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Captured by Michael Zennaro Photography
Submitted by Primavera Dreams
Daria and Nicholai’s love story began on the campus of Boston College. Having just moved from Russia to study, Daria was scanning the student roster when a familiar name jumped out: Nicholai. Assuming she’d found a fellow countryman in a sea of strangers, she approached him, ready to speak her native tongue.
As it turned out, Nicholai—while proud of his Russian and Italian heritage—was a born-and-raised American who didn’t speak a word of Russian! The linguistic “mix-up” became the ultimate icebreaker. What started as a mistaken identity quickly turned into a deep, soul-mate connection that bridged continents and cultures. Their wedding at Castello Vicchiomaggio was the ultimate full-circle moment: a celebration of his Italian roots and her Russian traditions, all stemming from that one fateful day in Boston.
The Vision
The couple didn’t just want a wedding; they wanted a multi-sensory journey that felt like a high-fashion gala but had the heart of a family dinner.
The Fashion: Grace Kelly Meets Modern Glamour
The Bride: stunned in a bespoke Monique Lhuillier gown that channeled the timeless poise of Grace Kelly, later transitioning into a playful short party dress for the midnight dancing. The Groom & Guests: Embraced a “Black Tie in the Hills” aesthetic. The groom wore a classic Suit Supply tux, and the sea of black formal attire against the greenery of Tuscany created a high-fashion, editorial look.
The Ceremony Decor: An all-white and greenery palette featuring lash display of orchids, roses, hydrangeas, and baby’s breath.
The Heart of the Day: Personal Vows
The couple chose to write their own vows, and despite all the planning, nothing prepared them for that moment. There wasn’t a dry eye in the garden—including theirs. Sharing those raw, handwritten promises as the Tuscan sun began to dip was the most grounded, beautiful moment of the entire four days. It reminded everyone that beneath the chandeliers and fireworks, it was simply about two people deeply in love.
Cultural Fusion: In a beautiful nod to the bride’s Russian heritage, the couple featured a Karavai (traditional bread) with salt—a soulful, personal moment that stands out against the Italian setting.
The Celebration Dinner and Party
Dinner felt like a dream sequence—a long imperial table beneath hanging crystal chandeliers, with the castle facade glowing in the background. Aba Chiara serenaded the couple and their guests throughout dinner, which felt like a performance in itself. After cutting a freshly-made Millefoglie, the gears shifted entirely: Daria changed into a short party dress, the open bar kicked off, and everyone danced under a sky lit by fireworks. It was the perfect crescendo to the best four days of our lives.
Lighting: Pirotecnica Soldi//Caterer: Pour Events//Cinema and Video: Waterfall Visuals//Musicians: Aba Chiara//Lighting: Kaleydo Entertainment//Floral Designer: STIATTI FIORI//Ceremony Location: CASTELLO VICCHIOMAGGIO//Event Venue: CASTELLO VICCHIOMAGGIO//Beauty: Cherie Spisso//Event Planner: Primavera Dreams//Event Designer: Primavera Dreams//Photographer: Michael Zennaro Photography//
