On a recent trip to Italy, I participated in a shoot styled to perfection by Janna Brown Design Co at Villa Balbiano in Lake Como, Italy. This stunning villa is one of the crown jewels of Italy that used to belong to Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio. Built in the 16th century, it’s now one of the largest private residences on Lake Como and full of the European luxury that so many couples dream of for a destination wedding. I was absolutely thrilled to be able to capture a beautifully styled wedding day at Villa Balbiano!

I am so pleased to share that this gorgeous destination wedding was shared on Ruffled!

Chic Italian Bridal Look

As with many styled shoots, we had the chance to photograph multiple couples and looks during the day. I loved so many parts of both of our bridal models – they looked incredible! Our first bride wore a dress was designed by Ines Di Santo, an incredible Canadian designer. This dress was sophisticated. It was an off-the-shoulder gown with puff sleeves and wrapped bodice. Paired with pearl earrings, our bride looked so chic! Her groom looked equally chic in an ivory tux with a classic black bowtie.

Luxurious Bridal Style in Italy

Our second bridal look was equally as stunning. This couple went for luxury style – which was the perfect match for a Lake Como wedding day. This wedding gown was also from Ines di Santo: a strapless bodice gown with a lace overlay featuring florals that moved down her entire gown. I absolutely loved the slit in the gown, too, which brought a modern and chic look. With a slick bun, she looked effortlessly elegant.

Romantic Wedding Day on Lake Como

I loved exploring the gardens of Villa Balbiano with our couple. The historic gardens have incredible views of Lake Como and look amazing! One of my favorite spots had a gorgeous wrought iron fence and wall covered in ivy. We also had the chance to capture some portraits of our beautiful models inside Villa Balbiano. It was so special to be in that room, knowing how much history had occurred in the space. It was simply beautiful and moving.  

Elegant Garden Wedding in Italy

Beyond incredible views and a beautiful couple, Janna also designed the perfect outdoor wedding ceremony and reception sites  on the grounds of Villa Balbiano. The ceremony site was right against the railing overlooking Lake Como. It featured an incredible floral arbor by David Austin Wedding Roses, full of white tea roses. The same gorgeous ivory flowers lined the aisle leading to the lake.  

The reception tables featured gorgeous white roses, filling the centerpieces of a long family-style table and a smaller circular table for an intimate option. Paired with place settings with white and gold plates, along with tapered candles, an elegant waterfront reception came to life. 

We ended the night on Lake Como with our newlyweds on an incredibly sleek boat! Capturing wedding portraits on the water at sunset with Villa Balbiano behind us was magical. This incredible Villa Balbiano wedding was a wonderful reminder about how luxurious and intimate destination elopements can be! 

Italian Wedding Vendors

Venue: Villa Balbiano
Production, Design and Florals: Janna Brown Design Co.
Photographer: Ruth Terrero Photography
Roses: David Austin Wedding Roses
Bridal Boutique: Alexia’s Bridal
Gown: Ines Di Santo
Paper Details: Studio Wren Co.
Beauty: Anna Kalytyak

I love getting to capture these special moments so that you can remember your wedding day for the rest of your life! For me, your wedding day is so much more than just a day.

You deserve a wedding photographer who is invested in you and capturing every moment! Reach out and let’s connect to book your wedding day here in Florida (or around the world)!