WITH LOVE
THE FOURTEENTH & FIFTEENTH OF MAY
two thousand twenty seven
Benvenuti.
There is something magical about Tuscany.
A place that seems to exist outside of time, where stories of centuries past remind us that the most meaningful things are measured by moments.
For one unforgettable weekend, we welcome you to experience all of it alongside us.
This website has everything you'll need. From travel recommendations and accommodations to weekend events, dress codes, and fun places around Lucca.
After all, the people we love are life's greatest luxury, and we are thrilled to celebrate with you.
With love,
Sofia & Peter
OUR STORY
How it began
The short version?A dating app brought us together.
The better version?
One warm August evening in New York, a neighborhood bar on the Lower East Side, a corner booth, and a pitcher of margaritas turned into hours of conversation that neither of us wanted to end.
That night became another dinner.
Then another.
Weekend adventures became traditions.
Ordinary moments slowly became our favorite memories.
Along the way, we discovered that although we're different in many ways, we've always wanted the same things: a life built on kindness, curiosity, laughter, and choosing each other every single day.
Peter is calm, thoughtful, and endlessly dependable—the person who will always listen, then quietly do what's best.
Sofia is expressive, creative, and always dreaming up the next adventure, loving loudly and bringing joy wherever she goes.
Somehow, those differences fit together perfectly.
We're each other's favorite place
to come home to.
Why Tuscany?
Tuscany is steeped in history, a place where generations have walked the same streets, gathered around the same tables, and celebrated life's most meaningful moments. There is a quiet reassurance in that continuity, a reminder that the things built with care and intention will endure.
Tuscany invites us to slow down. Meals last longer. Conversations linger.
We imagined our wedding to be a weekend of relaxation, discovery, and togetherness in a place that we will cherish.
Schedule of Events
THE WEEKEND
FRIDAY, MAY 14, 2027
Welcome Party
L'ARANCERA DI VILLA GRABAU
Our first evening together begins the best way we know how - great pizza, plenty of wine, and even better company.
We'll gather at L'Arancera, a beautifully restored Tuscan farmhouse just steps from Villa Grabau, to welcome everyone to Italy and kick off the weekend together.
Come hungry and settle into la dolce vita.
SATURDAY, MAY 15, 2027
The Wedding
VILLA GRABAU
After a leisurely morning exploring Lucca or relaxing in the Tuscan countryside, we'll gather at Villa Grabau to celebrate.
Surrounded by centuries-old gardens, historic villas, and rolling hills, we'll exchange vows, share an unforgettable dinner, raise a few glasses, and dance well into the evening.
We can't wait to celebrate this day with all of you.
GUEST INFORMATION:
Please find attire inspiration for each event below. Complimentary shuttle service will be available to and from both events for guests staying within Lucca's historic city walls. Additional transportation details will be shared prior to the wedding.
The Locations
VENUE SPOTLIGHT
L'Arancera di Villa Grabau
Originally restored from a historic farmhouse on the Villa Grabau estate, L'Arancera blends timeless Tuscan charm with modern comfort. Surrounded by olive groves, gardens, and rolling hills, it offers a peaceful retreat just moments from the celebrations.
L’ARANCERA
Villa Grabau
With more than five centuries of history, Villa Grabau is one of the few historic estates in Lucca where monumental gardens, frescoed halls, a 17th-century Lemonhouse, luxury accommodations, and breathtaking landscapes all exist within a single property.
VILLA GRABAU
(The Lemon House)
Built in the 17th century, the Limonaia is one of the largest historic Lemonhouses in Tuscany. Once home to Villa Grabau's extraordinary citrus collection during winter months, today its soaring stone archways, cascading greenery, and warm terracotta walls.
THE LIMONAIA
Style Guide
ATTIRE
Welcome Party - May 14th
Relaxed Italian Summer
Linen.
Cotton.
Sundresses.
Button-downs.
Tailored shorts.
Comfortable footwear.
Sandals and clean sneakers are absolutely welcome.
This is an outdoor evening designed for comfort, conversation, and celebrating together.
Welcome Party
Wedding Day - May 15th
Garden Party Formal
For Ladies:
Midi or floor-length dresses
Dressy jumpsuits
Elegant separates
Block heels are recommended for walking through the gardens.
