History and romance intertwined as Ella and Roman celebrated their wedding in the most breathtaking way. Over the course of two unforgettable days, guests were immersed in the grandeur of country's historical past and the couple’s vision of contemporary beauty. The celebration began with a welcome dinner at the opulent Yusupov Palace, featuring theater, ballet, art, and caviar. Then, the festivities continued at Peterhof, where the architecture and modern artistry created a stunning setting. Monumental décor, candlelit settings, and seamless projections created an atmosphere that felt both timeless and modern – a celebration of not only love, but also culture, history, and imagination. Step inside this poetic love story, captured with artistry and emotion by our talented member Fedor Borodin.
Our Love Story
The Day We Met
We had heard of each other for years through mutual friends, but since we lived in different countries, our paths never crossed. One summer, while I was on vacation in Miami, fate brought us to the same place. We decided to meet, and what was supposed to be a quick encounter turned into hours of conversation in an empty bar. It wasn’t love at first sight, but deep down, I felt that night that I had just met my future husband. After that, we spent a couple of years in a long-distance relationship before finally moving in together.
The Proposal
Roman proposed on a beautiful, sunny autumn day during a horseback ride through the forest. It was intimate, romantic, and just the two of us — exactly how I always dreamed it would be.
Our Wedding
The Vision
We celebrated our wedding over two magical days in St. Petersburg. Since many of our guests flew in from abroad and had never been to Russia, we wanted them to experience our culture and traditions. For the welcome dinner, we chose the Yusupov Palace, where guests were immersed in Russian heritage through theater, ballet, an art auction, black caviar, and vodka. Inspired by the history of the Yusupov family, we wanted to recreate the elegance and atmosphere of aristocratic life.
The Location
We chose Roman’s hometown, St. Petersburg, as the setting for our wedding. Since most of our friends were traveling from other countries, it felt meaningful to celebrate in Russia, weaving our love story into its culture and history. After reviewing dozens of venues, together with our incredible agency, we decided on two breathtaking locations: the Yusupov Palace for the pre-wedding dinner and theater, and the Imperial Stables of Peterhof for the main celebration.
Both venues were challenging to work with, as they rarely host private events. In fact, we even helped restore parts of the stables to make them usable for the wedding. But the effort was worth it — the stables were especially significant, since Roman proposed to me while horse riding.
The Ceremony
The weather on our wedding day was rainy, but it added a certain magic and intimacy to the moment. The ceremony took place outdoors, followed by dinner inside the Imperial Stables. The architecture — soaring wooden vaults and grand windows — was breathtaking. Our agency decorated the stage with a monumental bas-relief designed exclusively for our wedding. It blended so seamlessly with the historic space that it felt as though it had always belonged there. That’s the kind of detail that makes everything come alive.
The Reception
Later, guests moved to the balustrade overlooking the main hall for the afterparty. The centerpiece was the same bas-relief, now illuminated by projections that transformed the atmosphere of the space completely.
The Special Touches
In the evening, our guests experienced a modern yet soulful performance: an a cappella choir filling the vast silence of the hall, ballet, and a moving piece by Bolshoi Theatre artist Ildar Gainutdinov.
Our Favorite Moment
My favorite moment was listening to Roman’s vows.
Our Style
The Bridal Look
I wore a stunning dress, featuring a halter neckline and a classic silhouette. The gown was beautifully complemented by a dramatic and chic watteau train. For footwear, I chose timeless white Amina Muaddi pumps.
The Groom’s Look
Roman looked effortlessly sophisticated in a classic black-and-white N68 suit, paired with a sleek black bow tie.
Our Advice
For the Planning Process
As predictable as it may sound, start early — and choose an agency that truly understands and shares your vision, style, and taste.
For On The Day
Have champagne instead of coffee in the morning — it helps you relax, savor the moment, and not stress too much.
For Post-Wedding
Don’t go back to work or normal life right away — it should honestly be forbidden! After such a high, you can easily fall into a “dopamine hole.” Plan a honeymoon or even just a short getaway for the two of you to gently transition back.
Vendors
Photography: Fedor Borodin
Videography: MVI Media
Wedding Planner, Art Director & Coordinator: Dlya Dvoih, DD Club
Decor: Atma
Director: Nona Bulygina
Wedding Stylist: Katya Madonich
Venue: Yusupov Palace, Imperial Palace Stables
Catering: Salone Pasta & Bar, Royal Catering
Makeup & Hair: Beauty360
Technical Production: Alexander Prostakov, Dmitriy Kamyshanskiy, Aleksey Kuzmin
Hosts: Mikhail Belyanin, Georgii Solovyov
Band: Rollercoaster
Style
First Day Dress: Daniil Antsiferov
Bridal Shoes: Amina Muaddi
Groom: N68