Being half Italian, the bride loved the idea of saying “I do” in the ‘beautiful country’ of Italy or as the locals say it, “Bel Paese.” Sestri Levante, Liguria, a town on Italy’s coastal northwest side caught hold of the couple. The entire town overlooks the Ligurian Sea, who wouldn’t want such a romantic backdrop to their destination wedding?

Family and friends adored Jan and Maaike’s decision to marry in Italy for the same reason the couple did: it would be a lengthy holiday soirée in a foreign country with their favorite people.

Some challenges needed to be overcome before the fun times abroad could commence. Luckily, the language barrier didn’t have to be one of them.  The couple worked most things out via their wedding planner, but Maaike’s knowledge of Italian proved to be invaluable in smoothing over the remaining details.

“Get in touch with someone who speaks the local language,” Maaike advises, “it’s essential.”

The two also identified other essentials whilst planning from afar: giving their guests a list of nearby airports, ground transportation and accommodations as well as utilizing Pinterest for the ultimate DIY’s. 

Maaike and Jan’s destination wedding in Liguria fulfilled their desire to incorporate not only a country they love into their wedding but a point of pride in family history.

Vendors: Photographer: Demartini Weddings; Wedding Planner: The Bride Sapelli Weddings and Events; Ceremony Site: Ex Convento dell’Annunziata; Reception Site: Hotel Due Mari; Videographer: SR Multimedia; Florist: Fioridee; Gown Designer: Pronovias; Groom’s Attire: Fratelli Rossetti, Hermes and Suit Supply