Inspiration shoot in a historic villa by Lake Orta

Wedding Venue Lake Orta Intimate Weddings
Wedding Venue Lake Orta Intimate Weddings

Villa Durio is a hidden gem on the western shore of Lake Orta, a place of rare intimacy and refinement. Its owners wish to rent it exclusively to those who truly appreciate the beauty of its frescoes and can immerse themselves in its timeless atmosphere. Perfect for those seeking an exclusive and authentic experience, the villa offers discreet elegance, far from the crowds, allowing guests to enjoy the lake’s charm in a setting of historical allure.

For this inspiration shoot, we envisioned an intimate wedding for an Italo-French couple, Catherine and Marcello, a nod to Catherine Deneuve and Marcello Mastroianni. The idea was to create a harmonious blend of cultures, combining French elegance with the charm of la dolce vita italiana. This fusion was reflected in numerous details: French touches like macarons and champagne, and Italian elements such as a live cooking show featuring coffee or risotto. To add to the Italian flair, we included a stunning vintage Spider car, perfect for the groom’s grand arrival at the ceremony venue.

Our model bride got ready in Pietro Durio’s bedroom, featuring an extraordinary period canopy bed, creating an intimate boudoir atmosphere. The resulting photos are truly captivating.

The ceremony then took place in the villa’s inner courtyard, followed by dinner under the elegant arches. Every floral and decorative detail was carefully designed to blend seamlessly with the surroundings and highlight the timeless beauty of the villa.

For a wedding on Lake Orta with an incredible view of the island, Villa Durio is the perfect venue for celebrations with up to 60-70 guests. This is truly a place chosen by extraordinary couples—those who don’t want a wedding like everyone else, who seek something beyond the usual lake venues, and who desire an exclusive, tailor-made experience in a setting steeped in history.

The villa’s stunning internal courtyard offers a picturesque setting for an intimate ceremony or a beautifully arranged dinner, particularly with imperial tables. Inside, the multiple elegant rooms provide a seamless Plan B for the aperitif and post-dinner festivities, with lower-level spaces perfectly suited for a DJ set.

Villa Durio is not a venue for countless weddings—it is an exclusive gem, reserved for those who truly appreciate its unique character and timeless charm.

📸 @vellutophotography
💌 info@ilpavonebianco.com

A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful collaborators, whose talent and dedication bring every detail to life: @dubeau_ebasta, @stylegrafica, @le_muse_banqueting, @elisabettaepifanimua, @meraki_mielebiologico, @mariannalanzilli, @bulliepupecars, @sciretti.sartoriaspeakeasy, @fiorilab.oriella, @alessiagatta_photostudio, @masciamandolesi, @white.and.gold_jewels, @santaborga_, @petitpati_macarons, and @jago11. Your creativity and passion make every moment unforgettable!

A Perfect Itinerary on Lake Maggiore

A LONG WEEKEND ON LAKE MAGGIORE: A PERFECT ITINERARY

Lake Maggiore

Lake Maggiore, nestled between Italy and Switzerland, offers a perfect blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and charming villages. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, cultural exploration, or a taste of la dolce vita, this region has it all.

This itinerary is designed to help you make the most of a long weekend on Lake Maggiore, highlighting the must-see spots and activities for each day of your stay, along with some excellent dining recommendations.

Day 1: Explore the Borromean Islands

Kick off your long weekend with a visit to the Borromean Islands. Start your day by taking a boat from Stresa to Isola Bella, where you can explore the grand Borromeo Palace and its magnificent gardens. Continue to Isola Madre, known for its lush botanical gardens and peacocks roaming freely. End your island-hopping adventure on Isola dei Pescatori, a quaint fishing village with charming restaurants and shops.

