Whether it’s around a table filled with laughter and stories or within the unforgettable atmosphere of a beautifully orchestrated celebration, Barbara’s gift lies in creating moments that feel both deeply personal and joyfully shared.
Guided by values of respect, authenticity, and genuine care, we approach every wedding as a true collaboration. Barbara’s refined eye for design, fashion, and culinary detail infuses each event with timeless elegance, while her international experience ensures artistry, precision, and a seamless reflection of each couple’s individuality.
Founded by Barbara, a passionate host, creative visionary, and seasoned planner, our boutique company was born from her lifelong love of bringing people together.
we curate timeless experiences filled with joy, meaning, and memories to be cherished for a lifetime.
At BWEDDINGS, we don’t simply plan events
...clarity to the process through thoughtful problem-solving, a calm and collected approach, and a network built from decades of trusted relationships across multiple countries and cultures. Our experience with multi-ethnic celebrations and international planning allows us to navigate complexities with ease, ensuring your event is as authentic as it is extraordinary.
We meet each client exactly where they are, embracing both the excitement and the stress of the journey. Acting as trusted guides and advocates, we tailor every service to reflect your unique needs and aspirations.
we bring...
Here At BWEDDINGS
We understand that clients embarking on their wedding or milestone celebration dream of a seamless, one-of-a-kind experience yet often find themselves overwhelmed by endless inspiration boards, countless vendor decisions, hidden fees and the challenge of aligning their vision with their investment.
The result is an event that feels effortless, meaningful, and beautifully personal. With our expert support, you can release the stress, embrace the joy, and fully immerse yourself in creating unforgettable memories.
My journey into the world of events began in the most personal way: as a private chef for intimate gatherings. It was around tables filled with laughter, stories, and shared meals that I discovered my passion for creating meaningful experiences that bring people together.
Today, what I love most is producing milestone events that are rich in beauty, emotion, and intention. For me, a wedding or an event is never just about the details: it’s about honoring the story, the traditions, and the love at its heart.
When clients choose to work with me, my greatest wish is for them to feel trust, confidence, and peace throughout the planning journey. Together, we dream, design, and create not just an event, but an unforgettable experience, one that reflects their vision and becomes a cherished memory for a lifetime.
Born and raised in Italy, with my family still living there, I carry those cultural influences into everything I do, from my love of design and fashion to my appreciation for food, connection, and celebration.
chicago and destination
Founder and Creative Director of BWEDDINGS
Ciao! I’m Barbara Vanni
estd.
2014
certifications
Certified Wedding Planner by the Wedding Planner Institute of Canada (WPIC)
certified wedding planner by wedding planner society (CWP Society)
ordained Minister by The America Marriage Ministries (AMM)
ordained Minister by The America Marriage Ministries (AMM)
certified wedding planner by wedding planner society (CWP Society)
Certified Wedding Planner by the Wedding Planner Institute of Canada (WPIC)
Anna, childhood friend of Barbara, founder and lead planner of The Italian Bride, brings decades of expertise in designing exquisite events for international clients. Known for her pragmatic approach, sharp eye, and boundless creativity, she has built a company renowned for transforming the dreams of foreign clients into breathtaking Italian destination weddings.
Through a unique partnership with BWEDDINGS, this collaboration combines visionary planning, deep local expertise, and seamless execution. Together, we curate celebrations that are a perfect balance of romance, elegance, and cultural authenticity, crafting extraordinary weddings that capture the magic of Italy while honoring each couple’s personal love story.
Mom first
Entrepreneur at heart
Naturally talkative
Food lover
Anna
our planning Team
Antoinette loves creating seamless, unforgettable weddings. With a background in food and beverage and years managing banquet venues, she discovered her passion for helping couples bring their dream day to life. After working in a wedding-adjacent industry, she returned to her true calling: crafting magical, romantic celebrations for couples of all kinds. As part of the Bweddings team, she’s dedicated to making every wedding extraordinary.
ballroom dancing
fine bourbon
A good book
HappyApi the PITA Cat
Antoinette
Nicole is passionate about supporting clients as an event coordinator and assistant through a calm presence and sharp organizational skills. She focuses on ensuring that every detail is handled with precision so that clients can relax and enjoy their special day, by managing timelines, communicating seamlessly with our creative partners, and making sure everything runs according to plan.
Dedicated to creating an atmosphere of warmth, joy, and effortless elegance, Nicole goes above and beyond to anticipate needs and smooth out the unexpected. Her behind-the-scenes work allows clients to stay fully present, knowing their celebration is in capable hands.
Oreo milkshake connoisseur
Dog-loving volunteer
Cooking class enthusiast
Social event lover
Nicole
With a hands-on approach and keen attention to detail, Julia is an essential part of bringing every wedding to life. She ensures setup runs smoothly, décor is flawless, and tear-down is efficient handling every detail so the day flows seamlessly. Her boundless energy and unwavering dedication are evident in the way she perfects every final touch, often well into the night, ensuring the celebration unfolds effortlessly.
Julia
Wedding Concierge/Assistant
Italian Partner
People-lover
Happiest with friends
Homesteading heart
All about summer fun
wedding concierge / assistant
Assistant Coordinator
Emmanuelle has been coordinating unforgettable weddings, corporate events, and social celebrations since she could drive. She combines precision, and strategic vision to make every event exceptional as she thrives on the day-of, on-site execution that transforms plans into magical experiences. Emmanuelle is known for her thoughtful problem-solving and seamless coordination to ensures each event reflects her clients’ unique vision, as she ensures each event feels personalized and extraordinary.
iced coffee lover
originally from Seattle
tennis player
planner at heart
EMMANUELLE
lead coordinator
Professionalism
Value 01 of 05
We build every client relationship on trust and integrity. By providing genuine advice and thoughtful guidance, we ensure your planning experience is grounded in confidence and peace of mind.
Work Ethic
Value 02 of 05
Excellence is at the heart of everything we do. With dedication, precision, and tireless attention to detail, we manage every aspect of your celebration to the highest standard.
Transparency
Value 03 of 05
Clear communication is the foundation of a seamless planning journey. From monetary investment to creative partners management, we prioritize openness so you always feel informed and in control.
Family Values
Value 04 of 05
Your event is a reflection of love, your story, unity, and tradition. We approach each event with the same care and respect as if it were our own family’s celebration, honoring what matters most to you.
Empathy
Value 05 of 05
Every client’s journey is unique, we pride ourselves in being able to understand our clients' needs while focusing on transforming their vision into reality and creating a stress-free experience.
honors & features
"I have dreamt and made up all the Pinterest boards of this day, with many iterations, since I was little. Since I like control and can be a bit of a perfectionist, I figured I would always be bustling about putting out little fires on my wedding day. In actuality, it was beyond my imagination - I was able to enjoy and be present in the day, which is so so priceless. Thank you thank you thank you Barbara."
which is so so priceless.
"I was able to enjoy and be present in the day,
