Photography: Kseniya Antonova + Matt Godkin Weddings

Katia + Danny’s Italian wedding had it all: iconic seaside views, a radiant bride, an effortless bridal wardrobe and the perfect mix of modern romance and vintage charm.

Both born in Russia but raised across Spain, New York, London, and Finland, they share a love of travel, especially Katia, who runs her own travel agency, so a destination wedding was always on the cards. After getting engaged at the legendary Tonnara di Scopello, they never imagined they’d return just 14 months later to say their vows in the very same spot.

Love Story

“We lived in the same London building for seven years and never once met, a reminder that timing truly is everything! We had mutual friends, and Danny had followed me on Instagram for years, but we never connected until I finally reached out. From that moment on, everything seemed to fall effortlessly into place.”

The Engagement

“Danny proposed at Tonnara di Scopello during our first road trip through Sicily in 2024, a place that, quite unexpectedly, became our wedding venue just fourteen months later. I had no idea it was coming, and in true holiday fashion had enjoyed rather a lot of Sicilian wine beforehand. By the time he got down on one knee, the moment felt wonderfully tipsy and spontaneous, exactly as it should be.”

Pink, yellow and green florals for sunset theme at wedding at Tonnara di Scopello

The Venue

“Because I run a travel agency, I’m constantly searching for places that feel truly special rather than simply beautiful. Tonnara di Scopello had been on my radar for years; a 13th-century former tuna factory set along one of Sicily’s most iconic coastlines. It has a depth and history that immediately set it apart. When it also became the place where we got engaged, the decision felt obvious. It had already become our place.”

The Style

“My style inspiration has always centred around corsetry, particularly the classic Victorian-era silhouette with its tightly laced, hourglass shape. Feminine, sculptural, and timeless. That’s exactly how I felt the moment I tried on my Vivienne Westwood gown. It was immediate - game over! No one understands corsetry quite like Westwood.

For my second look, I wanted something more playful and effortless. I chose a custom corseted mini by Kricket Marie - short, fun, and designed to move. It was sexy but comfortable, and perfect for dancing until sunrise.”

Best Money Spent

“Investing in an exceptional hair and makeup team was, without question, the best decision I made. Beyond the artistry, their energy set the tone for the entire day. You spend far more time with them than you realise, and being surrounded by calm, positive, uplifting people makes an enormous difference to how the day feels.

We felt the same about the photography and videography. These are the memories that remain long after the day itself, and investing in them felt non-negotiable. Ksenia Antonova was amazing - she nailed out photos!”

Authenticity

“Keeping the wedding intimate was essential to us. We had just under 100 guests, and we wanted everyone to feel genuinely seen. Instead of traditional place cards, each guest found a handwritten note paired with a photograph with either Danny or myself. It became one of the most emotional moments of the day - a quiet way of saying thank you, and of acknowledging the effort it took to travel to Sicily and be there with us.”

Pink rose florals at al fresco dining wedding reception at Tonnara di Scopello

Stand Out Suppliers

“Choosing the right planner made all the difference. Lisa from Isla & Smith was exceptional! Calm, creative, and endlessly patient. She somehow brought even our more ambitious ideas to life while making the entire process feel effortless. Having that level of trust and support was invaluable. Our catering was equally unforgettable. Chef Natale Giunta created a menu that guests still talk about - particularly his paccheri pasta, which has reached almost legendary status among our friends!”

LL Love

“I loved using La Lista as a source of inspiration! Their Instagram is beautifully curated, and I had saved countless images ahead of the wedding, from florals and styling to décor details. It became a visual reference point that helped refine the overall aesthetic and keep everything feeling cohesive.”

The Gypsy Queens band at Tonnara di Scopello wedding

Advice For Couples

“Finding the venue first makes everything else fall into place. From there, trusting your planner and the process is key. The small things have a way of sorting themselves out, what matters is that you’re marrying your best friend. On the day, put the phone down and be fully present. It goes by in a heartbeat, and your mood sets the energy for everyone around you.

Afterwards, give yourselves space to pause. A minimoon is essential! Just a few days to slow down and be together is one of the best decisions you can make.”

Stand Out Moment

“The epic Sicilian thunderstorm! Just as we cut the cake, the skies completely opened, thunder, lightning, the whole thing. Guests ran for cover straight into the rave cave (we named it DK-10, after DC-10 in Ibiza and yes, also Danny + Katia + 10th of September), and the evening shifted from dinner into full dance mode. It was wildly dramatic and perfectly timed. Unforgettable!”

Recovery

“Our day 2, the hangover beach day, was just as special. Rather than a formal welcome night, we hosted a relaxed beach barbecue at Tonnara di Scopello. It was effortless and joyful, sunshine, swims in the sea, pasta, lemon sorbets and long afternoons overlooking the water. That, to us, was true la dolce vita!”

VENDOR TEAM

Katia + Danny redefine modern romance in Sicily

Categories

Katia + Danny redefine modern romance in Sicily

Categories

Choosing the right jewellery for your Italian wedding