**Aurora Culpo and Zac Duvernet Host Charming Italian Engagement Party at Home**
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In a heartwarming celebration, social media personality Aurora Culpo and her fiancé Zac Duvernet recently held an Italian-themed engagement party in the comfort of their Manhattan Beach residence. The couple shared their plans and details of the intimate affair with *People* magazine, which took place on Saturday, August 29, 2023.
Welcoming close friends and family, including Aurora’s sisters, Olivia and Sophia Culpo, the gathering was designed to evoke the laid-back allure of Southern Italy, complete with a vibrant colour palette of yellow and blue. “We wanted it to feel more like a beautiful summer night somewhere in Italy, rather than trying to recreate Italy in our backyard,” Aurora remarked, highlighting the couple’s aim for a relaxed yet stylish ambience for their special day.
To bring their vision to life, the couple turned to Minted, a design company that helped them create invitations, menus, and signage that matched their aesthetic. Aurora chose a ‘Cin Cin Spritz’ invitation, complemented by a charming Sorbet enclosure card shaped like a lemon, aligning with their Italian theme. The subtle elegance of the designs ensured that the celebration retained an organic feel rather than becoming constricted by overly defined thematic elements.
For her look, Aurora opted for a chic dress by LEO LIN along with classic Manolo Blahnik heels. She adorned herself with a sapphire necklace from Zac and other pieces from notable brands LSC Fine and Cult Gaia, reflecting her unique style while maintaining an air of sophistication.
Floral arrangements featuring bright yellow and blue blooms, crafted by Blüm Store, enhanced the festive atmosphere. To cater to guests, the couple enlisted Chef Shane Fatemian for the main cuisine, while also including offerings from Mario’s Pizza Party Pizza and frozen lemon desserts by Crazy Mountain, perfectly embodying the Italian culinary experience.
Aurora expressed that the essence of the gathering was rooted in intimacy and fun. “We wanted our close friends and family together, eating great food, drinking great cocktails and actually having fun,” she explained, emphasising their desire for a casual celebration rather than an elaborate event. Hosting at home allowed for a personal touch, making the evening feel familiar and heartwarming.
The planning process for the engagement party was a collaborative effort between Aurora and Zac, with both taking an active role in organising the special day. Despite their busy schedules—including recent parenthood with their first child together and Aurora’s two children from a previous relationship—they decided to keep the gathering adults-only. Aurora noted, “We love them, obviously, but it was really nice to have one night where everyone could have cocktails, relax and celebrate without worrying about bedtimes.”
Looking ahead, the couple has crafted a unique plan for their wedding. Aurora revealed, “Zac and I are planning to get married in a very small, private ceremony at the Santa Barbara courthouse later this year,” she shared. The couple is also preparing for a larger celebration with friends and family, set to take place the following year.
Aurora expressed a profound appreciation for the dual nature of their wedding plans, stating, “I love that we’ll get to have this really intimate moment that’s just about us, and then celebrate in a huge way with everyone we love afterward.” This balance of intimacy and celebration embodies the couple’s approach to their relationship and future together, marking a joyous beginning to their next chapter.
In capturing their special day, the couple has succeeded in creating a unique experience, weaving together both casual and elegant elements that truly reflect their personalities and love story. The engagement party serves as a memorable prelude to what is sure to be a beautiful partnership ahead.