Inside: Sarah Trott’s Italian Inspired Bridal Shower In Arizona

Why Phoenix?

Even though our wedding will take place in Italy, I wanted to create a moment that brought that same feeling closer to home for our wider circle. We hosted it at a private residence in Phoenix to create an intimate experience for family and friends. I wanted this to feel like we were transported to Amalfi for the afternoon – elevated yet effortless, thoughtful but not overdone. Just a really beautiful day with the people I love most.

Since our wedding will be more intimate happening in August, this felt like such a special way to bring our wider circle into the celebration – a precursor to what’s to come.

Where we stayed

We stayed in Phoenix, leaning into a warm, desert-luxury feel that complemented the Italian summer theme. The vibe was relaxed but elevated – sunny, intimate, and perfect for hosting something that felt both celebratory and effortless.

What we did

The day was designed to feel like a leisurely afternoon on the Amalfi Coast. Guests could wander through our Italian-inspired mercato, discovering small bites and curated items, personalize their own take-home gifts, and just spend time connecting. It wasn’t overly structured – it was about creating space to enjoy, explore, and celebrate together.

Where we ate

We created an immersive, Amalfi-inspired dining experience rather than focusing on a single meal. From citrus-forward desserts like the lemon meringue tower to beautifully curated small bites throughout the mercato, everything was designed to feel like those little, memorable moments you stumble upon while traveling through Italy.

Fashion, outfits, accessories

I leaned into the Italian summer aesthetic – effortless, feminine, and a little nostalgic. Think light fabrics, soft tailoring, and subtle nods to ‘90s-inspired style. Accessories were minimal but intentional, letting the setting and details really shine.

I wore the Emmelina Embroidered Corset Bodice Cocktail Dress from House of CB – it felt white, romantic, and dainty with the perfect light flare for the setting. My makeup was done by Love, Kyra Beauty in Scottsdale, which complemented the overall look in a really natural, elevated way.

Best moment of the event?

The lemon meringue tower was such a standout moment – it felt playful, unexpected, and like the perfect nod to the Amalfi Coast without being too literal.

But what made the day truly special was the mercato. I loved creating a space that felt discovered rather than designed, with details like hanging garlic and chilies and lemon-scented soaps I brought back from Italy. Watching guests wander, choose their favorite items, and personalize their experience—it felt intimate, thoughtful, and completely unique.

Any additional info?

Instead of a gift registry, we asked guests to consider donating to a cause close to our hearts, Hope Loves Company, the only nonprofit in the US dedicated to supporting children who have a loved one battling ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). This was a special way to honor my dad, Tom Trott, during our celebration.