  • Lunch Options:
    • Hotel Restaurant Verbano on Isola dei Pescatori offers stunning lake views and fresh, local cuisine, making it a romantic choice for a leisurely meal. Website | Phone: +39 0323 30408
    • For a less touristy option, Restaurant Lago Maggiore in Stresa provides a cozy atmosphere and authentic dishes. Website | Phone: +39 0323 31570
  • Dinner Options:
    • Sky Bar at Hotel La Palma in Stresa offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Lake Maggiore, making it an ideal spot for a sunset aperitif. The stylish rooftop bar serves a variety of cocktails and small bites, creating a perfect atmosphere for a relaxing evening.
      Website | Phone: +39 0323 32401
    • Head to the hills above Stresa for a memorable dinner at La Rampolina, known for its breathtaking panoramic views and creative local cuisine. Website | Phone: +39 0323 929136
    • Alternatively, enjoy a rustic farm-to-table experience at L’Ordin, an agritourism restaurant where dishes are made with products grown on-site. Website | Phone: +39 338 7531486
    • Il Clandestino in Stresa is a hidden gem, recommended by clients for its intimate setting and fresh, seasonal dishes. This contemporary Italian restaurant is particularly known for its seafood.
      Website | Phone: +39 0323 933794

To reach the Borromean Islands, you have several convenient options:

  1. Public Ferries: Operated by Navigazione Laghi, public ferries run regularly from Stresa, Baveno, and Verbania to the islands. You can purchase tickets at the harbor or online, with hop-on-hop-off options to visit multiple islands in one day.
  2. Private Boat Services: Various private boat companies in Stresa offer more flexible and personalized tours to the Borromean Islands. These boats can be hired for small groups or private trips, and often provide direct routes and more schedule freedom.
    • Consorzio Motoscafisti Stresa: Website | Phone: +39 0323 30195

Both options provide easy access to Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori for a full day of exploration and a perfect itinerary.

Lake Maggiore

Day 2: Discover the Gardens and Lakeside Towns

On your second day, immerse yourself in the beauty of some of the world’s most stunning gardens. Head to Villa Taranto in Verbania, where you’ll find an extraordinary collection of rare plants and flowers in beautifully landscaped settings. After exploring the gardens, take a stroll along the lakeside promenade of Pallanza, a picturesque town with colorful buildings and stunning views. Continue to Intra, known for its lively market, boutiques, and a charming old town perfect for a leisurely walk and a gelato stop by the lake.

  • Lunch/Dinner Options:
    • Il Burchiello in Pallanza is a lakeside restaurant with elegant ambiance and exquisite seafood dishes, perfect for dining with a view. Website | Phone: +39 0323 556913
    • In Intra, La Casera offers a unique focus on local cheeses, cured meats, and traditional Italian dishes, providing a cozy and authentic experience for a perfect itinerary. Website | Phone: +39 0323 403004

Day 3: Visit Lake Orta and San Giulio Island

Spend your third day exploring the serene and romantic Lake Orta, one of Italy’s hidden gems. Start in the town of Orta San Giulio, where you can wander through cobblestone streets and enjoy the beautiful views. Take a short boat ride to San Giulio Island, home to an ancient basilica and surrounded by an enchanting atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Sacro Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage site with chapels dedicated to the life of Saint Francis of Assisi, offering stunning views over the lake.

  • Lunch and Dinner Options:
    • Restaurant La Motta offers a charming atmosphere with delicious local dishes and a great selection of wines in the heart of Orta San Giulio. Website | Phone: +39 0322 905168
    • For a Michelin-starred experience, La Locanda di Orta serves elegant and creative dishes, perfect for a gourmet meal. Website | Phone: +39 0322 905280
    • Due Santi and Venus are great options for traditional and lakeside dining, offering excellent local flavors and beautiful settings.
      • Due Santi: Website | Phone: +39 0322 911980
      • Venus: Website | Phone: +39 0322 905131
    • Outside Orta, Hotel Restaurant Il Giardinetto offers exquisite lakeside dining with fresh fish dishes and stunning sunset views. Website | Phone: +39 0322 982233
    • Acqua By The Lake and Luci sul Lago provide contemporary dining experiences with innovative menus and lovely views.
      • Acqua By The Lake: Website | Phone: +39 0322 908911
      • Luci sul Lago: Website | Phone: +39 0322 911981

Day 4: Discover Historic Sites and End the Day in Arona

Lake Maggiore

Spend your final day exploring the historic and scenic spots around Lake Maggiore. Begin with a visit to the Rocca di Angera, an impressive medieval castle offering panoramic views of the lake. For a perfect itinerary continue your journey to the Eremo di Santa Caterina del Sasso on the Lombardy side, a stunning monastery built into the cliffs. This day of exploration will give you a deep dive into the rich history and breathtaking scenery of the region.

