There is a reason why so many fantasize about having a Lake Como destination wedding. It’s the height of luxury, mixed with romance, and a dash of iconic history on top. 

Between the crystal blue waters of the lake itself, the mountainscapes in the distance, and the towns ripe with Italian history, it creates a gorgeous backdrop for any celebration. And this Villa Erba, Lake Como wedding was no exception. 

Although I live in Lake Como full-time, the location never fails to amaze me! Especially when it’s coupled with the unique couples I photograph. I love to see how a couple’s distinct personalities and Lake Como’s beauty bring out the best in each other!

The Fashion-Forward, Vivacious “Pre” Party On the Water

When in Italy, it’s only natural to live La Bella Vita! And this couple did exactly that with their closest friends and family. 

The day before the wedding, this amazing couple chose to have their pre-wedding celebration directly on the water. I thought this was the best choice since there is no other way to “do” Lake Como! 

Everywhere I turned on the boat, it was filled with the couple’s closest friends and family having the time of their lives. And I loved seeing it! Not only were they celebrating the bride and groom, but they were celebrating them in one of my favorite places in the whole world. 

So, to best capture everyone in their element, I spent the evening directing the boat’s captain so I could take advantage of the most magical lighting. And their gallery proved it! 

A Traditional Italian Wedding Venue: Villa Erba, Lake Como

Positioned right on the water’s edge of Lake Como sits a grand villa that looks as though it were of a world long ago. With larger-than-life archways, meticulously carved details, and elegant staircases, it couldn’t have been a better place for such a gorgeous wedding. 

The Lighting Mixed with Iconic Architecture 

As a photographer, I’m always drawn to the most beautiful lighting. Whether it’s the golden hue of a sunset or the dramatic flair from casted shadows, the right lighting can create the most gorgeous photos. 

And my style of photography has always been inspired by epic locations. Needless to say, this Villa Erba wedding created the most incredible portraits. With its combination of lighting that drifted in through the windows and the magnificent architecture, the Lake Como venue was the perfect backdrop.

Awe-Inspiring, Romantic Bridal Portraits

I was already so inspired by the venue, so I knew I had to capture the bride’s portraits framed by the grand arches and Italian-Renaissance-inspired architecture. 

The bride’s Italian Berta wedding gown looked as though it had been hand-tailored to match both her and the location. And between the gorgeous detailing of both the Berta gown and the villa, only the length of a cathedral veil would do. I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect combination!

A One-of-a-Kind First Look Inside Villa Erba

For such a sentimental moment, such as the first look, I helped the couple choose the most enchanting location! 

Inside Villa Erba, Lake Como, we opted for a grand hallway on the second floor that consisted of three open arches right at the stone balustrades. 

Their first look truly resembled a romantic scene from Romeo and Juliet. And I am beyond thrilled that they have these memories preserved for their lives together.

The Quintessential Waterfront Villa Erba Wedding Ceremony

Can you call it a Lake Como wedding if at least one part of the wedding day doesn’t take place on the water? 

I hardly think so! And the couple agreed with me, considering their ceremony site included the idyllic Lake Como destination wedding scenery in the background.

Touching Emotions Preserved In Time

Ceremonies always carry the most moving emotions. From the bride walking down the aisle with her father to the sweet vows that are spoken between the couple, and the celebration once they’re married, there is so much genuine emotion to capture. 

It’s one of the reasons I adore photographing weddings so much. Those emotions that are captured allow the bride and groom to relive the most magical moments again and again!

Stunning Sunset Portraits

After the ceremony, while everyone enjoyed a classically Italian aperitivo, the couple and I made our way out to the grounds of Villa Erba, Lake Como. 

The sunset created the perfect golden glow that kissed their skin. The pop of color from the bride’s bouquet and the fine details of the Berta wedding dress added beautiful visual interest to the photos. The quintessential landscape of Lake Como, whether it was the lake or the regal design of the villa, made photographs even Vogue magazine would be jealous of.

A Reception to Embrace the Beauty of Villa Erba

In the grand hall of Villa Erba, banquet-style tables were perfectly set to embrace the beauty that already existed within the venue. Framed by ornate, historic paintings that filled the walls, and incredible crystal chandeliers, the reception details truly did the villa justice.

The Dazzling Finale

I always love when couples decide to go all in for their wedding day and make a spectacle of the best moments. 

That’s exactly what they opted for during their cake-cutting ceremony. A massive, four-tier cake wasn’t the only show-stopper during the reception. The couple chose to add sparkling fireworks as they cut the cake to add to the night’s entertainment!

Seeing Lake Como through the eyes of my beautiful couples will never be a gift I take for granted! I’m so thankful my team and I were there to capture the story and the true spirit of this Villa Erba, Lake Como destination wedding. 

Explore more Lake Como destination weddings on our blog!

Wedding Day Vendors:

Photography: Lilly Red

Venue: Villa Erba

Wedding Planner: Fete in France