Michelle and Craig approached the decision-making process for where to host their destination wedding with the same criteria they use when planning their vacations. “Is there reasonable weather that time of year? Can we easily travel to other locations? Is it a ‘tourist trap,’ or more ‘off the beaten path’? Are they known for having good food?” Michelle shares. “And, most importantly, is there a Catholic Church where we can receive the sacrament of marriage?”

A Naples destination wedding ticked all the boxes, offering phenomenal weather, easy access to other parts of Italy and Europe, a unique local experience, and some of the best meals the couple had ever tasted.

Venue Selection and Vendor Coordination

Social media played a significant role in Michelle and Craig’s venue selection process. They scoured Instagram and TikTok, searching hashtags and location tags to get a genuine feel for the wedding experience at various venues. They even reached out to couples who had tagged photos at the venues to hear about their experiences firsthand.

Once they settled on a venue, Michelle made a trip to Italy to meet with the vendors in person. “We highly recommend this so you don’t have any major surprises during wedding week!” she advises.

The couple put their trust in their Naples destination wedding planner, Giusi Coscione, to navigate the language barrier and cultural differences, and to overcome any unanticipated obstacles. “There are always going to be so many unexpected things that pop up,” Michelle notes. “By overestimating the cost of everything, the surprise expenses didn’t cause nearly as much stress.”

A Seamless Guest Experience

Hosting the Naples destination wedding just south of the city in a less tourist-heavy part of Italy came with some logistical challenges for Michelle and Craig. To ensure all guests had a convenient place to stay, the couple booked a large number of rooms and transferred them into their guests’ names as they confirmed the dates of their stay. Additionally, they arranged shuttles to and from the ceremony and reception and hosted events within walking distance of key accommodations. Welcome bags were another thoughtful touch by the couple, featuring travel essentials, local wine, snacks, and a handwritten note for each guest. 

“Travel has brought so much joy to our lives,” the bride says, “but we understand it can also bring a lot of stress. Throughout the entire process, we offered as much assistance as we could in planning flights, meals, hotels, and entertainment for all of our guests to make it as seamless and enjoyable as possible for them.”

Incorporating Personal Style and Cultural Experiences

A true highlight for the couple and their guests was the Italian approach to dining. “We love the way Italians approach a meal,” Michelle shared. From an extravagant aperitif to a multi-course feast, followed by a “buffet of sweets” and a late-night spread featuring pasta prepared in a cheese wheel, pizza, and calzones, the food became a memorable part of the celebration. 

Michelle and Craig also added touches that showcased their personalities. For Michelle, Taylor Swift references appeared throughout the ceremony and reception, from song choices to subtle decor elements. Craig wore his signature cowboy boots, while Michelle stunned with multiple outfit changes, including her Calla Blanche gown. The couple carefully curated an experience that felt authentic to their relationship, allowing their loved ones to notice and appreciate the personal details.

A Celebration to Remember

By spreading their festivities over three days—including a welcome reception at BaccaNera Enoteca & Wine Bar and a farewell brunch at Palladino Sweet Therapy—Michelle and Craig every moment was cherished.

The couple’s advice to others planning their weddings? “Try to be intentional about focusing on what’s significant to each of you. Together, as a couple, design an experience that is reflective of those things, rather than what will photograph well or what feels trendy at the time.”

Vendors: Photography: Dana Cubbage Weddings; Ceremony Venue: Chiesa di San Michele; Reception Venue: Tenuta Verdoliva; Planning + Coordination: Giusi Coscione; Florals: Il Regno Dei Fiori; Gown: Calla Blanche; Shoes: Jimmy Choo; Hair: Compagnia Della Bellezza Aversa; Makeup: Rossella Migliore; Men’s Attire: The Black Tux; Band: Daudia; Catering: Perrotta 838; Linens + Rentals: Allestimenti Le Rose; Stationery: Sweet Dates Prints