  • Lunch Options:
    • Birra & Farina in Castelletto Ticino is known for its homely atmosphere and delicious, homemade Italian fare, perfect for a relaxed family meal. Website | Phone: +39 0331 971110
    • Ristorante Verbella in Sesto Calende offers a laid-back atmosphere and great selection of Italian classics, ideal for a leisurely lunch. Website | Phone: +39 0331 922946
    • On your way from Stresa, Il Rapanello in Lesa is known for its warm, family-friendly atmosphere and traditional Italian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Website | Phone: +39 0323 349005
  • Dinner in Arona:
    • For the evening, head to Restaurant Da Aldo, a renowned dining spot in Arona known for its excellent cuisine and lakeside setting. The perfect place to end your weekend with an aperitif and a memorable dinner. Website | Phone: +39 0322 242089

As a local living in the region since 2014, I have personally experienced and tested each of these recommended spots. While these suggestions come from my own experiences and preferences for a perfect itinerary, I encourage you to explore and find the places that best match your own tastes and expectations.

These are simply my personal opinions, and Lake Maggiore has countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered!

The Italian lakes are some of the most romantic places in the world, offering stunning backdrops of crystal-clear waters, majestic mountains, and picturesque villages. If you’re dreaming of a wedding on the Italian lakes, contact me to start planning your unforgettable celebration in one of the most enchanting destinations on earth.

A mediterranean wedding

PAULINE & ANTOINE, A COUPLE LIKE NO OTHER

Pauline and Antoine have been together for many years but wanted to make their love a reality. After getting married in a civil ceremony in Paris where they live, they wanted to bring together all their loved ones on the shores of Lake Maggiore for a big celebration. I often talk about the “Marriage Experience.” This expression takes on its full meaning here. Our couple truly offered their guests an experience that they will remember for a long time, they brought Sicily on the shores of Lake Maggiore for their mediterranean wedding.

THE WEDDING VENUE

Pauline and Antoine had arranged to meet their guests at the lakeside in Stresa where they took a boat for an extraordinary aperitif not far from the Borromean Islands, at sunset.

They then moved to Villa Claudia Dal Pozzo, in Belgirate, for which they had a real crush (and we understand them)!

Its magnificent terrace with a breathtaking view of the lake served as the scene for a romantic dinner which turned into an outdoor dance party on several occasions!

A RETURN TO THE ORIGINS

Antoine, being of Sicilian origin, wanted decoration with southern accents.

We therefore created a Mediterranean style table with details such as lemons which were the common thread of the entire decoration…

To bring the south back to Stresa, we also gave the bride and groom a surprise: our musician started playing the accordion between the tables. This created a unique atmosphere!

Do not hesitate to contact me for your wedding on Lake Maggiore!

Inspiration Shooting at Villa Bonola Lake Orta

Wedding Planner Lake Orta Italy
Wedding Planner Lake Orta Italy

INSPIRATION SHOOTING AT VILLA BONOLA LAKE ORTA

THE VILLA

Villa Bonola is a period villa from the late 1700s that stands on the shores of the most romantic lake in Italy, Lake Orta. Villa Bonola enjoys splendid indoor and outdoor spaces with a lake view. The owner has recently renovated the entire villa down to the smallest detail to restore all the beauty of the past years and make it a place for classy and intimate weddings and certainly for “destination weddings”.
 
The shooting project was conceived with the aim of highlighting all the beauty of its past and making it an enchanting place for weddings on the shores of Lake Orta.

PROJECT & "ITALIAN STYLE"

For this Inspiration Shooting at Villa Bonola Lake Orta with Tiziana Gallo we studied a shot with the desire to highlight Italian details such as, for example, a vintage Fiat 500, the ice cream cart, the spaghetti’s alla “Dolce Vita”, the corner of olive oil…

COLORS & "BOHO-MINIMAL" STYLE

As colors we have chosen white, light blue (sugar paper) and terracotta.

