In a fashion-forward celebration truly fit for a Medici, Sarah & Mitch spent three days with their nearest and dearest in a Renaissance villa nestled amongst Tuscan olive groves. For their Florence wedding photography, it was a special honor to be chosen to capture their memories as Sarah is not only one of our dearest friends but also is our beloved and brilliantly talented second photographer.
From watching the sun rise over Florence’s Duomo to a Italian cinema-inspired welcome party to their black tie soirée set against the most painterly backdrop that we’ve ever witnessed to their chic pool party, every single moment was a dream come true. Scroll to see the full story!
Planning your destination wedding in Italy and searching for your Florence wedding photography? Contact us to schedule your complimentary consultation! Looking for more Italian wedding inspiration? See a Tuscany wedding in BRIDES, a black tie Italian wedding in Martha Stewart Weddings, and a luxe Amalfi Coast anniversary party.
We began the festivities with a sunrise pre-wedding session in Florence that began along the Arno River, where the gentle light bathed the city in a soft, golden hue. Sarah’s Zimmermann dress, with its delicate textures and flowing silhouette, harmonized beautifully with the Tuscan color palette, blending seamlessly with the warm tones of the historic buildings and the river’s shimmering reflections. As the sun ascended, it painted the sky in hues of pink and orange, creating an ethereal backdrop that made their love story feel like a timeless Italian romance.
As the day unfolded, Sarah slipped into her Alexandra Pijut Delphine dress for the welcome party, and the transformation was nothing short of enchanting. With the majestic Duomo as a stunning backdrop, we meandered through the city’s charming historic streets, where the blend of the dress’s delicate details and the rich architectural heritage created a picturesque contrast. Every corner seemed to offer a new, captivating frame for their love story.
Before heading to the villa, we stopped at the historic Caffé Gili—a charming Florentine gem that epitomized the city’s rich café culture. Nestled in the heart of Florence, this storied establishment provided the perfect setting for Sarah and Mitch to relax and savor a leisurely snack. As they enjoyed cappuccinos topped and pastries that were almost too beautiful to eat, the couple basked in the warm, inviting atmosphere of the café. The elegant, vintage décor and the soft murmur of conversation around them created a cozy, intimate ambiance, offering a delightful way to kick off the wedding festivities.
Our journey continued to the stunning Villa Medici di Lilliano, where Sarah and Mitch hosted their welcome party amidst the grandeur of this historic estate. The evening was nothing short of cinematic, echoing the charm of a Fellini film with its array of indulgent delights. A whimsical gelato cart offered a spectrum of flavors, while a Prosecco truck kept the bubbles flowing effortlessly. Wood-fired pizzas, with their irresistible aroma, were prepared right on site, adding a deliciously rustic touch to the festivities. Classic Italian musicians set the mood with their enchanting melodies, creating an ambiance that perfectly captured the essence of ‘la dolce vita.’
On the morning of the wedding, the air was filled with a mix of excitement and anticipation as Sarah prepared for her big day.The room was a whirlwind of soft laughter and heartfelt conversations, framed by the elegance of the space. As Sarah slipped into her Mira Zwillinger Nelly gown, the transformation was breathtaking. The gown’s delicate lace adorned her like a work of art, perfectly capturing the essence of her refined style and the romantic spirit of the day.
Sarah and Mitch’s first look was a moment of pure magic, set against the backdrop of the Villa Medici di Lilliano’s lush gardens. As they saw each other for the first time on their wedding day, the emotion was palpable—Mitch’s eyes lit up with awe and admiration, and Sarah’s smile was radiant with joy. From there, the couple stepped into their vintage Italian convertible, a stylish nod to classic romance. With the top down they drove through the scenic countryside toward their ceremony.
The ceremony unfolded on the rooftop of the Villa Medici di Lilliano, offering an unparalleled view that stretched over rolling olive groves and distant Florence. As Sarah and Mitch exchanged their vows, the setting sun cast a warm glow over the scene, enhancing the breathtaking panorama. The floral arrangements, inspired by the opulent bouquets of Renaissance paintings, added a touch of timeless elegance. Richly colored blooms and lush greenery created a romantic and painterly backdrop, harmonizing beautifully with the historic charm of the villa. The combination of the stunning view and the artful flowers made the ceremony not only a celebration of their love but also a visual masterpiece that perfectly captured the grandeur and grace of their special day.
Following the ceremony, Sarah, Mitch, and their guests indulged in craft cocktails and chilled prosecco as the sun dipped lower in the sky. The rooftop was filled with laughter and celebration, setting a joyful tone for the evening. As the guests made their way to the gardens for dinner, they were greeted by a stunning long table that was truly a feast for the eyes. Adorned with cascading floral arrangements and shimmering chandeliers, the table was an enchanting centerpiece of the evening. The flowers, meticulously arranged, complemented the setting’s natural beauty while the chandeliers added a touch of glamour and sophistication. Under the twinkling lights and surrounded by the fragrant blooms, everyone settled in for a dinner that was as exquisite as the surroundings, creating a memorable and magical dining experience that beautifully concluded the day’s festivities.
After an exquisite dinner, Sarah and Mitch delighted their guests with a traditional Italian cake-cutting ceremony, followed by a breathtaking display of fireworks that lit up the night sky. As the sparks faded, the couple celebrated with a glamorous champagne tower, pouring bubbly to toast their new life together. For the after-party, Sarah made a stunning outfit change into an Alexia Maria dress featuring a dramatic bow on the back, adding a touch of timeless elegance to the festivities. The newlyweds and their guests danced the night away, reveling in the joy and magic of the unforgettable evening.
To conclude the celebrations, the next day guests made their way to Villa Medicea di Lilliano for a chic pool party. The villa’s historic charm and stunning views provided the perfect backdrop for a day of poolside lounging, refreshing cocktails, and endless laughter. The weekend’s festivities culminated in this stylish yet laid-back affair, leaving everyone with unforgettable memories of Sarah and Mitch’s beautiful celebration.
Florence Wedding Photography: Molly Carr Photography | Planning: Laura Bravi | Florals: Flower Living | Hair & Makeup: Jen Lagers | Florence Dress: Zimmermann | Welcome Party Dress: Alexandra Pijut | Wedding Gown: Mira Zwillinger | After Party Dress: Alexia Maria | Venue: Villa Medicea di Lilliano
