Inspiration

Lauren and Craig's wedding story which took place in Southern Italy between the stunning surroundings of Monastero San Silvestro and the beautifully classic town of Cortona in Southern Tuscany and what a picturesque sight it is too. Especially when blessed with beautiful golden light, framing some truly gorgeous couple and bridal party portraits. Just wait until you see the ladies spaghetti strap gowns. Slinky satin and delicate lace make these ladies the epitome of style and grace.

Monastery Wedding at Monastero San Silvistro Cortona, Tuscany

Lauren & Craig: Our wedding took place in the picturesque town of Cortona, Tuscany. I had holidayed there as a child and had watched the weddings taking place on the grand steps of the town hall, Comune di Cortona, not to know that one day it would be me. We had hired an old Monastery, ‘Monastero San Silvestro’ which I found online for the weekend of the wedding. The building was beautiful and screamed traditional, Italian style. There was plenty of space for the whole wedding party and direct family to stay at the Monastery so it worked out perfectly. By having the wedding abroad it allowed us to have our closest friends and family celebrate with us over 3 days, rather than just 1 day if we married in the UK We kept our guest list reasonable small with a total of 57 guests. The reception took place in the garden after the service in Cortona. The wedding was inspired by traditional Italian style with long tables and foliage garlands I had prepared that morning. I wanted the whole thing to feel relaxed and rustic but with a touch of elegance. All flowers and foliage were sourced from a local florist and we had couriered most of the decorations out to Italy the week before. The tones for the wedding were very soft and muted, working with a mix of greys and ivory throughout. The greenery of our bouquets and table decorations were the main source of colour, which I loved as it kept things simple, stylish and Italian.

Spagetti Strap Bridal Party Dresses

My dress was by designer David Fielden. It was the first one I tried on at the lovely Carina Baverstock Couture in Bradford-on-Avon and I knew it would suit our wedding style perfectly. The bridesmaids all wore the same silk floor length dress from Ghost. To mix it up we added ribbons around the waist of two of the dresses to give a slight difference. My youngest sister was on hand to do my hair and make -up on the day and she also did all of the bridesmaid’s hair in beautiful, loose boho style braids.

Now tell me you didn't absolutely fall for the beautiful golden hour portraits and the bridal party gowns?! If you're still searching for bridesmaid dresses and love the elegant black-tie look, we've done all the hard work for you, and found six of the best. You're welcome.

Lorna Shaw

Written by Lorna Shaw

Dress Designer: David Fielden | Bridal Boutique: Carina B Couture | Bridal Shoes: Loeffler Randall | Headdress: Jenny Packham | Grooms Suit: Reiss | Loafers: Russell & Bromley | Venue: Monastero San Silvestro

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