For Alexander and Alexandra, a big wedding was a “been there, done that” for the couple. They had a big wedding in their hometown and wished to spend more time with family and friends in a picturesque setting. They chose the bucolic Piero Mancini Winery in Sardinia, Italy for their authentic Italian destination wedding.
“Everyone was in a holiday mood which made for an amazing atmosphere,” Alexandra said. “It was not primarily about us getting married; it was more about everyone enjoying life and celebrating it at its best.”
Thanks to Antonio Patta for the absolutely breathtaking photos that make us want to jet off to Italy!
Alexander 27, & Alexandra, 28
Location: Sardinia, Italy
Wedding Date: May 28, 2016
Number of Guests: 55
Wedding Cost: $30,000
Wedding Ceremony Location: Piero Mancini
Wedding Reception Location: Li Finistreddi
Why did you have an intimate wedding?
We had a big wedding with more than 120 family and friends before in our hometown. That’s why we wanted to spend some more time with our closest in a beautiful Mediterranean environment. Everyone was in a holiday mood which made for an amazing atmosphere. It was not primarily about us getting married; it was more about everyone enjoying life and celebrating it at its best.
What are some the challenges that you faced planning an intimate wedding?
It was really great to search Sardinia for the perfect intimate wedding location. Once we decided to do it, there was no turning back! But then it turned out to be quite complicated to organize and translate the German—Italian wedding approach all by ourselves. At first, we tried to manage everything on our own, but soon we got to a point at which we were happy to hire a wedding planner.
Was it difficult to pare down the guest list?
No, we just followed our hearts on this one.
Did you have any issues with the small guest list from friends and family? If so, how did you address them?
No, not really. Since we communicated the save the date one year ahead, all of our friends and family were more than looking forward to a unique and really fun time.
What were the highlights of the ceremony?
The official just rocked the ceremony, making jokes, singing, playing the piano, reminiscing, philosophizing and praying, and of course the beautiful intercession. Everyone said it could’ve taken a few hours longer because it was so entertaining. Every engaged couple approached the official because they thought he was just incredibly cool. Too bad he retired this year!
What were the highlights of the reception?
Sea food fiesta, an awesome party and a photo booth and the pool crushing at the very end at dawn.
What was the best thing about having an intimate wedding?
Spending unforgettable time with each other during a once in a lifetime experience. It was absolutely priceless.
What advice do you have for couples who are considering an intimate wedding?
Attention to detail pays off!
Vendors:
Ceremony location: Vigneti Piero Mancini
Reception Venue: Li Finistreddi Exclusive Country Retreat
Wedding Planning: Anthea DMC
Photographer: Antonia Patta
Shoes: Jimmy Choo
