Jenna and Jon had the most breathtaking Italy destination wedding in Umbria, Italy at Abbazia San Pietro in Valle. The scenery left me absolutely speechless, and their love for one another spoke even louder than the incredible views. I’m so excited to share my first destination wedding gallery with you, and I hope you enjoy their photos just as much as I do.

A Romantic Italian Villa Wedding in Umbria, Italy

Authentic Italian Pizza Party Welcome Dinner

Their wedding festivities kicked off with a pizza party welcome dinner. The sun had already set, and the venue was lit with ambient candlelight, creating a calm and inviting space for friends and family to unwind after their travels. Everyone was having such a great time just relaxing. The kids were laughing, the adults were catching up, and even the pets were getting love from everyone there. It was truly the perfect start to what was still to come.

Wedding Morning Olive Grove Vows

The next morning, the couple snuck off to the olive groves to enjoy breakfast and share their private vows. I loved that Jon carried Jenna on his back—it was such a playful moment, like they were just kids again. The scenery was, once again, absolutely beautiful.

A small café table was set with coffee and pastries for them to enjoy, along with their vow books. This time together felt incredibly emotional yet lighthearted. There were plenty of tears, so many laughs, and countless memories they’ll be able to look back on forever.

Getting Ready

They both got ready separately in different areas of the villa. Jon and the guys had so much fun, and their photos captured so much of their personalities. The moments shared between the groomsmen and family were full of energy and laughter.

On the other hand, Jenna got ready with her girls as they popped champagne, exchanged heartfelt notes, and helped her with the final finishing touches. I love capturing getting-ready moments like these because you truly get to see how devoted friends and family are to the couple. Being a destination wedding photographer means getting to document these quiet, meaningful moments just as much as the big celebrations.

Romantic First Look + Bridals

Jenna and Jon’s first look was so grand. They decided to meet on the stairs in the main area of the villa, and let me just say—it completely blew me away. Jon’s reaction was the sweetest; he completely melted into her, and it truly made me so happy to witness.

We took some of their bride and groom portraits right after, and they were oh so good. We played around with her veil and really incorporated the venue into their photos, because of course the place was insanely gorgeous. One of my favorites was her veil cascading down the wall while Jon kissed her on the cheek.

We also took more portraits outside, with the villa and trees in the background. It was so beautiful I can’t even begin to describe it. These images felt very cinematic and movement-based, and I’m so glad we took the time to capture them.

Umbria Italy Wedding Ceremony

The ceremony faced away from the villa, looking straight out at the tree-filled mountains of Umbria, Italy, and it felt absolutely surreal. Even the sun was perfect, shining on both the mountains and the guests and creating the most beautiful patches of light and shadow.

Their ceremony was filled with so much joy and laughter, and I loved the celebration of throwing flowers as they walked back up the aisle. After the ceremony, we took some portraits that were truly to die for. We included everyone—just Jenna and Jon, their families, and the bridal party—and it was such a blast capturing all of those moments.

Intimate Candle-Lit Reception

If you know anything about Europeans and mealtimes, you know they are elaborate and long. Jenna and Jon enjoyed a beautiful cocktail hour outside, followed by an intimate candlelit dinner in the villa’s courtyard. One long table brought their closest friends and family together to enjoy a delicious meal and even better conversation. They shared heartfelt speeches and toasts while enjoying a multi-course, authentic Italian dinner.
Later in the night, the celebration continued with a full dessert bar and tons of dancing. Everyone was letting loose and singing their hearts out. Jenna and Jon shared special dances with their moms and dads, making it the perfect ending to such a romantic Italy wedding celebration.

Review From The Couple

Jenna and Jon left me the sweetest message that truly reminds me how much I care about every couple I work with:

“We had the absolute pleasure of having Chrissy shoot our destination wedding in Italy, as well as our engagement photos in New Jersey, and we truly could not have asked for a better photographer or experience. We were incredibly lucky to have won our wedding photography as part of a giveaway, and from the very beginning Chrissy treated us with the same care, dedication, and attention as if we were long-time clients.

Chrissy is the perfect balance of professional and personable. She feels like a friend you’ve known your whole life. She has an amazing ability to put everyone at ease, which made both our engagement session and wedding day feel natural, fun, and stress-free. Beyond photography, she went above and beyond in so many ways: helping with jewelry questions, dress styles, outfit choices for our rehearsal party, and offering thoughtful advice throughout the planning process. Having her support made a world of difference and helped us feel confident every step of the way.

She has an incredible eye for capturing magical, candid moments while still delivering stunning, timeless portraits. Every photo tells a story, and we are completely in love with our gallery. Picking a photographer for such an important moment in your life is a big decision, and Chrissy exceeded every expectation. We cannot recommend her enough!”

Vendors:

A huge thank you to the amazing vendors!

Planning & Design: @bottegadamore

Venue: @abbaziasanpietroinvalle 

Video: @mb.heartfilms

Catering: @alloro_sanpietroinvalle

Floral: @leandroflowers

DJ: @testinomaxdj

HMU: @sots.muah

Stationary: @ocra.art

Lights: @calderinmusicservice

Signage: @valera_sha_wedding

Chrissy Marie Photo Co. | Luxury Destination Wedding Photographer

Being part of Jenna and Jon’s wedding felt extra special in so many ways. Getting to experience the day alongside my own family, and celebrating with past clients who originally referred them to me, made it feel like such a full-circle moment. It was a really meaningful reminder of why I do what I do and how connected this work can be.

If you’re planning a destination wedding of your own, I’d love to be part of your story too. Be sure to take a look at my bucket list destinations to see if your location is listed, and don’t forget to browse the blog for more wedding days like this one.