Destination: Tuscany (Part 2 of 2 with Nicole & Daniel)

January 25, 2018

Welcome back! Let’s pick up where we left off, shall we?

We’re reminiscing about the dreamy countryside of Tuscany, where our friends Nicole and Daniel were wed in October of 2016. The planning process was quite unique (as it is for all couples)–the decisions they made incorporated their heritage, studies, and abundant travel experiences. And the decor they chose included items they ended up using in their newly-purchased home.

Beginning with the ceremony, which was held on the front steps of Villa Petrolo (aka home away from home), the chuppah (Jewish ceremony structure) was topped with an Israeli tallit (prayer shawl) and lined with a Morrocan handira (marriage blanket). It included Hebrew readings, personal vows, poetry, and a “science reading.” At the end of the ceremony, Daniel stepped on a glass–to remember the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, for one–and both Nicole and Daniel jumped over a broom, which, in the past, granted dignity to slave marriages.

Instead of hiring a florist, they used olive leaves as a natural element. Nicole and her bridesmaids even used bouquets out of them. Another personal (and affordable) touch was to the invitations, to which Nicole applied calligraphy herself to the design and envelope addresses. Her attire for all the wedding festivities included items from Rent the Runway, which allows women to wear designer gowns for a lot less! The day was full of emotions, but mostly overwhelming joy. And that the guest list only totaled 30, it felt incredibly intimate and special.

The last day at Villa Petrolo started with a leisurely brunch in the courtyard. In the afternoon, guests were able to tour the property and enjoy a wine tasting. For dinner, Nicole’s sister, who is a private chef, prepared a delicious farewell meal.