Solveig + Archie’s Summer Solstice wedding in northern Italy
Photo: Maria Bryzhko
Based in London with family ties across Norway, Italy, and the UK, Solvieg and Archie wanted a wedding that reflected the mix of cultures and places that shape their lives. Choosing the summer solstice felt intentional, a nod to light, nature, and the seasons they love so much. Set in Northern Italy at the stunning Villa Bossi, their day blended Norwegian-inspired details with Italian warmth and an easy, unfussy elegance.
Love Story
“We met in London six years ago at work — quite unexpectedly, I found out his dad grew up in my same Italian hometown and it felt like destiny. My first impression was that he had this calm, kind energy that instantly made me feel at ease. He says he remembers my laugh first — and the fact that I argued passionately about how much I dislike English food! From that night onwards, things just flowed naturally.”
The Ring
“We got engaged in 2023 on the top of Mount Sinai in Egypt after a night hike. As the sun began to rise and light streamed across the mountains, I turned around to find Archie down on one knee. My engagement ring is a family ring from Archie’s side, which belonged to his great-great-grandmother. It’s beautiful ring from 1885 and I feel honoured to be wearing it. Archie’s grandmother gave it to him as a green light to go ahead and propose.”
Why Italy
“Italy felt like a natural choice for us. I’m half Italian and half Norwegian, and my hometown is also where we chose to celebrate our wedding, which made it even more special and meaningful. We chose Villa Bossi because we completely fell in love with the interior. I could instantly picture us there—it felt right from the moment we saw it.”
Blending Cultures
“We wanted our wedding to have a strong identity and truly reflect the blend of our three cultures: Norwegian, Italian, and English. It was held intentionally on the 21st of June — the summer solstice — as a celebration of light, sun, and nature at its most vibrant. The day brought us everything: sunshine, summer rain, even a few dramatic rumbles of thunder during the ceremony, as if nature itself wanted to be part of our story. It felt symbolic, reminding us of life’s beauty, unpredictability, and strength— all qualities that also define our relationship.”
Stand Out Moment
“During our vows, there was a truly magical moment when the sky rumbled with thunder and the bells of a nearby church rang at the same time. It felt cinematic — like nature was joining in. Another unforgettable moment was walking down the aisle to Slipping Through My Fingers by ABBA. It was emotional, beautiful, and perfectly captured the mix of joy and nostalgia that filled the day.”
The Style
“Images of Norwegian nature at this time of year were a constant reference point — both for inspiration and nostalgia. I wanted to evoke that feeling through wild berries on the tables, an ancient wedding chest repurposed as a leggio during the ceremony, and of course, the timeless beauty of the villa itself.”
The Florals
“Every floral element was seasonal and locally grown, as though picked fresh from a nearby garden that very morning. The overall result was natural, warm, and effortlessly elegant — just what we had envisioned.”
Vendor Dream Team
“Where to begin! Maria and her partner, our photographers, were incredible — so patient, so kind, and clearly passionate about what they do. Our hair and makeup team were also absolute stars; it felt like spending the morning with close friends. And the florists… they truly exceeded all expectations. I couldn’t have been happier. Each vendor brought their own magic to the day, and together they created something beyond what we’d imagined.”
The Dress
“I’ve never been one for multiple wedding outfits. I wanted to fully live in my dress and soak up every moment in it. The only change I made was swapping my veil for a soft chiffon silk scarf later on. It felt natural, elegant, and just right for me. The dress itself was timeless yet modern — a piece I hope will always remind me of the joy and simplicity of that day.”
Advice For Couples
“If you’re a control freak like me, let it go as soon as you can. Seriously. No one really tells you this, but a wedding is a co-creation with your vendors — and if you’re lucky, like I was, you’ll fall in love with the final result. Trust the process and lean in. On the day, walking through each room of the villa and seeing it all come together was pure magic. Every detail — the flowers, the lighting, the hair and makeup — felt perfectly in sync. Chef’s kiss!”
VENDOR TEAM
Venue: Villa Bossi | Photographer: Maria Bryzhko | Coordinator: Magnolia Studio | Florist: Oltre il Giardino Varese | Celebrant: Friend of the couple | Catering + Cake: Le Gourmet Catering & Banqueting | Bride’s Dress: Jessica Bennet | Bride’s Shoes: Bottega Veneta | Makeup: Noemi Bellicosi | Hair: Isabella Aguilera | Groom’s Suit: Suitsupply | Bridal Party Bags: Isla De Gar
Categories
PLANNING | REAL WEDDING | SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT | INSPIRATION | WANDERLUST
