The countdown to one of this autumn’s most anticipated weddings has begun. Stella del Carmen, daughter of the famous couple Melanie Griffith and Antonio Banderas, is preparing to tie the knot with businessman Alex Gruszynski. Ahead of the grand event, which is expected to be completely closed to the media, the bride gathered her closest friends for a party, sharing vibrant moments on social media.
This celebration was already Stella’s second bachelorette party. A few months ago, her friends organized a weekend getaway among vineyards, where she first tried on her bridal look in a boho-style white dress. This time, the gathering broke with tradition: the groom was also present. The party took place in an undisclosed private residence, and the main driving force behind the wedding preparations was the bride’s mother. Melanie Griffith apparently spared no effort to ensure her daughter’s upcoming celebration would be perfect.
However, her father, Antonio Banderas, could not share this moment with his daughter. The actor was busy filming a new movie in London, which was the reason for his absence. Nevertheless, the celebration was a success. Judging by the photos posted by Stella and her guests, the atmosphere was incredibly warm and joyful. The bride once again opted for a white outfit, this time playing with sheer fabrics. Among the guests spotted was her close friend Grace Johnson, who also attended the first party.
The decorations matched the mood: plenty of balloons and a custom-made heart-shaped cake. On the white icing was a pink inscription, “Miss & Mrs” — a clever play on words symbolizing the transition to a new status. At the end of the celebration, a smiling Stella, holding a huge bouquet of flowers, left the residence with her fiancé, to whom she got engaged in August 2024.
Staying true to her Spanish roots, Stella del Carmen will hold her wedding ceremony on October 18 at a unique venue — Abadía Retuerta. This exclusive hotel in the province of Valladolid is set within the walls of a former 12th-century Romanesque monastery. The celebration is expected to bring together 258 guests, including the bride’s parents and her half-siblings — Dakota Johnson and Alexander Bauer, children of Melanie Griffith from previous marriages.
Privacy is the couple’s top priority. To shield the event from prying eyes, unprecedented security measures are being taken. Guests will arrive at the secluded estate either by helicopter — the hotel has a dedicated landing pad — or via vans rented by the organizers. In addition, a strict no-mobile-phone policy will be enforced throughout the event. Antonio Banderas, as tradition dictates, will serve as ‘padrino’ and escort his daughter down the aisle.
The festive program promises to be rich and refined. It will include three gastronomic experiences: first, guests will be welcomed with a cocktail in the estate gardens, weather permitting, followed by a gala dinner at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant. The evening will conclude with a grand party featuring live music and an open bar—a celebration sure to leave a lasting impression on all attendees.
