Set against the dreamy backdrop of Lake Como, Jennifer and Patrick’s elopement was a cinematic escape filled with precious moments. With soft clouds casting a romantic glow, every detail, from heartfelt vows on the terrace to a champagne toast on the water, felt deeply personal and effortlessly elegant.
Location: Lake Como, Italy
Style: Modern, dreamy, intimate
Time of planning: 4 months
Number of guests: 2
Setting: Lakeside
Season: Summer
Patrick and Jennifer’s story began when they met as interns at a defense lab and bonded during long bus rides to work — rides Patrick made sure to never miss a chance to sit beside her. A summer fling turned into a long-distance love that spanned four years, with Patrick in North Carolina for grad school and Jennifer launching her career in California. Against the odds, they made it work, eventually reuniting for good in North Carolina. Jennifer, ever the planner, picked out her dream ring, but Patrick waited for the perfect moment. Nearly a decade after that first bus ride, he proposed on a sun-drenched hilltop in New Zealand, and Jennifer said yes.
Bride's Look
On her special day, Jennifer looked effortlessly radiant. She wore the Jenny Yoo Mollie gown, a sleek, strapless silhouette with a daring slit. Her Betsey Johnson Dani heels peeked out with every step, adding a playful sparkle. For the jewelry, Jennifer went with delicate gold hoops adorned with tiny pearls, perfectly complementing her fresh, glowing makeup and soft waves styled by Riku Lu.
A spritz of Miss Dior completed the look with a romantic touch, and in her hands she held a classic bouquet of white roses, bringing the whole vision to life in the most graceful, unforgettable way. Framed by the columns and sweeping lake views, Jennifer looked elegant and serene.
Groom's Fashion
Patrick opted for the Indochino black tuxedo, polished black shoes, and a crisp white shirt, freshly bought just the day before in Como after a last-minute wardrobe mishap. With Jennifer nervously searching for a replacement, it was a luck coincidence that a Tuesday wedding meant the shops were open. Not only did they find the perfect shirt at Albione, but Patrick also chose a pair of cufflinks to complete the look.
First Look
This elopement was all about the couple, intimate, intentional, and filled with moments that simply felt right. Their first look was nothing short of unforgettable, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the lake from a picturesque balcony of Grand Hotel Imperiale.
With a gentle tap, Jennifer turned her soon-to-be husband toward her, and a wide smile instantly lit up Patrick’s face. Even after nearly a decade together, that moment felt brand new, charged with joy, tenderness, and the quiet thrill of beginning forever.
Ceremony
Patrick and Jennifer’s ceremony was everything they had hoped for, and even touched by just the right bit of luck. After a rainy Monday, they woke to a soft, cloud-covered Tuesday that brought the most beautiful, diffused light, ideal for the photos they’ll treasure forever.
Holding personalized vow books in hand, they stood face to face, reading the words they had carefully written for each other. Though they’d initially worried about eloping without family present, their loved ones understood their desire for a deeply personal moment. And in that quiet space, with laughter and a few tears, they promised forever.
"Overjoyed! And a feeling of “finally” since it had been 10 years after all!"
Boat Ride
The couple slipped away for a boat ride across the shimmering waters, the perfect romantic escape to soak in the moment and explore the charming little towns scattered along the shore. For Jennifer, it was a dream come true. She had always imagined getting married in Lake Como, drawn to its beauty and quiet romance, even if it once felt like an impossible logistical puzzle.
"We wanted to keep our wedding small and very intimate."
With the expert guidance and calm support of Monica Roma from Leoeventi everything fell into place, turning what could have been stressful into something effortlessly magical. As the boat glided past villas and cypress trees, the newlyweds couldn’t have asked for a sweeter start to their new chapter.
Jennifer and Patrick paused to explore each hidden gem along Lake Como’s enchanting coastline, and their photographer, Sara D’Ambra, never lost sight of the quiet beauty they shared in every moment. With an artist’s eye, the photographer captured the intimacy and magic of their romantic getaway, balancing soft, sun-kissed color images with timeless black and white portraits that radiated editorial elegance. The result was a breathtaking visual narrative, where every glance, every embrace, and every stunning backdrop became part of a love story beautifully told through the lens.
Right on the go, Jennifer slipped into a chic off-the-shoulder white mini dress and sunglasses, effortlessly channeling old-Hollywood glamour. As their boat sailed ahead, the couple clinked glasses of sparkling champagne, toasting to their new chapter with laughter, love, and the magic of the natural landscape all around them.
When the day came to a close, Jennifer and Patrick were left with an unforgettable experience. Later, after returning home from their romantic escape, they celebrated with a civil ceremony and reception surrounded by family, bringing with them the shimmering joy of Lake Como, and sharing the magic of their elopement in a way that beautifully bridged the personal with the shared.
Advice from the couple:
• Plan your wedding for you.
PHOTOGRAPHER Sara D’Ambra | PLANNER Leoeventi | VENUE Grand Hotel Imperiale | MUAH Riku Lu | DRESS Jenny Yoo | SHOES Betsey Johnson | PERFUME Miss Dior | SUIT Indochino | SHIRT & CUFFLINKS Albione
