Glitz and glam on Lake Como, an Italian dream!

It all started with Sam and Debbie, who first met at a rifle range in London. Debbie grew up in Milan, so what better place to celebrate their wedding than back in her home country, overlooking the spectacular beauty of Lake Como.

From the moment I arrived in the charming hilltop hamlet of Vezio, I was captivated. This picturesque little village is bursting with character, with its cobbled alleyways, ancient stone buildings, and the magnificent Castello di Vezio standing proudly above it all.

Friday Evening – Cocktails at the Castle

The wedding celebrations began with a cocktail party at Castello di Vezio, an ancient medieval fortress and watchtower perched high above the lakeside town of Varenna. Surrounded by the scent of jasmine and boasting the most breathtaking panoramic views across Lake Como, it was simply… bellissimo!

Friends and family arrived from all over the world, catching up over drinks and delicious canapés while eagerly anticipating the wedding day ahead. There was such a relaxed, joyful atmosphere as laughter echoed around.

As the sun began to set, Sam and Debbie took a quiet stroll around the castle grounds to soak in the moment together. With the golden light reflecting across the lake and the mountains providing the most incredible backdrop, it couldn’t have been more romantic.

As evening fell, the excitement reached another level with the start of the traditional Bulgarian “Bride Theft”, a wonderful nod to Debbie’s Bulgarian heritage. It was such a fun spectacle to witness as the castle came alive. Sam had to battle his way through guests before reaching the castle tower where his bride-to-be awaited. After some lively ransom negotiations at the grand castle doors, he finally succeeded in “stealing” his beautiful bride. The celebrations erupted with cheers, smiles, and so much happiness.

As darkness settled over Lake Como, everyone headed off to rest before the main event the following day.

Saturday – The Wedding Day

Finally… the big day had arrived!

As the Italian sunshine warmed the hillsides, Sam and Debbie spent the morning getting ready with their nearest and dearest, eagerly awaiting the moment they would say “I do.”

Their outdoor ceremony took place in the beautiful grounds of Agriturismo Castello di Vezio, a stunning setting with unforgettable views across Lake Como.

One of the most touching parts of the ceremony was that Sam’s Aunt Veronica had the honour of marrying them, making the occasion even more meaningful.

Watching Sam and Debbie exchange vows was incredibly special. Their smiles, laughter, loving glances perfectly captured the connection they share. It was impossible not to smile along with them.

Guests had travelled from all corners of the world to celebrate with them, including Australia, Bulgaria, England and, of course, Italy. It was such a warm, welcoming group of people, and it was an absolute pleasure capturing so many beautiful memories throughout the day.

The celebrations continued with an unforgettable alfresco wedding breakfast. Coming from rainy old England, dining outdoors beneath the Italian sunshine certainly made a welcome change!

Music filled the air all day long, from the beautiful harpist during the ceremony to the lively band that had everyone singing and dancing throughout the afternoon and into the evening.

The speeches were heartfelt, emotional and full of love, with plenty of laughter mixed in.  A rather special few moments came when a couple of guests performed songs for the newlyweds. What incredible talent!

Sam and Debbie shared a wonderful Italian wedding tradition, dusting their beautiful wedding cake with icing sugar together. Their very first act as husband and wife symbolised sweetness, prosperity and good fortune for the future they now share.

After a few more glasses of bubbly and letting the love sparkle. It was time to hit the dance floor under the stars. This family certainly knew how to celebrate! The dance moves were impressive, the energy infectious, and everyone danced the night away.

It was such a privilege to capture this incredible celebration. Sam and Debbie, I wish you both a lifetime of joy together.

Oh, and Sam… here’s to many more dances with your wife. She definitely loves a boogie!

Buona notte!

Sunday – Pool Party

Hello, Sunday… and hello, pool party!

After a busy few days of celebrations, and for some a 5am bedtime! It was time for a well-deserved day of sunshine, swimming, and pure relaxation.

Set against another breathtaking Italian backdrop, guests spent the afternoon cooling off in the pool, lounging on inflatables, perfecting their bomb dives, and taking part in plenty of friendly water pistol battles.

The highlight of the afternoon had to be the adorable gelato cart, serving delicious handmade Italian gelato to help everyone cool down on a scorching summer’s day. I can honestly say it was some of the best gelato I’ve ever tasted, bursting with an explosion of flavour.

Arrivederci, Lake Como

After three wonderful days tucked away in the hills, it was time to wander down to the colourful lakeside town of Varenna.

Sipping a refreshing Limoncello Spritz beside the sparkling water, watching boats gently bob across the lake and secretly hoping to spot George Clooney (sadly, no luck!), was the perfect way to end this unforgettable Italian adventure.

My little postcard-perfect Lake Como wedding has come to an end, but I am already waiting to return for more Italian wedding magic.

Ciao for now!

“There amazing, thank you sooooo much!”