For Gentlemen:
Suit preferred
Tie optional
Loafers or dress shoes
No tuxedos necessary.
Wedding Day
If you'd like, you're welcome to draw inspiration from our wedding color palette. While there's absolutely no expectation to match, these earthy, Tuscan-inspired tones will feel right at home throughout the weekend.
Travel to Lucca
GETTING HERE
One of the things we love most about Lucca is how effortless it is to explore. Once you've arrived inside the historic city walls, cafés, restaurants, shops, and beautiful piazzas are all within walking distance.
For the wedding weekend, complimentary shuttle transportation will be provided to and from all hosted events. So once you're here, there's nothing left to plan.
Simply arrive, settle in, and enjoy Tuscany.
FLYING INTO ITALY
PSA — Pisa (Closest & Easiest)
Approximately 45–60 minutes to Lucca via PisaMover and train. Often the quickest and most economical option.
FCO — Rome
Approximately 4–5 hours by train or 4 hours by car. A wonderful choice if you're planning to spend a few days exploring Rome before heading north.
FLR — Florence (Our Recommendation)
Approximately 1 hr 45 min to Lucca via tram and direct train. Easy connections and a beautiful journey into Tuscany.
ARRIVING TO LUCCA
By Train
RECOMMENDED
Florence SMN → Lucca
~1 hr 20–45 min · €8–20 per person
Comfortable, affordable, and one of the most scenic ways to travel. The train station is just a 10-minute walk from Lucca's historic center.
Book with:Trenitalia or Italo Treno
By Rental Car
BEST FOR EXPLORING
Arrival Airport → Lucca
Perfect if you're planning to explore the Tuscan countryside.
Please note: Lucca's historic center is a restricted traffic zone (ZTL). If you're renting a car, confirm parking with your hotel before arriving.
Private Transfer
MOST COMFORTABLE
Florence/Pisa/Rome → Lucca
~45 min–4 hrs • €180–350 per vehicle
A seamless door-to-door option for families, groups, or anyone who prefers to leave the driving to someone else.
Complimentary Shuttles Provided
Shuttles will run from Lucca's city center to both the Welcome Pizza Party (May 14) and the Wedding (May 15) — and back at the end of each evening. You won't need a car for any wedding event. Pickup details to be confirmed closer to the date.
WHERE TO STAY
Where to Sleep
We've curated a selection of our favorite hotels within Lucca's historic city center, each conveniently located near our wedding shuttle pickup location. Explore the options below, then use the button beneath each hotel to view availability, room types, pricing, and its exact location.
While these are some accommodation suggestions, please feel free to stay wherever is most comfortable for you. Our wedding shuttle will pick up and drop off at Porta San Pietro, located at the southern entrance to Lucca's historic center.”
Also Consider Airbnbs & Other Hotels
There are many additional hotels throughout the walled city, as well as a number of Airbnbs available within the historic center.
BOUTIQUE
BEST VALUE
LUXURY
VILLA GRABAU - LUCCA, ITALY
43°54′08.63″N 10°33′12.72″E
EXPLORE
Things to do in Lucca
Lucca is one of Italy's most beautifully preserved medieval cities. Our favorite way to experience it is simply to wander…pause for an espresso, linger over lunch, and explore the quiet streets inside the historic walls. If you have a little extra time, these are some of our favorite places.
Please find the below recommendations and more in Sofia & Peter: Things to do in Lucca Google Pins
Sights & Culture
Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
Mura di Lucca
Guinigi Tower
Duomo di San Martino
Basilica di San Frediano
San Michele in Foro
Palazzo Pfanner
Puccini Museum
Orto Botanico
Piazza Napoleone
Hidden Gems
Romeo, Lucca's beloved cat
Santa Maria della Rosa
Porta San Gervasio
Museo della Zecca
Eat & Drink
Buca di Sant'Antonio
Osteria da Pasquale
Osteria Baralla
Enoteca Vanni
La Dogana
L'Osteria del Pesce
Alice Pizza
Ristorante Cocktail Bar San Colombano
Cafes & Sweets
Pasticceria Dianda
Bar Caffetteria La Colonna
Buccellato Taddeucci
Gelateria Anfiteatro
Undici Undici
Pan di Strada
Ciacco
Shopping
Uashmama
Officina della Pelle
Calliphora
Aquae Lucca
Erbario Toscano
Ceramiche Artistiche Lucchesi
Fat Mama Vintage
Dolce Vita Vintage
Mondadori Bookstore
Cartoleria Bonacchi
Things to Know
-
As much as we adore your little ones, our wedding weekend will be an adults-only celebration. We hope this gives everyone the opportunity to relax, celebrate, and enjoy a weekend away. Thank you for understanding and helping us make the most of this special occasion.
