For her nuptials to her beloved, Bobby (Xapalambos) Bournias, Vanessa Deleon envisioned a sophisticated celebration.

The heavenly sounds of a harp met guests as they entered the sanctuary for the traditional Greek Orthodox ceremony. The beautiful bride walked down the aisle in a romantic lace gown with ornate straps and a neckline embellished with crystals and pearls – a combination that was also reflected in her chandelier earrings and bracelets. Vanessa’s elegant updo was topped with a birdcage veil, and she carried a bouquet of creamy calla lilies. Her suave groom was attired in a black tuxedo.

Being an interior designer, the grand Greek Revival architecture of a New York landmark set the perfect stage for the modern décor Vanessa had in mind for the reception. Rouge uplighting accentuated arches and pillars, while the Roman numeral XV was projected on walls in honor of the couple’s wedding date. This motif also appeared on their invitations and influenced the style in which table numbers were presented. “[Entering] the main floor surrounded by the grand staff of Cipriani in their elegant white-glove uniforms,” was among Vanessa’s most memorable moments of the night.

Long tables featured chic tablescapes composed of mirror runners lined with votive and pillar candles on silver vessels, high and low arrangements of vanilla orchids and calla lilies, with a sprinkle of chartreuse cymbidium orchids adding a hint of color. Round tables were graced with two botanical designs. First, votive candles were suspended from bundles of verdure branches that simulated small trees. Their tall glass vases were surrounded by white hydrangeas punctuated with mint orchids in square containers wrapped in leaves. Second, alabaster calla lily and hydrangea bouquets were posed in a contemporary fashion. Ebony goblets matched the napkins upon which menus were placed.

The newlyweds felt like royalty as they stepped onto the dance floor to “Quando, Quando, Quando” by Michael Bublé featuring Nelly Furtado. Following Greek custom, guests promptly showered them with money. Vanessa and Bobby made sure to incorporate elements of their respective Cuban and Greek cultures in the festivities. So the entertainment included a Greek band as well as salsa music. Attendees also enjoyed a cigar rolling station and favor bags containing bottles of white wine bearing labels stating, "My Big Fat Greek Wedding."

A bevy of treats awaited loved ones after the hearty sit-down dinner. Ivory calla lilies crowned a four-layer cake, with the fondant on two tiers shaped to look like tufted fabric studded with crystals and black bands at their bases. The confection showcased a delectable zabaglione and fresh strawberry filling. Additionally, butler-served sweets included miniature éclairs and fruit tarts, as well as chocolate-dipped strawberries.

“Everything was absolutely unique,” concludes Vanessa of their unforgettable fairy-tale wedding.