DESTINATION WEDDINGS IN ITALY
Destination Weddings in Italy
The crème de la crème venues, essential experiences and all-around vibes for seamless events + legendary holidays in Italy
>
<
The Regions of Italy
From Positano and Capri to Ravello and Amalfi, these pastel villages built into beachside cliffs and radiant islands are an exquisite example of "la dolce far niente"
Central Italy offers a vast array of timeworn villas and country estates, rolling hills and cypress trees and unique activities from hot air ballooning to truffle hunting
These luxurious waterfront retreats in Northern Italy are famous for their Renaissance villas, opulent gardens and surreal views from each magnificent town dotting the lake
AMALFI COAST
LAKE COMO
TUSCANY
AMALFI COAST
amalfi coast
Essentials
It goes without saying that the Amalfi Coast calls for long, lazy days in sunshine - preferably from the photogenic perch of a slinky canvas deck chair shaded by striped umbrellas in one of the region's iconic bold sherbet hues.
Tbh, it's a real Sophie's Choice scenario when you've gotta narrow your list from dozens of (non-hyperbolically) perfect beach clubs to one or two. But alas, wedding events are calling (and probably work too....eventually.)
Enter: us. A few of these recs need no introduction. They've been around for generations, often run by the same family since their origins, and that's why we love them! So whip your notebook out and prepare to take your next step towards an up close + personal encounter with paradise. These are the beach hangs to bump to the tip-top of your priority list: La Fontelina, Arienzo Beach Club, Lido del Faro, Da Adolfo and Lo Scoglio.
BEACH CLUB DAYS
SCENIC DRIVES & SAILBOAT RIDES
LIMONCELLO CULTURE
sun-Baking & People-Watching... An Italian Tradition
ON THE WATER
>
>
>
>
It goes without saying that the Amalfi Coast calls for long, lazy days in sunshine - preferably from the photogenic perch of a slinky canvas deck chair shaded by striped umbrellas in one of the region's iconic bold sherbet hues.
Tbh, it's a real Sophie's Choice scenario when you've gotta narrow your list from dozens of (non-hyperbolically) perfect beach clubs to one or two. But alas, wedding events are calling (and probably work too....eventually.)
Enter: us. A few of these recs need no introduction. They've been around for generations, often run by the same family since their origins, and that's why we love them! So whip your notebook out and prepare to take your next step towards an up close + personal encounter with paradise. These are the beach hangs to bump to the tip-top of your priority list: La Fontelina, Arienzo Beach Club, Lido del Faro, Da Adolfo and Lo Scoglio.
BEACH CLUB DAYS
Sun-Baking & People-Watching... An Italian Tradition
<
amalfi coast
Essentials
You won't go far in your coastal sojourn without stumbling upon lemon stands, lemon-printed sun dresses, lemon granitas, hand-painted limoncello bottles and the like. Embracing the spectacle of the sfusato amalfitano is practically a rite of passage here, so whether you sling back the sweet nectar of the gods after every meal or seek out fragrant citrus groves on the daily, your life will instantly get brighter when you don lemon-tinted glasses.
Start at Da Paolina. What this legendary Capri address lacks in secrecy, it makes up for in experience. From its lemon tree garden ambiance to its citrus-forward menu that brims with the likes of chicken al mattone roasted with lemon leaves under a brick, it's quintessential Amalfi Coast. And as with all respectable establishments on this island in the sun, your meal culminates with a shot (or 5!) of zesty limoncello.
LIMONCELLO CULTURE
The Sfusato Amalfitano: A Trademark Of La Dolce Vita & The Coast
<
amalfi coast
Essentials
The ultimate Amalfi Coast itinerary includes a walk on the wild side. And by walk, we mean vespa, gozzo or classic vintage fiat... though you're bound to exceed your daily step count goal no matter what. In a place whose most famous hike is eponymous with Greek mythology, you know it's inevitable.
Still, a good pilgrimage by boat to the Faraglioni Rocks, Blue Grotto, and Li Galli is included in every Amalfi Coast starter pack. The same can be said for the winding hairpin turns that careen you from the ceramicists of Vietri to the mountaintop estates of Ravello at dizzying, yet rewarding, heights.
These simple do-nothing moments offer some of the most holistic experiences in the region. The breathtaking views, permeated with scents of citrus, sunblock and salty sea spray, are simply unmatched when you combine them with textbook Italian transport.
SCENIC DRIVES & SAILBOAT RIDES
Grottos. Mountains. Spritz. Repeat.
