Lake Como always captivates with its timeless charm, making it a beloved destination for couples celebrating their love and a constant source of inspiration for professionals creating styled shoots. The hosts of this editorial, Bella Vita Retreats, were deeply influenced by European culture, choosing an Italian name that translates to “Beautiful Life” to reflect their vision. For their first retreat, they couldn’t imagine a more fitting location than Italy—a country synonymous with beauty, elegance, and romance. Their goal was to embrace and showcase the essence of this enchanting destination, bringing its charm to life through every detail of the experience.
Emma Mullins Photography masterfully captured the magic of this picturesque styled shoot, highlighting the breathtaking Lake Como setting and the love and connection between the couple. Her keen eye for detail and her ability to work with natural light brought every element to life—from the delicate florals swaying in the breeze to the joy radiating from the couple’s faces. Her photos transformed fleeting moments into lasting memories, reflecting both the beauty of the surroundings and the genuine emotions shared throughout this unforgettable celebration.
"I was thrilled to be in Italy creating work alongside such talented vendors at this historical venue."
The Location
The Fashion
The bride’s look exudes timeless elegance and romantic charm, brought to life by The Ivory Standard with softly styled waves and flawless makeup that enhances her natural beauty. A vintage-inspired hairstyle frames her face with sophistication, while warm tones add a refined touch. Her gown by Maggie Sottero features intricate lace detailing, a fitted bodice, and a flowing train, blending classic and contemporary elements for an effortlessly romantic vibe. Complementing the aesthetic, the custom stationery by Word for Word Designs features delicate calligraphy and scenic watercolor illustrations, setting the tone for a celebration of refined beauty and elegance.
"We loved the classic look. From a vintage-inspired hair and makeup look to an intricately timeless wedding gown, we focused on the elegance and beauty of our bride's look."
When it came to the groom’s style, the team ensured his look was just as luxurious. Dressing him in white created a striking contrast, making the couple stand out beautifully against the lush greenery and shimmering blue waters of Lake Como.
The Ceremony
The ceremony on Lake Como was a dream. Rows of elegant cane-back chairs faced towering floral arrangements by The Blond Flower brimming with soft roses, greenery, and seasonal blooms, perfectly complementing the serene blue waters and lush mountains. The couple exchanged vows under the sunlit sky, with the delicate breeze adding an ethereal touch to the flowing veil and the soft rustle of petals.
Emma Mullins Photography beautifully documented the essence of this picturesque ceremony, showcasing the stunning Lake Como setting and the deep connection between the couple. Her photographs brought the day to life, capturing every meaningful detail—the way the sunlight danced on the water, the vibrant florals framing the ceremony, and the emotional exchange of vows.
The Inspiration
The team drew inspiration from various forms of high-end content, looking to icons like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar for direction. They analyzed famous and celebrity weddings, picking elements that felt impactful and ran with those ideas to create something unique. They aimed to design details that exuded luxury while striking a perfect balance between timeless elegance and modern trends. Knowing that multiple photographers would be present to expand their portfolios, they crafted a setting designed to resonate with every style of photography, ensuring versatility and inspiration for all involved.
Mainly, I was inspired by the thought of travel and luxury, and how this environment could be captured on camera. Italy is one of my favorite destinations to visit, and I'm so happy to have been a part of this shoot!
A Magical Lake Como Boat Ride
The team had envisioned a romantic boat shoot, making an accessible dock on the shores of Lake Como a top priority in choosing the location. The boat ride itself felt like something out of a dream—a gentle glide across the sparkling lake as the couple shared intimate moments, with the soft breeze and golden light adding to the enchantment.
This editorial on the shores of Lake Como is a celebration of timeless elegance, European charm, and the beauty of intentional details. The stunning photography, thoughtful design, and breathtaking setting tell a story of love and sophistication. This shoot will inspire couples dreaming of a destination wedding that blends natural beauty with refined style. It’s also a treasure trove of ideas for wedding planners, florists, and photographers looking to elevate their portfolios with classic yet creative concepts. For anyone captivated by the allure of Italy and the timeless magic of Lake Como, this editorial serves as the perfect muse.
PHOTOGRAPHY Emma Mullins Photography | HOST Bella Vita Retreats | VENUE Villa Pizzo | COUPLE Yana & Guiseppe | HAIR & MAKEUP The Ivory Standard | DRESS Maggie Sottero | FLORALS The Blonde Flower | STATIONERY Word for Word Designs | SIGNAGE The Pemberley Creative | ACCESSORIES Marian May Atelier | BOAT Lake Como Tours