These colors are reminiscent of Italy, the lake, the land… the regions we have in common with Tiziana, Piedmont and Puglia where we both have our origins (exactly from the same city, what a coincidence!).

For the decoration we used natural materials as much as possible: terracotta for the vases, pampas herbs, wooden Thonet chairs… The desire was to remain at the same time in a “boho” and “minimal” style both in the setting of the table and in the dress or shoes of Maura Brandino, a very famous Atelier in Torino where you can realize your tailor-made wedding dress.

Even the suit of our groom model, also from Maura Brandino’s Atelier, has been tailored. The trousers are high-waisted and the jacket is double-breasted, representing the natural elegance of Italian men. The color of the suit, which fits perfectly with our mood, represents the typical color of Turin’s buildings.

To stay in a trendy, romantic but always very elegant shooting, we have studied the set-up down to the smallest detail: the Venice Light Blu chargers by Tablesetrentals perfectly match with the Almonds dishes in boho and natural style. The rose gold cutlery is there to add a touch of elegance.

As for the flowers, in addition to dried flowers and pampas herbs we also used lisianthus and magnificent white peonies.

The models were also not chosen at random. He, a typical “latin lover”, with a spontaneous and natural elegance. She, a beautiful blonde from the Nordic countries.

Thanks to my talented providers without whom this shoot would not have been the same:

Photographer Credit: @tiziana_gallo_fotografa⁠ | Videomaker: @gulliverfilms⁠ | Design & Planning: @ilpavonebiancoweddingevents⁠ | Location: @villabonola.wedding⁠ | Floral design: @i_fiori_di_bruna⁠ | Stationary: @aelle_creative_design⁠ | MUAH: @elisabettaepifanimua⁠ | Catering & wedding cake: @le_muse_banqueting⁠ | Wedding and groom dress & shoes: @maurabrandino⁠ | Ice cream : @gelaterialavialattea⁠ | Fiat 500 : @fiat500rosy⁠ | Mise en place: @tablesetrentals⁠ | Bride Model: @szarnicole per @dsmodelmanagement⁠ | Groom Model: @fabiopapa_._ per @dsmodelmanagement

I hope you like this inspiration shooting! Contact me

This work was published on the national blog Lovenozze.it. To see the entire article, please click here:

Romantic wedding on lake Como

Lake Como Wedding Planner
Lake Como Wedding

Romantic wedding on lake Como

Christiane and Guillaume, our French couple who live in Germany, chose Villa Aura del Lago for their fairytale wedding on the shores of Lake Como. A wonderful day full of emotions thanks to their loved ones and their adorable little girl Constance.

The preparation

I really like it when brides wish to give a nod to their origins… This is what our beautiful bride Christiane and her bridesmaids did, who got ready with elegant Vietnamese silk kimonos.

On the side of our groom Guillaume and his groomsmen, the atmosphere was much more masculine with a game of pool!

Who knows if Guillaume won?

The ceremony & the reception

During the preparations of our two lovers, the guests were welcomed by the pool with a welcome drink in order to refresh themselves and wait for the moment of the ceremony.

The ceremony took place at the end of the afternoon under a beautiful August sun, directly on the shores of Lake Como.

It was a completely personalized ceremony and therefore very rich in emotions.

After the ceremony, the aperitif and dinner were served outside with the magnificent panorama of Lake Como still in the background.

Romantic Wedding Lake Como
Lake Como Wedding

If you want to get married on lake Como feel free to contact me!

This wedding was published on the blog“Wedding Wonderland”

Photographer: Tiziana Gallo Fotografa

10 places not to be missed on Lake Orta

Dolce Vita Wedding Lake Orta
Dolce Vita Wedding Lake Orta

10 PLACES NOT TO BE MISSED ON LAKE ORTA

Lake Orta is a pearl still unknown, but recognized as the most romantic lake in Italy.

If you decide to visit this beautiful area, here are the 10 places you can’t miss!

