A Family Affair in Florence: A Luxury Celebration in the Heart of Italy

Destination Events, Destination Weddings, Travel

In 2019, my family and I embarked on a journey that was as personal as it was unforgettable. That year, my parents celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, and my husband, Collin, and I celebrated our first. To honor both love stories, we planned an unforgettable trip for a luxury destination celebration in Italy —one of the most beautiful and meaningful destinations in my life, both personally and professionally.

Luxury Destination Celebration in Italy

My family has roots in Lucca, a charming Tuscan town that holds generations of stories. Italy has always been a place where my heart feels at home—and over the years, it has also become one of my favorite destinations for the couples and clients I work with. As a luxury destination wedding planner, I specialize in curating unforgettable experiences around the world, but Italy holds a very special place in my heart and in my portfolio.

An Intimate Dinner in Florence with a Michelin-Starred Chef

As part of our anniversary celebration, we enjoyed a private dinner party for four, curated by a Michelin-starred chef in a breathtaking Renaissance palace in the heart of Florence. To enjoy a meal like that—so rich in flavor, artistry, and heritage—I knew the table had to match the moment. That’s when I began designing one of the most meaningful tablescapes of my career.

A Luxury Destination Celebration in Italy & A Tablescape That Told a Story

Inspired by the dramatic still life paintings of Caravaggio, I envisioned a richly layered design full of depth, emotion, and seasonal beauty. Autumn’s bounty was on full display—cascading grapes, fresh pomegranates, deep-toned florals like calla lilies and orchids—all working together to create an immersive, sensory experience.

While Collin is a professional photographer, I didn’t want this to become a working dinner. Instead, we brought in a local photography team to capture the beauty, while we fully embraced the evening and each other.

Bringing this vision to life required collaboration between both Italian and U.S.-based creatives—each vendor adding their unique artistry to the design. It was a celebration of love, legacy, and the power of intentional design to create memories that last a lifetime.

Whether I’m designing a wedding in Tuscany, an anniversary dinner in Florence, or a celebration on the Amalfi Coast, I believe that the most beautiful events are those rooted in meaning. Italy, with its history, romance, and soul-stirring beauty, continues to be one of the most inspiring destinations for me—as a planner, a designer, and a woman with deep family ties to its land.

Considering Italy for Your Destination Wedding?

Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic Tuscan villa or a chic celebration on the shores of Lake Como, I’d love to help you create something unforgettable. Contact our team to learn more →


The Team

Photos

Facibeni Photography

Floral

Lilla Bespoke Floral

Invitations

Smitten Boutique

Rentals

BBJ Linen & Event Set

Venue

Palazzo Capponi, Italy

Planning + Styling

Michelle Durpetti Events