A Striking Summer Wedding at Villa Castelletto, Italy

Old-world charm blended seamlessly with modern details for the wedding of Mara and Jeff, set against the picturesque Tuscan hinterland.

The ceremony unfolded before Villa Castelletto’s grand arched wooden doorway. Its intricate stonework framed by imposing, sculptural floral installations in an alluring act of balance and contrast. The scene exuded both grandeur and intimacy, setting the tone for the remainder of the evening. For the reception, the villa’s gardens were reborn. Guests dined around a semi-circular table set amidst tropical palms and verdant lawns, the centerpiece a lush mix of blooms, vegetables, and sleek silver accents that struck the perfect balance between modernity and timeless beauty.

The bride wore a stunningly sleek Danielle Frankel gown with Loeffler Randall heels.

Our Story

Names / Mara McLaurin & Jeffrey Lupton

Location / Toscana, Italy

Wedding Date / July 2nd, 2024

Guest Numbers / 75

Budget / Not Disclosed

How We Met

Mara and Jeff met in their hometown of Washington, DC in high school, where they ran in similar social circles and continued to run into one another at parties and events. They did not reconnect until they returned to D.C. a few years after college. Jeff saw Mara bartending through a window on a busy night in Adams Morgan and popped in to say hello. They began talking that night, and haven’t stopped since.

Our Engagement Story

Jeff chose to propose when they were back in their hometown of Washington, DC for the holidays. He claimed they were going to dinner at an old favorite restaurant in their old neighborhood. The Uber ride there would take them right past the house where they first moved in together. It was outside that house, on one of the coldest nights in DC history, that he proposed. They then ended up at their favorite neighborhood bar, Red Derby, where many old friends had gathered to surprise Mara after the engagement.

What we love most about each other…

Mara loves Jeff’s zest for learning and how he keeps her laughing, reminding her to take a breath and enjoy the small things. Jeff loves how Mara shows up as his biggest cheerleader, always supporting him and bringing a can-do attitude to any obstacle they face.

The Setting

Wedding Location

Mara and Jeff were excited to share the beauty of the Tuscan countryside with their guests and fell in love with the lush greenery and landscaping at Villa Castelletto. The property, originally built in the 1700s, had both the charm of old-world Italy and the fun and eclectic tropical garden setting that would make for beautiful backdrops as they transition between spaces over 3 days of events.

Aesthetic

The couple wanted to create a wedding that was experiential for guests and offered stimulating décor and visuals that would balance sophistication and minimalism in a memorable way. Mara and Jeff worked closely with their planner describing their dream aesthetic as effortless chic with a refined edge.

Preparation

The couple did not have a wedding party but got ready with friends. Mara got ready with her mother and five close girlfriends in a main hall of one of the buildings on the property. Mara also surprised Jeff with a custom tracksuit that had the words “amore” and the date of their wedding embroidered on it, which Jeff showed off as a fun late-night look.

Photography

The couple originally planned to elope and host a “friendmoon” in Italy with some mutual friends they’ve shared since high school. It was during this process of researching rentals that they first discovered Villa Castelletto. Mara then turned to Instagram to learn more about the Villa and stumbled upon a photographer named Samantha Rivieccio who had shot a wedding there. Taken aback by Samantha’s beautiful photography, Mara began to follow her. The couple were drawn to Samantha’s ability to effortlessly blend a photo-journalistic style, capturing authentic moments, with artfully staged editorial shots.

They described Samantha as having a gift that enables her images to transport you to that very moment. When Mara and Jeff changed their plans to a destination wedding Samantha was the first person Mara reached out to, without a venue, planner, or even a date. They knew they wanted to work with Samantha, and so began the wedding planning.

The couple found working with Samantha to be a dream. She helped connect them to other amazing vendors she’s worked with including their wedding planner. After receiving their galleries, the couple was overwhelmed by the number of beautiful moments she was able to capture. It appeared she was everywhere at once. No moment felt missed but at the same time they barely remember seeing her throughout the event. She has such a strong eye and command for capturing pivotal movements on both film and digital formats, giving two lenses through which the day was eternalized.

Style Notes

Ceremony Décor

The ceremony was set in front of the gorgeous backdrop of the original villa’s front doors, a domineering arched wooden doorway with beautifully set stone work surrounding it. It was the perfect space to use tall sculptural floral design and playful textures to complement the detailed lines of the archway.

