From Dream to Reality: Behind the Scenes of a European Venue Hunt

When Grace & Daniel reached out to me, they had two simple requests: an intimate, boho-style elopement in Italy—and a budget that didn’t spiral out of control.

Their Pinterest board was full of dreamy cliffside ceremonies and candlelit dinners, but we knew we needed to be strategic. And that’s where the real magic happens.

I started by narrowing down venues that matched their vibe: romantic, private, and surrounded by nature. After exploring a few options, I found a family-owned villa nestled in the Umbrian hills—complete with gardens, terraces, and space for their 10 closest friends to stay on-site.

During my site visit, I noticed the venue had a beautiful but unused terrace overlooking the olive groves. I negotiated with the owner to include that space for the welcome dinner at no additional cost—transforming it into one of the most memorable moments of the weekend.

Next came the vendor team. I sourced a floral designer who specialized in wild, unstructured arrangements—perfect for Grace’s vision—and worked with a small, local catering team that created a custom seasonal menu (and happily accommodated gluten-free guests).

Throughout the process, I ensured every decision respected their budget without sacrificing quality. I believe luxury isn’t about spending more—it’s about spending intentionally.

By the time Grace & Daniel arrived in Italy, everything was in place. They were able to fully immerse themselves in the experience—sipping wine under the stars, exchanging vows in a garden, and knowing every detail had been thoughtfully taken care of.

That’s the power of expert planning and genuine care. That’s what I bring to every couple’s story.