<
amalfi coast
Essentials
You won't go far in your coastal sojourn without stumbling upon lemon stands, lemon-printed sun dresses, lemon granitas, hand-painted limoncello bottles and the like. Embracing the spectacle of the sfusato amalfitano is practically a rite of passage here, so whether you sling back the sweet nectar of the gods after every meal or seek out fragrant citrus groves on the daily, your life will instantly get brighter when you don lemon-tinted glasses.
Start at Da Paolina. What this legendary Capri address lacks in secrecy, it makes up for in experience. From its lemon tree garden ambiance to its citrus-forward menu that brims with the likes of chicken al mattone roasted with lemon leaves under a brick, it's quintessential Amalfi Coast. And as with all respectable establishments on this island in the sun, your meal culminates with a shot (or 5!) of zesty limoncello.
The Sfusato Amalfitano: A trademark of la dolce vita & the coast
LIMONCELLO CULTURE
>
amalfi coast
Essentials
limoncello culture
scenic drives & sailboat rides
The ultimate Amalfi Coast itinerary includes a walk on the wild side. And by walk, we mean vespa, gozzo or classic vintage fiat... though you're bound to exceed your daily step count goal no matter what. In a place whose most famous hike is eponymous with Greek mythology, you know it's inevitable.
Still, a good pilgrimage by boat to the Faraglioni Rocks, Blue Grotto, and Li Galli is included in every Amalfi Coast starter pack. The same can be said for the winding hairpin turns that careen you from the ceramicists of Vietri to the mountaintop estates of Ravello at dizzying, yet rewarding, heights.
These simple do-nothing moments offer some of the most holistic experiences in the region. The breathtaking views, permeated with scents of citrus, sunblock and salty sea spray, are simply unmatched when you combine them with textbook Italian transport.
grottos. mountains. spritz. repeat.
Scenic drives & sailboat rides
>
amalfi coast
Essentials
limoncello culture
scenic drives & sailboat rides
PLAYLISTS
Allora... That's Amalfi
Immerse yourself in the spirit of our favorite corners of the world via our curated soundtracks on Spotify - made public so that you and your guests can enjoy anytime, anywhere
Is a Destination Wedding Right for Me?
Willow & Oak Events - Education
Trying to decide whether a destination wedding is right for you, but don't know where to start, or whether it's achievable? We have something coming that will help you make an informed decision. Sign up below to get early access!
*Please note by downloading a venue guide you are signing up to be a part of our mailing list.
LAKE COMO
While the Amalfi Coast is synonymous with sun tans, beach clubs and Slim Aarons era glitterati, Lake Como feels more kin to a Belle Epoque kind of holiday. There's a demure kind of glamour and graceful elegance that exists here in ways that the colorfully chic, yet invariably raucous Amalfi Coast doesn't quite possess. They're sisters, not twins. And one of the best ways these sophisticated Northern Italy villages tend to luxuriate is aperol hour.
Often enjoyed from a panoramic perch like that of the sleek, modern and walnut-enveloped Il Sereno pictured here, aperitivos in Lake Como are a refined affair where light piano trills and soft-timbred jazz are canon, fancy dress is encouraged and the allure of trading screen time for self-care feels impossible to resist. Thank God.
Where the art of slow living reigns supreme
AL FRESCO APEROL HOUR
>
Lake como
The Essentials
AL FRESCO APEROL HOUR
LAKESIDE VILLA HOPPING
LA DOLCE RIVA
While the Amalfi Coast is synonymous with sun tans, beach clubs and Slim Aarons era glitterati, Lake Como feels more kin to a Belle Epoque kind of holiday. There's a demure kind of glamour and graceful elegance that exists here in ways that the colorfully chic, yet invariably raucous Amalfi Coast doesn't quite possess. They're sisters, not twins. And one of the best ways these sophisticated Northern Italy villages tend to luxuriate is aperol hour.
Often enjoyed from a panoramic perch like that of the sleek, modern and walnut-enveloped Il Sereno pictured here, aperitivos in Lake Como are a refined affair where light piano trills and soft-timbred jazz are canon, fancy dress is encouraged and the allure of trading screen time for self-care feels impossible to resist. Thank God.
AL FRESCO APEROL HOUR
Where The Art Of Slow Living Reigns Supreme
<
Lake como
The Essentials
Few would argue that gliding through Lake Como's azure waters on a glamorous hand-crafted motorboat could be rivaled by driving along the winding slopes or sticking to one village altogether. Even fewer would say that the public ferries and hydrofoils offer the most rewarding experience on the water.