Reception Décor

Mara and Jeff worked with their wedding planner Valentina of LaLindi, who said she was able to envision their aesthetic after seeing photos of Mara’s wedding dress and the location where they wanted to host the reception. The couple wanted wedding décor that felt different from a typical wedding but not in contrast with the elegance that you find within a more traditional experience. They wanted to have visual accents that were stimulating for their guests, so everything needed to feel expressive. Valentina worked closely with their florist and together they designed intriguing displays throughout the event space. These displays included a minimalist but interactive seating chart, and geometric placements of berries, nuts, flowers, and grapes to create a grid like effect on a table for hors d’oeuvres during the aperitivo hour.

To keep things interesting the table was set in a semi-circle surrounding a small pool in the middle of a lush green garden with tropical plants like palm trees in stark contrast to the more familiar Tuscan landscape that surrounds the property. The tablescape included a mix of florals and vegetables to create centrepieces that often were points of discussion and delight while candles and silver tied it all together, transforming the space to set the mood.

In the words of their planner slash designer and florist: “Sculptural flower arrangements punctuate the space, drawing the eye and adding layers of visual intrigue. To further elevate the contemporary feel, we’ve incorporated sleek silver accents that complement the natural surroundings. These silver touches – seen in vases, candle holders, and other select items – infuse the setting with a cool, modern edge, while still maintaining a romantic ambiance. The tablescape is a standout feature, inspired by intricate tile designs that create a chic yet fun pattern. Here, sculptural flowers and vegetables are artfully alternated with candles and silver details, crafting a scene that is both dynamic and sophisticated. This attention to detail elevates every element, transforming the decor into a memorable experience. The result is a unique wedding concept that marries complexity with simplicity, and sophistication with playfulness, leaving a lasting impression on all who attend.”

“Sculptural flower arrangements punctuate the space, drawing the eye and adding layers of visual intrigue. The tablescape is a standout feature, inspired by intricate tile designs… both dynamic and sophisticated.”

Wedding Planner & Stylist

The couple had a specific vision and Valentina of LaLindi Weddings and Events was able to make it a reality. Valentina spared no detail in the planning process; she worked around the 8-hour time difference and keeping an open line of communication in the months leading up to the wedding. When the couple had a request Valentina always delivered, including Karaoke for the welcome party and a cute gelato cart. They entrusted her with their ideas and embraced many new ideas she brought forward. It was a collaborative and iterative journey that resulted in a spectacular celebration.

Flowers

Maria from Mary Poppies Floral Studio designed beautiful floral arrangements for the ceremony and reception. She was artful in creating stunning arrangements that were both eye-catching and essential to transforming the space. While all the floral arrangements and design elements were standouts, the star of the wedding was the bride’s bouquet. Mara did not originally want to carry a bouquet as she wanted the dress to be the focal point of her look and worried it might distract. Mara and the couple’s planner LaLindi dreamed up a vision that would once again strike a balance, a bouquet that would elevate the dress and feel more like an accessory to the outfit. The bouquet of white lily buds and caryota strings were bound together and held like a clutch embodying a refined edge that was part of the overall aesthetic the couple hoped to convey.

Stationery

Mara and Jeff call themselves lucky to have very talented friends, and enlisted one to design a custom invitation suite for them. Taking inspiration from their venue and the Tuscan landscape, Jessica anchored to natural clay like colors that are prevalent throughout the region. She used letterpress and die cuts to provide texture and playful shapes while clearly communicating wedding details in a modern styled font. The end result was elegant, clean and completely one of a kind for the couple.

For details at the wedding they enlisted Art Lab Wedding at the recommendation of their planner who designed menus that enhanced their tablescape. These menus were printed on a mirrored paper providing a fun silver accent to the lush green tablescape. The couple was hesitant at first seeing a sample but they realized how important that detail was in pulling the table design together.

Cake

The couple loved the meaning behind the traditional Italian wedding cake. They chose a classic Millefoglie which translates to ‘a thousand layers’. The cake symbolizes the narrative of love, layer by layer, promising sweetness and depth with every bite.

