Claire & Drew’s wedding captured by ELIZABETH LANIER, was inspired by the timeless, effortless charm of the Italian countryside. “Once we chose our Tuscan venue—VILLA MEDICI LILLIANO—, I envisioned a style that was classic and chic, drawing inspiration from icons like Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and Grace Kelly. Comedian Heather McMahon’s Italian wedding on Instagram influenced us too; her stories captured the magic of celebrating in the Tuscan hills with loved ones and we wanted to emulate that.”
The couple met through mutual friends at an LSU game in Dallas, though technically they first met in Sunday school as kids in their small hometown outside New Orleans. Years later, Drew proposed during a trip to Cabo. He filled the house with tulips, Claire’s favorite flower, and presented her with her grandmother’s iconic ring, a cherished family heirloom.
Working with wedding planner, BAILEY ROSE EVENTS they wanted their Italian countryside wedding to feel intimate and relaxed, reflecting their personalities. “My mom and sister played a huge role in planning, including finding the perfect casual yet classic stationery from a local vendor. The morning of the wedding, I spent time with my mom, sister, and best friends in a villa, sipping coffee, wearing face masks, and laughing while getting ready. Our first look in the villa’s courtyard was a sweet, private moment before the festivities began.
The ceremony was relaxed and full of love, with guests laughing and snapping photos. Afterward, a lively cocktail hour brought everyone together, followed by dinner, a traditional millefoglie cake, and fireworks. The reception was pure joy, with a DJ, a disco ball, espresso martinis, and even a TV on the dance floor to catch the midnight LSU game.
The couple kept the wedding day details simple and intimate, featuring small white flowers and local foliage from Tuscany.
The ceremony was relaxed and full of love, with guests laughing and snapping photos.
THE DRESS
“Finding my dress was a journey; I adored a mini bridal dress in Houston but struggled to find “the one.” A friend sent me an ELIZABETH FILLMORE design on Instagram with the message, “Thought of you.” I loved it instantly and flew to New York, ultimately choosing that gown. Inspired by Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, I opted for a chic, timeless look with a long veil and a glamorous second dress inspired by Priscilla Presley and Grace Kelly. Our florist incorporated simple white flowers and Tuscany-inspired foliage, keeping the décor understated to highlight the natural beauty of the venue.”
TO SUM IT UP
The day was about celebrating with family and friends who had flown across the world. Our wedding cake—a traditional Italian millefoglie—was followed by fireworks and a spontaneous dance party. To keep things relaxed, we didn’t have a large wedding party, but close friends stayed with us throughout the weekend.
After three magical weeks in Europe—including Rome, Florence, the Amalfi Coast, and parts of England—we were filled with gratitude for a wedding that perfectly captured our personalities and love story. It was an unforgettable celebration of family, friends, and fun.
