An iconic wedding in Florence’s “Most beautiful Ballroom”
It’s no surprise that Chen, a Harvard-educated doctor, and Bonnie, a UC Berkeley-educated engineer, selected such a magnificent venue for their wedding.
The villa has been the heart of Florentine society for over a century, hosting opulent parties in its stunning interiors, a place for the royalty and the aristocrats of Europe, including Empress Eugénie, last empress of France and Japanese Emperor Akihito. Today, Villa Cora stands as a luxury hotel, allowing new stories of love and celebration to unfold within its ornate walls.
The couple’s first day began with a photoshoot in Florence, capturing special moments with their closest family. From the picturesque Santa Trinità Bridge, which offers stunning views of the iconic Ponte Vecchio, to the breathtaking sunset at San Miniato, they reveled in the beauty of Florence, often regarded as one of the most enchanting cities in the world.
The day concluded at Enoteca Pinchiorri, the legendary three-Michelin-star restaurant housed in a 16th-century palazzo near Piazza Santa Croce. Led by executive chef Riccardo Monco and pastry chef Alessandra del Favero, the restaurant presents a modern interpretation of Tuscan cuisine, featuring indulgent dishes such as lobster with caviar and pigeon breast in saffron broth. With an extensive wine list curated by Giorgio Pinchiorri, boasting over 4,000 labels, dining at Enoteca Pinchiorri is an immersive experience that combines culinary excellence with an elegant ambiance, making it the perfect ending to a memorable day.
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
The couple embraced a modern and intimate approach to their wedding preparations, reflecting their unique style and values.
Instead of adhering to the traditional practice of having the bride’s mother dress her on the big day, Bonnie opted for a more contemporary twist. She chose to be assisted by her future husband, creating a memorable and personal moment between them.
This decision not only showcased their close bond but also highlighted their commitment to sharing the journey together. As they navigated through the details of the wedding, from selecting the perfect attire to discussing the finer points of the ceremony, their collaboration brought them even closer. It was a beautiful reminder that love and partnership extend beyond just the vows—they’re also about supporting each other during the exciting and sometimes overwhelming moments leading up to the wedding.
In a world where traditional roles are constantly evolving, Bonnie and her fiancé’s choice to break away from convention added a special touch to their celebration.
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
