Martina and Curtis’ Intimate Destination Wedding in Italy
But first, the cutest love story you’ll ever hear.
Martina and Curtis were teenagers when they were seated across each other on a small charter plane in Greece. The two hit it off on the plane and went on adventures together on the island. But Martina is from Italy, and Curtis is from Australia and they had to go their separate ways after their holiday.
After years of on and off correspondence, missed connections, and missed opportunities, Martina found herself living in New York, in an unhappy relationship. Curtis, in Australia, finally sent her the message he had been wanting to send her for years: “I have never stopped thinking about you since we met in Greece, and I’ve wanted to be with you ever since. Let’s do this, for real this time. What do you say?”
The following week, Curtis was on a plane to New York with a suitcase full of his belongings. He moved immediately into Martina’s studio apartment on the Upper East Side. It was 2020, and lock down was fully in place. As a result, the two had nothing short of a crash course in their relationship.
For even the most solid of couples, being stuck all day living and working in an apartment with a Murphy bed can be a deal breaker. Not for Curtis and Martina. Within 2 years of living together Curtis got a ring, and the two were wed in Martina’s hometown in Liguria, Italy. These two are a model of patience, kindness, love, and shooting your shot.
There’s something endlessly romantic about an intimate destination wedding in Italy, and this celebration in Celle Ligure, Liguria was no exception. Nestled between the turquoise Ligurian Sea and rolling green hills, Celle Ligure is a seaside town that feels like it was made for love stories. Its pastel-colored houses, palm-lined promenade, and sweeping coastal views set the perfect stage for an unforgettable wedding day.
This particular wedding was captured entirely on film photography—adding an extra layer of nostalgia and timelessness to an already magical day.
A Morning of Uncertainty, A Day of Sunshine
The morning began with a hint of suspense. Clouds rolled in, and everyone wondered if the ceremony would be blessed with sunshine or softened by rain, especially the bride. Guests held their breath as the bride got ready, but just before the vows, as if paid actors, the clouds parted and the sun beamed across the Ligurian coast. From the ceremony through the lively reception, the sky stayed golden and clear, a true gift for a seaside wedding.
A Bilingual Ceremony: Italian and English Traditions
The ceremony was a beautiful reflection of the couple’s story: the bride, Italian, and the groom, Australian. To honor both families, the vows and blessings were spoken in both Italian and English, creating an atmosphere of unity and love that transcended language. Laughter and tears filled the air, reminding everyone of the power of love to bring together two cultures across continents.
The Beauty of Liguria for a Destination Wedding
Liguria, often referred to as the Italian Riviera, is an idyllic destination for couples dreaming of a wedding abroad. With its crystal-clear beaches, charming seaside towns, and nearby mountains, it offers endless backdrops for wedding photos. Celle Ligure, in particular, is ideal for couples seeking a location that feels both authentic and intimate—less crowded than Cinque Terre but equally breathtaking.
Captured on film, the colors of Liguria—soft pink facades, emerald waters, and golden Mediterranean light—came alive with texture and warmth. Film has a way of holding onto moments in a way that feels tangible, timeless, and full of life.
Tips for Planning a Destination Wedding in Italy
If you’re considering having your destination wedding in Liguria or anywhere in Italy, here are a few helpful tips:
Hire a local planner or coordinator – They can help with Italian legal requirements and make sure everything runs smoothly.
Blend languages – If your guest list is international, consider a bilingual ceremony like this one. It creates inclusivity and connection.
Think about the season – Liguria shines in late spring through early fall. Summer is stunning, but be prepared for more tourists.
Embrace local traditions – Incorporate Italian cuisine, music, and wine into your reception to give guests an authentic experience.
Choose film photography for timelessness – Italy’s landscapes and golden light are made for film, capturing the day in a romantic, cinematic way.
A Reception Full of Joy and Love
As the sun dipped into the sea, the reception came alive with laughter, music, and dancing under the stars. Italian hospitality shone through with flowing wine, fresh local dishes, and the joy of families from two continents coming together. It was the kind of celebration that reminded everyone why Italy is one of the world’s top wedding and elopement destinations.
This intimate destination wedding in Celle Ligure, Liguria was the perfect blend of Italian charm, Australian spirit, and timeless film photography. With sunshine breaking through the clouds and two cultures uniting in love, it was a day that felt straight out of a romantic film reel.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding in Italy, especially along the Ligurian coast, I would love to capture your story. Whether in Celle Ligure, Cinque Terre, Portofino, or beyond, Italy offers the perfect canvas for your love.
