This blog was originally written by Lauren Megerdichian on

Lavish Multi-Day Wedding at Lake Como’s Villa Balbiano

The Planning

DESIGN / VIBE / VISION: Ashley and Jordan’s multi-day destination wedding embodied the essence of Lake Como through exquisite experiences and endless entertainment for their guests. Hosted at Villa Balbiano in the town of Ossuccio, this home provided an idyllic setting for the welcome party, an elaborate wedding day, and a brunch-themed pool party. “Those who know Jordan and me know we love to have a good time with our friends. We were inspired to create an atmosphere where not only did we celebrate, but also all of our guests felt just as special. This was difficult in a way to try to keep the modern, elegant vibe but also incorporate fun ‘eccentric’ elements that surprised our guests.

PROPOSAL STORY: In 2013, Ashley was in law school at KU and Jordan was opening a Pickleman’s restaurant in KC when they happened to be invited to the same wedding. Almost something out of a movie, Ashley caught the bouquet and Jordan caught the garter. While neither was expecting it to turn into anything serious, Jordan really sealed the deal when he surprised Ashley a few months later with George, their first Pom child. Ashley was smitten from then on and they’ve since expanded their family with their three Pom children, George, Penny, and Pablo. On 2/9/22, Ashley was heading out for a supposed girls night. Jordan had secretly been planning a proposal and engagement party by renting out the Mercury Room for that evening. A lot had been going on behind the scenes (including a photo shoot of the poms!) so this was a challenge to keep secret. Jordan was able to pull off a complete surprise – Ashley said YES and family and friends arrived shortly after for a cocktail party to celebrate. Ashley and Jordan flew to Italy a few days after to start wedding planning!

The Fashion
WEDDING GOWN: Our true wedding events started on Sunday, May 21st in Brunate (up at the top of a mountain in Como) – I wore a Katie May Dress “Boss Lady” with Jimmy Choo shoes. Jordan wore a custom suit from Indochino. Welcome Party Day: For our photography session I wore a Millia London Dress & for the welcome dinner I wore a dress by Milla (sister brand of Milla Nova) paired with a white Chanel purse. Jordan wore a custom suit from Indochino. Wedding Day: My dress was purchased in Milan at Rebecca La Sposa showroom. My dress is Tony Ward – paired with Jimmy Choo shoes. Jordan wore a custom Tux from Indochino. Pool Day: First outfit was another Katie May Dress “Chasing Dawn” and Jordan wore a custom suit from Indochino. I changed into two different swimsuits from local boutiques.

BRIDESMAID DRESSES: Ashley’s bridesmaids posed in the historic villa wearing mismatched green satin gowns from Azazie.

GROOMSMAN ATTIRE: Jordan wore three different custom tuxes from Indochino throughout the weekend.

The Details
FOOD & DRINK: The weekend included a variety of Italian-inspired food stations, including a pizza truck at the after party and a gelato cart at the pool party — all paired, of course, with a selection of Campari, Aperol, and Prosecco.

FLORALS & DECOR: The citrus-themed welcome party gave guests a taste of what’s to come. Set among the orchard under a canopy of string lights, the lemon-infused decor added a touch of freshness to the magical space. The wedding ceremony was set atop a circular stage, with the softest ivory and blush florals that greeted Lake Como’s deep blue waters. The reception brought guests into a fantasy world. Modern tasseled chandeliers were hung above candle displays, with floral arrangements in every direction. Ending off the wedding weekend was their chic LA vibe pool party, inspired by The Beverly Hills Hotel.

WEDDING CAKE: We didn’t have a cake, but we worked with a production company that helped curate an experience. From the moment the guests walked through the gates to the very last song played at the after party. We had flower artists at the cocktail hour, Stilts/Marionette dancers at the champagne toast, and a fire show.

SPECIAL DETAIL #1
: Unbelievable photoshoot moments included the bride’s champagne-colored Millia London gown and the posh post-wedding boat ride.

SPECIAL DETAIL #2
: Hired performers included string musicians, greeters, servers, stilt performers, flower artists, and live fire dancers — all clad in elaborate gowns and costumes.