Wedding Lake Orta

ORTA SAN GIULIO

The small medieval village of Orta San Giulio is the pearl of the lake! Walking through its narrow streets, directly on the lake, is already an absolutely living experience.

1.PIAZZA MOTTA

The main square of Orta San Giulio with its frescoes and small merchants. Take the opportunity to take a break on the terrace of one of the many wine bars for a typically Italian “aperitivo”.

2. CHURC OF SANTA MARIA ASSUNTA

Baroque church located at the top of via Caire Albertoletti, just above the Piazza Motta. You have to go up this sloping road to enjoy the lake view from the church.

3. GARDEN OF VILLA BOSSI

Villa Bossi is now home to the Municipality of Orta San Giulio. With its garden directly on the lake, it allows many visitors to enjoy the view of the island San Giulio… It’s also perfect to celebrate civil and symbolic wedding ceremonies. Feel free to contact me if you want to get married in Orta San Giulio!

4. WROUGHT IRON GATES

One of the characteristics of this small medieval village is the richness of its wrought iron doors. To be admired throughout the walk!

5. THE ISLAND SAN GIULIO

From Piazza Motta, take a boat to reach the island of San Giulio, very characteristic with its path of silence. To visit on the island the Basilica San Giulio.

Wedding Lake Orta

6. SACRO MONTE DI ORTA

The Sacred Mount of Orta (and in general the “Sacred Mountains of Piedmont and Lombardy”) has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 2003.

It is composed of 20 chapels that represent the different phases of the life of St. Francis of Assisi from its birth to its canonization.

A feeling of peace will overwhelm you during this discovery!

Wedding Lake Orta

IN THE SURROUNDINGS

7. CHURCH OF MADONNA DEL SASSO

One of the most beautiful views to see the whole lake…

8. PELLA

A small village just in front of Orta San Giulio where you can go by boat and make a small walk before going to Madonna del Sasso for example.

9. LEGRO, PAINTED VILLAGE

Just above Orta San Giulio is the hamlet of Legro, a small town where artists from all over Italy and all over Europe dared to tell the story of films shot in the past on Lake Orta through a series of frescoes on the walls of houses.

10. VILLA CRESPI

Magnificent oriental type villa that you will see from the street at the entrance to Orta. If you wish to visit it, you must book well in advance. In fact, the Crespi villa houses a luxury hotel and a starred restaurant run by the great Chef Antonio Cannavacciuolo.

I can organize as well your excursions: contact me here!

Symbolic Wedding Ceremony in Italy

WEDDING SYMBOLIC CEREMONY

Perhaps you wonder what a symbolic marriage is and how to organize your Symbolic Wedding Ceremony in Italy?

Many newlyweds are now asking themselves the same question!

Here are some answers…

Why choosing a Symbolic Wedding Ceremony?

The first question is: why the couples choose a symbolic ceremony? The reasons are varied according to the couple.

1- THE FACILITY

Often this option is considered when marriage abroad seems too complicated to organize. Do not you want documents or worry about civil or religious procedures? The symbolic ceremony is the ideal solution.

2- FREEDOM

Another of the reasons mentioned mainly by couples is the freedom that allows in particular in the place that will host the wedding: a beach, a private garden or even an unusual place. Often outdoors, something that traditional Catholic religious marriage for example does not allow.

3- CUSTOMIZATION OF THE CEREMONY

One of the highlights of the symbolic ceremony is the customization of the marriage. The couple will choose the texts, the readings, the poems, the music, they will talk about themselves and their loved ones. No ready stories or cold and impersonal ceremonies. The spouses will be the center of the attention. Tears of joy could come, get your tissues ready!

It’s YOUR ceremony, so you decide! You will be able to choose the moments you want and at the right time. Have you always dreamed of a short and happy ceremony? Or on the contrary, a long and emotional ceremony? You choose. But… be careful not to fall into the ridiculous!

WHAT ARE THE RULES OF A SYMBOLIC WEDDING CEREMONY?

The only rule is that there is no rule!

