuscan vibe.” This meant lots of green with eucalyptus and Chianti olive leaves along with some white and champagne elements with a touch of gold. The stunning castle grounds and the surrounding chianti hills helped us realize what we were looking for–a romantic, warm, and earthly atmosphere.

Recommended Reading: These Wedding Reception Songs Are Guaranteed to Get Your Guests on the Dance Floor

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Benni Carol Photography
Event Planning – CG Wedding & Event Designer
Venue – Castello il Palagio
Floral Design – Fiori Del Chianti
Catering & Cake – Delizia Ricevimenti
DJ – DJ Ruff N Tuff
Live Music – Gianluca Baroncelli
Videography – Kayode Fabunmi
Makeup Artist – The Queen Hadassah
Hair Styling – Asharnie-Marvin
Wedding Dress – Alonuko Bespoke
Reception Dress – Sarah Boadu
Rentals – Just Magic
Bar – Mad Souls and Spirits

 

Congratulations again to Mel and Eugene on their Tuscan castle wedding! We’re so thankful that Benni Carol Photography was there to capture the beauty of the day. Don’t forget to check out these six destination wedding tips before jetting off for your own destination “I do’s!”

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Outdoor And Elegant Desert Paseo Wedding

May 13, 2021 | Junebug Weddings

Choosing the perfect venue for you and your partner can be challenging, but for Amanda and Matt, they knew it was love at first sight. To pay homage to Matt’s Arizona roots, they felt it only right to have their wedding with the Superstition Mountains as their backdrop. Their elegant Paseo wedding featured warm color tones, an outfit change, and a perfect desert sunset. By incorporating the desert’s natural colors, wedding planner Your Jubilee created an elegant, yet totally dreamy space for this couple to tie the knot. 

Amanda looked completely gorgeous with her sheer, beaded dress with a tail of tulle coming from her shoulders. The look was complete, with her stylish mismatched bridesmaids. And to finish the evening, their reception included a photobooth VW bus, Amanda’s sequin reception dress, and a glamorous streamer send-off. 

Keep scrolling to see more of this show-stopping wedding as captured by Morgan McCanne Photo. But don’t blame us if you opt to get married in the desert after!

The Couple:

Amanda and Matt

The Wedding:

The Paseo, Apache Junction, Arizona

Focusing On Their Love

Since our wedding was during COVID, it was an important reminder that this moment was about us and our love for each other. We were there to get married and then celebrate that moment after the fact. Whoever showed up, showed up. But at the end of the day, it was the fact that we were officially husband and wife.

Reading Their Vows

When we got engaged, we were totally on board to just let the officiant run the show, but then Amanda read another bride’s thoughts on the subject. She brought up the point that this is the one time you’ll get to express how much your spouse means to you in front of the entire world. With that in mind, we knew we had to make it personal because our love for each other is personal. It’s unique to us and we wanted our commitment to each other to feel that way too—it was 100% worth it.

Hire A Wedding Planner

If you are planning a wedding out of state, it’s so worth hiring a planner. It kept us sane throughout the whole process. You can lose your mind with all the options that are out there. Don’t waste time getting lost with what’s out there. Your planner will know your style, look, and goals to help narrow down selections for whatever vendor you need help finding. Plus, they usually have options for every budget.

A Perfect Paseo Wedding

Amanda grew up in California right by the beach, and Matt grew up in Arizona surrounded by the desert and mountains. Both met in Texas, which was lacking all of those things. Matt proposed on the beach, so that was one piece of our marriage journey. To round it all out, we knew we had to go with mountains for the big day, and you cannot compete with the Superstition Mountain views at The Paseo. They’re so breathtaking!

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The Wedding Team:

Photography – Morgan McCanne Photo
Event Planning – Your Jubilee
Venue – Paseo Venue
Floral Design – J Barry Designs
Catering – Straight to the Plate
Cake – Sue Jacobs Cakes
DJ – Downtown Brown Productions
Videography – Brette Morgan Films
Invitation Design – Freed Hands
Makeup Artist – Lily Colletti
Hair Styling – Leslie
Wedding Dress – Destiny’s Brides
Groom’s Apparel – Celebrity Tux & Tails
Rentals – Lace and a Barn

 

Congratulations to Amanda and Matt on their stunning desert Paseo wedding! Major shoutout to Morgan McCanne Photo for capturing and sharing this day with us. If you’re into these desert wedding vibes, check out this bright and whimsical desert wedding and this intimate Las Vegas desert wedding for more inspiration.

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19 Creative Honeymoon Ideas For Every Couple

May 12, 2021 | riley

Image by Sav Brown. Keep scrolling for creative honeymoon ideas

When it comes to honeymoons, no rule says you have to jet set to a far-off destination. Whether you’re saving up money to pay off debts, buy a house, or you’re just not ready to travel, there are still many ways to celebrate being a newlywed with your new partner. 

From low-key plans like spa days to adrenaline-rushing activities like a hot air balloon ride, these creative honeymoon ideas give you the chance to soak in the feeling that is being newly married without having to hop on a plane!

Creative Honeymoon Ideas

1. Camping or Glamping

If you and your new spouse are big adventure lovers, this one’s for you. Whether you pitch a tent or you opt to go glamping, there’s nothing better than getting out and being one with nature. Camping gives you the chance to sleep under the stars (so romantic), hike, swim, tube, or just kick back and relax with your favorite book in a hammock. Just don’t forget to pack the s’mores!

2. Spa Day

Although you may not be traveling, a honeymoon can still be all about treating yourself for all of the hard work that goes into wedding planning. A spa day will leave you feeling relaxed, and you’ll walk away a brand new person. Complete the experience with massages, manicures, pedicures, facials, and more.

