Lake Como Elopement | Photography & Planning

I met Mari-Liis and Meelis in December 2023 for a Christmas photoshoot in Venice and from the start, I enjoyed their company very much and we shared a great connection. After that session, we stayed in touch. Then, a few months later they later told me they were planning a Lake Como Elopement, and wanted me as their photographer, I was incredibly honored. They weren’t just looking for someone to take pictures; instead, they wanted someone who truly understood their vision and could bring it to life.

Designing a Dream Lake Como Elopement for Two

Mari-Liis and Meelis knew exactly what they wanted: a Lake Como Elopement that was personal, romantic, and free from the stress of a traditional wedding. They envisioned a day that focused on their connection, without rigid timelines or formalities. No guests were coming with them from Estonia, just the two of them on a romantic Italian getaway.

At first, they considered several destinations like Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast. To help them visualize the different atmospheres Italy offers, I created mood boards showcasing the diverse landscapes and food traditions across the regions. Eventually, they realized that a Lake Como Elopement was the perfect match for them. The blend of lush greenery, deep blue waters and timeless elegance had everything they were looking for.

Choosing the Perfect Venue: Villa Lucini

Finding the right venue wasn’t just about aesthetics; rather, it was about choosing a place that truly felt like them and made them feel welcome. After extensive research, Villa Lucini stood out as the ideal location. With its historic terrace, elegant statues, and intimate atmosphere, it felt like the perfect choice. The villa’s owner, Marco, was incredibly friendly and open to hosting such a unique ceremony, even though the property is usually rented out as a regular Airbnb. Once we had the location and the date confirmed, we started looking for vendors to bring their Lake Como elopement vision to life.

A Meaningful Symbolic Ceremony in Italy

For me, photography is not just about taking pretty pictures, it’s about remembering the way you felt in those moments. Alongside telling their story through my photography, I also helped coordinate details that made their day truly special.

The day started with their preparations in different rooms of the villa. Mari-Liis had her makeup done by Oriana from WeddingbyJoy, who created a natural, elegant look that enhanced her beauty. Their ceremony was accompanied by the delicate sound of a violinist, Costanza, setting an intimate and emotional atmosphere. The space was beautifully adorned with floral arrangements created by Jenn of Mexichic, who designed stunning white flower compositions, just as the bride had requested. The elegant tones of the flowers perfectly complemented the setting, adding a beautiful touch to the ceremony.

The ceremony itself was officiated by Aurora, who played a meaningful role in guiding the moment with heartfelt words. She read a beautifully written text, emphasizing how Mari-Liis and Meelis had chosen to embark on this journey alone, traveling to Italy to celebrate their love in the most personal and authentic way.

It was an incredibly intimate and emotional ceremony. In fact, Meelis was already in tears even before reading his vows and exchanging rings, overwhelmed by the depth of the moment. You could feel the love in every glance, every word (even if they were exchanging vows in Estonian!), and every tear.

Lake Como Elopement Activities: Vintage Car Drive and Boat Tour

After the ceremony, we left the villa in a vintage car, rented by Vintage Drive Como Lake. Our journey took us to Bellagio, where we boarded a private boat for a two-hour tour of Lake Como. During the cruise, we popped open a bottle of champagne and cruised past iconic landmarks like Villa del Balbianello and other famous lakeside villas, soaking in the breathtaking scenery.

We made a stop in Varenna, where we enjoyed a simple Italian pleasure, a delicious gelato from Gelateria Riva while strolling through its historic streets. Later, we returned to Bellagio by boat and made our way back to the villa in the vintage car, just as the sun dipped below the horizon.

As evening settled in, the garden transformed into a romantic setting with the soft glow of candlelight. Chef Laura prepared an exquisite dinner featuring traditional Lombard dishes, like osso buco with risotto alla Milanese (risotto flavored with saffron). The night was filled with warmth and laughter as they cut a small wedding cake, also prepared by Laura, and toasted once again to their love under the starry sky.

It was the perfect end to this Lake Como elopement day filled with emotion, beauty, and unforgettable memories.

Why You Should Do an Intimate Lake Como Elopement

With Mari-Liis and Meelis, it was about capturing a love story exactly as it was meant to be: personal, deep, and free from expectations. Their elopement reminded me why I love what I do: it’s not about perfection or grand gestures, but rather about authentic connections and meaningful moments.

Choosing an intimate Lake Como elopement allowed them to focus entirely on each other, without the distractions or pressures that often come with traditional weddings. It was just the two of them, fully present, celebrating their love in the most genuine way. As a result, this simplicity created space for real emotions to shine through, unfiltered, raw, and beautiful.

As their Lake Como elopement photographer, my approach wasn’t just to document the day but also to be part of it in an authentic, natural way. I was lucky to connect with them so deeply that it felt like I was photographing two friends, witnessing their love story up close. The atmosphere was filled with warmth, not just between the couple but among everyone involved. We had an incredible team of talented women who worked seamlessly together, which added to the sense of connection and joy throughout the day.

Mari-Liis later told me how grateful she was for the heartfelt energy surrounding them, and she never once regretted the decision to elope without friends and family. Their day wasn’t defined by traditions; instead it was defined by them, their story, and the emotions we were able to capture in such an intimate, meaningful setting.

Planning Your Intimate Lake Como Elopement? Let’s Create Something Unforgettable.

If you’re considering an intimate elopement in Lake Como or anywhere else in Italy, I’d love to hear from you. Whether you’re looking for a photographer who can capture the essence of your story and understands how to create an experience that feels authentic, I’m here to help.

Vendors

Venue: Villa Lucini
Photography: Silvia Sala Photography
Florist: Jenn – Mexichic
MUA: Oriana – WeddingbyJoy
Violinist: Costanza
Private Chef: Laura – Prêt à Manger
Vintage Car: Vintage Drive Como Lake