It was 14 years ago when Shirin Milani and Phillip Helletzgruber met at a discotheque in Kitzbuhel, Austria.
Their initial spark prompted the two of them to keep in touch, even when they moved away from Austria, lived in two different countries, and were involved in other relationships. After a long period abroad, they reunited in Vienna in 2009 and officially started dating in 2010.
The marriage proposal took place in 2011 under a starry night sky in the Maldives. Even for Phillip, it was somewhat of a surprise. “I was looking for the right moment for some time, and this moment seemed to be perfect–so I just asked,” he says.
“I WAS LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT MOMENT FOR SOME TIME, AND THIS MOMENT SEEMED TO BE PERFECT–SO I JUST ASKED”
For the wedding, the couple wanted a venue where their friends could stay close by. Having spent a weekend at Il Borro in the past, Shirin knew it was the ideal spot to host their special day. She also loved the architecture and surrounding location. Their wedding planner facilitated the arrangements as well, connecting them to a selection of talented vendors.
The wedding day was met with a mixture of happiness and nervous anticipation. Due to a forecast of potential rain, the outdoor reception dinner was almost relocated to Il Borro’s indoor facilities. The bride and groom, however, decided that the outdoor setup was so romantic and beautifully designed that they would go ahead and risk the rain. Despite dark clouds and heavy winds during their church ceremony, the sun came back shortly after the couple said “I do,” and everyone was able to enjoy an outdoor dinner as planned.
The wedding décor surpassed the couple’s expectations, with stunning floral arrangements, exceptional catering, and Il Borro’s warm hospitality. “All our guests were amazed at all the details and enjoyed their stay immensely,” says the bride. “They keep thanking us for the beautiful days they spent with us in Italy.”
By the end of the night, the newlyweds were thoroughly satisfied with the events of the day, although exhausted from all the excitement. To recuperate, they spent their honeymoon in Seychelles–the perfect way to start their new life together.
Thankful to those who attended, Shirin says, “All of our closest friends and family were present to share this special and intimate moment with us. It was the most beautiful day in our lives."
WEDDING TALENT
Location: Il Borro Toscana, Tuscany, Italy; Cake: Galateo Ricevimenti, Florence, Italy; Event Design and Planner: Made by Made, Florence, Italy ; Floral Design: Tuscany Flowers, Florence, Italy
Wedding Dress: Pronovias; Flower Girl Dresses: Lesy; Photography: David Bastianoni Studios, Florence, Italy