A Dolce Vita Era Wedding in Portofino for Anita + Richard
Photography: Alex Gaidashev
Anita + Richard’s Italian wedding feels like a love letter to the Dolce Vita era. Having spent two summers in Portofino, they were convinced nowhere else could compare, returning to the Ligurian coast for an undeniably stylish celebration.
With Belmond Hotels’ signature hospitality as the backdrop, they were completely at ease, enjoying beautiful food and creating memories with their favourite people in one of Italy’s most cinematic settings.
Love Story
“We met at our first ever lecture at university and got engaged at Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, Anguilla. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat.”
Why Italy?
“We spent two summers in Portofino and were quite convinced that no other destination could compare.”
The Style
“The venue itself was actually the main inspiration. Splendido is so perfectly curated and chic, and the first time I visited I couldn't put down my camera. We never had to try hard. ”
The Budget
“Weddings are deeply personal. What feels essential to one couple might be incidental to another. Every choice reflects different priorities and non-negotiables, so the numbers can vary considerably.”
Special Touches
“We wanted to create complete Portofino memories with our closest friends and family. With everyone flying in, we made a point to host events across the iconic town square for our welcome dinner, Splendido for the main event and then a farewell brunch at Paraggi. We also love visiting different Belmond properties across the globe, so hosting events at their portfolio of venues also felt quite authentic to us.”
Anything you’d change?
“On the following day, we were so exhausted and wished we hadn't planned the farewell brunch as an official event. Our guest feedback was that the lobster paccheri (from Langosteria Paraggi) was mind blowing though, so I’m glad we included it despite our energy level. I think if couples are deciding whether to host a Welcome/Wedding day or Wedding day/Farewell, I would personally recommend going with the former.”
Best Money Spent?
“If you ask my husband, he will say the welcome dinner in the Portofino town square. DaV Mare helped us apply to the local council to cordon off a private area in the square, which made for an exceptionally beautiful and unique location for a party. But I would say that having Belmond as our venue was the best decision. The events management team made our lives stress free, and were so welcoming and warm to us. They were responsive, responsible and extremely accommodating. Not to mention that they provide such a high standard of service when it comes to guest experience, gastronomy, atmosphere, etc.”
The Dress
“My ceremony dress was by NEWHITE, which I altered in Hong Kong to give extra height to the bodice and more support in the back. My reception gown was by Amusée Moi, a designer bridal brand from Shanghai. The designer graduated from ESMOD majoring in haute couture, and their creations are so sculptural and ethereal. Their team is amazing and I loved having my couture-style experience in their Shanghai atelier. ”
Stand Out Moment
“The reception! We just wanted to talk to everyone and enjoy their company, make memories and enjoy the menu!”
Advice for Couples
“Surround yourself with the experts. Choose a venue that has plenty of experience hosting gorgeous events, and a team to match. You won't have to stress about the details, because they will know exactly how to execute, and give you plenty of help along the way. I would also say that having the ceremony and reception in different areas of the same venue (or any adjacent events in the same venue) will remove any stress about logistics.”
Did you use La Lista to plan your wedding?
“Yes! And I was so, so glad I did. I found my gorgeous makeup artist, Francesca Stefani and extremely talented and cute photography pair, Alex Gaidashev and Olga (@gonchurova_muah) on LaLista.”
VENDOR TEAM
Venue: Splendido, A Belmond Hotel | Photography: Alex Gaidashev | Content Creator: Behind Wed | Hair & Makeup: Francesca Stefani | Dress 1: NEWHITE and The LOFT Bridal | Dress 2: Amusée Moi
Categories
PLANNING | REAL WEDDING | SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT | INSPIRATION | WANDERLUST
