Some stories don’t begin as planned. They turn out better. After postponing their large wedding in Malta, Ami and Bobby decided against rescheduling and chose adventure instead. They fell in love with the idea of a spontaneous, impossibly romantic Villa Balbiano elopement, and we were honored to bring that vision to life. The goal was simple: to make one of the most famous villas on Lake Como feel like their private home for a day.
A Palace Becomes a Home
The morning began with a sense of calm anticipation. While Ami had her hair and makeup styled in a top-floor suite, surrounded by historic frescoes, Bobby prepared on the first floor. He adjusted his bow tie in one of the grand common rooms, the opulent interiors designed by Jacques Garcia framing a perfect view of the lake. This wasn’t a crowded hotel lobby. It was his space.
Their first look took place in the villa’s epic gardens. Bobby waited as Ami walked out from the palazzo, her dress catching the light. The moment he turned around was pure emotion. It was a private, unguarded reaction that set the tone for the entire day.
Vows by the Water
We designed their ceremony on the main lawn, with the shimmering lake and dramatic Alps as their backdrop. Two rivers of white delphiniums and roses created a striking aisle on the perfect grass, leading to the spot where they would exchange their vows.
The ceremony itself was the heart of the day. We partner with celebrants who take the time to know you, and for Ami and Bobby, this meant a script woven entirely from their own history and inside jokes. As an acoustic guitarist played softly, they listened to their own story being told back to them. It’s the difference between a reading and a recognition. It’s what makes a symbolic ceremony feel deeply true.
An Adventure on the Lake
After the ceremony, we had a classic Riva boat waiting at the villa’s private dock. This is the essential Lake Como experience. They sped across the water, champagne in hand, capturing those iconic portraits with the magnificent facade of Villa Balbiano behind them. It’s a moment of pure, cinematic romance.
Back at the villa, a table for two was set for a fine dining experience overlooking the water. The details were personal, from the floral design to the candles. As their private musician played, they had their first dance. Ami, barefoot on the lawn of a 16th-century palace.
That single detail says everything. It speaks to a level of comfort and intimacy that is the true measure of a successful elopement. We finished the evening with one last secret. As they cut their cake, we surprised Ami with a glittering display of cold fountains, a final, sparkling memory to close out a perfect day.Proceed to write the content. 600 words. Break up the content with line breaks and clever use of headings.
Create Your Own Italian Elopement Story
Finding the perfect spot is just the first step. The real art is in how the day feels. If you’re dreaming of an elopement that is personal, relaxed, and truly yours, let’s talk.
