When a worldwide pandemic cancels your destination wedding in Italy then you bring Italy to you! Caila Quinn & Nick Burrello’s Sarasota Wedding was held at the famed Ca’ d’Zan property. Built by John Ringling for his wife Mable, it was designed with an Italian theme throughout. Although they had most of their wedding vendors set from their original 2020 wedding date, we were thrilled when we were asked to be the wedding planners for their big day!
Wedding Ceremony
A spectacular 10-foot floral arch designed by Ode and Bastille Flowers, based in New York City framed the couple during the ceremony. The view of Sarasota Bay was the perfect backdrop. Caila was stunning in her strapless ball gown with an illusion bustier that caused instant tears as she tried it on at Kleinfeld’s during a Say Yes to the Dress episode (we dare you to watch and not cry too!).
Special Additions
Many special touches were included in the day to give it a really unique feel. Caila honored her Filipino culture by including a cord and veil ceremony which she remembered seeing as a little girl. The ceremony programs included pictures of both the bride and groom’s parents on their own wedding days with a heartfelt thank you for all their support. They also included a sketch of the Ca’ d’Zan Mansion to commemorate the day.
Caila was very stealthy in her organization of a flashmob style singing of ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You’ by Frankie Valli after their vows. What she didn’t realize was the broadway singers that flew in for the event got lost! We rescued them from the other side of the resort by golf cart to arrive just in time. Nick was completely surprised with the seemingly spontaneous singing and it turned out to be a moment no one will forget.
Wedding Reception
Caila wanted the reception tables to be long, keeping with a family feel, and topped with elegance. Ivory table linen, gold-rimmed table chargers, and a runner of flowers or a centerpiece with candles throughout brought her vision together perfectly. The floral arch from the ceremony was deconstructed so the flowers could be used throughout the reception area. It was a great way to reduce waste and be eco-friendly!
Their first dance song, “A Million Dreams” from The Greatest Showman, was very appropriate as they danced at the home built by a Ringling Brother. But it was also chosen because it was the first movie Caila and Nick saw together when they first started dating. It was so romantic and brought their relationship full circle in an intimate way.
Wedding Cake Heaven
Pastry chef and artist Julie Deffense was asked to create their one-of-a-kind wedding cake. The blue tile design along the bottom was topped with sugar flowers in blush, whites, and greens, with orange accents. It was perfectly designed to match the venue and Sarasota Bay sunset. The couple chose raspberry champagne and vanilla topped with fresh raspberries, raspberry jam, finished with white chocolate Swiss meringue buttercream. This amazing combination created a taste explosion everyone enjoyed!
Happily Ever After
Although their plans started in Italy, this Italian inspired venue fit perfectly with Caila and Nick’s wedding vision. It was an honor to bring their wedding dreams to life. We were grateful to be part of such a special day and wish them all the happiness life will bring!
Photo Credit: Stephanie Sutherland