Those archetypal speedboats with a glossy mahogany sheen are not just for looks... but they don't mind if you do. They offer you a personalized experience where you can be privvy to "locals only" knowledge, fascinating legends of lore and the under-appreciated ability to call the shots on what you want to see next. As for our go-to company + skipper? It's Duilio with Como Classic Boats 100% of the time.
LA DOLCE RIVA
A First Class Introduction To The Prettiest Towns And Villa-Studded Shores
NEXT
<
Lake como
The Essentials
Glitzy grand dames are a big part of the Lake Como draw. From Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello to Villa d'Este and Villa Monastero, visitors have their pick of the litter when it comes to Neoclassical architecture and sprawling botanical gardens.
Several of the lake's brightest shining palazzos are detailed in our venue profiles below. Each has their own signature - be it exquisitely romantic parterres like those found at the entrance to Villa Sola Cabiati or rich jewel tones like those present in the opulent interiors of Villa Balbiano.
Take some time to promenade along the 6 mile waterfront walking path that connects many of the lakeside hamlets between Colonno and Cadenabbia di Griante. As you enjoy the scenic, leisurely stroll along the western shore of the lake, you'll bear witness to many historic gems.
LAKESIDE VILLA HOPPING
A Modern Grand Tour
BACK
<
Lake como
The Essentials
Few would argue that gliding through Lake Como's azure waters on a glamorous hand-crafted motorboat could be rivaled by driving along the winding slopes or sticking to one village altogether. Even fewer would say that the public ferries and hydrofoils offer the most rewarding experience on the water.
Those archetypal speedboats with a glossy mahogany sheen are not just for looks... but they don't mind if you do. They offer you a personalized experience where you can be privvy to "locals only" knowledge, fascinating legends of lore and the under-appreciated ability to call the shots on what you want to see next. As for our go-to company + skipper? It's Duilio with Como Classic Boats 100% of the time.
A First Class Introduction to the prettiest towns and villa-studded shores
LA DOLCE RIVA
>
Lake como
The Essentials
Glitzy grand dames are a big part of the Lake Como draw. From Villa Carlotta and Villa del Balbianello to Villa d'Este and Villa Monastero, visitors have their pick of the litter when it comes to Neoclassical architecture and sprawling botanical gardens.
Several of the lake's brightest shining palazzos are detailed in our venue profiles below. Each has their own signature - be it exquisitely romantic parterres like those found at the entrance to Villa Sola Cabiati or rich jewel tones like those present in the opulent interiors of Villa Balbiano.
Take some time to promenade along the 6 mile waterfront walking path that connects many of the lakeside hamlets between Colonno and Cadenabbia di Griante. As you enjoy the scenic, leisurely stroll along the western shore of the lake, you'll bear witness to many historic gems.
A modern grand tour
LAKESIDE VILLA HOPPING
>
Lake como
The Essentials
PLAYLISTS
Lazing in Lake Como
Immerse yourself in the spirit of our favorite corners of the world via our curated soundtracks on Spotify - made public so that you and your guests can enjoy anytime, anywhere
TUSCANY
TUSCANY
The Essentials
The centuries-old sentinels of this enlightened terra cotta tinged town are as much associated with Italy as pasta grannies and vespa rides. And yet, you can't possibly leave her uninspired... even if you think you know what's coming.
There's Michelangelo's David, the Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, Scuola del Cuoio (aka the leather market), Boboli Gardens and of course, the emblematic Duomo we're sure will be announced as the 8th wonder of the world any day now.
While you aren't testing your nose at Officina Profumo, one of the oldest herbal pharmacies in the world or eating the best pear + cheese ravioli of your current incarnation via Coquinarius, you're sure to be embarking on your third gelato crawl of the week with Vivoli, Gelateria dei Neri and Gelateria La Carraia up next.
It's a city of artists, craftsmen, designers, architects, historians, curators, musicians, chefs... it's a city that's ever-changing yet always the same. It's not to be missed.
BIRTHPLACE OF THE RENAISSANCE
RUSTIC + REFINED ADVENTURES
A TUSCAN KITCHEN
Ah, Firenze... A culture-seeker's playground
birthplace of the renaissance
>
>
>
>
The centuries-old sentinels of this enlightened terra cotta tinged town are as much associated with Italy as pasta grannies and vespa rides. And yet, you can't possibly leave her uninspired... even if you think you know what's coming.
