Villa Florentina is in another world… the world of serenity!  Located in Coloma, California, the villa sits up the hill and across the American River from the spot where gold was discovered in California starting the famous Gold Rush.  The rich history hamlet of Coloma is a treasure-trove for the visitor and tourist alike.  However, once through Villa Florentina’s majestic wrought iron gates, the real treasure is revealed.  Loren Sperber is the very talented visionary behind this project, the idea for which can be traced back to his childhood.  His love of family, gathering around the farmhouse table sharing stories, joining in on the harvest, and happily sipping great wine, is just part of the allure of this beautiful venue.  Imagine sitting on the front porch of Villa Florentina, overlooking the sloping hillside leading down to the river, with rows and rows of olive trees, and the fragrance of lavender and rosemary bushes bordering the Italian paver stone pathways – the picture is true serenity.

On this trip, the Vixens enjoyed the company of two Visiting Vixens, Rev. Jeri Murphy and Allison Stahl, photographer.  As we tumbled out of the Cat Mobile, Loren warmly greeted us and had chilled glasses of an El Dorado County wine waiting for us (mind you, it was 11:00 a.m. on a Sunday morning!)  We liked this man immediately – an excellent host!   Rev. Jeri checked out the ceremony area and gave it the nod of approval as the setting was a perfectly manicured lawn surrounded by stately columns with an easy pathway from the Villa to the ceremonial site. Allison wandered about photographing all the beautiful features.  Loren gave us the grand tour of the centrally located reception Plaza with a lovely fountain centerpiece and the elegant ceremony area.  We then walked the meandering pathways to the fabulous fire pit and past the bocce ball court to the open air dance floor.  All the while the gorgeous Italian villa overlooks this slice of heaven and is the masterpiece of this property.

The interior spaces of the Villa are just as impressive – beautifully appointed with perfect attention to detail.  The dressing space for the bride is very convenient and spacious.  Our favorite spot was the second balcony overlooking the Plaza, the dance floor, and the fantastic Italian Market Lights which will gently illuminate the party area.  Watching the sunset from the Villa would be such a treat!  There are three suites for overnight guests (or enjoy the Villa privately as newlyweds).  Loren will arrange for a scrumptious breakfast for the next morning.

The old ‘49er gold miners would not recognize the Italian luxury that now graces the hillside they once scoured.

Photos provided by Allison Stahl Photography and also from Villa Florentina’s website with photos taken by Loren Sperber and Zo Art Photography

~ Vixen Lora

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