Elopement Photography in the Cinque Terre
Nestled along the rugged Italian Riviera coastline, Cinque Terre is a picturesque destination that exudes romance at every turn. Its colorful cliffside villages, turquoise waters, and stunning sunsets make it an ideal location for couples seeking an intimate elopement experience.
One hot July day in 2022, I had the great pleasure of being the wedding photographer for such an elopement in Riomaggiore for a couple who had traveled from America to experience the charm and colours of Cinque Terre for their wedding.
I got off the train at Riomaggiore station and wandered through the winding streets of this popular village in the Cinque Terre. It's not easy navigating these cliff-side villages along the Coast of Italy; google maps does not help! But with some zen navigation and a call to the bride once I thought I was close, I tracked down the apartment that she was getting ready in for her elopement in Cinque Terre.
Morning preparations were relaxed, with a view of the sea out the window and also dazzling coloured houses clustered up and down the cliffside of the harbour of Riomaggiore. The couple prepared for their elopement on opposite sides of the harbour, but it was so cute that they could lean out the window and wave to each other, just about making the other out in the frame of a window or doorway.
Tailoring Your Cinque Terre Elopement
Every love story is unique, and your elopement should reflect that. From scouting the perfect locations to capturing candid moments, my goal is to ensure your love story is beautifully documented.
Jenny and John chose to have a first look before the wedding ceremony. We found a location with open space, bright light, and a view over the rooftops and houses of Riomaggiore. They met in the piazza for a sweet first look, full of emotion and joy, and they then walked ,hand and hand, to the city hall where they held the civil wedding ceremony.
Civil Wedding Ceremonies in Cinque Terre
When eloping in Italy, you can choose to hold a symbolic ceremony, and do all the legal stuff at home, or a civil wedding ceremony. This couple had chosen to have a civil ceremony which was held on the balcony of the town hall in Riomaggiore.
The paperwork isn't always easy to sort, so they had employed the expertise of Lisa from Hitched in Italy.
A once-in-a-lifetime experience, I understand the importance of preserving these memories for generations to come. I wanted to focus on capturing emotions and storytelling through the photography. There were beautiful little moments of interactions such as a hand gentle holding the other, or a little look that spoke more than words. I always want to ensure these heartfelt moments are beautifully documented, and there were plenty during Jenny and John's ceremony.
A relaxed elopement in Cinque TerrE
After Jenny and John's ceremony, we wandered through the winding stone streets, exploring the village as we went, and even stopped off at a bar in the centre to toast the newly weds. Later we also had a gelato - something simple and sweet, but it can make such wonderful memories for your elopement.
Cinque Terre is not only a visual feast but also a cultural haven. You can choose to immerse yourself in the local traditions, cuisine, and hospitality to enhance your elopement experience. As your wedding photographer, I can guide you on stunning locations, recommend local vendors, and help you incorporate authentic elements into your special day.
Couple Portraits in Riomaggiore
Following refreshments at the bar, we went down to the harbour and then beach for some photos of the two of them. Remember, this was a hot summer's day! And it was busy! But we took this all in as part of the experience of being there. As a professional wedding photographer, I am dedicated to capturing the essence of your love story against the backdrop of this breathtaking destination. An elopement in Cinque Terre is an experience and an adventure!
A Sweet Celebration
Sometimes your day doesn't have to be all about big huge moments, but can be about the little moments and keeping things simply. We simply went to get a gelato and I think this made for a lovely, gentle moment within the day. Elopements are about creating a day the way you would like to spend it. And spending it together, making memories with your loved one, is the most important part of that.
Getting Married in Cinque Terre?
Let's embark on this journey together, creating memories that will last a lifetime. From the intimate exchange of vows to stolen glances and joyous celebrations, your love story will be immortalized in a collection of timeless photographs. Whether you envision exchanging vows on a secluded beach, amidst the vibrant streets of Vernazza, or overlooking the breathtaking views from Manarola, I will work closely with you to curate a personalized experience. Get in touch to discuss your Cinque Terre elopement and let's make your dream wedding a reality.
