First Dance to Forever: Nadja & Stefano's Journey of Love Culminates at Villa Regina Teodolinda
- Author: Natali Grace Levine
- Wedding date: 08/05/2023
- City: Como
In the enchanting principality of Liechtenstein, where everyone is familiar yet discoveries await, Nadja and Stefano's story begins in an unexpected setting—a disco. Their encounter there wasn't just a meeting of two hearts but the commencement of a journey that would span over a decade, filled with laughter, shared dreams, and a love that deepened with each passing day.
As they approached their ninth year together, Stefano planned a surprise proposal for Nadja that perfectly captured the essence of their relationship: unexpected yet wonderfully right. “When the Christmas party was over at home, unexpected for me,” shared Nadja.
The vision for their wedding was clear from the outset: an Italian Summer Wedding by the serene Lake Como.They dreamed of a day that was both elegant and relaxed,infused with an Italian vibe,where everyone could dance, celebrate, and be surrounded by their closest friends and family. Villa Regina Teodolinda, with its breathtaking views and intimate ambiance, was the chosen venue to bring this dream to life.
“The wedding dresses, the beautiful venues, and flowers” were what inspired Nadja and Stefano during the planning. And reflecting on the moments they’ll remember best, the couple shares: “Dancing and laughing and having fun the whole day/night with our best friends and families.”
Nadja's quest for the perfect wedding dress led her to the Ukrainian designer Eva Lendel at Zoro Zürich, where she found "the one" on her third try. “It was the most wonderful dress,” the bride adds. The dress with balloon sleeves and a long cape was a real eye-catcher, paired with a delicate veil and a dreamy bouquet of all-white flowers arranged by Ciera Schmid, it was everything she had envisioned. Her bridesmaids, dressed in a palette of yellow, beige, green, and rose, added to the day's colorful and joyous atmosphere.
As the morning sunlight began to fill the air with warmth, Stefano, adorned in his elegant tuxedo from Zoro Zürich, embarked on his own ritual of preparation, surrounded by his closest companions. Within the historic walls of Villa Regina Teodolinda, laughter and anticipation mingled as they shared in the moments leading up to the ceremony. These preparations were not just about donning a suit; they were about celebrating the bonds of friendship and the steps toward a new chapter in life.
It was a moment of pure magic. Stefano's first glimpse of Nadja was at the church, a moment he describes as when "the universe stopped." The emotions they shared were a beautiful prelude to the commitment they were about to make.
Before the vows were exchanged, Nadja and Stefano seized the opportunity to immortalize their love against the breathtaking backdrop of Lake Como. Aboard the iconic Riva Boat, they navigated the serene waters, the picturesque surroundings of the lake, and the romantic ambiance of Villa Regina serving as the perfect canvas for their love story. This photoshoot was a pause in time, a moment for the couple to revel in their connection amidst the scenic beauty, setting a serene and loving tone for the day ahead.
The Anglican Church in Cadenabbia was the chosen venue for their vows. The bride walked down the aisle to the beautiful strains of Pachelbel's Canon in D, a moment filled with emotion and beauty. The ceremony was a perfect blend of tradition and personal touches, highlighted by their first kiss as newlyweds.
Following their heartfelt exchange of vows, Nadja and Stefano embarked on a second, equally enchanting photoshoot. Gliding across the lake, they soaked in the stunning scenery, a symbolic journey marking the start of their married life together. This session was a celebration of their love, set against the unparalleled beauty of Lake Como, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
The flower design by Fioritura Floral took inspiration from the lightness and cheerfulness of the youth, incorporating lisianthus, delphinium, and garden roses into the decor. This selection was motivated by a desire to create a design that felt alive and vibrant, enhancing the beauty of Villa Regina Teodolinda and its surroundings. The venue, adorned in a white, green, and nude color palette, perfectly captured the couple's vision of elegance and warmth. Chosen for its familiar ambiance, classic beauty, and prime location, Villa Regina Teodolinda embodied the couple's dream of a classy, floral, and sun-filled setting, complementing the picturesque backdrop of Lake Como.
As twilight descended and the stars began to twinkle in the Lake Como sky, Nadja and Stefano, surrounded by the warmth of family and friends, danced into the night, accompanied by the amazing Music Band, The Knights Club. Their first dance, a heartfelt rendition of "Until I Found You" by Stephen Sanchez, was a poignant symbol of their journey together, marking the beginning of an evening filled with laughter, smiles, hugs, and happiness—exactly what a wedding on Lake Como should be.
The reception was a feast for the senses, with an Italian buffet offering the finest Pasta and drinks like Limoncello Spritz and Aperol Spritz enchanting the guests. The culmination of the evening's gastronomy was a beautifully crafted wedding cake by Sunlaje Catering, a sweet epitome of the couple's shared tastes and joys. This part of their wedding day was not just a reception but a vibrant celebration of love, friendship, and the beginning of a lifetime's journey together, beautifully captured by photographers from Vivid Symphony.
Reflecting on their experience with the wedding vendors, the couple couldn't be more pleased. "Everyone was very professional, but also very cordial and helpful. Dream team!" they shared. This synergy between the couple and their vendors not only made the planning process smoother but also ensured that the celebration was everything they had hoped for and more, embodying the essence of a warm day full of joy and the perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable memories.