When Isabella and Russell (who you might recognise from Fallout!) matched on an online dating app, they found out they were born only five days apart, attended the same college, and even shared the last four digits of their phone numbers! There’s coincidence and there’s fate, and they agreed their connection falls under the latter. Believing their two late Italian grandmothers were conspiring from beyond, they deemed it imperative to meet again the next day. They did and never looked back. Just over a year later, Russell took Isabella to see the winter illumination at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, where they had gone on one of their first dates. He popped the question, and when she said yes, he swept her away to a surprise party to celebrate with their families.

As if birthdays and phone numbers weren’t enough, Isabella and Russell discovered they share the same favorite decade: the 60s. When planning their wedding, it had to incorporate the music, fashion, and movies from their favourite era. Going for a swanky red carpet vibe, the couple was inspired by James Bond, disco music, and vintage Hollywood glamour. To capture that feel, Russell wore a cream tuxedo with black pants with red and gold cufflinks while Isabella was in a one-shoulder gown with white opera gloves, a cape, and a cathedral veil. Her red and magenta bouquet matched hot pink heels that peeked out from under her dress.

Isabella’s godparents officiated the intimate outdoor ceremony. They were surrounded by lush green flora, a detail chosen to celebrate their love of plants. The couple curated a series of readings reflecting their beliefs in art, science, spirituality, and love. “The ceremony was the best part of the whole day,” Isabella said. “It felt like time had stopped. While the rest of the day was a blur, that moment was pure peace and bliss, surrounded by all the people we love.”

More tropical plants filled the reception space, where disco balls hung from the atrium’s ceiling. Tables featured Italian liquor bottles used as table markers and the bold centrepieces were made of red and pink flowers and feathers. At the very edge of the space, Isabella and Russell displayed a portrait painted by Isabella’s brother, an award-winning artist. After dinner, the couple surprised Russell’s parents with a speech and special dance to honor their 40th anniversary that same day!

“We love curating an experience,” Isabella continued. “Getting to live inside an event with our dream aesthetic, music, food, and surrounded by our dearest people was beautiful. Watching our friends and family enjoy the world we created for the night was everything.”

When asked what they would change if budget wasn’t a factor, Isabella laughed, “More! More time, more flowers, more decorations, more music—maybe a big live band. But honestly, we felt very satisfied. We were fortunate to have our dream wedding just the way it was.”

Her advice for couples planning their own wedding? “Stay focused on the fact that you get to marry the love of your life. It’s okay if the details aren’t perfect, as long as they feel authentic to you. Once all the plans are in place, sit back, be present, and just enjoy living in it.”