Elena + Scotty’s magical wedding in Venice
Photography by: Natalia Slutskaia
A love that began with a swipe right on Tinder blossomed into a beautiful romance that culminated in an elegant wedding in Venice for ballerina and Pilates studio owner Elena and her husband, Scotty. Living in Nashville, Tennessee, they faced the common challenge most U.S. couples face—making big design and vendor decisions without being able to visit their venue. However, all of that was made easier with the help of their trusted team, brought together by La Lista trusted planners at Oltre Studio.
“Everything comes down to having incredible wedding planners. Especially for U.S. couples planning sight-unseen like we did, having trusted planners ensures that any issues will be taken care of seamlessly.”
The Engagement
“Between opening my Pilates studio and navigating busy seasons in our lives, it took some time before we were both ready to get engaged. When the time came we were in my favourite city, New York. I knew the proposal was coming (since it was hard to keep secrets after so many years together), he managed to fake me out a few times—including one very public spot, which was the one thing I asked him not to do! Ultimately, he proposed in the Mews, a quiet and charming spot in NYC. It was such a special and memorable day, and it was amazing to share my favourite city with Scotty for the first time on our engagement.”
Choosing Italy
“We chose Italy because we wanted a small, intimate wedding with our closest friends and family. Our venue was a family friend’s home, which made it even more special.”
The Venue
“The venue was an easy choice as I grew up with the Godhi family who own Villa Valmarana. Marino Godhi met my father in his early 20s and played a crucial role in mentoring him, helping him start his first business, and supporting our family throughout his career. Rosanna Godhi taught me how to paint, cook Italian food and was a wonderful supporter of my ballet career from a young age. Though not related by blood, they are truly family to us and their home in Italy held deep sentimental value, making it the perfect location for our wedding.”
The Style
“Elena firmly wanted an intimate wedding that was elegant and clean but at the same time polished and sophisticated, so we executed a timeless setup for her with great attention to all the friends and guests who came all the way from Tennessee.”
~ Greta, Planner
The Ceremony
“The ceremony was symbolic, conducted by Eric, a close friend of theirs. A semicircle of wild flowers closed off the ceremony area dedicated to Elena and Scotty; it was all simple and touching.”
~ Greta, Planner
Top Advice
“Find amazing wedding planners you can trust, especially for a destination wedding. We were unfamiliar with the differences between planning a wedding in the U.S. versus Italy. A great planner who understands your vision and guides you through every step is invaluable.”
The Budget
“Our wedding was significantly less expensive than planning the same wedding in the U.S. We stayed well within our budget, and in comparison, a similar wedding in the U.S. would have cost at least double, if not triple.”
Stand Out Moment
“Seeing the venue come to life was unforgettable. The venue itself was stunning, but the incredible details and decor that Oltre Studios, Greta and Rebecca put together made it magical. The first moment we saw the reception room with all the lights and decor was truly breathtaking.”
The Dinner
“The food was exceptional and the highlight of the wedding. Guests couldn’t stop talking about how it was the best food they’d ever had at a wedding.”
The Tiramisu Tower
“We’re not big cake eaters, so we wanted something we’d actually enjoy, and our planners suggested Tiramisu. They put together this tower that was beyond what we could have envisioned, and it ended up being perfect. All our guests loved having Tiramisu instead of a traditional cake—it was such a hit!”
SUPPLIER TEAM
Venue: Villa Valmarana | Getting Ready Venue: Villa Franceschi | Planning & Design: Oltre Studio | Photography: Natalia Slutskaia | Catering: Antichi Sapori | Florals: Oddkin | Brides Shoes: Amina Muaddi | Rental: Barbera Noleggi | DJ: Matteo Monti
Categories
PLANNING | REAL WEDDING | SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT | INSPIRATION | WANDERLUST
