An Italian-Inspired Wedding Awash With Neutral Tones at La Casa Toscana in Fort Myers, Florida

Maya Burns Oster and Dr. Jacob Oster’s love story is as picturesque as a sunset on the horizon. High school sweethearts who continued their romance through college, the couple’s journey took a big leap in Naples, Florida. It was there, against the backdrop of a setting sun and the serene Atlantic ocean, that Jacob decided to ask Maya to spend the rest of their lives together. “While we were taking pictures on the beach at sunset, Jacob proposed,” Maya recalls. The proposal was crafted to perfection, not just in the romantic setting but in the heartwarming surprise that followed. “After, he surprised me with our families to celebrate!”

Both the bride and groom sought to craft an experience that transcended the ordinary, a celebration that combined their familiar Floridian roots with the rustic charm of the Italian countryside. And their venue, the picturesque property of La Casa Toscana, proved the perfect background for their vision.

“I’ve always been inspired by the landscapes and overall vibes of Italy,” explains the bride of their overall aesthetic. The couple described finding the venue as love at first sight, declaring, “When I found this hidden gem, we instantly fell in love!” As the big day approached, the couple wanted their celebration to mirror the elegance and simplicity that characterized classic European design. “We wanted to make sure everything felt effortless and classic,” Maya reflects, opting for a soothing color palette of whites, ivories, subtle yellows and vibrant greenery that promised to create a serene ambiance.

Fashion choices were pivotal in weaving the narrative of their day. Maya, with her impeccable taste for elegance, knew exactly what she wanted. “When wedding dress shopping, I knew I wanted a clean look that felt sophisticated and timeless,” she recounts. She chose an exquisite ivory gown with a sweetheart, ruched bodice, and a full a-line skirt with a high slit and a long train. For the reception, she transformed into a striking white strapless column gown with a simple belt detail. Jacob and his groomsmen complemented this theme perfectly, clad in classic black tie attire that resonated with the understated elegance of the setting.

On the day of the wedding, the property of La Casa Toscana was abuzz. Maya and her bridesmaids prepared in the master suite, a room aglow with Champagne and laughter. Sweet, tender moments unfolded between Maya and her mother as they prepared for the ceremony, reminiscing and sharing excitement. The groom, in contrast, savored the calm Floridian sunshine, a peaceful prelude to the day’s festivities.

The ceremony itself was nothing short of a dream. The venue’s architecture enhanced the carefully chosen decor, with market umbrellas dotting the landscape, offering shade and adding a touch of European flair. Maya and Jacob had ensured that the event would reflect their journey together, offering peach wine—the very drink they had toasted with on the night of their engagement—as a welcome drink. Florals in neutral hues lined the aisle, leading to a baby grand piano and a soloist whose melodies set the tone as the wedding party made their entrance. “The venue has beautiful Italian Cypress trees, so we made sure they were a part of the ceremony design,” Maya shares, highlighting the natural beauty that framed their special moment.

Following the heartfelt vows, guests transitioned to a cocktail hour where personal touches awaited. The newlyweds provided a game of personalized acrylic chess and tic-tac-toe games bearing their monogram, which delivered a playful twist that guests thoroughly enjoyed.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the property pond, the reception unfolded under the venue’s three wooden pergolas. Draped in white and adorned with new chandeliers and moody lighting, the setting was transformed into a vision of airy and fresh elegance. Each table bore low organic floral arrangements in stone compote vases, with stone and glass bud vases, tapered and tea light candles adding a soft, romantic light to the evening. “For our tablescape, we wanted it to feel timeless and elegant,” Maya notes, satisfied with the realization of her vision.

The night concluded with dancing under the stars, a delightful gelato cart continuing the Italian theme and a classic Champagne tower that sparkled under the night sky. Reflecting on their journey, Maya and Jacob shared a piece of advice for future couples embarking on their wedding planning journey: “While wedding planning can be so stressful, just make sure you have fun! Remember, this day is about you and your partner, so do whatever makes you guys the happiest!”