Although Lauren Sales and Alan Walker first met in the United Kingdom, where they currently reside, their wedding story began overseas. “Alan proposed to me while we were on a trip to New York. As luck would have it [Jacqui Cole, our wedding photographer] was also in town and we were able to capture photos in Central Park newly engaged!” Lauren smiles.

The lovebirds spent two beautiful years cherishing their engagement while organizing the details of their nuptials with help from their parents. They ultimately decided to return to a lovely Italian locale that had left them smitten for their intimate celebration. “We visited Lake Como on vacation, and without a doubt it was the most beautiful location we had ever visited. We knew we had to get married there!” she affirms. As 75 guests arrived to the majestic mansion featuring antique finishes, exquisite architecture, and a breathtaking view of the romantic lake, the bride made her grand entrance. Lauren and Alan recited their vows amidst two exquisite pillars with the natural landscape as their backdrop.

A soft palette of blush, white, and gold hues enhanced the beauty of the villa for the reception. “[We also had] grand candelabras full of roses, with more flowers and tea lights decorating the tables,” the bride explains. In the spirit of Italy, the newlyweds offered an extravagant menu of some of the finest Italian dishes to their loved ones. “My favorite course was the truffle ravioli filled with a perfectly poached egg inside. The restaurant at [the villa] has a michelin star and every course was absolutely amazing,” Lauren confides. They even sliced a delectable traditional Italian wedding cake. However, the pair also wanted to bring a bit of England to Italy. “We had sloe gin on the tables, homemade by the groom’s mother – a nod to our home in England,” the bride remembers of the liqueur, which helped to start the celebration. Friends and loved ones danced until midnight beneath a stunning chandelier suspended above the dance floor.

Whilst Lauren acknowledged how important it is to prioritize guests during the planning process as well as the wedding day, she reminds brides and grooms to remember what the celebration is all about. “Lots of our friends who got married recently told us that they barely spoke to each other on their wedding day as they spent most of their time separately with guests. We tried to spend our time together as well as ensuring we chatted with all our guests,” she smiles.