An Italian Destination Wedding in an 8th-Century Abbey Nestled in the Umbrian Mountains

Lauren Megerdichian
May 18, 2020
Categories: Real Weddings, Romantic, The Blog

I don’t think I’ve come across a wedding where I’ve said “oh my” out loud so many times when scrolling through the gallery – it’s just so insanely breathtaking in so many ways… the bridesmaid dresses, the stunning images from CHYMO & MORE Photography, the venue, the atmosphere… it’s all too much to handle. My Umbrian Wedding planned every last detail of this unforgettable fête, see all the inspiring moments at the full gallery!

From CHYMO & MORE Photography… Jenny & Lino held their gorgeous Italian destination wedding in an 8th-century abbey Abbazia San Pietro in Valle nestled in the mountains in Umbria, Italy. The couple chose this venue during a month-long road-trip throughout Italy one year prior to their wedding. When they saw this historical abbey nestled in the mountains they knew immediately this was the one. Before heading to the chapel, they played door games and did tea ceremony as Jenny’s family are from Hong Kong. They both dressed up in traditional Chinese costumes and followed through this amazing ritual. One of my most memorable moments was when the couple exchanged vows in the chapel. Lino had just finished his vow. Jenny suddenly broke into tears when it was her turn and couldn’t stop sobbing for a minute. It was so touching to watch and photograph. As a photographer, this wedding is everything I personally dream about. Madly in love, full of emotions, beautiful details, stylish aesthetics, and a mix of different cultures. Jenny & Lino really pulled off an unforgettable and it was my absolute honor to be part of it.

What did you envision your wedding being prior to planning?

From the Bride… My wedding was exactly what I envisioned. It really couldn’t have been any better ♥️

What was your color palette and your style vision?

I mainly had a lot of nude, pale pink, peachy tones with a touch of red and burgundy. I wanted it to go with the beautiful stone colours of the cloister at the venue.

What unique elements or DIY details did you include?

We found a beautiful wedding invitation and menu design online that complimented the lush green of the Umbrian region in Italy. We also had a guestbook corner with a Polaroid camera for guests to take selfies. We kept the seating plan simple.

What was your favorite moment? Your favorite crafted detail?

My favourite moment was definitely the beautiful speech given by our priest at the church during the ceremony and how I then bursted into tears (embarrassingly, after I told my bridesmaids that I think my husband Lino will cry before me).

Tell us about your flowers, your gown, your favors, your cake, etc.

My gown was very simple with an a line cutting and an open back (with a bow) ♥️ I couldn’t have found a better dress. It was exactly what I was looking for, simple but elegant and sexy. It is a Spanish designer Jesus Piero. Our wedding cake was an authentic Italian millefoglie, we invited the chef to make it in front of all the guests and they asked my husband and I to add the fruit on top as a personal touch. It was such a fun and authentic moment that I got to share with all my loved ones, it helped that it tasted amazing too!

What is one piece of advice that you could give brides-to-be?

Don’t panic, relax and enjoy the day.