Proud to Love: A Refined Wedding by Lake Maggiore
Of all the weddings we’ve had the privilege to plan, Vincent and Colin’s celebration will always hold a special place in our hearts. Their connection was undeniable from the very first moment.
Living thousands of miles apart — one in the United States, the other in Canada — they built a love that is strong, radiant, and deeply inspiring.
At Il Pavone Bianco, we don’t believe in labels such as “gay wedding.” To us, there are only love stories — each one unique, genuine, and deserving of the same emotion and care.
Vincent and Colin exchanged their vows at one of the most prestigious villas on Lake Maggiore — Villa Rusconi Clerici in Verbania. Surrounded by family and friends from all over the world, they celebrated under the Italian sky with an elegant and timeless party inspired by the bold world of Gianni Versace — a true tribute to freedom, beauty, and love in all its forms.
A photoshoot with a cinematic flair
As is often the case with American weddings in Italy, we suggested that Vincent and Colin take their couple photos before the ceremony. This choice — very common across the Atlantic — allowed them to fully enjoy the celebration afterward, surrounded by their guests and free from any interruptions.
They got ready together in a joyful and tender atmosphere before setting off on an unforgettable ride aboard a vintage Riva boat across Lake Maggiore, near the Borromean Islands. Elegant yet carefree, this little escape gave them a peaceful, intimate moment before the emotion of the ceremony.
Their arrival together on that iconic boat was nothing short of cinematic — a breathtaking scene that left their guests in awe. A truly memorable entrance, capturing both their love and the timeless elegance of Italy.
A ceremony filled with color and emotion
The ceremony took place in the gardens of Villa Rusconi Clerici, overlooking Lake Maggiore — a setting that was both grand and intimate. Two royal-blue armchairs with golden details, symbolizing unity and echoing Gianni Versace’s aesthetic, immediately set the tone: an elegant and daring wedding blending modern flair with Italian heritage.
Golden chairs, the perfectly symmetrical aisle, and floral arrangements in shades of white, blue, and green created a refined and harmonious tableau — a setting designed down to the smallest detail to reflect the couple’s personality.
The ceremony culminated in a ribbon ritual — a powerful and poetic gesture where Vincent and Colin’s hands were bound together with multicolored ribbons, symbolizing unity, diversity, and freedom. A moment as vibrant as it was meaningful, forever marking the emotional heart of this unforgettable day.
A baroque and refined décor
For the reception, we designed a scenography where baroque charm met contemporary elegance, creating an atmosphere that was both spectacular and harmonious.
Beneath the majestic glasshouse of Villa Rusconi Clerici, the long tables evoked the spirit of an Italian banquet: white linens, golden candelabras, sparkling crystalware, and delicate plates came together in a subtly opulent setting.
White and blue flowers, enhanced by a golden glow, created a festive yet refined ambiance — a tribute to Italian grandeur and to Vincent and Colin’s radiant personalities.
A reception blending Italian elegance and unforgettable celebration
After the ceremony, guests enjoyed an open-air aperitif accompanied by a classical quartet, whose melodies blended beautifully with the gentle atmosphere of Lake Maggiore.
Dinner followed beneath the magnificent glasshouse of Villa Rusconi Clerici — a luminous space where the golden reflections of the décor subtly echoed the world of Gianni Versace.
As night fell over the lake, the couple had prepared a surprise: a breathtaking fireworks display over the water, illuminating the sky — and the amazed faces of their guests.
But a wedding like Vincent and Colin’s could only end with an unforgettable party — because, to us, there’s no such thing as a gay wedding without a touch of extravagance and a lot of style.
For the occasion, La Stryxia — the stage name of Graziano Sani, one of Milan’s most iconic drag DJs — lit up the dance floor. With her energy, flair for performance, and impeccable music selection, she turned the night into a celebration of pure freedom and joy — a finale that perfectly captured who they are: elegant, vibrant, and unforgettable.
That night, beneath the glowing glass roof, everything felt possible — love, music, and freedom became one.
