Italian Charm, Galveston Style, and Wedding Day Whimsy
Welcome to Club Wed!
If you’ve fallen head over heels for Bella Neeley and her wild Italian family from the Weddings by Bella series, why not bring their world to life with a themed book party? Whether you’re planning a book club gathering, a bridal shower, or a girls’ night in, this party idea blends the heart of Galveston Island, the warmth of East Texas, the comfort of Aunt Rosa’s cooking, and the sparkle of classic wedding-day magic.
Throw in a splash of Frank Sinatra, a pizzeria full of love, and a hilarious mix-up involving a guy named DJ (spoiler: he’s not that kind of DJ!), and you’ve got everything you need for a night to remember.
Set the Scene: Italian Wedding Meets Island Vibes
Transform your space into the perfect mash-up of Galveston beach charm and traditional Italian wedding flair:
- Use crisp white tablecloths, lace runners, and red rose centerpieces in honor of Aunt Rosa.
- Add personal touches with vintage wedding photos (yours or Bella’s!), twinkle lights, and classic wedding décor like tulle bows and framed love quotes.
- A “Welcome to Club Wed” sign at the entrance sets the tone with a wink and a smile.
Aunt Rosa’s Italian Reception Menu
No Weddings by Bella party would be complete without food worthy of Aunt Rosa herself:
- Pasta Bar: Offer a trio of sauces—marinara, Alfredo, and pesto—with penne, spaghetti, and bowtie pasta.
- Mini Pizza Bites or Calzones: A nod to the family’s beloved pizzeria. (Check out this homemade sourdough pizza crust!)
- Caprese Skewers, Antipasto Platters, and Garlic Knots round out the savory options.
- Mocktail Station: Serve faux Bellinis, sparkling lemonade with basil, and Italian sodas in champagne flutes.
- Sweet Endings: Cannolis, Tiramisu, Italian Cream Cake, Italian Wedding Cookies, hand-painted wedding cookies, or even a DIY Wedding Cake would be perfect!
The Wedding Soundtrack of Bella’s Dreams
Channel the spirit of Sinatra and Dean Martin with a crooner-filled playlist:
- “That’s Amore” – Dean Martin
- “Fly Me to the Moon” – Frank Sinatra
- “Bella Notte” – from Lady and the Tramp
- “The Way You Look Tonight” – Frank Sinatra
Encourage guests to dance under the string lights or waltz through the kitchen like Aunt Rosa when she hears a good love song.
He’s Not That Kind of DJ
One of the most delightful misunderstandings in the series? Bella hiring Dwayne Neely Jr. (DJ) for a wedding, thinking he’s a disc jockey. He’s actually in construction!
Have some fun with this theme:
- “He’s Not That Kind of DJ” Photo Booth: Set up props like headphones, vinyl records, a hard hat, and a tool belt.
- Wedding Song Trivia Game: Play short clips and have guests guess the title or artist.
- Fake Dedications: Let guests write silly or sweet “DJ dedications” and read them aloud, just like a radio love show.
Wedding-Themed Activities
Keep the fun going with interactive, Bella-approved games:
- DIY Veil or Boutonniere Station: Guests can make their own wedding flair for photos.
- Bella’s Wedding Bingo: Squares might include “cake disaster,” “bridezilla moment,” “unexpected kiss,” and “Aunt Rosa says something outrageous.”
- Mad Lib Vows: Create fill-in-the-blank wedding vows that are sure to have everyone in stitches.
- Love Story Timeline Game: Can your guests remember how Bella and DJ’s romance unfolded?
Book Talk: Dive into the Series
After all the fun and food, gather for a cozy chat about the books. Use table tents or printable discussion cards with questions like:
- Which of Bella’s weddings was your favorite?
- How would you have reacted if you thought your love interest was a DJ?
- Who’s your favorite secondary character (Aunt Rosa? Guido the dog? D.J.’s mama?) and why?
- What would your dream Galveston wedding look like?
Parting Gifts
Send your guests home with a touch of Italian sweetness and southern charm:
- Mini Cannoli Kits or Italian Cookie Bags
- Bookmarks featuring quotes from Bella, DJ, or Aunt Rosa
- Recipe Cards for Aunt Rosa’s signature sauce
- Tiny Italian sodas with tags that say, “Grazie for coming!”
Share the Love
Planning your own Weddings by Bella party? I’d love to see it! Share your photos on social media using the hashtags #ClubWedParty or #WeddingsByBellaNight and tag me so I can celebrate alongside you!
Get the Club Wed Party Checklist here!
Fools Rush In Discussion Questions: Click here
Swinging on a Star Discussion Questions: Click here
It Had to be You Discussion Questions: Click here
That’s Amore Discussion Questions: Click here
