Like many others, Maci and Ahmed fell head over heels for the Italian coast, its stunning beaches, towering mountains, and charming cliffside villages. Naturally, this magical location was top-of-mind for the couple’s destination nuptials, making their Amalfi Coast elopement an easy decision. Moreover, Villa Sorvillo offered the perfect positioning for intimate “I do’s” with idyllic ocean views! 

“Thanks to a TikTok post, we stumbled upon Villa Sorvillo,” Maci says. “Seeing another couple’s amazing wedding photos from there sealed the deal for us – it just felt right.”

Craving an experience where the focus was solely on each other and their commitment, Maci and Ahmed went the elopement route. They made sure to include loved ones in their day by asking them to write us letters before the couple’s trip to Italy. 

“We brought their letters with us, and after our ceremony, we sat down together to read them,” the bride says. “It was such a special moment that touched our hearts. The outpouring of love and support from afar made us feel incredibly cherished and connected, despite the miles between us.”

The ceremony incorporated a sand blending ritual, where sand and volcanic ash collected from the coastline were poured from separate vases into one bottle, representing the union of two individuals coming together as one. “Each year, on our anniversary, we will turn the bottle again,” the couple explains. “The sands will blend more and more as the years pass, mirroring the growth of our lives together through the years.”

Plans for a private sunset boat cruise following the ceremony hit a snag when it got canceled a week before due to expected bad weather. Maci and Ahmed scrambled to find an alternative, but nothing quite matched the excitement of the boat ride. 

“We struck gold when we connected with Fabio at Amalfi Coast Lovers,” Maci says. “He was willing to take us out if the weather cooperated. And miraculously, on our wedding day, the rain stopped and the seas calmed. We embarked on our incredible sunset cruise along the coastline. It was a reminder that sometimes, despite the setbacks, things have a way of working out in the end.”

Speaking of “it all working out in the end,” Maci and Ahmed offer a piece of advice/something to keep in mind while wedding planning from far away, especially if you hire vendors local to your destination. “When reaching out to potential vendors, setting up video calls to meet was key. It gave us a chance to vibe with them and see if they matched our style and personality.” 

Throughout the planning process, staying organized proved to be crucial for Maci and Ahmed to keep everything running smoothly. And of course, they had to be mindful of time zone differences and expect some delays in communication. Planning ahead and staying flexible helped the couple tackle any challenges that popped up along the way.

“For couples planning their own destination wedding,” the couple says, “we’d suggest starting early, doing plenty of research, and staying organized throughout. Don’t be afraid to ask locals or other couples for recommendations either.”

Vendors: Photographer: Maricarmen Maffioli; Venue: Villa Sorvillo; Florist: Pellecchia Max; Cake: Pasticcia Cupcakeria; Hair & Makeup: Amalfi Makeup & Piero Mansi; Gown Designer: Evie Young Bridal; Groom’s Clothing Designer: Indochino; Officiant: Amalfi Wedding Celebrants; Boat Rental: Amalfi Coast Lovers