From Sketch to Reality: A Wedding of Thoughtful Design (Even in the Rain)

If you’ve been following us for a while, you might recognize the grand staircase of Parco Frassanelle, a timeless, slightly wild corner of Veneto that draws couples from all over the world. It was here that Bianca and Giacomo, she from the US, he from Italy, both living in the UK, chose to celebrate their love with a wedding as understated as it was unforgettable.

From the very beginning, they had a clear vision: an elegant, essential style with neutral tones: crisp whites and warm browns and a strong emphasis on natural, tactile materials. A modern, minimal aesthetic that still felt warm and poetic.

Photo by Alberto Gobbato

Where it all begins: with a sketch

Since their venue was already chosen, our first step was to bring their vision to life through a custom moodboard, starting with floral design. Together with the florist, we shaped a palette of light, airy compositions that reached gently upward. White and blush blooms, touches of dried flowers and moss, and hints of soft orange to add depth.

At the same time, we began developing the stationery. Thick, textured paper in layered shades of beige and soft brown; minimal, clean lines; a mix of calligraphy and printed type for a refined and modern look. Every detail was thoughtfully designed to reflect who they are.

And as the visual identity took shape, so did the day itself.

Designing a wedding that feels like you

The ceremony was set at the foot of the staircase, with asymmetrical floral pieces on either side and a petal bar in palette for the guests to use at the end of the ceremony. The reception table? A long imperial table left bare in warm wood, softened by a central white runner and styled with a composition of kenzan florals, sculptural vases and delicate single stems in tiny bottles.

The seating chart was pure simplicity: a white panel with just the guests’ names, suspended by two airy white organza ribbons on a bronze stand — no numbers, no frills, just elegance.

And for the place cards? We wanted something meaningful and unique. We found a local artisan who created custom ceramic photo holders for each guest — a beautiful gift and a sculptural name tag in one. Quiet beauty, crafted with intention.

When the reality doesn’t follow the sketch

Even with the clearest vision and the most meticulous planning, weddings are real events — and nature doesn’t always follow our plans.

Rain poured down on Bianca and Giacomo’s big day from the early morning on. We waited with hope, watched the sky, checked the radar — but in the end, Plan B was our path forward.

The ceremony was moved under the portico of the limonaia, warm and intimate. The cocktail hour unfolded inside the villa’s central hall, and thanks to our trusted team and a few strategically placed heaters, we kept the dinner outdoors under the rustic portico of the barchessa — cozy and magical despite the weather.

And in the end, maybe the rain made it even better. There was something almost cinematic about the wet stone, the darkened greenery, the texture of the cracked walls and the sound of laughter echoing under cover. Imperfection can be deeply beautiful.

What made the difference

Sketches help us build clarity. They help you see what you love and what you don’t, and allow us — and all your vendors — to be aligned before the day begins.

But when reality throws a twist, it’s the people that matter most. Having a team who knows you, who cares, and who’s ready to adjust and give you the best experience no matter what — that’s the real magic behind the scenes.


👉 Curious to see how we transform ideas into real weddings, even when the skies turn grey? Browse our gallery or get in touch — we’d love to design something uniquely yours.

Avanti
Avanti

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