Location: Puglia, Italy
Setting: Italian Villa
Wedding season: Summer
The number of guests: 70 How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
Wedding theme/style: Italian countryside aesthetic, bohemian with hint of glamour, relaxed, sun-drenched, rustic.
The love story of Rhi, an artist and business owner, and Cal, a consultant for an engineering company, began in the colorful realm of art class during their school days. They were just 16 when their hearts first intertwined, drawn together by a shared passion for creativity and expression. As life unfolded, they followed different paths at University, briefly parting ways, but destiny had other plans. Fate steered them back together in the bustling metropolis of London. Their feelings were rekindled, stronger than ever, and they soon realized they shared another burning desire: the love of travel.
Their shared passion for travel and world exploration led them to embark from the UK to Australia in 2019. The idea of settling down was distant compared to the allure of new horizons and the thrill of adventure. Then, in a moment that would forever etch itself in their memories, Cal surprised Rhi with a proposal during an enchanting journey to India in 2020. And this story is worth learning more about.
At the time where Cal proposed, the couple had just moved to Australia and were travelling on on a 3-month sabbatical filled with unpredictability and excitement. Rhi had no inkling that Cal was planning to propose, which made the moment all the more special.
Their travels led them to India, where they stayed in incredible places, including a Tree House Hideaway near a renowned national park. On their final evening there, the Tree House staff arranged a secluded, romantic dinner for them in the heart of the jungle. Ironically, Rhi playfully remarked how some might consider this the perfect spot for a proposal, although she found the idea cringe-worthy. Little did she know that Cal had the engagement ring in his pocket and contemplated proposing that night. Fortunately, he followed his instincts and proposed a week later in Udaipur. Their engagement moment was true to their authentic selves. They were playing cards and sipping martinis before dinner when Cal seized the opportunity to pop the question. It was a beautiful, genuine moment that reflected their unique bond as a couple, filled with love, adventure, and unexpected humor.
Dreaming of an Italian wedding, they faced challenges planning from Australia during the pandemic. However, they eagerly began arranging their dream Italian wedding when borders reopened.
Their enchanting wedding occurred at Villa Gioia. This magnificent noble villa is a historic holiday residence constructed in 1790 by the Gioia family—a distinguished and ancient lineage rooted in Amalfi.
They had the villa all to themselves for an entire week, with the enticing pool being a standout feature. Throughout the day, guests reveled in the joy of cooling off with their feet dipped into the refreshing waters. A few stayed behind as night descended for an unforgettable poolside party, creating lasting memories under the Italian stars.
The bride’s appearance was naturally beautiful, and she only lightly emphasized it with a touch of makeup and waves in her hair. All of this served as a complement to the relaxed yet bohemian wedding style.
The remarkable embroidery and delicate silhouette emphasized the bride’s refinement. The dress was from Luna Novias, a Spanish brand, and it was purchased from Hannah Elizabeth Bridal in the UK and then brought to Italy. Even the dress had it’s own journey to the wedding destination.
The groom’s suit was from M.J. Bale, renowned as the sustainable brand in Australia, all while maintaining impeccable style.
The first look was incredibly touching. At that moment, the groom was barely holding back his overwhelming emotions, his eyes filled with tenderness and adoration.
The ceremony was incredibly touching, and with hearts beating in unison, it felt like the crowning moment of their journey together. Amidst the warmth of the Italian sun, laughter filled the air, creating a joyful and unforgettable atmosphere.
Mitch & Tijana, the talented wedding photography and videography duo, brilliantly preserved the magic of Cal and Rhi’s wedding day. With their keen eye for detail and artistry, they captured spontaneous, heartfelt moments that told the couple’s unique love story and their big day celebration with their closest people. Their breathtaking images are timeless treasures that beautifully encapsulate the essence of this unforgettable day.
The enchanting floral arrangements were skillfully crafted by DV Flower Stylist, drawing inspiration from the Italian countryside aesthetic with an artistic, bohemian touch. One of the most captivating elements was the bride’s bouquet, which featured rare Dutch roses sourced by the florist. These unique blooms added an exquisite and one-of-a-kind touch to the bouquet, making it a gorgeous and memorable centerpiece for the bride on her special day.
All the stationery for the wedding was meticulously crafted by Hebe Studio, and what makes it even more remarkable is that the bride, the studio’s owner, personally designed and created every piece herself. Her artistic touch and dedication shone through in each detail, from invitations to place cards. In the end, the bride was overjoyed with the results. Her touch added a layer of sentiment to their wedding, making every stationery item a cherished part of their special day. And as for us, we are mad about this timeless combination of green and pink full of whimsical details.
The reception featured an exquisite feast prepared by the villa’s Gioia chefs, preserving the refinement of Italian traditions.
The concept and vision for the wedding were carefully crafted to capture the essence of an idyllic summer in the Italian countryside, drawing inspiration from the evocative atmosphere of the film “Call Me by Your Name.” The couple desired to immerse their guests in a dreamy, intimate, and sun-drenched experience.
The Italian countryside aesthetic was their guiding inspiration, combining artistry, bohemian flair, and a touch of glamour. They envisioned a warm and relaxed celebration amidst rustic architecture, with sun-drenched landscapes and a serene swimming pool as the backdrop.
With Italian-inspired architecture and an enchanting villa as their canvas, Rhi and Cal’s wedding radiated timeless elegance, contemporary charm, and warm summer. This stunning and soulful celebration of love and artistry has become a day to remember forever.
Advice from the couple:
• We would 100 percent recommend renting somewhere for a week and getting married towards the end of that week. It meant the wedding festivities went on for longer, and you can get to spend extra time with your loved ones.
• If we could do anything differently, it would be to hire a wedding planner. We spent a lot of time organizing everything and speaking to different vendors, even once they got to the venue, meaning they could not always relax and enjoy the day with everyone. Having someone take that stress away would have been great.
PHOTOGRAPHER Mitch & Tijana | VENUE Masseria Villa Gioia | FLORALS DV Flower Stylist | DRESS Luna Novias | SUIT M.J. Bale | DJ Mike Harounoff | STATIONARY HEBE Studio | CATERING Masseria Villa Gioia
