Lillian + Andy unite two cultures in an elegant Tuscan affair
Photography by: Halo Studio
Their love story story started at a bar in Portland, but their wedding in Tuscany was the celebration that brought together their families from across the globe. Andy, originally from Nigeria, and Lillian, born and raised in Portland, wanted a location that would unite their loved ones in one central spot.
Italy was the perfect choice, bringing together their cultures and loved ones in a setting that felt both relaxed and timeless. With its stunning grounds and versatile spaces, Villa Grabau ticked all the boxes for Lillian + Andy and provided the best spot for their elegant celebration.
“We took in our budget, venue space, along with available accommodation. We felt like Villa Grabau had everything we were looking for in a venue, without charging an arm and a leg.”
SUPPLIER TEAM
Venue: Villa Grabau | Planning & Florals: Scelta di Classe | Catering: Delizia Ricevimenti | Photography & Videography: Halo Studio HMUA: Chiara Caporali | Music: Dj Carletto
The Engagement
“Andy proposed to me on January 15th, 2021 (my birthday). We first went out to dinner for my birthday. After dinner, we arrived back to my mother's house, and all of my friends and family gathered for a surprise engagement. Loved ones who were not able to attend were on a zoom call so they could witness the proposal. I was still under the impression it was a surprise birthday party until Andy knelt down on one knee.”
Why Italy?
“Andy is originally from Nigeria and all of his family currently lives all over the world. We wanted a location that was centrally located for all our loved ones to come and celebrate, so we decided on Italy.”
Stand out moment?
“I remember sitting down at our table for dinner with my husband and soaking it all in, and just looking at how beautiful everything was. When I look back, I think being able to dance under the Tuscan sky was something I will never forget.”
What made the day uniquely yours?
“What made our wedding unique is that we were combining two cultures together, with me being American, and Andy being Nigerian. We had people coming from almost every continent (Australia, Africa, Europe, America) to the beautiful country of Italy to celebrate us- it was a true testament of our love.”
Style inspiration?
“I had a vision in my head of a simple, but elegant theme. I did research through Pinterest to bring my vision to life. I also got inspiration through other weddings I either attended or from celebrities like Hailey Bieber & Sofia Richie. We used white babies breathe & white roses to match our black and white colour scheme with hints of sage green and gold. We wanted a theme that we could look back on that was classy, timeless & elegant and I believe we did just that!”
Top piece of advice?
“Take in every moment of your day because it will go by so quickly! Secondly, don’t sweat the small stuff. There will be things that go wrong. It is bound to happen when planning a big event such as a wedding. As long as you are enjoying yourself surrounded by the people you love what else matters!”
The budget
“We budgeted for about 40,000 euros ( $45,000) total and the total cost came out to be closer to around 50,000 euros.”
Did anything go wrong?
“We had some minor hiccups, but nothing so crazy that it ruined the day. If anything did happen I didn't even notice if I am being honest because my wedding planner Elisa blocked it from me and or my sister! She also calmed me down during stressful moments and it resulted in my day turning out to be perfect.”
The Dream Team
“I seriously had the best team! They made our day so special and when I say exceeded our expectations, I truly mean it. I cannot put into words how much I am thankful for the team of brilliant, creative, and beautiful vendors I was so thankful to meet!”
SUPPLIER TEAM
Venue: Villa Grabau | Planning & Florals: Scelta di Classe | Catering: Delizia Ricevimenti | Photography & Videography: Halo Studio HMUA: Chiara Caporali | Music: Dj Carletto
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