An Italian Elopement: From Venice to Lake Como
Every couple dreams of Italy — the winding canals of Venice, the sparkling waters of Lake Como, the romance and timeless beauty that seem pulled from a movie. Few imagine actually living that dream on their wedding day. And for photographers, the fantasy of capturing a love story in such a setting is almost untouchable — a rare chance to blend travel, creativity, and romance all in one.
This incredible opportunity came when a couple traveled all the way from the States for their elopement, and my aunt and I — who have photographed together for years — were lucky enough to join them. From the moment we landed in Venice, their warmth and generosity set the tone for the week. They treated us with such luxury and refinement, starting with a dinner together immediately after arrival, diving straight into Venetian cuisine and the city’s enchanting atmosphere.
Our first night in Venice was cinematic. Nestled along the shore, we could hear the hum of street life, smell the aromas of Venetian cooking drifting from nearby trattorias, and hear music weaving through the canals — exactly as you imagine in the movies. The weather was not ideal, with intermittent rain, but it only added a dreamy, romantic mood to the city.
We explored the iconic Doge’s Palace, wandering through its ornate halls, grand staircases, and richly decorated chambers. The palace’s history and artistry added a layer of awe to the trip — a reminder of the incredible depth and beauty Venice holds beyond its canals.
We also took a beautiful 50-minute gondola ride through the winding waterways, capturing tender moments between the couple framed by centuries-old architecture. Iconic spots like the Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs provided breathtaking backdrops, and the following morning, we revisited them at sunrise for additional photos. Experiencing Venice both from the water and on foot provided two entirely different, equally magical perspectives.
After Venice, we hopped on a water taxi and then a train north to Lake Como, where we spent a day photographing the couple in front of Villa Balbianello. The villa and lake provided a serene, storybook backdrop for the final session. Evenings in Tremezzo were spent exploring towns by car and boat, sampling gelato, and enjoying lakeside dinners — a feast for all the senses.
I ended the trip with a few personal days in Rome, soaking up the history, vibrant streets, and iconic sights. Every piazza, fountain, and narrow alleyway added to the magic of this unforgettable Italian adventure.
From Venice’s cinematic canals and the grandeur of Doge’s Palace to Lake Como’s serene elegance, this elopement was more than just a wedding — it was a dream realized for the couple, a once-in-a-lifetime creative experience for us as photographers, and a beautiful reminder of why we chase moments like these across the globe.
