Jewish ceremony in the elegant Tuscan countryside.
When my American friends show me Instagram or Pinterest images about “Tuscany” I always see the breathtaking landscapes, with rounded hills dotted by rows of cypress trees. Tuscany is a huge region and not everywhere looks like that. Truth is that 80% of those images you’ll find online were taken in Val d’Orcia, the quintessence of Tuscany. Its capital is Montalcino, home of Brunello wine and of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. A few miles away stands an old legendary estate, owned by the Ferragamo family – yes! the famous Italian fashion designer – who has transformed it into a luxury resort now managed by the Rosewood chain of hotels: the Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco.
The property consists of an old Borgo of luxurious villas, perched on a hilltop, which also includes a swimming pool, two restaurants, numerous suites, and a charming little church. All around, lost among the golf fields in the most untouched scenery, many exclusive villas can be hired for private events and celebrations. Erika and David selected this venue for its privacy and intimacy as they celebrated their wedding with just family and close friends.
The two hosted a 3-day event with different themes: First, an Italian market-inspired rehearsal dinner theme that included wood-fired pizza, homemade pasta, mozzarella, acrobatic cocktails, and live music + entertainment.
The second day was for a classic Tuscan dinner surrounded by olive branches and the blessing of the Challah bread by both parents.
The intimate Jewish ceremony on the wedding day took place on the lawn, on a secret staged garden built for the occasion, with the lovely hills in the background. Later, after the traditional portrait session enjoying the colors of the Tuscan sunset light, the newlyweds enjoyed cocktails, before sitting down for dinner in a clear roof wedding marquee and listening to the live band while sipping red Brunello wine and local dishes.
We love destination weddings like this because we get to capture the whole experience, getting to know each family member and guest so that the couple can look back and live that wonderful weekend over and over again.
Venue: Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco | Wedding Planner: Beth Helmstetter Events | Photographer: Photo Santucci | Floral Design: Tuscany Flowers
Photo Credit: Photo Santucci