Jana Schuesslerr, a German celebrity photographer, and her now husband, financial associate Gavin McLean, tied the knot at a meticulously planned destination wedding in Sicily, Italy. Their quintessential New York love story culminated in a spectacular fashion, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Commenda di san Calogero, a historic 1000-year-old estate. The wedding was shot by published wedding and editorial photographer Alex Tome, who is well-loved for his cinematic and fashion editorial style in wedding photography. The couple’s “gioia della vita” (joy of life) attracted friends and family from around the globe, including prominent artists, models, producers, magazine editors, and more. Notable guests included renowned photographer Greg Swales, who has shot for Vogue and Vanity Fair top German pop singer and producer Kayef, and other respected luminaries from the creative world.
Red dress for an all-white welcome party
Bride Jana is an incredibly talented photographer with an eye for design. She meticulously planned every detail of her wedding, making it her most significant production to date. Her creativity shone through every aspect, from the all-white welcome party to the personalized notes on each guest’s name card at the wedding reception. This intimate gathering was not just a wedding but a testament to the couple’s genuine love and the deep bonds they share with their friends and family.
The bride redesigned her boutique find
For the wedding day, Jana wore a stunning lace-beaded gown she discovered at a small boutique in Europe during one of her many work travels. Jana redesigned the gown herself with the help of a local tailor and designer friends, pairing it with Badgley Mischka shoes.
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Lush greenery and fragrant florals
The ceremony, officiated by their dear friend Cindy Quach, was a heartfelt affair with no dry eyes in sight. The guests were surrounded by lush greenery and fragrant florals by Intrecci di Fiore e d’Arte, creating a dreamy atmosphere for the couple’s vows.
Reception under the stars
Following the ceremony, a cocktail hour in the garden transitioned into a magical outdoor reception under the stars, featuring authentic Sicilian cuisine, live music, and elegant dancers, which added an ethereal energy to the evening.
Crisp and timeless reception design
The couple opted for a clean and crisp reception design featuring white place-settings with Italian-inspired menus and centerpieces of thistle, lemons, and dahlias, among others.
A film featuring loved ones
Highlights of the evening included a film featuring heartfelt messages from loved ones, custom cocktail napkins telling Jana and Gavin’s love story, and golden hour photos capturing the magical light of the evening.
Party dress designed by a best friend
Jana’s post-reception dress was designed by her best friend Mimi Ledo, fashion designer and owner of Boaime based in Vietnam, adding a personal and stylish touch to the celebration.
Dear friends, the DJs
The night concluded with their dear friends and DJs Jana Pelchen (Berlin) and Adam McDaniel (NYC) spinning tunes that kept everyone dancing all night under the stars.
