It all started at Fadó, an Irish pub in Philly and between the Phillies World Series and Halloween, it's safe to say the city was alive! Sharon had just finished a long residency shift and was dragged out by her younger sister Michelle (now their fabulous Maid of Honor). Sharon was dressed in her typical all black. When Sharon walked in, Matt took one look and whispered to Branden’s now-fiancé Lauren, “Who’s that?... I like her!” With some help from Lauren, Matt secured a first date at Bar Hygge. Somewhere in the early days of dating, Sharon, told Matt she'd be leaving to start her career in New York. Persistently, Matt asked to keep seeing her until she left. As they got to know each other, they bonded over long nights studying; Sharon for her boards to become a board-certified family physician, and Matt for the bar exam. Matt even eventually moved into Sharon’s building in Philly (a chaotic little saga that deserves its own Netflix mini-series). Before Sharon left for New York, Matt had a heart-to-heart with Sharon’s brother-in-law Gabe, who reassured him it would all be okay. Sharon and Matt sat down, and laid it all out; “Go do your three years in New York, and when you’re done I have a farm waiting for us in South Jersey.” All who know Sharon know that she’s not necessarily a farm girl, but she accepted nonetheless. After a year of long distance and more train and bus rides than they can count, Matt knew this was it and it was time to buy a ring. It’s been the best three years of their lives, and they know the adventure is just getting started. To their family and friends—thank you for being part of this journey. They are so excited to celebrate the next chapter with you in Sicily. Let’s make some memories!!!

Nestled in the Sicilian countryside between the cities of Catania and Syracuse, Castello Xirumi Serravalle is a 16th-century estate with centuries of history, beauty, and tradition woven into its stone walls. Once the summer retreat of the noble Grimaldi family, the castle was originally built as a fortified farmhouse and today remains under the loving care of the Grimaldi Baronessa of Serravalle—whose vision and hospitality continue to breathe life into this historic property. Driving up to the estate, guests are greeted by a long, palm-lined avenue, flanked by lush Mediterranean flora: citrus trees, olive groves, jasmine, and lavender. These gardens surround more than 500 acres of orange and lemon orchards—making this the largest citrus plantation in eastern Sicily—and fill the air with the soft perfume of blossoms nearly year-round. The heart of the estate opens into a spacious stone courtyard, true to the design of a traditional Sicilian masseria. Around it lie beautifully restored structures including an ancient mill, grain storehouse, and wine press, once central to the estate’s agricultural life. Inside, the castle’s grand neo-Gothic architecture, vaulted halls, antique furnishings, and colorful Sicilian terracotta floors adorned with hand-painted motifs evoke both nobility and warmth. Each room tells a story, with flickering candlelight, carved fireplaces, and even trompe-l’œil artwork that whispers of another time. Renovated in the early 20th century by noted architect Carlo Sada, the castle also sits on land of deep historical significance, including a nearby Neolithic necropolis—an echo of Sicily’s ancient past. We chose to celebrate our wedding here not only for its stunning setting, but also because this land holds deep personal meaning. The groom’s family is originally from nearby Ferla, Syracuse, and returning to this part of Sicily to begin our next chapter feels like coming home. https://xirumi.com/