Image by Nicole Ashley. See more of this shoot here

3. Take A Cooking Class

Is there anything better than a home-cooked meal? Spend quality time together and whip up a meal to remember at a cooking class. Whip up homemade pasta, a cultural fusion, or the dessert of your dreams–there are so many options to choose from. Plus, you’ll be able to keep the recipe and make it a regular meal throughout your marriage.

If you’d rather someone do the cooking for you, you can also hire a private chef to come to your home and prepare a meal for the two of you. This way, you can sit back and relax with a glass of wine.

4. Go To A Music Festival

If you’ve ever attended a music festival, then you know how exciting it is to watch some of your favorite music artists with your friends. It’s even better with your spouse! Make new memories with your spouse and find a  music festival with artists you both love. A weekend spent listening to good tunes, dancing, and soaking up the sunshine–what more could you want?

Image by The Archivers

5. Take Massage Classes

Are you looking to spice things up a bit? While you could get a couple’s massage–which we’re always a fan of–why not bring the heat home? Melt offers online massage courses that teach you how to finesse your hands and focus on the areas of tension for the ultimate relaxation experience. All you need is oil, your partner, and a computer.

6. Spend A Day At An Amusement Park

We wholeheartedly believe that we’re all children at heart, and there’s no better way to showcase our playful sides than a day at an amusement park. From arcade games with prizes to roller coasters that will have you screaming your head off, this is such an easy and fun way to celebrate your love.

7. Volunteer

If you and your new spouse would rather spend your time helping others, a volunteer day is one of the sweetest and most thoughtful ways to celebrate your love while giving back. It’s a creative way to create memories and create a long-lasting impact on your community. 

Help plant a community garden, spend the day at the humane society playing with pups, or put together care packages for the homeless. Follow up your hard work with a nice dinner, just the two of you, and talk about everything you felt and learned during your creative honeymoon experience.

Image by Anais Possamai Photography. See more of this styled elopement here

8. Rent A Vintage Car And Drive Around Town

Did you know that you can rent vintage cars and drive around town like you’re a 1950s movie star? Throw on those cat-eye sunglasses, headscarves, and loafers and hit up the city in the vintage car of your dreams. We highly suggest a convertible if the weather is permitting.

9. Take A Hot Air Balloon Ride

Adrenaline junkies, this one’s for you. Take your love to new heights–literally–by going on a hot air balloon ride. It’s a great way to see your city from a new perspective and gain a sense of peace. If you really want to kick off being newlyweds, find a company that puts together a celebratory breakfast and champagne toast for you before take off.

10. Wine Tasting And Brewery Tour

Looking for a boozy way to commemorate your wedding day? Head over to your local winery or brewery and make a day of tasting and snacking. There’s nothing quite like drinking the day away under the sun while snacking on charcuterie boards or pretzels.

Image by Donna Irene Weddings. See more of this real elopement here

11. Rent A Boat For Your Honeymoon

You don’t have to live near the ocean for this one. Whether you’re on the coast or you’re a short drive away from a lake, renting a boat is a fun way to soak up some sun and get out on the water. If you’re looking for some exercise, opt for a two-person canoe or kayak. If you’re all about chilling out, see what your options are for jet skis or pontoon boats. 

12. Go Horseback Riding

Are you and your significant other outdoor enthusiasts? Animal lovers? If so, combine the two loves with horseback riding. You get to spend time out in the fresh air while enjoying the company of some of the most beautiful creatures on Earth.

13. Golf

Want some friendly competition? We got you covered. Hit the golf courses for this one. If mini-golf is more your speed, go for it. Or make your way to your local golf course for some serious game time. No matter what your golf skill is, this is a fun way to challenge yourself and have a playful rivalry—the loser has to buy the winner a milkshake!

Image by Maddie Mae Photo. See more of this real elopement here

14. Helicopter Ride

If you don’t mind the expense, enjoy a trip in the skies. That’s right, take a helicopter ride together. This gives you a chance to get a birds-eye view of your city, a national park, or a big nearby landmark. Find a sunrise or sunset option and watch the world transform in front of your eyes for some added romance.

15. Skydiving

Maybe roller coasters, hot air balloons, or helicopter rides aren’t enough for you. Take the ultimate plunge together and jump out of a plane instead. Skydiving is a surefire way to get your adrenaline rushing and celebrate taking the leap of marriage together.

16. Go Down Memory Lane 

One of the most romantic things you can do together is stroll down memory lane and revisit spots that were important to you while dating. This could be a park, a restaurant where you had your first date, or even the place where you got engaged. The options are endless.

Image by Cedar & Pines. See more of this real elopement here

17. Rent a Cabin

Escape the heat during the summer months or hit the slopes in the winter months by renting a cabin for a creative honeymoon getaway. There’s truly nothing more serene than being surrounded by nature and the sound of the wind gently blowing through the trees.

18. See a Broadway show

Switch up your typical Netflix and dinner routine by opting for a Broadway show instead. Check out your nearby theater and see what shows are playing for a night full of music, dancing, and entertainment.

19. Take A Pottery-Making Class

If you’ve seen Ghost, you’ve probably always wanted to go on a romantic pottery-making date. It’s a cool way to express your creative side and get closer to one another. Plus, you get a cool souvenir to take home with you, and there are sure to be laughs along the way.

Love these creative honeymoon ideas but want something a little more lowkey in the comfort of your home? Check out our guide on how to put together the perfect staycation honeymoon!

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