Inside “Summer House” Alum Andrea Denver’s ‘Fairytale’ Wedding to Model Lexi Sundin: All the Details! (Exclusive)

Denver and Sundin said "I do" at an ancient castle atop a hill with breathtaking views on June 13. "Had to be unforgettable," Sundin tells PEOPLE exclusively

When Andrea Denver and Lexi Sundin were looking for a venue for their summer wedding, the couple knew they wanted the celebration to take place in Italy.

“We chose an ancient castle atop a hill with breathtaking views of the lake,” Sundin tells PEOPLE exclusively. “Italy was an obvious choice for us, especially since Andrea was born and raised in Verona. We wanted our guests to fall in love with Verona, Lake Garda and the Veneto region as much as we have.”

The Bravo Summer House alum, 33, and the model tied the knot on June 13, 2024 in front of 120 guests at the Duomo di Lonato before celebrating with their friends and family at their reception at La Rocca di Lonato, a castle built in the 10th century AD.

Related: Summer House Alum Andrea Denver Marries Model Lexi Sundin in Wedding in Italy! See Which Bravo Stars Attended

The bride and groom’s celebration centered around “Italian elegance."

“We aimed to match the castle's majestic setting with elegant colors and decor,” says Sundin.  “The florals, lighting and surroundings were absolutely magical. We envisioned a unique event that showcased our deep love for Italy. Celebrating in an ancient castle had to be unforgettable, and we wanted our guests to experience the true essence of Italy with a few pre-wedding events.”

The pair’s destination nuptials (planned by Francesca and Ivan from Emotions Eventi) spanned three days and included a guided tour of Verona, a welcome dinner at Ristorante Maffei and a wine tasting in Valpolicella. “It ended up being the perfect way to show everyone how special this city is,” says Sundin.

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The bride walked down the aisle to traditional organ music in a gown and veil by Milla Nova, which she paired with Giuseppe Zanotti heels. “The dress was love at first sight,” she says. “I instantly envisioned myself wearing it.” The couple’s wedding attire was styled by Le Spose di Mori. 

Following their vows, guests including Denver’s Bravo costars Kyle Cooke, Lindsay Hubbard, Carl Radke, Chris Leoni, Danielle Olivera and Samantha Feher, as well as renowned Italian actor Fabio Testi, enjoyed an aperitivo hour featuring various food stations, including a handmade mozzarella bar, a prosciutto bar and fresh pizza.

A three-course seated dinner followed, then a classic tiered sponge cake with chantilly cream, strawberries and shaved chocolate and a dessert buffet, before cacio e pepe pasta at midnight.

The newlyweds first dance, accompanied by fireworks, was to "You're My Best Friend" by Queen, a song that holds special meaning for the couple.

Denver and Sundin first met in the spring of 2021 during a night out with friends. “I noticed Andrea as soon as he walked through the door and by the end of the night I made my way towards him,” Sundin says.

Adds Denver, “Then, I approached Lexi, and we instantly made plans to see each other the next day.”

Related: Paige DeSorbo Says Lindsay Hubbard Pulls Reunion Looks for Summer House Cast: 'She's Essentially Our Mom' (Exclusive)

The former reality star popped the question last summer, during a romantic vacation by the Italian seaside. “Lexi caught my heart for her kind soul,” Denver says.  “She has been the most supportive person to me and the best friend I have always looked for in a woman. I admire her willingness to always push me to be the best version of myself.”

Adds Sundin: “Andrea has a heart of gold and is passionate about everything he does, showing love and dedication to everyone and everything in his life.”

Ahead of their wedding, the pair looked most forward to “celebrating with friends and family who traveled from all over to be with us.”

“Getting married means having a lifelong partner, supporting each other, and growing together through all of life’s moments,” Denver says.  “We are most excited about starting a family, as family means everything to us.”

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The couple says their next chapter will be filled with love, adventure and new experiences. "We are excited to build a life together," they add.

Now as they reflect on their big day and prepare for a honeymoon in Japan in October, the wedding was everything they hoped it would be.

“Our wedding was an absolute fairytale — the location, the weather, and the people made it unforgettable," the couple says.

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