Tradition ruled Melissa Pizzinga and Adrian Zuccarelli’s formal wedding, from their “old school” courtship to their large church ceremony.
“We both have an Italian background and were always under strict rules,” Melissa, 26, explains.
The couple has been dating for more than eight years and Melissa says taking it slow has drawn her and Adrian, also 26, closer together.
“We are so grateful that today we are not only husband and wife, but best friends.”
After a romantic proposal aboard a gondola on the Yarra River, the Melbourne couple could not wait to tell their family and friends.
“We’re a bit old school so wanted to announce the good news to family and friends in person. We believe it is so much more special than… just checking who ‘likes’ our news on Facebook,” Melissa says.
After sharing their happy news the pair began planning their formal wedding for March 28, 2015. The ceremony was held at St Brendan’s Catholic Church in Flemington in front of 280 guests. “I was overwhelmed that there was barely a spare seat in the house,” Melissa recalls.
“The most memorable part of my wedding day was walking down the ailse… In a church full of people he was the only one I could see and he was the only one that mattered.”
The reception was held at Lakeside Banquet and Convention Centre in Taylors Lakes with the couple opting for the large ballroom to cater for the celebrations.
“Our reception was so much fun. Our MC, a comedian, was hilarious and our band had everyone on the dance floor the whole night,” Melissa says.
Photos courtesy of Dolce Vita Photography.
Adrian’s groomsmen looked sharp in suits from Ferrari Formalwear and Bridal.
Melissa had some alterations made to ensure she had the perfect wedding gown.
“Adrian and I met at the age of 18, a week into studying at Australian Catholic University,” Melissa says. “A mutual friend introduced us and it’s pretty safe to say it was love at first sight.”
A classy Rolls Royce was the couple’s choice of vintage transport.
“Loving Adrian is pretty easy,” Melissa says. “He is so relaxed, happy and a real gentleman.”
Cakes of Distinction provided the elaborate wedding cake, with its lace design matching Melissa’s gown.
Video by 8 Ounces.
Bomboniere: Brown Bothers Prosecco Piccolo champagne / Brides Accessories: Temelli Jewellery, Cardiology / Brides Gown: Raffaele Ciuca Bridal and Men's Formal Wear / Brides Shoes: Siren, Myer / Bridesmaid Shoes: Tony Bianco / Bridesmaids Accessories: Tilka / Bridesmaids Dresses: Review / Cake: Cakes of Distinction / Celebrant: Father Max Vodola / Ceremony Music: Playlist / Ceremony Venue: St Brendans Catholic Church / Entertainment: Midnight Blue, MC James Liotta / Flowers: First Impressions Flowers / Gift Registry: Myer / Grooms Attire: Zachary / Grooms Shoes: Basement / Groomsmen Attire: Ferrari Formalwear & Bridal / Groomsmen Shoes: Basement / Hair: KYK Hair / Honeymoon: Hawaii / Invitations: L'amour / Makeup: Beauty by Fadelh / Photographer: Dolce Vita Photography & Video / Reception Venue: Lakeside Banquet and Convention Centre / Rings: Top Image Jewellery / Transport: Jaguar MK5, Chrysler 300C limo / Videographer: 8 Ounces / Wedding Night Accommodation: The Langham, Melbourne
