It was such an incredible honor to travel to Italy for Julia and Jack’s stunning vintage Italian-inspired wedding in Tuscany. Their love story began on a chilly February night in Brooklyn—during a time when you had to be a bit adventurous just to dine outdoors. It turns out, they were the perfect match for that kind of adventure, and many more to come. Early in their relationship, they took a trip to Italy together, and it was on that journey they not only fell in love with each other but with the magic of the Tuscan countryside. So, when it came time to choose a wedding venue, Julia and Jack knew they could play it safe or go for their dream—and true to their adventurous spirits, they went for the fairytale!

Handmade Elegance: Paper Goods That Brought the Wedding’s Story to Life

One of the most striking elements of Julia and Jack’s wedding was the beautifully designed paper goods, all handmade by Julia’s talented older sister, who also served as her matron of honor. This artistry added a deeply personal layer to the day’s aesthetic. From the moment guests received their invitations, featuring a hand-painted watercolor of Borgo Sant’Ambrogio in a color palette inspired by the venue’s earthy rust tones, they were immersed in the elegance and charm of the celebration. Sealed with a custom wax stamp, these invitations set the tone for a wedding filled with thoughtful, intimate details.

The same attention to detail was seen throughout the day, with custom programs, menus, and ceremony fans, all featuring hand-drawn illustrations. As a special favor, guests received personalized playing cards adorned with drawings of the couple, their dog, and symbols meaningful to their love story. These paper goods weren’t just decorations; they reflected the couple’s journey, lovingly crafted by someone who knew them best, making the day all the more meaningful and heartfelt.

summer wedding invitational suite by Emily Wren Photography

Timeless Style and Vintage Flair: Getting Ready in the Heart of Tuscany

As the Tuscan sun gently warmed the hills of Pienza, Julia began her day in the serene ambiance of Borgo Sant’Ambrogio. Surrounded by the rich stone walls and the whispering olive trees. Julia’s wedding day look was nothing short of enchanting—her Francesca Miranda gown, a masterpiece of lace and delicate detail, beautifully complemented her natural elegance. Karina Makeup Creative worked her magic, creating a soft, romantic makeup look that enhanced her natural beauty.

Jack embraced the vintage spirit of the day with his stylish double-breasted green velvet suit jacket and square 1960s-inspired sunglasses. His look added a unique, retro charm to the day that perfectly complemented the Tuscan backdrop and tied beautifully into their vintage Italian-inspired wedding theme.

I’ve always believed that your wedding day look should reflect the story of your love. If there’s one piece of advice I’d give couples as they plan their wedding day, it’s to work with vendors who truly understand your vision—like Julia and Jack did with their incredible team—and allow your personal style to shine through every detail.

bride's getting ready details by Emily Wren Photography

First Look Magic at Borgo Sant’Ambrogio

Julia and Jack’s first look took place in the serene surroundings of Borgo Sant’Ambrogio. We traveled around the venue for photos and I was so inspired by the golden Tuscan sun filtering through the olive trees and rustic elegance of the Italian countryside. The natural beauty of the venue paired with the couple’s stylish attire created an effortlessly timeless scene.

bride & grooms first look in Italy at Borgo San'Atmbrogio

Under the Tuscan Sun: A Ceremony of Romance and Reflection

When guests arrived at Borgo Sant’Ambrogio, they were greeted with a relaxed pre-ceremony cocktail hour, an experience that set the tone for the entire day. One of the most distinct aspects of an Italian wedding is the pace—it’s truly an all-day affair, filled with moments of celebration and leisure. Julia and Jack’s celebration unfolded slowly and elegantly, allowing everyone to fully take in the beauty of the surroundings and the significance of the day.

The ceremony itself, set amidst the lush greenery of Borgo Sant’Ambrogio, was nothing short of magical. Framed by soft pastel blooms designed by Criluflower, the natural elegance of the floral arrangements added a touch of whimsy to the stunning Tuscan landscape. As the gentle breeze carried the scent of roses and olive trees, the atmosphere was intimate and serene.

wedding brochure and fans for summer wedding day by Emily Wren Photography

Sunset Portraits with a Vintage Beetle Convertible

During the cocktail hour—a leisurely three hours in true Italian style—Julia and Jack had the chance to slip away for additional portraits with their vintage Beetle convertible. We drove to a nearby estate, where the cypress-lined roads created a dramatic, cinematic setting for some truly unforgettable photos. The warm, golden sunset cast a magical glow, and the vintage car added the perfect touch of retro Italian charm. These portraits captured not only the beauty of the Tuscan landscape but also the unique, personal touches that made Julia and Jack’s wedding day so special.

A Reception Under the Tuscan Stars

One of the things I love most about Italian weddings is how they truly become an all-day affair, with plenty of time for meaningful moments. Julia and Jack’s reception was no exception—an effortlessly elegant celebration that felt both intimate and grand, and that was staffed until 4 in the morning, giving them plenty of time to enjoy a leisurely dinner and to dance the night away!

Julia & Jack’s wedding was such a perfect blend of timeless style with personal touches. One of the most personal touches was the escort display—guests found their seats by selecting envelopes hanging from a single olive tree, each containing a handwritten note from the couple. It was a beautifully thoughtful way to show appreciation for each guest who had made the journey to celebrate with them.

The reception itself was breathtaking. Set in the courtyard of Borgo Sant’Ambrogio the long tables were beautifully dressed in soft florals in contemporary vases and illuminated by romantic string lights overhead. Guests dined al fresco under the stars, savoring a four-course Italian meal that, I have to say, was some of the best food I had during my entire time in Italy! From the perfectly prepared pasta to the exquisite local ingredients, the dinner was a true celebration of Italian culinary heritage.

One detail I really appreciated as a vendor was having our own table where we were treated to the same four-course meal, with bottles of wine placed out for us to enjoy as well. It’s rare to have this kind of experience as a photographer, and it made me feel so valued as part of their day.

Another highlight of the evening was the Millefoglie wedding cake, a classic Italian dessert made of delicate puff pastry and rich cream. The pastry chef assembled the cake in front of all the guests, and Julia and Jack added the final decorations themselves. This moment, followed by the pouring of champagne into a tower of glasses, felt like the perfect conclusion to the formalities before the real party began—dancing the night away under the stars!

I loved how Julia & Jack added so many ways to incorporate personal touches—like the handwritten notes and the involvement of family members in the details—as it’s these moments that truly make a wedding unique and memorable. And of course, don’t underestimate the magic of a long, leisurely Italian reception where you can truly enjoy the company of your loved ones. It was truly an honor and a joy to document Julia & Jack’s day!