Ishani and Deven had an absolute dream destination wedding over three days in Abbazai San Pietra In Valle, Italy, and it was truly magical to get to share in their celebration. The first day was spent welcoming all those who could make it out, and remembering absent friends who couldn’t be there on their big day. It all culminated in a massive pizza party that night where everybody got to know each other and catch up with those they hadn’t seen in a while. The celebration was finally cut short by a rainstorm, so everyone called it a night and headed in to get some rest for the first of two big days of weddings.
The weather remained unpredictable throughout the remaining days, with the occasional shower breaking up the sunshine. It was this temperamental weather that brought us a beautiful rainbow right before the ceremony though. I guess there really is a silver lining. This was the day devoted to the Bengali wedding. Ishani wore a beautiful saree from Mabesha, and decorated with jewellery from Precious by Maria and Swarovski The temperamental weather made it difficult to match the lighting, but, even so, there were some really beautiful moments I had the pleasure of capturing.
One of my favourite ceremonies was the Saat Paak and Shubho Drishti ritual, in which Ishani was carried in on a pidi (a small stool) around Deven seven times by her brothers, while covering her eyes with betel leaves. After the seventh round, she removed the leaves so they could look at each other. The couple then changed for the reception, and everyone seemed to have a great time dancing to Bollywood music, drinking cocktails crafted exclusively for the event, and just generally celebrating in a whirl of colour.
The final day held the western wedding ceremony, and had some real highlights. Not least of all when a stray dog wandered into the wedding, and stole the bride's thunder by having his own walk down the aisle to a lot of laughter from everyone. Another nice touch was that Ishani and Devin had decided to embrace their Italian setting by throwing olive leaves instead of confetti. The outfits were all stunning, especially Ishani’s lace dress and veil from David’s Bridal and Bridal Spree Boutique. Deven cut a fine figure in his mint green suit and white shirt.
Following the ceremony, we got to do some portrait pictures. These turned out to be some of my favourite from the whole day. As usual, the food at the reception was amazing, and everyone seemed to love the Hold the Phone audio guestbook.
Once again, there were specially made cocktails, and everyone danced into the late hours. And just like that, the three day whirlwind of colour, light, good food and better people came to an end.
If I could take away one thing from this wedding, it’s the importance of knowing your wedding photographer. This wedding worked out really well because I knew the couple beforehand, and was able to not only figure out what they were looking for, but almost join in the celebration. Nobody wants to be left looking stiff and awkward on their wedding day. Hiring a photographer you know and trust is a great way to make sure you can truly feel relaxed and comfortable. And at the end of the day, the pictures speak for themselves.
Dream Team✨
Wedding dress: Galiana Signature from David’s Bridal
Veil: Bridal Spree Boutique
Saree (Ishani), Kurta & Dhoti (Deven): Mabesha
Jewellery: Swarovski and Precious by Maria
Hair: Marina Melkonyan
Makeup: Arianna Saura
Florals: Sartoria Floreale
Cake & catering: Lincei Catering
Bartending: FBS Bar Catering
Bar on wheels: BrindApino
Photographer: Suzy Queen
Venue: Abbazia San Pietro in Valle
Music: Wedding Music & Lights
Wedding planner: Parade Wedding
If you would like to read some more about this wedding, then check out The Kit’s blog post.
