Villa Balbiano Wedding editorial
Imagine, if you will, the oldest and grandest property on Lake Como. A fairy tale venue surrounded by manicured gardens and overlooking the Lake, an area that is widely regarded as one of the most romantic places in Italy. This is Villa Balbiano.
Wedding photography at Villa Balbiano
The 17th century villa sits on the shores of Lake Como, with incredible views out over the dramatic, mountainous terrain. It’s warm, full of character and exudes Italian opulence. As you approach the Villa, whether that’s from Lake Como itself or from the old Roman Road – known as the Royal Road or “Strada Regina” – you feel like you’re stepping onto a film set. Which is fitting as Villa Balbiano recently appeared on the big screen in Ridley Scott’s House of Gucci. Couples and their wedding guests are, quite literally, walking in the footsteps of Hollywood royalty such as Lady Gaga, Adam Driver and Al Pacino!
Designed by Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio, the Villa was the Cardinal’s main residence. Around a century later, Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini – known for his love of the arts, creativity and literature – purchased the Villa and began a series of extensive renovations. Under his ownership Villa Balbiano became a place of entertainment, playing host to banquets and festivals all celebrating the arts.
Since the 1700s the Villa has been passed through various owners, each one added to the spectacle and opulence of this amazing residence. Today Villa Balbiano is the largest private residence on Lake Como. The original frescos have been restored and the interior of the villa is nothing short of magnificent. It’s also one of the most sought after wedding venues in Italy, perhaps even in the world!
European wedding photographer
Being French myself I have always felt aligned with the Italian way of life. I share a similar love for style, elegance and “the dolce vita”. I adore travelling and, even after visiting and living in many different countries, I feel a sense of home whenever I land in Italy. It’s somewhere I would love to spend more time and fully embrace their culture and way of life.
When the opportunity came up to work on an inspirational wedding shoot at Villa Balbiano, styled by the talented Air Volkova along with The Luxury Wedding Producer, I just couldn’t say no. So began a wonderful few days of style, artistry and creativity. All designed to show off the stunning venue and the work of luxury destination wedding suppliers.
Creative Villa Balbiano wedding photography
Weddings at the Villa Balbiano are luxurious, decadent and with more than a touch of Italian style and class. The wedding shoot itself was styled to perfection, with an air of luxury that was perfect for the Villa Balbiano setting. The champagne tower, that classic car (like something from a movie!) and the pièce de résistance, a boat ride! Yes, the Villa boasts its own private jetty, allowing couples (or in this case, our bride) to make a grand entrance. Wedding ceremonies take place overlooking Lake Como, and in my mind there is no more perfect backdrop than the mountains of the Lugano Prealps region.
Has this shoot inspired you? Perhaps you’ve been dreaming of a Villa Balbiano wedding and are now looking into how to make that dream a reality. I would love to hear from you, and chat to you about your wedding photography.
