Following on from the Italian Serenata, we’ve now skipped forward to the day of the wedding itself and the traditional Italian wedding ceremony. I think heads were maybe a little sore this morning and I’m sure neither Maria or Andreas had gotten much sleep, partying into the night and then up at the crack of dawn to prepare for their big day.
I joined Maria at 7am at her mothers home in San Paolo Albanese to photograph her hair and makeup preparations. Maria’s mother was an absolute star. She didn’t stop once the whole morning, making sure everything was absolutely perfect for her daughter’s special day. Once Maria was in her dress I made my way to the outskirts of the village where Andreas was waiting, before joining him and his guests on a march up through the village to collect Maria from her home. From there Andreas led the way through the village to the charming church where they were to be married.
The traditional Italian wedding ceremony was among the most beautiful I have ever witnessed and I was certainly never short of opportunity. I had joined the couple at the church the day before to run through the order of the ceremony, with Maria highlighting all the traditions to me so I would be aware of what was coming next. The exchange of rings, which are not only placed on the finger, but crossed over between the bride and grooms hands by both the Priest and all the witnesses. The wearing of the crowns. The march around the church. The blessings. The dance in the village streets. And then back to the house for another dance around the living room and drinks and nibbles in the cobbled streets. It was simply incredible and I just cannot do it justice with words. So I won’t try. Instead, take a look at some of my favourite pictures from this traditional Italian wedding ceremony. Check back tomorrow at midday (GMT) to see part three.
If you are planning a destination wedding in Italy or indeed anywhere in Europe please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Why not check out the the final chapter of this Italian wedding.
Just fantastic Steven, captured in true style as always. Looking forward to part 3.
Congratulations Maria and Andreas.
Great coverage of what looks to be an amazing day. The unfamiliar format to the day and the obvious heat must have been challenging but you have more than stepped up to the challenge!
Thank you. Yes Lyndsey, it certainly kept me on my toes and the heat (especially in the church) was tough. But this is all part of the fun 😉
Quality, quality work Steven! You capture the anticipation of the town in the lead up to the ceremony perfectly! Love the shot of Andreas when he sees his bride, and the confetti shots are awesome too.
What an incredible wedding! It’s so lovely that everyone joins in in the celebration, and what a stunning church. You’ve made it feel as though I was actually there.
An excellent set Steve in what must have been really testing conditions.
You surpass yourself every time! The photos are amazing. Really feel like I was part of the day. My favourite being the one of Andreas and he sees Maria for the first time. I also had tears in my eyes.
Really looking forward to part 3!
More great work, Steven. Absolutely love the streetlife images…
Great pics. Love that shot of the groom wearing the crown in church. All three of them have the same pursed lips smile on.
Brilliant coverage – love the sense of nervousness/anticipation of the groom walking through the village, and the group shot at the start of Andreas and everyone catching some shade.
Amazing work!
Great! a beautiful wedding pictures that you shared with us.