An Italian-Style Wedding with Poolside Lounging and a Dreamy Tennis Court Reception



[section title=”The Planning”]

[field title=”Wedding Colors”]

Their wedding colors were a timeless palette of crisp white and soft blush pinks, mainly shown through the florals, accented with pops of blue in the linens. Subtle silver and wood details were woven throughout the design to add elegance and warmth.

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[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]

Carly & Greg’s wedding embraced a vintage Italian-inspired design that feels both timeless and inviting. The ceremony took place on the front lawn beneath a beautiful tree, creating an organic, lush backdrop. Guests relaxed by the pool for cocktail hour, lounging on ottomans and sipping custom cocktails. For the reception, the tennis court was transformed into a romantic, open-air haven. Soft white carpeting and twinkling café lights created a welcoming atmosphere. The color palette, combined with the vintage details, allowed the natural beauty of the setting to shine through.

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[field title=”Proposal Story”]

On their first anniversary, Greg planned a heartfelt day that beautifully echoed their first date. They retraced their steps through the Arroyo, just as they had when it all began, followed by a delicious steak dinner. Once home, they shared a slice of the cake that Carly had baked in celebration of their anniversary. As a romantic playlist filled the room, they slow danced to ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You’ by Frankie Valli before Greg got down on one knee. She said yes! It was intimate, meaningful, and perfectly them.

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[section title=”The Fashion”]

[field title=”Wedding Gown”]Carly walked down the aisle in a vintage-inspired gown that felt like it belonged in a fairytale love story. Featuring an off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline and a skirt adorned with delicate roses, the dress was both graceful and deeply personal. The roses were a heartfelt tribute to her middle name. Every detail of the gown echoed the bride’s romantic spirit and timeless style. [/field]

[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]

The bridesmaid brought a beautifully effortless charm to the day in a curated mix of soft pink dresses. Each chose a gown that suited her unique personality while reflecting the bride’s vision. Some featured delicate floral patterns and others solid hues, ranging from chiffon to satin. The playful blend of textures and tones felt cohesive yet personal.

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[field title=”Groomsman Attire”][/field]

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[section title=”The Details”]

[field title=”Food & Drink”]Rooted in the flavors of Italy, the menu blended nostalgic flavors with fresh, local ingredients. The chef drew inspiration from her childhood and nearby farmers’ markets to elevate traditional Italian dishes. Each dish honored the simplicity and soul of Italian cuisine, from the saffron arancini to grilled market fresh bass to the burrata with confit tomatoes. Ending the night on a sweet note, dessert featured classic tiramisu and crispy, creamy cannolis.

Guests enjoyed an open bar featuring two signature cocktails that captured the couple’s personality: a classic Moscow Mule and a margarita for a fun and celebratory night![/field]

[field title=”Florals & Decor”]

As a nod to Carly’s middle name, the flower arrangements featured mainly roses, the design embracing a romantic garden vibe. The blooms were soft shades of pink layered with blush and crisp white. These colors against the lush greenery of the venue popped, complementing the vintage-inspired details of the day. A play on textures throughout the décor brought depth and character to every detail, from the natural wood tables paired with classic hemstitch runners to the delicate floral-patterned china. Hand-drawn elements in the stationery added a playful, personal touch. At each guest’s seat were 5 sugar almonds, an Italian tradition that symbolizes the five wishes for the couple’s marriage- health, wealth, happiness, fertility, and long life.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]This sweet three-tiered wedding cake brought a touch of vintage romance to the celebration. Adorned with delicate piped details of old-world confections and topped with glossy cherries, the design felt both playful and timeless. Atop stood an adorable figurine of the bride and groom, adding a personal finishing touch. [/field]

[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]

With the groom being a musician himself, music played a central role in the day’s celebration. The couple prioritized live performances throughout, beginning with an intimate keyboard and guitar duo during the ceremony that set a romantic tone. Their first dance was to ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You’ by Frankie Valli, the same song he proposed to her. A seven-piece band carried the energy throughout the reception, keeping guests on their feet well into the night. The dance floor was never empty, so much so that the bride even crowd surfed, making for an unforgettable moment of pure joy.

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[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Carly & Greg chose to celebrate their wedding at the groom’s family home, a beloved estate that has hosted many gatherings and family weddings. It was fitting that their story adds another page to its history. From the ceremony under a tree to a tennis court transformed into an elegant reception space, each corner of the property holds deep meaning. It isn’t just a venue; it is a home, a symbol of enduring love, and the beginning of their chapter in a long line of beautiful beginnings. [/field]

[field title=”Special Detail #2″]

After their first dance, the groom, Gregory Ackerman, who is an incredibly talented musician, took everyone by surprise when he stepped on stage with the band. He debuted a song he began writing just days after their very first date, titled ‘Brand New Life’. The lyrics told the story of their instant connection and the moment he knew she was the one. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room as he created an unforgettable moment that captured the essence of their love story. It was a reminder to everyone- when you know, you know.

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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]In a beautiful twist of tradition, Carly & Greg chose to have their wedding party seated in a semicircle around them during the ceremony. This thoughtful arrangement created an intimate, almost sacred space, one that physically reflected the emotional support and closeness they share with their loved ones. Rather than standing off to the side, their closest friends and family were right there, encircling them in love as they exchanged their vows. It was a subtle but powerful detail that made the ceremony feel personal, grounded, and deeply connected. [/field]

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Photography: Holly Hursley Photography | Event Planning: Sophia Katarina Events | Floral Design: Flowers By Leah | Bakery: Lark Cake Shop | Catering: Chef Amanda Lanza | Transportation: TTS Charter Bus | Bartender: Mint Bartending | Beauty: shea hardy | Beauty: Kelly Zhang | Dessert: Giovanni's Tiramisu | Live Band: West Coast Music | Location: Private Estate | Rentals: Town and Country Event Rentals | Restrooms: Luxury Flush