“The most beautiful wedding venue in Tuscany”
Villa Cetinale has become one of the most beloved wedding venues in Tuscany. It’s a place photographers dream of, couples coo over, and planners whisper. And having now been there myself- having strolled, mouth gaping, through those breathtaking grounds- I can tell you now…a wedding in Villa Cetinale is most definitely worth the hype.
Lua and Anthony had their intimate wedding there earlier this year. And it was utterly flawless.
Elegant, and considered; black-tie, and modern. And when we found colours, they came subtly. The emerald gardens, the Tuscan lemons, the berries in the live mille feuille.
If you’re dreaming of having a wedding in Villa Cetinale, come take a look. This was everything you’ve imagined, and more.
Villa Cetinale wedding venue in Tuscany
Just in case you haven’t heard of Villa Cetinale, let me give you the highlights…
6 miles west of Siena- nestled among citrus groves, ancient stone, and wild woodland- sits the 17th Century gem of Villa Cetinale.
And it is exquisite.
Every detail has been considered. Every corner, every furnishing; every leaf, on every hedge.
The gardens are immaculate, lush, and green; scented with lemons, herbs, and climbing roses. And the wisteria (oh my, the wisteria!); by far the most spectacular I’ve ever seen.
Step inside “the most beautiful villa in Tuscany”, and the beauty continues: 13 intricately decorated rooms, each with its own signature colour. My personal favourites? The Red Room, and The Yellow Room.
And it was there- with Lua and her girls, in that beautiful Yellow Room- that my day began.
Bridal styling inspiration for your wedding in Villa Cetinale
Tuscan sunlight streamed through the windows. Music played softly; crisp white wine sat cool in slender glasses. And for a few moments, Lua gazed out across those stunning gardens, lost in thought.
I took some portraits with Lua, her mother, and her sister- three generations of women in that breathtaking room. And with the sun climbing into the sky, and the ceremony calling, it was time to get ready.
Lua wore a stunning gown by Rebeca Nepomuceno. Her makeup was elegant, and natural; her hair falling in soft Hollywood waves (suffice to say, I have a serious girl-crush!) She had a custom cathedral-length veil with crescent moons, and Prada leather sandals. And to complete the look, a classic and chic bouquet of Calla Lilies.
A few doors down, Anthony was getting ready in The Red Room. Looking dapper in all-white: white suit, shirt, tie, and shoes.
He read through his vows one last time, adjusted his buttonhole. And headed out into the sunshine for their wedding in Villa Cetinale.
Roses, vows, and ancient stone
Anthony and Lua said their wedding vows in the gardens of Villa Cetinale.
Their 19 guests, in classic black-tie; the aisle, lined with meadows of white roses. Floral arrangements framed the altar, flanked by centuries-old stone. And behind them, an avenue of Cypress trees stretched into the distant hills.
The ceremony was intimate, and personal.
A live harpist played ‘The girl from Ipanema’ as Lua walked down the aisle- a lovely nod to her Brazilian roots. And after some heartfelt, personally-written vows, the celebrant made it official. And Lua and Anthony walked down the aisle in a flurry of rose petals.
Vanity Fair and serrano ham
A few moments later, we were mingling together on the sun-warm grass.
The food was incredible- Italian hors d’oeuvres, cheeses, and freshly carved serrano ham. We had some Vanity Fair group shots with *that* backdrop. The sun shone, the drinks flowed.
And while their guests were happily nibbling, chatting, and drinking away, I snuck off with A&L for a stroll around the grounds.
Couples portraits in Villa Cetinale
As your wedding photographer, we’ll always chat beforehand about the kind of photos you’re hoping for. The vibe you’re after, the backdrops you connect with, the reasons you fell in love with your venue.
So with Lua and Anthony, I already knew where we’d be going (I’d created a moodboard, done my research, mapped-out a plan).
But it was so hard to not get carried away! Every alcove we discovered, every place we found, was a beautiful new backdrop just begging to be captured!
We ambled around, and explored those incredible gardens. A&L walked hand-in-hand; birds chirped from the trees; Lua’s veil swished gently across the grass.
And in the peaceful Italian countryside, we found a few precious moments, just for them.
Elegant reception styling for your wedding in Villa Cetinale
We dined outdoors in those world-famous gardens.
A banqueting table was laid out on the inch-perfect lawn. An elegant white table cloth, white chairs, and calla lilies. It was timeless, and understated; beautiful in its considered simplicity.
We had four hearty courses, with pasta and steak. And with our bellies full, and our glasses empty, we strolled through the cypress trees and headed to the party.
Mille feuille, cocktails, and Pat Bo couture
A little while later, we were gathered on the flagstones of Villa Cetinale.
Lua and Anthony did a live cake decorating of mille feuille, with summer berries and fresh cream. (It’s a super fun, super tasty, Italian wedding tradition. If you’re having your wedding in Villa Cetinale, or anywhere in Italy for that matter, I highly recommend it!)
They served dessert immediately, while it was fresh. And as the guests were helping themselves to seconds (and thirds!) Lua headed upstairs to change into her evening look…
A hand-beaded, couture high-neck by Pat Bo.
Now I’ve always been a sucker for a vibey outfit change! And Lua, in that room, in that top, snuggled up on the bed with her one-and-only…it was one of those *pinch me* moments I’ll never forget.
Wedding photography in Villa Cetinale
The rest of the evening was a wonderful blur. Cocktails and music; stories and dancing. And as darkness fell outside, the stars twinkled in the inky Tuscan sky.
If you’re looking for someone to capture your wedding in Villa Cetinale, I’d be so excited to hear from you.
Get in touch today for a chat, and let’s see if we’re a good fit.
Suppliers
Photography @rebeccacarpenterphotography
Planning @weweddingintuscany
Venue @cetinale
Catering @terretrusche_events
Content Creation @the_contented_co
Florist @ilenia_florist_wedding
Officiant @tuscanpledges
Music ceremony @armonienuziali
Music @partysaxdj
Open bar @barmanevents_
Hair/Makeup @yanamakeupitaly
