If you’ve been following my work for a while, you might remember this lovely, adventurous, and creative couple. Kathlina and Alex’s Salt Flats elopement session near Salt Lake City, Utah, was one I’ll never forget. These two embrace life to its fullest, always bringing their unique personalities and playful energy into each moment. That’s why it wasn’t at all surprising—and entirely fitting—that their wedding celebration would take us halfway around the world to beautiful Tuscany! And as far as Tuscany wedding venues go, this one is one of the best. Take in those hilltop views and fantastic hospitality!
Villa Valgiano: A Dreamy Tuscany Wedding Venue
Nestled just outside charming Lucca, Italy, Villa Valgiano was the perfect backdrop for this intimate, dreamy, and truly unforgettable celebration. When I arrived at the Tuscany wedding venue, I understood why Kathlina and Alex chose it—the rolling hills dotted with olive trees and vines lent an elegant yet cozy atmosphere that embodied Tuscany’s sun-kissed magic.
I flew to Italy specifically for this event, and I have to say, destination weddings are always extra special for me. It’s an honor to photograph couples willing to think outside the box and make their wedding reflect their adventurous spirits. While there, I even photographed Alex’s sister’s engagement session, making it an especially memorable weekend filled with family, laughter, and love!
A Personal Connection and a Familiar Face
One of the highlights was reconnecting with Natalia, their talented wedding planner. Natalia actually helped plan my own wedding, so catching up with her and collaborating once again made this day even more meaningful. She captured the essence of Tuscany in every detail—combining rustic elegance, charm, and warmth into a memorable celebration.
An Intimate Ceremony & Relaxed Reception in Tuscany
In true Kathlina and Alex fashion, the couple kept things intimate and relaxed. Surrounded by their closest family and friends, they exchanged heartfelt vows beneath the Italian sun, surrounded by the gentle breeze rustling through olive branches and vines. Their reception was laid-back and full of joy, perfectly capturing the essence of Tuscan culture—delicious food, incredible local wine, and an evening filled with laughter beneath twinkling lights.
Capturing it All on Film
Since this was a micro wedding, I took advantage of the opportunity to shoot entirely on film. As a photographer, capturing weddings on film is a real creative treat. It’s a medium with a timeless, artistic quality that matched the romantic atmosphere of Villa Valgiano. The soft, dreamy images convey their celebration’s warmth, intimacy, and beauty of the Tuscany wedding venue.
How to Build the Perfect Vendor Team for Your Luxury Destination Wedding
Planning a destination wedding is like crafting a beautifully intricate love story where every detail speaks to your unique vision. Yet, with the added logistics of an international celebration, having a talented and trustworthy vendor team becomes essential. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic villa nestled in the Tuscan hills or a sun-drenched terrace overlooking the Mediterranean, your vendors will be the heartbeat of your celebration, ensuring things run seamlessly.
What’s the secret to making your dream wedding a stress-free reality? Assembling a vendor team you can rely on every step of the way.
Why Having the Right Vendor Team Matters
Destination weddings come with extra layers of planning, often involving language barriers, local regulations, and unfamiliar customs. Your vendor team should include creative experts who double as problem-solvers, collaborators, and your go-to cheerleaders. You can know that no matter what surprises may come, your day will be everything you’ve dreamed of and more.
By choosing vendors specializing in luxury destination weddings, you’re investing in their experience, knowledge, and ability to adapt. Most importantly, you’re creating a supportive foundation for your once-in-a-lifetime celebration.
6 Steps to Building Your Dream Vendor Team
Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your vendor selections are as perfectly tailored as your wedding dress.
1. Start with a Destination Wedding Planner
Your planner is a game-changer and should be the very first hire. A seasoned destination wedding planner transforms big ideas into action like a magician behind the scenes.
- Why they’re essential: They’ll help you scout ideal venues and connect you with a network of trusted local professionals, from florists to caterers. They’re also your key to navigating logistics, such as regional permits, shipping timelines, and even cultural traditions.
- Pro Tip: Hire your planner early on to make the rest of the vendor selection process smoother. A planner like Natalia, who flawlessly executed Kathlina and Alex’s unforgettable Italian wedding, will bridge the gap between your vision and local expertise.
2. Secure Your Photographer Early
Your wedding photographer is more than someone with a camera; they are the guardian of your memories. For a destination wedding, this role carries even more significance.
- What makes them unique: Experienced destination wedding photographers are skilled at adapting to varying light conditions, navigating unfamiliar locations, and capturing the magic in a way that feels personal and artistic.
- Timing is everything: Booking early ensures your photographer has adequate time to coordinate travel plans and scout the venue for photo locations.
3. Trust Your Planner’s Local Network
Your planner will likely have an extensive network of destination wedding vendors they’ve worked with before. Trusting their recommendations is a stress-free way to ensure your team is cohesive and professional.
- Local expertise matters: Vendors like florists, caterers, and hairstylists who understand the region can enhance your celebration with authentic details and seamless execution.
- Example: During a Tuscan wedding, choosing a local caterer who uses fresh, seasonal ingredients can elevate every bite on your menu.
4. Communicate Your Vision Clearly
Your vision is the glue that holds everything together. Ensuring your team aligns with your goals will make the process more productive and enjoyable.
- Visual aids help: Share mood boards, Pinterest ideas, or reference images so your planner, photographer, and stylist know exactly what you’re imagining.
- Clear collaboration: Consistent communication with your vendors fosters mutual understanding, ensuring they know what’s most important to you.
5. Don’t Forget Backup Plans
Visualizing a picture-perfect day is exciting, but don’t forget to prepare for the unexpected. For example, does your outdoor ceremony venue have an equally stunning indoor or covered alternative in case of rain?
- Work with adaptable vendors: The best teams are ready for all possibilities. From alternate spaces to impeccable time management, experienced vendors can think on their feet when needed.
6. Build in Extra Time for Logistics
Between shipping decor internationally and wrangling travel schedules, timelines can feel tighter for destination weddings. Give yourself some buffer time for the surprises that might arise.
- Schedule strategically: Align timelines with your key vendors early and work backward to ensure everything arrives and happens on time.
Destination Weddings Should Be as Fun as They Are Beautiful
A destination wedding invites joy, exploration, and discovery—for you and your entire family and guest list. At its core, your destination wedding celebrates two things you love most deeply in this world: each other and the adventures yet to come. The perfect vendor team can help you showcase both.
Work with a Photographer Who Embodies Your Vision
I’ve been lucky enough to capture weddings, engagements, and love stories across breathtaking locations—from the sunlit streets of Lucca to vibrant forested mountaintops and more. What excites me most is the chance to tell YOUR story.
Getting married abroad can be an adventure of a lifetime, and capturing these beautiful moments is an absolute joy for me as your photographer. If a European destination wedding–or elsewhere!–sounds like your idea of a perfect celebration, get in touch with me! I’d love to hear about your vision and coordinate travel schedules to start planning your special day.
Wedding Vendor Team
Planning // Natalia Sorokina
HMU // Sada
Tuscany Wedding Venue // Villa Valgiano
Florals // Julia Shuba
