When someone offers up a Venetian inspired shoot, you know what we do? Slap it up quicker than you can say “Pass the Limencello”. It’s ablaze with old world elegance and masks galore thoughtfully crafted down to the very last colorful bloom by Juli Vaughn Designs. And the images by Carmen Santorelli Photography are not only crazy gorgeous but will have you dreaming of Italian style nuptials that end in a Vespa getaway. We say Salute to that! Head to the full gallery for even more inspiration.

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From Carmen Santorelli Photography… Who doesn’t love the idea of infusing some magic into their wedding day? The concept behind this shoot was to infuse a taste of Italy into a wedding, without having to travel to Italy to get it. The idea came to me when a dear photographer friend who lives close to Venice sent me some beautiful authentic Venetian masks. Trying to incorporate the masks into the shoot while keeping everything classy and elegant was a challenge, but we took it to heart.

I knew I had found the perfect location when I visited Casa Belvedere in Staten Island, New York. The beautiful and intricate design, not to mention authentically Italian, was the perfect setting for the backdrop of this chic shoot. Juli of Juli Vaughn Designs styled everything in an enchanting way and added a touch of whimsy by using little animals (that wear glittery masks nonetheless!) for each setting. We wanted the bride to wear something that makes a statement, so we fell in love with a fabulous Ian Stuart gown, paired with a gorgeous Venetian lace cap hair piece created by Mignonne Handmade, as well as a Stephen Yearick gown, paired with a custom-made feathery hair piece graciously provided by Fine & Fleurie. The groom looked as chic as it gets in his Hugo Boss tux and custom made bow tie created by Naughty Knotty Bow Ties.

To add a true flavor of Italy we served Pallini bellinis, created with delicious Pallini limoncello, as well as stylish desserts and cake created by Nine Cakes. Lastly, for the grand exit, we used a Vespa, because what says Italy more than that? This session came together beautifully and we truly hope it inspires other brides (and grooms!) to pick a unique theme for their wedding. The images have been captured on medium format & 35mm film, as well as some digital.

Photography: Carmen Santorelli Photography / Photography Assistant: B Hull Photography / Location: Casa Belvedere in Staten Island, New York / Event Styling + Floral Design: Juli Vaughn Designs / Wedding Cake + Sweets: Nine Cakes / Drinks: Pallini Limoncello / Invitations: Ashley Pepitone / Party Rentals: The Vintage Rental Company / Furniture Rental: Taylor Creative Inc. / Wedding Gowns: Ian Stuart + Stephen Yearick via Kleinfeld Bridal / Feather Hair Piece + Jewelry: Fine & Fleurie / Lace Cap Head Piece: Mignonne Handmade / Makeup + Hair: Erica Ogawa / Groom’s Tuxedo: Kleinfeld Men / Bow Tie: Naughty Knotty Bow Ties / Female Model: Carla Mueller / Male Model: John Hyland

Nine Cakes and Fine & Fleurie are members of our Little Black Book, Love what you see? Take a look at their portfolios.
Nine Cakes

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Fine & Fleurie

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Mignonne Handmade is a member of our Look Book. For more information on how members are chosen, click here.