How a Handfasting Ceremony can Transform your Elopement

2021 weddings are still having to pivot on a dime, making it harder than ever for couples to plan their wedding safely. This stunning handfasting ceremony inspiration is a beautiful alternative to a traditional elopement if you are planning to have an intimate vow exchange! WildGoose Photography worked with Bacialupo Event Planner and Sfumaturedicipria to plan this stunning day at La Cenerara in Northern Italy, with an intimate handfasting ceremony by the lake and a bohemian reception under the grape arbor to follow! The dusty mauve and lavender colors added a gorgeous look to the summer celebration, with 1970’s inspired wedding looks that any vintage bride would love!

A Handfasting Ceremony and an Intimate Reception Under the Vines

Gorgeous paper goods by The Creative Design Lab included the couple’s vow books made with handcrafted paper, and gold lettered calligraphy invitations for the intimate dinner to follow their handfasting ceremony.

Instead of a big ceremony with lots of guests, the couple chose to have a personal vow exchange on the lakeshore. The 1970’s inspired lace wedding dress from Daphne Milano looked perfect for a bohemian bride with flowers in her hair!

A handfasting ceremony is a Celtic wedding tradition, that symbolizes binding two hearts and two lives. It is considered a unity ritual, like lighting a unity candle or creating a sand pour. Choosing what will be used as the binding for a handfasting ceremony is very personal to a couple, and this lovely pair chose ribbons in blush and mauve silk to match their flowers. This is a non-denominational ceremony option that can be adjusted to honor whatever the couple’s faith might be!

The color scheme of mauve, dusty lavender, and deep berry tones was a gorgeous counterpoint to the lush green gardens where the intimate handfasting ceremony and elopement reception took place at La Cenerara in Northern Italy. The stunning grounds of the country house and event venue offer a beautiful location surrounded by nature and a few close loved ones.

How stunning is this blown glass vase seating chart! The deep green glass and white ink lettering created a stunning way for guests to find their table.

This elopement reception is nothing short of magical! This dinner setting underneath a leafy pergola is truly a dream of mine. The long table was set with dusty velvet tablecloths, a vintage lace runner, and elegant French Country china. Instead of traditional chairs, rustic benches with velvet cushions created the perfect bohemian seating area for this cozy dinner party under the grape arbor!

The beautiful muted lavender, gray, antique silver, and berry color scheme was a gorgeous fit for the vintage inspiration behind the handfasting ceremony and following al fresco dinner. A lace table runner added beautiful texture along with an echo to the bride’s 1970’s inspired lace gown!

The couple had a change before they took to the fields for a photo session with WildGoose photography. The bride’s amethyst lace dress was a gorgeous unconventional bridal look!

WEDDING VENDORS –

Photography: WildGoose | Elopement Venue: La Cenerara | Event Planning: Bacialupo Event Planner | Florist: Sfumaturedicipria | Videography: Damiano Scarano | Hair Stylist: Paola Bianchera Hair and Make Up | Wedding Dress: Daphne Milano | Groom’s Attire: Linneo | Jewelry: My Golden Age Lab | Shoes: Leise Shoes | Makeup Artist: Michela Clemeno | Tableware: Tableset Rentals | Accessories: I Noleggi di Sfumaturedicipria | Fashion: Linnen Looks | Model: Paola Giannini | Stationery: The Creative Design Lab | Submitted via: Matchology