A Love Story from Instagram to the Amalfi Coast: Renee & Joseph’s Dreamy Wedding at Villa Eva
- Author: Natali Grace Levine
- Wedding date: 10/17/2024
- City: Amalfi
In a delightfully modern twist of fate, technology played cupid for Renee and Joseph. Back in October 2021, when Renee, then a fourth-year dental student, posted a celebratory dance video after passing her dental boards, she had no idea she was about to meet her soulmate. Joseph, also studying for his dental boards at the time, stumbled upon her video through Instagram's algorithm. Entranced by her video clip, he couldn't help but follow her page. From that first message on October 26th, 2021, their story blossomed into something beautiful.
On October 17th, 2024, Renee and Joseph celebrated their love with 50 of their closest family and friends at the stunning Villa Eva in Ravello. The couple, both accomplished in their fields - Renee a cosmetic dentist and Joseph an oral maxillofacial surgery resident - envisioned an intimate, classic celebration that would be both elegant and memorable. Their 18-month planning journey resulted in a sophisticated affair with a color palette of green, white, and light pink.
The couple brought their personal touch to every detail. While Renee created beautiful e-vites, Joseph designed their wedding website. Their rings tell their own story - Renee's classic emerald cut diamond solitaire came from a special Chicago boutique, while Joseph chose a sophisticated BVLGARI band. "I wore a 15ct diamond tennis necklace that I got as a wedding gift from my mom," Renee shares, her eyes sparkling with emotion. Adding to the romance, they incorporated a live calligraphy station, creating personalized keepsakes for their guests.
At Villa Eva, the morning of her wedding day unfolded as Renee prepared surrounded by her mother, two sisters, and Joseph's mother and sister. She chose her TOM SEBASTIAN gown from Dimitra's Bridal Couture in Chicago, with the dress taking eight months to create and two months of alterations to achieve the perfect fit. In that breathtaking gown, every intricate detail spoke of exquisite craftsmanship, and Renee looked absolutely stunning, radiating an effortless elegance that captured every eye.
Her bridal look was completed with a veil, Mach & Mach heels, and Swarovski earrings, while Malafronte crafted her beautiful bouquet. The couple made the decision to celebrate without bridesmaids or groomsmen, keeping the focus on their families coming together.
At nearby Villa Amore, Joseph prepared with his two best friends. His Suit Supply tuxedo, specially embroidered with their wedding date, perfectly embodied the day's elegant atmosphere.
The Lemon Grove terrace at Villa Eva set the scene for their vows. As the string trio played their chosen piece - "Oceans" instrumental - Renee made her way down the aisle. While they opted not to have flower girls, Renee's two nephews served as ring bearers.
Joseph's heart stopped when he saw his bride: "I was honestly completely speechless. Everything around me just kind of paused, and I didn’t notice anything else else besides her I feel incredibly beautiful and honestly, I didn’t have a single other thought in the world other than her being mine forever."
Renee was equally moved: "I am so blessed to be here today and be locked in with the most perfect person forever, my best friend and my backbone, I am so blessed to be here in this gorgeous place, it honestly all felt like a dream. I was also very nervous about the vows and didn’t want to cry which I did! But my makeup stayed perfect."
When asked about the most memorable moments from their ceremony, their answer was simple - "Every single second of it."
Villa Eva's stunning architecture and views of the Amalfi coast provided the perfect backdrop for their post-ceremony photographs. The natural beauty of the location, combined with their chosen color palette of green, white, and light pink, created timeless images.
Villa Eva, perched along the stunning Amalfi coast, provided the perfect canvas for Renee and Joseph's romantic celebration. The couple chose a sophisticated palette of green, white, and light pink, with an emphasis on abundant blooms rather than greenery. Every corner of the venue was thoughtfully adorned, letting the natural beauty of the location shine while adding their personal touch. Joseph even had their wedding date embroidered into his tuxedo - a subtle yet meaningful detail that made the day even more special.
The venue's selection was guided by their desire for a breathtaking backdrop, and Villa Eva delivered with its sweeping views of the Amalfi coastline. The location's natural grandeur, combined with their chosen florals, created an atmosphere of effortless elegance and romance.
As evening fell over Villa Eva, the celebration continued with the couple's first dance to Ruelle's "I Got to Love You," a moment that captured the essence of their love story. The venue provided a carefully curated Italian menu that delighted their guests, followed by a traditional Italian wedding cake that perfectly suited the setting. The evening flowed with authentic Italian hospitality, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
Under the twinkling lights, with a gentle sprinkle of rain adding nature's blessing to their celebration, Renee and Joseph danced, surrounded by their loved ones. Each moment seemed to underscore the magic of finding your perfect person in this vast world and celebrating that love in one of its most beautiful corners.