There's Michelangelo's David, the Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, Scuola del Cuoio (aka the leather market), Boboli Gardens and of course, the emblematic Duomo we're sure will be announced as the 8th wonder of the world any day now.
While you aren't testing your nose at Officina Profumo, one of the oldest herbal pharmacies in the world or eating the best pear + cheese ravioli of your current incarnation via Coquinarius, you're sure to be embarking on your third gelato crawl of the week with Vivoli, Gelateria dei Neri and Gelateria La Carraia up next.
It's a city of artists, craftsmen, designers, architects, historians, curators, musicians, chefs... it's a city that's ever-changing yet always the same. It's not to be missed.
BIRTHPLACE OF THE RENAISSANCE
Firenze, A Culture-Seeker's Playground
<
TUSCANY
The Essentials
A cooking class is a good idea anywhere in Italy, but if pressed, we'd have to say that the best experiences are in Tuscany. Maybe it's the relaxed country house ambiance or the sumptuous yet straightforward cuisine (think ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, panzanella, and truffle-filled anything), or perhaps it's as simple as the refreshingly unhurried pace of everything here... Whatever it is, cooking workshops in Tuscany have the magic touch.
Embracing our inner Stanley Tucci, a man we'd trust with our lives, we set out to discover the best classes in the region several years back. And we can say with absolute confidence that the following Tuscan canteens offer the most outstanding cooking workshops in the region: La Canonica Cooking School, Desinare, Castello di Vicarello, Il Falconiere, Agrivilla i Pini, Monteverdi, and Borgo Santo Pietro
A TUSCAN KITCHEN
Mouthwatering Tuscan Dishes Amid Equally Delicious Panoramas
<
TUSCANY
The Essentials
It's the center of the slow living movement after all! The "return to nature" spirit of the place feels almost palpable - especially when you're presented with tantalizing opportunities everywhere you look. If your temporary roost boasts well-trodden hiking trails, horse riding excursions or electric bikes at your disposal, you know you won't be able to resist riding through those cypress-freckled lanes.
But perhaps you're staying in a quieter countryside haven. Seek out wine tastings + vineyard tours, hot air balloon rides, guided truffle hunts or good ole' fashioned scenic drives. You're probably only a parmesan wheel's throw away from a lush olive grove that offers olive oil tastings to boot. Whatever the adventure you seek, immerse yourself in the culture completely, and embrace the art of getting lost. It's the Italian way.
RUSTIC + REFINED ADVENTURES
Tuscany Double Dog Dares You To Get Curious... But At Your Own Pace
<
TUSCANY
The Essentials
A cooking class is a good idea anywhere in Italy, but if pressed, we'd have to say that the best experiences are in Tuscany. Maybe it's the relaxed country house ambiance or the sumptuous yet straightforward cuisine (think ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, panzanella, and truffle-filled anything), or perhaps it's as simple as the refreshingly unhurried pace of everything here... Whatever it is, cooking workshops in Tuscany have the magic touch.
Embracing our inner Stanley Tucci, a man we'd trust with our lives, we set out to discover the best classes in the region several years back. And we can say with absolute confidence that the following Tuscan canteens offer the most outstanding cooking workshops in the region: La Canonica Cooking School, Desinare, Castello di Vicarello, Il Falconiere, Agrivilla i Pini, Monteverdi, and Borgo Santo Pietro
mouthwatering Tuscan dishes amid Equally delicious panoramas
A Tuscan kitchen
>
TUSCANY
The Essentials
It's the center of the slow living movement after all! The "return to nature" spirit of the place feels almost palpable - especially when you're presented with tantalizing opportunities everywhere you look. If your temporary roost boasts well-trodden hiking trails, horse riding excursions or electric bikes at your disposal, you know you won't be able to resist riding through those cypress-freckled lanes.
But perhaps you're staying in a quieter countryside haven. Seek out wine tastings + vineyard tours, hot air balloon rides, guided truffle hunts or good ole' fashioned scenic drives. You're probably only a parmesan wheel's throw away from a lush olive grove that offers olive oil tastings to boot. Whatever the adventure you seek, immerse yourself in the culture completely, and embrace the art of getting lost. It's the Italian way.
Tuscany double dog dares you to get curious... but at your own pace
rustic + refined adventures
>
TUSCANY
The Essentials
Curate your ultimate Tuscan wedding mood by taking advantage of our public Pinterest board where we share some of our favorite images that capture the spirit + aesthetics of the region