-
If you've been invited with a guest, your RSVP will indicate a plus one. If a plus one isn't listed, we kindly ask that you attend solo. Thank you for helping us keep our guest list manageable.
-
For most U.S. and Canadian citizens, no visa is required for tourist visits to Italy lasting fewer than 90 days.
Please check your government's travel website if you hold another nationality or are traveling with a passport from another country.
-
Our recommended airport is Florence Airport (FLR).
It's the easiest and most convenient option for reaching Lucca.
You may also consider:
• Pisa International Airport (PSA) — the closest airport to Lucca
• Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) — ideal if you'd like to spend time exploring Rome before traveling north.
-
For most guests—
No.
If you're staying inside Lucca's historic city walls (which we highly recommend), everything is walkable and complimentary shuttle transportation will be provided for all wedding events.
If you're extending your trip to explore Tuscany, however, renting a car can be a wonderful option.
-
Our advice: Carry one primary card, one backup card stored separately, and a modest amount of cash rather than relying exclusively on any single payment method.
-
Our favorite option is by train.
Take the tram from Florence Airport to Firenze Santa Maria Novella (SMN), then board a direct train to Lucca.
The journey is simple, affordable, and one of the most scenic in Tuscany.
-
Italy uses Type C, F, and L plugs with 230V power.
You'll likely need a travel adapter if you're visiting from North America.
-
Yes.
Complimentary shuttle transportation will be available for both the Welcome Pizza Party and Wedding Day.
We kindly ask that everyone staying within Lucca meet at the designated pickup location before departure.
Detailed pickup instructions and final departure times will be shared closer to the wedding weekend.
-
All wedding transportation is planned to depart from:
Porta San Pietro
Sortita Porta San Pietro
55100 Lucca LU, Italy
Simply look for the coach displaying a sign that reads:
"Sofia & Peter."
**This could change as we continue through the planning process, so please keep your eyes peeled.
-
We highly recommend staying inside Lucca's historic city walls.
You'll be within walking distance of cafés, restaurants, shopping, and the complimentary wedding shuttle.
-
We recommend arriving to Italy no later than Thursday so you can join us for the Welcome Pizza Party.
If your schedule allows, stay an extra day or two after the wedding to explore Tuscany.
Trust us, you won't regret it.
-
Very.
One of the reasons we chose Lucca is because nearly everything is accessible on foot.
Comfortable walking shoes are highly encouraged.
-
Yes.
However, because parking is limited and transportation is provided, we encourage guests to take advantage of the complimentary shuttle.
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Mid-May is one of Tuscany's most beautiful seasons.
Average daytime temperatures range from 18–24°C (65–75°F) with cooler evenings after sunset.
We recommend bringing a light sweater, blazer, or shawl for later in the evening.
-
Thursday - Relaxed Italian Summer
Relaxed, polished, and comfortable.
Friday - Garden Party Formal
Elegant dresses, suits, and polished attire appropriate for an outdoor Italian villa celebration.
-
Absolutely.
Just keep in mind that portions of the celebration take place on grass, gravel, and garden pathways.
Block heels or wedges are often the most comfortable choice.
-
Most likely, yes.
Check with your mobile carrier before departure to add an international plan or activate international roaming.
Many hotels, restaurants, and cafés also offer complimentary Wi-Fi.
RSVP
Kindly Reply
We know May 2027 is still a little while away. If you're already certain you'll be celebrating with us, we'd absolutely love for you to RSVP now. If not, no worries at all. We'll send a friendly reminder when it's time to make it official. Final RSVPs will be due closer to the event.
REGISTRY
Honeyfund
Celebrating with us in Tuscany is truly the greatest gift we could ask for. If you'd like to honor the occasion with a gift, we've created a registry with a few ways to help us begin this next chapter together.