Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.Clik here to view.
Photo: Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow for Allan Zepeda Photography
There's something incredibly romantic about Venice. The winding waterways, countless bridges, and incredible architecture transport visitors back to the 13th century. And in the spring, the city truly comes to life as natives and visitors alike don dramatic masks and costumes to celebrate Carnival.
So what could make a city rich with culture, tradition, and history even more romantic? A wedding, of course, celebrated in true Venetian fashion. On September 24th, 2011, Nelly and Ilya brought their guests to Venice's Island of San Clemente, where they embraced the city and had a wedding full of drama, color, and incredible entertainment. And they brought photographers Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow, for Allan Zepeda Photography, along for the ride—and to capture every incredible detail.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.Clik here to view.
Photo: Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow for Allan Zepeda Photography
Nelly's wedding-day look was all about the accessories. She kept her shoes bridal white, but chose a fashion-savvy pair of Fendi platforms topped with white satin bows.
Clik here to view.
Photo: Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow for Allan Zepeda Photography
The bridesmaids wore bold red one-shoulder chiffon gowns with a belt at the waist.
Clik here to view.
Photo: Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow for Allan Zepeda Photography
Nelly's gown? Vera Wang's Eliza gown, with pleated organza and Chantilly lace appliques.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.Clik here to view.
Photo: Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow for Allan Zepeda Photography
The ceremony took place in front of the Church of San Clemente, beneath an altar dripping with white orchids that matched the bride's bouquet. The ceremony followed Venetian wedding traditions, with footmen in crimson silk and a traditionally-outfitted doge welcoming guests.
Clik here to view.
Photo: Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow for Allan Zepeda Photography
Ilya arrived at the ceremony in a luxe Riva yacht, accompanied by his groomsmen.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.Clik here to view.
Photo: Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow for Allan Zepeda Photography
The groom wore a bespoke Tom Ford tuxedo and a red rose boutonniere. Nelly was escorted down the aisle by her father, and carried a cascading bouquet of white orchids.
Clik here to view.
Photo: Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow for Allan Zepeda Photography
Nelly's sister Sofiya, in a tulle gown and rose crown, served as the ring girl.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.Clik here to view.
Photo: Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow for Allan Zepeda Photography
After their vows, the couple recessed and made their way back to the boat that had brought Ilya to San Clemente.
Clik here to view.
Photo: Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow for Allan Zepeda Photography
Before the reception, the bride and groom took a private boat ride around the lagoon and sipped Bellinis.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.Clik here to view.
Photo: Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow for Allan Zepeda Photography
Can you imagine anything more amazing than celebrating your "I dos" with a sunset tour around Venice?
Masked men bearing torches led guests to the reception.
Clik here to view.
Photo: Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow for Allan Zepeda Photography
Dinner and dancing took place beneath a dramatic clear tent decked out in deep red and gold. Ornate chandeliers dripping with roses hung from above. Tables were topped with textured linens and towering centerpieces.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.Clik here to view.
Photo: Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow for Allan Zepeda Photography
Each guest's place featured a gold charger and printed menu. Pomanders of red roses glowed in the light of hundreds of votive candles. Escort cards, written in gold calligraphy, were held with miniature chairs
Clik here to view.
Photo: Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow for Allan Zepeda Photography
The towering wedding cake featured layers of fresh roses between the cake.
Clik here to view.
Image may be NSFW.Clik here to view.
Photo: Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow for Allan Zepeda Photography
Nelly swapped her gown for a Reem Acra design with a high-low hem, which she paired with Yves Saint Laurent sandals. Performers on stilts entertained guests during the reception with a Carnival-like display. The couple embraced the romance and drama of Venice, celebrating in a truly sensational fashion.
Ceremony Venue: San Clemente Church || Reception Venue: The St. Regis Venice San Clemente Palace || Wedding Planner: Antonia Sautter || Bride's Wedding Dress: Ceremony - Vera Wang, Reception - Reem Acra || Shoes: Ceremony - Fendi, Reception - Yves Saint Laurent || Groom's Suit: Tom Ford || Photography: Allan Zepeda and Mel Barlow for Allan Zepeda Photography