Location: Puglia, Italy
Setting: Estate
Wedding season: Fall
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
Number of guests: 40
Wedding theme/style: Elegant, simple, relaxed.
Becky and Ivano’s romance started while working together on a contract in Tokyo, Japan. As their relationship deepened, they lived in various locations, including Hong Kong and Naples, Ivano’s hometown. Despite enduring the challenges of a long-distance relationship, they eventually managed to settle down together permanently. During a vacation in Queenstown, New Zealand, Ivano proposed to Becky on a quaint jetty overlooking the serene Lake Wakatipu. “It was perfect in every way,” Becky recalls.
“Of course, we needed a great photographer to capture our day, and seeing Carolina Serafini’s work, I knew she was the one. Her gorgeous photos are so special to us and she was a joy to work with.” says the bride. Carolina has a keen eye for capturing the simplistic elegance and warmth of the moments, evident in the skillful use of natural lighting and the candid expressions that bring the wedding’s joy to life.
Becky and Ivano knew they wanted a wedding in Puglia because they were inspired by the area’s natural beauty. “Finding our venue and florist really helped us get a clear image of the day we wanted. Once we found our vendors, it all fell into place. They were so kind and helpful and created the wedding day of our dreams,” Becky shares.
Ivano had to visit the venues and choose Masseria San Michele on his own, as Becky was in Australia at the time. “There was lots of pressure for him, but he couldn’t have chosen better. When I finally got to see it six months before the wedding, it was love at first sight,” says the bride.
The bride chose a beautiful Martina Liana Luxe dress with beautiful flower details and a little sparkle. “I found my wedding dress the very first time I went wedding dress shopping. I had no intention of buying a dress that day, but I knew once I tried it on that it was everything I wanted and more,” shares Becky. Her hair and makeup created a glam but natural look that complemented the dress well.
Ivano wore an elegant Italian navy blue suit by Luigi Bianchi and Velasca Italian leather shoes.
The couple chose to have a small wedding with their families and closest friends, who came from all around the world. “It felt like a beautiful reunion,” smiles the bride.
Becky shared that there was a bit of rain and wind during the outdoor ceremony, which ended up being quite funny for the couple and their guests. “A rainbow appeared at the end of the ceremony, which made it worth it.”
The couple really loved their florist’s style and knew they could trust her to create something special for their big day. “She really outdid herself and we were blown away by her absolutely stunning flower designs that were the highlight of our ceremony and dinner.” shares Becky.
After the photo session, the newlyweds and their guests danced and enjoyed incredible signature cocktails and drinks made by Joe Bar. The couple shares: “Our wedding band played a great variety of Italian and English songs with a jazzy feel that created a really fun, relaxed and romantic atmosphere.”
They had an intimate, cozy, and elegant dinner. The long table was covered with vibrant flowers and pink candles, and catering provided delicious and beautiful Italian food, including local seafood and vegetable dishes. “Our wedding favors were handmade personalized ceramic tiles made in Vietro on the Amalfi coast.” tells the bride.
Ivano surprised Becky with a magical firework display at the cake-cutting ceremony, highlighting the end of the perfect intimate wedding in Italy.
Advice from the couple:
• Find vendors who you can connect with. Our vendors really made us feel special and their kindness and support really helped us relax on the day.
• Be flexible. We had to change ceremony and dinner locations at the venue due to bad weather on the day but they were still perfect.
• Be present and try to enjoy every moment.
PHOTOGRAPHER Carolina Serafini | VENUE Massseria San Michele | FLORAL Nunzia Guerino | MUAH Roberta Manigrasso | DRESS Martina Liana Bridal Designs | HEELS Loeffler Randall | ACCESSORIES Amelie George Bridal | SUIT Luigi Bianci | SHOES Velasca | CATERING Rotondo Catering | BAR Joe Bar | BAND Apulia Wedding Music
