This was a special one for me friends. From our first phone call together I knew Philena and I were instantly connected. Inevitably, I was looking forward to their wedding for a long time.

Philena is an actress and Luca an engineer. She’s from the mountains of Southwest Virginia, he’s from the mountains of Italy. (See the connection? Leave it to the mountains to bring people together, I just love that). From their sweet beginnings meeting in Chicago, to Virginia, to Italy, it all came full circle for their wedding day in August.

With Luca’s family hailing from Italy, their day included a ceremony both in English and Italian at the church where Philena grew up. Then a unique take on the traditional processional as guests paraded downtown Abingdon, complete with parasols, leading to the backyard reception at Philena’s parent’s home. More details included the bride’s family heirloom garter gorgeous florals, vintage cake toppers, signature cocktails, Chicago-style hot dogs, cookies from Luca’s hometown in Italy, photo booths, dancing, and the most amazing live band.

Recently, their day was shared in VIPSEEN Magazine for their “Save the Date 2019” Wedding Edition. You can see that here.

So excited that I get to look back on this day and I hope you do too.

Cheers,
Rachael