However some tips can be given for a successful and memorable ceremony:

  • As a religious ceremony, create special moments with customized texts read by witnesses or people close to the spouses
  • Organize moments of music to take some breaks
  • Avoid a ceremony too short (which could leave guests disappointed) or, on the contrary, too long (and that could become boring)
  • Do not choose the random celebrant … And yes, often the couple gives this responsibility to a family member. But beware, this is not an easy task! The success of the ceremony is largely based on the celebrant’s shoulders. Everyone can not speak well in front of an audience! For this reason, we advise you to call an external celebrant and professional who will be able to conduct the ceremony.

THE POSSIBLE RITES YOU MAY ADD TO YOUR SYMBOLIC WEDDING CEREMONY:

Within the ceremony you can enter one or more rites, according to your wishes! For example:

  • The exchange of the rings: almost obligatory, this passage is the symbol of eternal love, connection, infinity, strength, fidelity
  • The reading of the votes: the newlyweds make promises, proof of their mutual commitment in front of their witnesses and their relatives
  • The ritual of the sand: symbolizes the newlyweds who will become only one…
  • The wine’s ritual: the newlyweds seal their wishes in a box containing a bottle of fine wine. In case of difficult steps within the couple, they can open it and read again their commitments, remember why they are together. On the contrary, if everything goes well, they will be able to open the bottle and celebrate their wedding anniversary with dignity! (ideal rite for those who like good things in life)

Feel free to contact us to organize your Symbolic Wedding Ceremony in Italy!

 

5 Places not to be missed on Lake Maggiore

5 PLACES NOT TO BE MISSED ON LAKE MAGGIORE

Lake Maggiore is one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy. Beautiful certainly but also very romantic and evocative thanks to the Borromean Islands and other hidden treasures. Here is a list of the 5 places not to be missed…

STRESA AND THE BORROMEO ISLANDS

Obviously the first stop to visit when spending a holiday (or a few days) on the shores of Lake Maggiore is Stresa and the Borromee islands. Not visiting them would be like going to Paris and not seeing the Eiffel Tower or going to Rome and not seeing the Colosseum. If you have time, we suggest you to visit at least Isola Bella and Isola dei Pescatori but Isola Madre is also worth the effort, for its suggestive gardens and tropical plants.

SANTA CATERINA DEL SASSO

Sanctuary built right on the rock that goes to pico inside the lake. Very evocative, it is also a place full of serenity and quietness. To be seen.

THE GARDENS OF VILLA TARANTO AND VILLA PALLAVICINO

The garden of Villa Taranto is recognized as “one of the most beautiful gardens in the world” while the garden of Villa Pallavicino will enchant the little ones with its animals to observe…

ARONA AND THE ROCCA DI ANGERA

The Rocca di Angera dominates the southern end of Lake Maggiore. If you are passionate about history, its historic rooms, embellished with precious frescoes will conquer you. Inside the Castle, on the other hand, you will find the Doll and Toy Museum, which is beautiful both for adults and children.

Arona. City known for its long lake on which it is pleasant to take a walk in the summer with ice cream in hand or the pedestrian center and its boutiques. But beyond that, it also has a historical charm with the Piazza del Popolo and its typical colored buildings or the Rocca Borromea where there are the remains of a fortress, founded in a period just before the year one thousand (still intact and impressive twin of the Rocca Borromea of Angera).

CANNERO RIVIERA 

Known as the city of citrus fruits. In fact, the Village has a long historical tradition of citrus cultivation: in its famous gardens and elegant villas you can see ancient specimens. And it is thanks to the cultivation of citrus and olive trees, favored by the mild climate of Lake Maggiore, that Cannero, since the mid-twentieth century, has taken the name of “Riviera”.

Private Concert

The beautiful Villa Muggia in Stresa has had the pleasure of hosting “Quei Bravi Ragazzi” for an exceptional private concert.

Directly from Florence with their style “Swing Italo-American”, the band has managed to enchant you and make you feel in the United States after the war!
The private concert was preceded by a “Welcome drink” and a buffet dinner in the Villa, the perfect opportunity to live a summer evening, surrounded by the magic of a fabulous and historical place.
An unforgettable moment between music and good company!