Amanda       MIKE

Bella Collina provided the perfect backdrop for an Italian inspired theme. I wanted to be surrounded by nature while still keeping the formality of an elegant event. We went for a Vintage Italian vibe with the colors of Tuscany including soft neutrals, taupe, cream, touches of pale pink and soft greenery. We included homemade biscotti favors set at each place setting. The biscotti were wrapped with parchment paper, twine and a sprig of rosemary. The music ensemble also included an accordion player to transport guests to a different time and place. And our custom designed invitations had the beautiful ceremony backdrop sketched by hand on handmade paper with a rough edge which set the tone for the a celebration with effortless elegance.

My favorite moment was the first look. It was a peaceful private moment amid the chaos. We both were brought to tears and it was a moment I will never forget. My favorite detail of the day was the venue. Bella Collina is Italian for "beautiful hill" and it definitely lives up to its name. We truly felt transported us to another place and time. The Ceremony was held outdoors on the lawn with the beautiful stone and Tuscan style architecture and stunning cypress trees as the perfect backdrop for our vows. Cocktail hour was initially planned for the courtyard clock tower, but because of the impending storm, it was moved to the atrium with beautiful stone arches and wrought iron chandeliers, overlooking the reflection pool and Lake Siena in the distance. For dinner and dancing we moved into the clubhouse which felt almost like a castle with dinner set in front of a grand fireplace. Off the dining room was an cozy bar/lounge area for dancing and I think having an intimate room for the reception really encouraged our guests to mingle and dance all night!

Our cake was three tiers of delicate ruffled fondant covering Amaretto sponge cake with a bavarian creme filling. The flowers were the perfect tones consisting of white and crème, gently accented with taupe and blush using peonies, english garden roses and other european flowers all accented with olive branch and greenery. The bouquets were all hand tied with luxurious silk ribbons and the boutonnieres were a sweet coupling of greenery, olive and herbs accented with rough cut silk ribbon.

My gown was perfection, but it took some time to find the right one that fit the destination vibe we were were going for. I ended up with a romantic A-Line with a soft sweetheart neckline and off-the shoulder illusion sleeves. It had a delicate floral lace pattern over subtle gold satin and then layers of eternal tule over top. It was light and delicate and looked effortless and etherial when I moved. My bridesmaids dresses were mis-matched long flowy gowns in soft pinks & blush. They each picked their own dress and two of the girls actually switched the morning of!

Event Design - Linda Ha Events
Planning & Coordination - Linda Ha Events
Invitations & Calligraphy - Julie Ha Design 
Ribbon - The Poetry of Silk
Hair & Makeup - Brie and Brie

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