Italian Inspired Intimate Elopement

A well known fact is that many couples had to rearrange their wedding plans last year due to circumstances but some of the most beautiful celebrations have been born from that rearrangement, such as this Italian inspired intimate elopement! Old world charm mixed with an authentic Italian feel – I could easily be convinced this breathtaking elopement took place right in Italy. Intentional details & various textures paired with a stunning color palette created a timeless design that offers so much inspiration & beauty!

“For this intimate elopement (a la 2020), we were inspired by the gorgeous location of Allegretto Vineyards. For Carli and Michael, who traveled here specifically for the venue’s old world charm, it was important to make the intimate wedding feel like it was an Italian affair. Our couple originally planned on a wedding in the Tuscan Hills of Italy, and due to this year’s uncertainty and travel guidelines, opted to capture Italy’s charm in their own home state. A truly remarkable destination nestled into the heart of California’s Central Coast wine country, Allegretto showcases the rich Mediterranean culture of the region with vineyard views and a rich landscape of olive orchards.

Hand-written calligraphy invitations with deckled edges were the guests’ first glimpse into what Carli and Michael envisioned for their celebration. The Other Day Calligraphy crafted a beautiful watercolor rendition of the venue, which lined the hand-addressed envelopes that were mailed out. – Madeleine Collins of Madeleine Collins Photography

With its rich whites, tea-stained ivories and tawny taupes, The Abbey was a perfect backdrop for their intimate reception. Guests were greeted by hand crafted escort cards, complete with an olive branch wax seal. Blu Events designed the table to perfectly complement the charm of the space, featuring flatware with ornate carvings and beige handles, alongside vintage china and etched glassware. White taper candles in brass holders of various heights accented the different textures of both preserved and fresh monochromatic florals. These pieces were set on top of a stunning embroidered olive branch linen from La Tavola Fine Linens. A coffee stained linen cloth with florals completed the backdrop, and the long table was surrounded by mismatched vintage seating. After the Italian-inspired 5 course meal, the guests were treated to a petite wedding cake adorned with preserved lunaria. Carli & Michael sent their loved ones home with French lemon macarons, a subtle nod to their formerly planned Honeymoon in Paris, which is now set to take place in 2021!” – Madeleine Collins of Madeleine Collins Photography

“Carli was stunning coming down the aisle in a gorgeous custom gown with removable balloon sleeves, with gold and lace Bella Belle heels as the finishing touch. Combined with a lavish monochromatic bridal bouquet and Michael’s fitted suit and loafers in neutral tones, the final outcome was a beautiful, stylish, new husband and wife. Their attire, along with the incredible emotion of the day, were captured beautifully on film by hybrid wedding photographer Madeleine Collins Photography.

For the ceremony, which was nestled in Allegretto’s courtyard, opulent wooden candle holders with creamy white ivory pillar candles adorned the stone fireplace. Our floral designer, Make It Happen Events, added subtle vines of greenery with dried monochromatic florals to tie in the beautiful neutrals found in the reception space. To complement the fireplace floral installation, we opted for cross-back farmhouse chairs with subtle florals lining the aisle.” – Madeleine Collins of Madeleine Collins Photography