Food & Beverages

The cuisine is, of course, an integral part of the couple’s love of Italy and something they wanted to share with their guests. This included an array of local meats and cheeses as well as a traditional porchetta served during the aperitivo hour. There was a coursed, sit-down dinner that followed with exceptional pasta dishes like gnocchi with pecorino cream followed by the guest’s choice of a beef, fish, or vegetarian option. In addition to excellent local wines there were a classic array of cocktails including aperol and Hugo spritzes and the obligatory espresso martinis to keep the night going.

Fashion & Beauty Notes

Bride’s Dress & Shoes

The bride worked with Shay at LOHO Bride in LA, and chose a Danielle Frankel dress. She was drawn to the contemporary design that struck a balance of new age while still respecting the traditions of a bridal gown. Playing up the sheen of the silk in the dress she paired it with a simple champagne Loeffler Randall heeled sandal. For a second look Mara changed into a Cult Gaia mini-length halter dress of layered and draped white fringe. The dress, aptly named “Mara Dress,” was one of the first pieces she purchased for her wedding wardrobe.

Wedding Rings, Jewelry & Accessories

The couple got their rings from local Seattle jeweller Valerie Madison. Jeff worked with their team to design a vintage style rose cut marquise engagement ring. Ahead of the wedding they had their wedding bands done by the same team. Mara chose an open cuff ring with baguette diamond that was custom sized to nest around her engagement ring and Jeff a classic gold band.

Hair & Makeup

Mara kept it simple for hair and makeup with a slicked back bun and dewy natural face. She wanted to have a styling that felt timeless and elegant.

Groom’s Attire

Jeff wore a custom dark green linen wool blend suit from Suit Supply. The fabric was perfect for the warm weather and created a more relaxed look to match the Tuscan setting.

The Details

Honeymoon

After multiple days of celebrating with close friends and family at the villa, the couple jetted off to Greece where they set sail on a 7 day Ionian Island catamaran adventure with Med Sailing Holidays.

Entertainment

The couple have a love and appreciation for music so naturally it played an important role in their festivities. They had a jazz trio playing standards through the aperitivo hour, and a DJ and with live saxophone for the dancing portion of the evening. Mara and Jeff spent many nights putting together a perfect playlist for a long night of dancing. This included, but was certainly not limited to, many certified early 2000s hip hop bangers. The DJ also set up a perfect karaoke night during the welcome party, which served as a brilliant way to get all the guests mingling.

Celebrant

Mara and Jeff had two of their closest friends officiate the wedding. The friends were a fitting choice as they had once been the couples’ roommates when they first moved in together. They put together a ceremony to beautifully weave together the couple’s history, their love for each other, and their friends and family.

Readings

A close friend, who had a career in publishing, leapt at the opportunity to help them find a piece for the ceremony. She produced a beautiful adaptation from the memoirs, Lost and Found, by author Kathryn Schulz that was read by Jeff’s sister just before the exchanging of rings.

“Love often takes us by surprise, in when and where it shows up and, above all, in who embodies it.

It is one of those rare moments, out of only a handful each of us gets in a lifetime, that remains imperishable in all its particulars…

It is what we promised each other that night we would always do — move through the world together, yet each in our own way

We realized — not abstractly,

not intermittently,

not only when all was well between us

but all the time and absolutely — that no one was leaving.

That is the essence of […] love and, surely, the luckiest condition: to wish only for what we already have.

…. sustaining, generous, exhilarating, and fulfilling.

Love is the totality of ways you fall in love”

Our Advice

A memorable moment…

One of the countless memorable moments occurred just after dinner. The couple knew they would need a spark to help the transition to dancing. As plates were being cleared a saxophone player donning a sequinned blazer appeared at the top of the stairs and began playing an upbeat tune as he marched down and around the pool at the center. Almost immediately all the guests were on their feet and began to follow him to where cocktails were being served and the DJ was set up for the night of dancing.

If I could give other couples one piece of advice…

Couples should envision the full picture of their dream wedding first. Record those small details and the emotions or feelings behind them. Why is it important? Why does it appeal to you? Communicating your vision can be the hardest and most time consuming part but once you are able to articulate it you can find the team of vendors that can execute it. It’s those details that lead to creative and personalized details instead of replication. If you work in piecemeal fashion the end product might feel a bit disjointed and not live up to the vision of your wedding. Don’t be afraid to dream big because you might be surprised what you can achieve with the right people and a clear articulation of what you want the entire event to convey even with a more limited budget in mind.