An iconic Tuscany wedding in Florence’s “Most beautiful Ballroom”
A Dream Tuscany Wedding at Villa Cora, Florence
When it comes to getting married in Italy, few places capture romance and elegance quite like Villa Cora in Florence. It’s no surprise that Chen and Bonnie, a Harvard-educated doctor and a UC Berkeley-educated engineer, chose this breathtaking venue for their luxury Italy wedding.
Villa Cora has long been a symbol of sophistication in Florence, Tuscany, hosting aristocrats and royalty, including Empress Eugénie of France and Emperor Akihito of Japan. Today, it stands as a prestigious Italian wedding venue, where timeless love stories unfold against a backdrop of opulent frescoed ceilings, grand chandeliers, and lush gardens—offering the perfect setting for couples dreaming of a romantic wedding in Italy.
A Florence Wedding Photography Experience
The couple’s wedding celebrations began with a pre-wedding photoshoot in Florence, capturing intimate moments in some of the city’s most iconic locations. With the expertise of a top Italy wedding photographer, they explored the charm of Santa Trinità Bridge, which frames stunning views of the Ponte Vecchio, one of Florence’s most recognizable landmarks. As the golden hour painted the sky, they embraced at San Miniato al Monte, a breathtaking viewpoint often chosen by couples for their Tuscany wedding photography.
For couples seeking a wedding in Tuscany, Florence is an unrivaled location. The city’s Renaissance beauty, combined with world-class wedding venues, makes it an idyllic destination for both intimate elopements and grand Italy weddings.
A Culinary Celebration in the Heart of Florence
To conclude their perfect Italy wedding day, Chen and Bonnie dined at Enoteca Pinchiorri, a legendary three-Michelin-star restaurant housed in a 16th-century palazzo near Piazza Santa Croce. Under the culinary artistry of executive chef Riccardo Monco and pastry chef Alessandra del Favero, the couple indulged in a gourmet Tuscan feast—featuring lobster with caviar and pigeon breast in saffron broth—paired with wines from a 4,000-label collection curated by Giorgio Pinchiorri.
For those planning a Tuscany wedding, incorporating Italy’s rich culinary heritage into the experience is essential. Whether enjoying an intimate rehearsal dinner or a grand wedding reception, Florence offers some of the finest dining experiences in the world, elevating any luxury wedding in Italy.
Each room in Villa Cora reflects a unique cultural influence, from the intricate details of Oriental design to the geometric patterns of Middle Eastern décor, and the elegant white and gold accents of French continental style. It’s a remarkable blend of history, culture, and global inspiration throughout.
The Wedding Day: Modern Meets Intimate
When planning a wedding in Italy, couples often seek a balance between tradition and personal expression. For Bonnie and Chen, their Tuscany wedding at the stunning Villa Cora in Florence was a reflection of their modern love story—one rooted in deep connection and shared experiences.
A Wedding Morning Filled with Love and Togetherness
Breaking away from traditional customs, Bonnie chose to forgo the typical bridal preparation routine. Instead of her mother dressing her, she shared an intimate and heartfelt moment with her future husband, Chen. This unique decision not only made for a deeply personal experience but also beautifully symbolized their commitment to embarking on life’s journey together—one of trust, love, and support.
As they prepared for their Italian wedding ceremony, their collaboration in every detail—from selecting the perfect attire to finalizing the vows—added an even deeper meaning to their celebration. This approach reinforced the idea that getting married in Italy is not just about the grandeur of the day, but also about the personal moments that make it unforgettable.
Reimagining Wedding Traditions in Italy
With Italy wedding traditions evolving, modern couples are redefining what it means to celebrate love. Bonnie and Chen’s choice to embrace a non-traditional preparation moment reflected the growing trend of personalized destination weddings in Italy, where couples infuse their own values and vision into the day.
Their story serves as inspiration for those dreaming of a Tuscany wedding that goes beyond expectations—one that captures not only the romance of an Italy wedding but also the essence of partnership and individuality.
For couples planning a destination wedding in Italy, Bonnie and Chen’s approach is a reminder that the most meaningful moments come from staying true to what feels right, making their Florence wedding truly one of a kind.
The reception in the Hall of Mirrors
The magnificent dinner took place in the renowened Hall of Mirrors. It was designed and planned by Diletta Ruta and artfully executed by acclaimed florist Puscina Flowers. Acclaimed as Florence’s most beautiful ballroom, the Mirror Room is enveloped in magnificent Baroque artistry while treating you to a stunning view of Florence through the windows. The Hall of Mirrors stands out with its gilded Louis XV-style friezes, inspired by royal apartments in Turin.
The Aperitivo
The cocktail reception took place on the rooftop of Villa Cora, offering a breathtaking view of Florence as the sun dipped into the horizon. The soft glow of golden hour bathed the scene in warm, romantic hues, inviting everyone to pause and take in the beauty of the moment. Guests sipped on signature cocktails crafted with local ingredients, such as Tuscan rosemary and fresh citrus.
About Villa Cora
Here, guests strolling through its exquisite gardens, or dining under chandeliers are not just visitors—but part of the continuing legacy that has captured hearts for more than a century.
So many things are fascinating about villa Cora! The interiors’ decor was designed by none else than Edoardo Gioja, the engineer behind the Suez Canal!
Designed by Comparini in a neo-Renaissance style, the villa features perfect proportions with clean lines and ornate details crafted from pietra serena. Its sumptuous interiors reflect the eclectic tastes of the era, showcasing styles from neoclassical to Moorish.
It was home to French Empress Eugénie and her family, who hosted lavish receptions that captivated Florence’s elite. Other notable owners, like Egyptian King Ismail Pasha and Baroness Von Mech’s famously entertained cultural icons here, including Tchaikovsky and Debussy.
Enoteca Pinchiorri
The first wedding day concluded triumphantly at the legendary three-Michelin-star restaurant, the Enoteca Pinciorri, led by executive chef Riccardo Monco, and pastry chef Alessandra del Favero.
The pre-wedding photoshoot in Florence
