Dramatic entrances were just the start at this royal Venetian wedding
In June of 2024, Lucy and Mark, a couple from Toronto, Canada, celebrated their love with an unforgettable destination wedding in Venice, Italy. For Lucy, Venice had held a special place in her heart long before she met Mark. Fifteen years earlier, she had visited San Lazzaro Island in Venice and the Armenian Catholic Church, a sacred site gifted to Armenian monks centuries ago. Deeply moved by its beauty and history, she secretly dreamed of getting married there one day. That dream came true when she and Mark exchanged vows in this very church, surrounded by family, friends, and the timeless charm of Venice. The couple took inspiration from Wedding Chicks' Instagram and blog posts when considering color schemes, floral design, bridesmaid dresses, stationery, and more. Captured by Facibeni Fotografia and planned with the help of Angel Lion Weddings, this wedding was an all-encompassing example of what it would be like to get married as Venetian royalty.
A day of traditions
The couple’s wedding day was filled with personal touches and meaningful traditions. They prepared for the celebration at the historic Palazzo Alighieri, exchanging heartfelt gifts with their bridal party.
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Dress code: Subtle pastels
The bridesmaids wore dresses by Shona Joy, an Australian designer, in subtle pastel tones that complemented the wedding's overall dress code. The halter neck design on the dresses gave them a more modern style and suited all three of the bridesmaids.
Bridal style: Four couture dresses
Lucy selected four distinct gowns for the day that encapsulated her personal style - a blend of classic elegance and modern edginess. The clean lines of each design allowed the subtle details of intricate lace, bold cuts, and unexpected textures to shine through.
Hand-embroidered custom veil
For the ceremony in particular, Lucy wore a stunning custom veil from Sash + Veil embroidered with her and Mark’s names and their wedding date, adding a deeply intimate element to the day. Her dress was a Nicole + Felicia gown from Toronto salon, Estrelle Bridal. She fell in love with its unique couture design, including the sweetheart neckline, unique front slit in an asymmetric floral shape, and the long train.
Transportation: Wooden water taxis
Mark and Lucy arrived at the church via a classic wooden water taxi.
Traditional Armenian wedding ceremony
The romantic ceremony was steeped in traditional Armenian rituals. These included the crowning of the bride and groom as queen and king of their own kingdom, as well as drinking wine from a common cup. As sacred Armenian music filled the air, the couple exchanged vows in a ceremony that felt like a fairytale come true.
Showers of flowers
Upon exiting the church under a shower of flower petals courtesy of La Dogaressa Flowers, Lucy and Mark took their first steps into a new chapter of their lives.
Dramatic entrance -> vintage Porsche
The reception unfolded in the majestic 16th-century villa Ca'Marcello Villa Veneta, where guests were welcomed with live lounge music, exquisite Italian canapés, and cocktails. Lucy and Mark made a dramatic entrance in a vintage Porsche Boxster, toasting their love in front of a fountain surrounded by their loved ones.
On trend designer: Ines Di Santo
Lucy's reception dress was the "Legato" by Ines Di Santo from the Toronto-based Ines Di Santo flagship store She was head over heels for the intricate Mousseline lace detailing, halter neck, unique lily flower design, and flawless fit.
An evening (reception) of surprises
The evening was filled with joy and surprises, including a playful twist on the traditional Armenian bridal dance, an intimate first dance to "Endless Love," and a breathtaking fireworks display that illuminated the Venetian sky. Guests embraced the spirit of Venice by donning traditional Venetian masks, savoring indulgent desserts like tiramisu and gelato, and dancing late into the night.
Pre-after party fireworks
Fireworks added a celebratory vibe as the evening shifted from the more traditional reception into the after party.
Mini for a maximalist after party
For the after party, Lucy changed into a mini dress ("Yves) by Kyha. She loved the playful design, off the shoulder neckline, high back buttons, and luxurious taffeta fabric with a subtle sheen.
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- Wedding Photographers: Facibeni Fotografia
- Event Planning & Design: Angel Lion Weddings
- Flowers: La Dogaressa Flowers
- Cakes & Catering: Sugarcups Cake Design
- Wedding Films: Palm Films
- Lighting, Entertainment & Photo Booth: RAVA service
- Wedding Dresses: Nicole + Felicia
- Wedding Dresses: Ines Di Santo
- Bridesmaid Dresses: Shona Joy
- Cakes & Catering: La Crème Banqueting
- Venues: Ca'Marcello Villa Veneta
- Venues ( welcome cocktails): Hotel Monaco Grand Canal
- Porsche Rental: Rent4classics
- Wedding DJ: Lisa Buralli and Damiano Sardi
- Hair, Makeup & Beauty: Regina Khanova
- Groom & His Men: King and Bay