Sofia & Emilio
After Emilio proposed and I said yes, our first decision was where to hold our wedding! Should we celebrate in Greece where I was bought up, in Italy where we met and live, or in beautiful Wanaka where my parents live? In the end we chose Umbria in Italy, at a beautiful 16th century Borgo that was just perfect, but also offered apartments where all the Kiwi family could stay.
We enjoyed the entire Borgo for three relaxed days with family and friends. It was pizza night on Friday, the wedding Saturday and a chilled Sunday BBQ by the pool.
We held the wedding ceremony at 5.30pm under an old almond tree. It was hot, but a light breeze helped. Family and friends gave their speeches, and there were many happy tears.
After the ceremony we moved into the courtyard for antipasto and prosecco, then onto the plated meal. The food was just superb. My father was not that keen on giving a speech – he had written out many ideas but couldn't get it right. However, after the wine flowed he was coaxed up onto a chair to welcome everyone to the wedding and to welcome Emilio to the family. It was impromptu but perfect.
We danced the night away down by the pool, only stopping when the Umbrian sun rose over the hills. Emilio’s extended family, the New Zealanders, plus our friends from Greece and Italy made our wedding so happy and full of real joy. It took some planning, but was absolutely everything I had dreamed of.
Photos by Laura Babera
Atelier Eme / Satoria Floreale / Ristorart Fabriano