Tucked away in Florence, Italy, Villa di Striano feels like a land lost in time. With its ancient architecture and its secluded gardens, this is the ideal place to go whenever you need an escape. As a destination wedding photographer, I recently got to fly to this estate to celebrate with Travis and Felicity. Here is what made their Villa di Striano wedding so magical!
About The Villa di Striano Wedding Venue
Loc. Striano, 50032 Borgo San Lorenzo FI, Italy
Villa di Striano was always made to stand out. The history of this location dates back to the 13th century, when it was used as a guard tower. The space overlooked the rest of the village, taking full advantage of the views while still offering its residents quiet solitude. The same features that had helped it stand watch over the village made it all the more appealing when Antonio Cocchi, a doctor and writer, acquired it in the 18th century. This was when the house really started its transformation, turning from a simple guard tower into a luxury estate.
Upon Cocchi’s death, the estate was passed down through the Franceschi family, who turned it into a villa and oratory. It was then owned by Michele Gordigiani (painter of the European queens) and then by Baron Robert von Mendelssohn. Over the years, this house would host countless artists, writers, and other prominent members of fine society. Today, this villa continues to offer its guests the royal treatment, giving you everything you could ever need for a storybook wedding.
Details of the Grounds
When you book Villa di Striano for your wedding day, you will be able to stay overnight on the property. With this option, you are going to have a luxurious space where you can get ready ahead of your wedding day. Travis and Felicity chose to use this venue for wedding prep, and it led to some pretty gorgeous pictures as they sipped champagne and finished putting together their wedding look.
For your ceremony, you will have several options. If you are the kind of couple who prefers to tie the knot in a church, you will be near some gorgeous historic places where you can exchange your vows while surrounded by ancient architecture. Those who prefer to stay on the grounds for the entirety of their day will have their choice between indoor and outdoor spots.
Travis and Felicity chose to have their ceremony outside in the gardens on the lookout. I know I’ve already talked about the views, but they are worth mentioning again. The backdrop here is absolutely divine, putting Tuscany on full display! The couple placed their altar at the front of the site. As they traded their vows, the rolling hills and iconic buildings showed off just behind them. It was ideal for their pics! The venue has a few other options you can choose from if you prefer to stay outside. They can help you pick from places like woodsy clearings and sprawling courtyards, matching you with the one they know will best suit you.
Indoor Ceremonies And Incredible Villa di Striano Wedding Receptions
If you would rather have your wedding inside, you can choose from spots such as the Hall of Ceremonies or the Terrace of Artists. They additionally offer the balcony of the Wisteria Suite for intimate weddings.
Once your wedding is over, it will be time for your cocktail hour. Your guests can head back toward the villa, where they can enjoy masterfully prepared drinks while you take pictures across the property.
Just like with your ceremony, you will have several options for your reception. If you do prefer to stay outside, you can host your dinner out in the courtyard, sharing a meal before heading out to the dance floor. Travis and Felicity chose to have the first part of their evening inside. They hosted a private dinner inside the villa, raising a glass as their friends gave toasts. Then, once they had finished dining on authentic Italian dishes, they headed outside to the grotto for an open-air party unlike any other! They placed their bar against the stone walls for a unique backdrop where guests could order faves like espresso martinis and aperol spritzes. Even after that, they still had ample room for dancing and for a DJ!
I loved how they were able to embrace the spirit of Italy while still putting their own twist on their day. Thanks to Villa di Striano, these two were able to have their perfect celebration without any of the stress.
Photography Opportunities
Villa di Striano is going to give you endless photo opportunities throughout your wedding day. The designated bridal suite has its own private terrace ideal for showing off your look with natural lighting. You can also find vintage furniture and priceless artwork that you can use for your backdrop.
For your couple’s portraits, you can explore the exterior where you can share a kiss beneath the towering arches or walk hand-in-hand up the ancient stone stairs. The private gardens and jaw-dropping hillsides will also be great for these photos.
Finally, for your group portraits, you can use areas such as the ceremony lookout and the courtyard in front of the estate.
Wedding Details
Villa di Striano is going to work with you to have a day you will never forget! They offer a range of planning options and will work with you to accommodate up to 220 guests. Their team will be there for floral design, entertainment, and lighting. The catering will be provided in-house by a team of expert chefs who know how to create your perfect meal. Their staff will also be there to set up your day, and they can be there for clean-up once the party is over.
A Villa di Striano Wedding Always Delivers Magical Memories
If you have been considering a wedding in Florence, I think you will fall in love with the Villa di Striano wedding venue! This private villa is going to give you stunning views as well as top-of-the-line services. And thank you to Franci’s Flowers for the gorgeous florals for this day!
Once you have your venue, it’s time to start thinking about your photographer. I can be there for that as well! I am a destination wedding photographer, and I adore going all across the globe to help couples capture all those timeless details that set their adventure apart. If you are the type of person who loves vibrant colors and joyful moments, I would love to have a conversation so you can decide if we’re a match. Send me a message today to find out more!
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