Some couples believe they have to choose. A grand, religious ceremony at home, or an intimate, adventurous escape. Jessica and Leo wanted both. They dreamed of a real Catholic wedding in Cortona, a sacred moment that was also completely, privately theirs.
Their story began at Villa di Piazzano, a beautiful historic estate where the quiet anticipation of the day began to build.
A Sacred Ceremony, Just for Two
While our stylist attended to Jessica, Leo, looking sharp in his black tie, waited in the villa’s bar. We arranged for him to travel ahead to the heart of Cortona, to the magnificent Duomo, where he waited inside with the priest.
We had arranged for an American priest from Florence to lead the ceremony, a crucial detail ensuring their vows were spoken and understood in their own language. Standing before the altar, with the cathedral’s soaring arches and historic artworks as their only witnesses, they exchanged their promises. The scale of the space did not diminish their connection. It amplified it.
In the vast, quiet hall, their private vows were the only thing that mattered. It was proof that a sacred ceremony does not require a crowd. It only requires devotion.
A Celebration in the Tuscan Light
They walked out of the church as husband and wife into the bright Tuscan sun. The solemnity of the ceremony gave way to pure joy.
They wandered the ancient, cobbled streets of Cortona, a town that has seen centuries of love stories, stopping for gelato in the Piazza della Repubblica. It was a simple, sweet moment of celebration. Later, as the sun began to dip, we drove out into the countryside for the golden hour. They walked hand-in-hand as the light spilled over the rolling hills, creating the kind of heirloom images that feel both epic and deeply personal.
Their day ended back at Villa di Piazzano. Between two tall cypress trees, we had set a table for two. A crystal chandelier hung above it, casting a warm glow as dusk settled. It was a perfect, romantic scene.
And on their table, next to the flowers, sat a small framed photograph of their dog back in Miami. A funny, personal touch. It was a reminder that your story is made of these specific, meaningful things.
Creating an elopement like this is about more than logistics. It’s about understanding what is sacred to you. It’s about honoring your traditions while creating a new one, just for two.
