It was clear from their first meeting that Jonathan Martinez and Tyler Robbins had something special. Upon being introduced to each other through their best friends, sparks flew despite the fact that they were not being set up intentionally.

While the couple had discussed their plans for their future together, Jonathan was completely surprised when Tyler popped the big question on his birthday at their West Hollywood home with the help of their two dogs. With a guest list of 40 friends and family, the beautiful couple planned their destination wedding at Belmond Villa San Michele over the course of eight months alongside Erica Marie Events. “We wanted an event that truly represented what we cared about and that would bring together our best friends and family,” shares Jonathan. “We were seeking a place that would give us an opportunity to provide the platform for an incredible trip and party.” 

Embracing Italy’s gorgeous landscape, the pair hosted a wedding in the heart of the romantic country. “Florence has and always will hold a special place in our hearts,” shares Tyler. “It represents everything we love about life – from its welcoming people, to its preserved culture, to lively restaurants and nightlife, this Italian city just has it all.” As loved ones received their invitations by Bliss & Bone, customized luggage tags by Curry’s Leather with the Italian name of the city “Firenze” and the wedding date embossed with gold foil were gifted, along with local olive oil, aged balsamic vinegar, and limoncello in their wedding welcome bags. 

“Florence has and always will hold a special place in our hearts. It represents everything we love about life – from its welcoming people, to its preserved culture, to lively restaurants and nightlife, this Italian city just has it all.”

“We felt that having a guest count of just under 50 would allow us to spend time with each and every person who made the long journey,” describes Jonathan. “We had our two best friends serve as our officiants, our mothers walked us down the aisle, and our closest confidants made the speeches,” shares Tyler. “Most importantly, we made sure to interact with our guests before, during, and after our big day.” 

High above the ancient city, Jonathan and Tyler’s dearest friends and family gathered for their sunset wedding. “We incorporated high fashion all through the weekend and made sure every detail was chic and impressive,” illustrates Jonathan, who wore Prada while Tyler donned Tom Ford. Utilizing a classic grey-and-white marble at the heart of their design, the grooms further incorporated hues of navy and gold as their primary color palette. As they stood in front of their loved ones to the sounds of string duo Alma Project, arrangements of white blooms adorned with bold pops of purple designed by Fluida Design were placed on each side to further complement the gorgeous view of the cityscape. The pair said “I do” and exchanged Tiffany & Co. wedding bands.

The reception décor mimicked that of the ceremony, as colorful blooms filled the arrangements  to further complement the gold flatware, marbled menus, and luxe navy napkins by La Tavola Fine Linen that were placed at each table, with rentals from Latini Design and lighting and music provided by Kaleydo. Indulging in all the wonders that Italy has to offer, guests enjoyed a four-course wedding menu that included seasoned beef carpaccio, handmade gnocchi topped with lobster, and traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina followed by a decadent chocolate-glazed pistachio and raspberry crumble paired with espresso martinis for dessert to get the guests ready for a long night of dancing ahead.

“We wanted every person that was willing to join us to have the best time possible, and we were proud to leave feeling we achieved that completely,” express Tyler as he reflects on their special day. When asked if they would do anything differently, Jonathan admits, “We know it’s crazy to say, but not one thing, honestly!”