After months of documenting celebrations on home soil, I’m delighted to finally spread my wings for a destination wedding, and where better than the beautiful shores of Italy’s Lake Como!
Together with the talented Fabrizio Vigano we captured the lovely Hayley & Max exchange vows at the most historic Villas in Lake Como – Villa Pliniana
Villa Pliniana’s rich history will add a level of sophistication and intrigue to your destination wedding that is unmatched! The villa was built in 1573 by Count Giovanni Anguissola, governor of Como, on 18 waterfront acres surrounding an intermittent fresh-water spring that bursts out of the earth at unpredictable times. Over the centuries, the Villa has gone through periods of alternating fortune and decay as it has passed through the hands of several owners. It also has a history of housing many famous guests, including poets, composers, politicians, novelists, and artists. It is even said that Napoleon himself stayed at the Villa and played on the same billiards that are still there today. What a beautiful wedding story to be able to tell in future years!
The Lovers of Pliniana
“When you write the story of two happy lovers, let the story be set in the banks of Lake Como.”
-Franz Liszt
Not only is Villa Pliniana rich in history, but there is also an intriguing legend surrounding a lover’s scandal in the early 19th century. A man named Emilio Barbiano Belgiojoso, who was married to Cristina Trivulzio di Belgiojoso, fell madly in love with Anne Berthier Wittelsbach, and they struck up a scandalous love affair. The two escaped from Paris to Villa Pliniana to enjoy the unmatched beauty and isolation of the area. Legend has it that the lovers lived there until the 1850s and were often seen leaping from the balcony into the indigo lake waters below. Since its inception, Villa Pliniana has been a timeless romantic location, perfect for an intimate and lavish wedding.
Grounds and Accommodations
The Villa Pliniana has both if you want to wow your guests with unmatched beauty and five-star service. Nestled between the serene woods and the spectacular lake views, the 18 acres of the Villa are unmatched in beauty and peace. The centuries-old buildings were beautifully restored in 2015, by adding modern spa amenities, offering an incomparable combination of old-world opulence and modern-day luxury. Villa Pliniana boasts suites containing 18 bedrooms plus three independent houses, all with a spectacular view of the lake. On-site accommodations will have you living in the lap of luxury with complimentary butler service, housekeeping, and concierge, along with private kitchens and laundry.
Their 2015 renovations also brought an incredible infinity pool experience! With water pumped in and filtered from the lake at a depth of 50 meters, the pool offers the feeling that you are truly swimming in the middle of the iconic lake. Once you’ve enjoyed your swim, relax in the sauna, steam bath, or heavenly showers available at their spa.
If you’re enjoying the Villa with your closest friends and family, there are countless ways to reconnect, relax, and savor one another’s company around the gorgeous grounds. There are many gardens, terraces, and small corners to enjoy moments together. Plenty of opportunities for adventures on the lake, including a windswept excursion on the Villa’s own wooden Vaporina boat, make this a must-see spot. Additionally, the helicopter landing pad, water access, and car driveways offer endless possibilities for exploring the surrounding areas.
Weddings & Events
Possibly one of the best ways to honor the Villa’s history and enjoy its current beauty is by hosting your own wedding on the grounds. As one of the most luxurious venues in all of Italy, Villa Pliniana’s wedding accommodations are unmatched. The grounds offer the stunning lake and gardens as the backdrop for your ceremony and a jaw-dropping ballroom that can accommodate up to 200 seated guests. Your wedding party will be served with the utmost care by professionally trained servers, chefs, and support staff, ensuring a memorable wedding ceremony, aperitivo, and reception dining experience.
If you’ve fallen in love with Villa Pliniana as much as I have, click here for more information about planning your destination wedding at Italy’s heaven on earth. Then, send an inquiry here to start the process with me to capture your love story at the wedding of your dreams!
