European Inspired Wedding at the Duquesne Club: Jessica & Tom

My spouse and I have some of our best memories from our international travels. I, therefore, fell in love again when I saw this Duquesne Club wedding with a European flair. When I say that Europe is a magical place, I mean it. There is beauty wherever you look; art influences everything from architecture to cuisine to fashion, and you are urged to take it easy and have fun. Now that I think about it, this wedding is also like that. The couple created a day that beautifully and uniquely embodied the Euro ambiance, taking into account the bride's passion for culture and the groom's interest in history. The ballroom of the Duquesne Club was lavishly furnished with gold accents and a chic cream and blush color scheme. Fresh grapes, twisted greenery, and hanging vines brought nature within (so Rome!). The evening's favorites were handcrafted limoncello, another Italian classic, and cheeses worldwide. I'm getting a severe case of European wanderlust from Jessica and Tom's big day because of the elaborate setting, lavish fashion, and many subtle references to different regions of the world. As I prepare to arrange our next transatlantic travel, look at these pictures from Araujo Photography!

When and how did you two meet?

In the fall of 2010, we met at college one evening in the Southside. I told Tom I wasn't looking for anything because I knew I would study abroad in Italy in a few months. We went out a couple of times, but that was the end. Tom sent my favorite chocolates to Rome while I was away, and I couldn't help but think about him. I even informed my friends that, although not now, this man would make the ideal husband. That idea was still on my mind when I returned from school, and we clicked over a weekend at Lake Chautauqua, New York. The rest is history!

Juicy details on the proposal, please! Where, when, how?

Beach at Captiva Island, March 9, 2015. A few months earlier, Tom had surprised me in Florida for Christmas. I was thrilled because I love going down there to see my relatives. Tom informed me that on Monday night the following day, we would celebrate my grandmother's and cousin's birthdays at a restaurant on the beach. Due to heavy traffic, my aunt informed me over the phone that they would arrive later. Tom parked the car, and we started watching the sunset since I adored them. Tom then asked me to stand and said he had known he wanted to pop the question on this beach at sunset when we first arrived in Florida a year prior. After saying a few more sentimental words, he knelt. I replied yes with ecstasy! I was in disbelief when he told me there was more, and I couldn't even conceive what it was through the tears. He mentioned my parents, in-laws, and grandparents during the meal. It was such a lovely occasion! We celebrated with an excellent fish supper, some tears, and a little bubbly while we watched the sky turn dark.

Describe the look, theme, styles, and colors of the wedding.

My European ancestry enhances my passion for European culture. Tom, meantime, is passionate about history. When I spotted the Duquesne Club, I knew it was the ideal place for my unique event! The hues were natural and neutral, consisting of creams and gold with blush, flowers, and vines.

There were several levels to the wedding. A 16-foot cheese table featuring cheeses from around the globe was set up during cocktail hour, accompanied by wine barrels, grapes, and candelabras. We had hanging candles, floral arrangements, and a draping vinery in the Patio Room. We had a king's table with high candelabras, mirrors, vinery, and grapes for dinner in the ballroom. We used two exquisite antique chairs to highlight the table. Following dinner, the guests returned downstairs for dancing, a lounge with a men's theme, a more feminine seating space off the dance floor, a cookie table with vintage elements, and a limoncello made by my mom and me.

What made the wedding unique?

We interpreted a European, historical vibe for the guests at the wedding. Everything came together brilliantly, from the design, which was influenced by the vines that hung in Rome's streets, to the homemade limoncello we had been preparing for months.

What was your favorite moment of the day?

The sensation of walking down the aisle and handing myself off to my spouse was my favorite part of the day. It was a deeply emotional and meaningful occasion.

Witnessing the realization of our goal was my second favorite! Seeing the results of your year-long, unrelenting work in front of us was incredible!

What advice would you give to other Flowersarch planning their big day?

Spend some time away from Pinterest. Most items on that website are either planned picture shoots or costly items. You will have a lovely day since it is yours! It's okay if things don't work out; don't worry about the specifics. The day goes by too quickly to be concerned with anything but enjoying your marriage and love with your loved ones.