Even though it’s been a year and a half since Madi & Brian’s incredible Italian villa wedding, it’s never too late to share one of my favorite destination weddings! I’ve been in a bit of a backlog of work to share, but that’s what winter is for!
Madi reached out to me via a past client (thanks, Kelly!) after seeing another wedding I shot in Italy. When she told me about her plans for an intimate dinner party wedding in Umbria, I was immediately on board. Italy is where Madi and Brian fell in love during their time doing study abroad. It was the perfect place for them to make it official!
Down a dirt road in the middle of rural farm country, the land opens up into a small farm and property called Villa Bellissima. It’s just a few minutes into Umbria, right across from Tuscany and a famous region called the Val d’Orcia. Although Tuscany may be more well-known, Umbria is just as charming, nicknamed the “green heart of Italy.” The villa’s vineyards, views, and surrounding hillsides made this party feel so special.
With just 30-some loved ones in attendance, Brian and Madi threw a true alfresco dinner party. Attire was formal but the vibe was casual. After a first look under the wisteria bocce court, a ceremony overlooking the valley, and an emotional first dance during cocktail hour, dinner in the courtyard was the main event. Guests shared multiple pasta courses and regional cuisine from a local restaurant. Since the remote location meant that it would be impractical to get a tiered wedding cake down a bumpy road, they went with a French croquembouche instead. Thankfully, its solid caramel kept everything in place and was an unexpected showstopper. They still cut a small cake for luck, and gave me a slice. It was the best cake I’ve ever had!
While for me, it’s special just to be in Italy for work, this wedding was a breath of fresh air in so many ways. Madi & Brian truly embraced the uniqueness of their event and leaned into the non-traditional aspects they loved. I’ll never get over it and I’ll never be more thankful for my job than when I get to have days like this one.
From the beginning, here’s Madi & Brian’s Italian villa wedding in gorgeous Umbria.
Vendors:
Location: Villa Bellissima, Umbria, Italy
Catering: La Gumera Ristro
