Twenty years ago, Michael and Deborah Baldini exchanged vows at the breathtaking Villa del Balbianello on the shores of Lake Como. Their wedding felt like a dream—an intimate ceremony on the loggia, a sunset boat ride, and an evening filled with music, fine wines, and laughter. Two decades later, they returned to the very same place, on the same day, to celebrate their love all over again. By pure chance, their story was captured in an impromptu yet deeply moving anniversary photoshoot by My Wedding Way, a studio renowned for its cinematic wedding photography and videography.
A Chance Encounter
Photographer Alex of My Wedding Way had spent days photographing weddings around Lake Como and decided to visit Villa del Balbianello alone on his last day, simply to take in the beauty. “I couldn’t help but feel a tinge of sadness,” he shared. “The villa was so exquisite, yet I had no subjects to capture.” Just as he was about to leave, fate intervened. He spotted Michael and Deborah, their presence instantly captivating. “They exuded the charm of movie stars,” he recalled. On a whim, he approached them, and what was meant to be a quick portrait session turned into a spontaneous 30-minute shoot that felt as if it had been planned for months.
A Historic Venue With Personal Significance
Nestled on a peninsula overlooking the waters of Lake Como, Villa del Balbianello is a destination steeped in romance. The grand estate, with its ivy-draped terraces, ornate sculptures, and panoramic views, provided the perfect setting for Michael and Deborah’s wedding in 2003—and again for their anniversary two decades later. The golden hues of the setting sun illuminated the villa’s aged stone walls, deep green gardens, and the shimmering blues of the lake. As the couple walked through the pathways, hand in hand, it was as if time had stood still.
Their connection to this place runs deep. After visiting Italy’s most romantic regions—from the Amalfi Coast to Tuscany—they stumbled upon Villa del Balbianello on a whim. A shopkeeper in Bellagio pointed across the lake, leading them to the villa’s gates. With a mixture of hope and boldness, they approached, not knowing whether the venue hosted weddings. To their surprise, the gate opened. “A wish granted and a blessing to follow,” Deborah recalled.
“We were married 27 October 2003, witnessed by family and friends in a magical setting—a true dream come true.”
The couple wandered through the villa’s picturesque gardens, pausing to take in the views from the grand terraces where they had once exchanged vows. They walked past the same ornate gates that had welcomed them 20 years ago, now framed by golden ivy and weathered urns. “Coming back here felt like stepping into a memory,” Michael reflected. “Everything looked just as we remembered, but the meaning was even deeper now.”
Capturing a Love That Lasts
My Wedding Way, the duo of Alex and Nick, are masters at telling love stories through the lens. Their cinematic style allows emotions to shine naturally, and this shoot was no exception. “This wasn’t planned, but it became one of the most special sessions I’ve ever done,” Alex shared. The golden light, the couple’s effortless grace, and the deep emotional connection between them made every frame timeless. Their ability to blend storytelling with elegant composition turned an impromptu moment into a visual masterpiece.
The evening sun cast long shadows, adding depth and warmth to the photographs. The ivy-covered arches created a natural frame around them as they shared a quiet moment, their silhouettes glowing against the amber-toned walls. Every step through the villa felt like a page from their love story, now layered with two decades of memories.
Couple's Anniversary Look
For this milestone celebration, Deborah’s outfit was effortlessly refined, in perfect harmony with the villa’s romantic setting. She wore a white crochet dress that draped beautifully, with intricate patterns that played in the sunlight. A delicate cape wrapped over her shoulders added a touch of old-Hollywood elegance. She completed the look with sparkling drop earrings and makeup that highlighted her radiant smile, making her look as timeless as the setting itself.
Michael wore a black velvet double-breasted jacket with gold buttons, paired with dark denim—refined and approachable. The structured silhouette of his jacket contrasted beautifully with the villa’s aged stone balustrades and ivy-covered walls. Polished leather boots and a crisp white shirt completed the look, reflecting the effortless charm that had drawn Deborah to him all those years ago.
"Their enduring love was evident from the very first glance, and the unmistakable spark between them was truly captivating.”
Evening on the Water
Their photoshoot ended just as their wedding had—on the lake. They stepped onto a classic wooden Riva boat, champagne in hand, and set out for a golden-hour cruise across the water. The reflection of the mountains shimmered around them as Michael kissed Deborah’s temple, a quiet gesture of love that needed no words. The boat ride wasn’t just a photo opportunity; it was a continuation of their love story, a reaffirmation of everything they had built together. “Love brought us back here,” Deborah said. “And we know it will bring us back again.”
Michael and Deborah’s story is more than just a romantic tale—it’s a reminder that true love deepens with time. From that first conversation at a wine tasting in Napa Valley to their spontaneous anniversary shoot at Villa del Balbianello, their journey has been one of passion, adventure, and unwavering devotion.
The golden tones of their photos, captured at sunset, are a fitting metaphor for the richness of a love that, as gold, has stood the test of time. And thanks to My Wedding Way, these moments will live on, just like their love.
A Love That Endures
Michael and Deborah’s connection to Italy continued long after their wedding. In 2018, an unexpected opportunity arose—a chance to buy Biordi Art Imports, a historic Italian ceramics shop in San Francisco where they had established their wedding registry. At first, they hesitated, but soon they realized the answer was obvious. “First a no, then a maybe, then an emphatic YES,” Deborah said. Taking over the legendary shop gave them a reason to return to Italy at least once a year. “As we have realized,” Deborah reflected, “love will always bring us back to Italy.”
Two decades later, their love remains as strong as ever, guiding them back to the place where it all began. And just like Italy continues to call them back, their story is far from over—another chapter always waiting to be written.
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY My Wedding Way | VENUE Villa del Balbianello
