When it comes to classic soirees, it doesn’t get much better than Jackie and Ryan’s blush and gold wedding at Bella Sera. The two turned to Purple Wagon Designs to convey the details to their guests through an invitation suite filled with elegance and a sparkling touch – a true indication of how the day would be! Keeping with tradition, the two chose to lock eyes for the first time that day at church, which is also the very place they met years ago. Talk about a full circle moment! From there it was off to celebrate. Their Italian roots led them to choose the Tuscan-inspired villa for their wedding reception, where they infused nods to the Italian region with signed wine corks in place of a guest book, mini sparkling wine bottle favors, a cigar bar, and, of course, a cookie table! Candles lined the venue’s iconic staircase, lighting the way as guests entered the romance-filled room where branches weaved through the tops of lush centerpieces from Memories in Bloom. We have no doubt that the stunning cake design by Bethel Bakery caught the eyes (and tastebuds!) of many! If you’re a fan of timeless details, sentimental father-daughter first looks, and love itself, then prepare to say, “That’s amore!” as you scroll through this footage from Dorosh Documentaries!
About the Couple
Our love story dates all the way back to high school, when we got to know one another as altar servers at the church we attended. Of course, at the time, we had no idea how much that church would come to mean to us. Not only was it where we first met, but also where we would get engaged eight years later AND the location where we would officially become husband and wife.
About the Wedding
When planning our wedding, we knew we wanted something both classic and romantic. With us both having Italian roots, we immediately fell in love with the Tuscany inspired Bella Sera. The grand staircase and stone fireplace set the mood for our romantic day.
Our day was blushing with shades of pink, gold, and candlelight. We incorporated our colors into my bridal gown, the flowers, bridesmaid dresses, cake, and room decor. Floating candles adorned the staircase, gold votives were placed throughout the rooms, and champagne up lighting set the romantic mood we wanted. Keeping with the Tuscan theme, guests were asked to sign a wine cork and drop into a custom-made shadow box instead of a traditional guest book. A strolling violinist added soft background music to the cocktail hour. Outside the venue, the garden landscape and fountain made the perfect backdrop for photos. Mini sparkling wine bottle favors were at each place setting for guests to enjoy and a cigar bar was available outside. Of course, no Italian-themed wedding would be complete without the Pittsburgh cookie table. We had over 2500 cookies for all to enjoy! When the night was done, we were greeted with a sparkler send-off. The day was everything we dreamed of and more!
Favorite Moment
Although neither of us attended Pitt, we are hard core Pitt fans and we were sure to play “Sweet Caroline” at the reception!
