Jeff and Sarah’s day was one of the most exciting weddings I’ve ever photographed for two reasons: one, it was in the grounds of an Italian castle and two, it was a SURPRISE WEDDING!
Jeff and Sarah were visiting Castello Monaci on a wine tasting tour with friends and decided to add an unexpected twist to the trip by getting married there! Wedding planner Claire Clarke and I arrived to capture the wine tasting tour, under the cover that we were a photographer and writer covering the tasting for a magazine article. As somebody who isn’t a particularly good liar this was a bit of a challenge but it all went perfectly, with bride Sarah slipping out half way through the winery tour to get ready, and the tour group heading over to the Scuderie for dinner. It was then revealed that Sarah and Jeff would be getting married in just a few minutes, much to the joy and surprise of their guests!
Sarah walked down the aisle arm in arm with her friend Al, before she and Jeff exchanged vows in a heartfelt humanist ceremony lead by Douglas. It was beautiful and the secret plan couldn’t have gone any better, so huge props to Claire for making it happen so smoothly!
They enjoyed Castello Monaci’s own Prosecco on the poolside, before venue coordinator superstar Marco picked us up in a golf buggy so we could take photos around the castle and the vineyard. It was perfect.
As the sun set, everybody sat down for an outdoor dinner of exquisite Italian food, and they shared their toasts as Chinese lanterns from a nearby wedding lit up the sky. The perfect end to their day.
Wedding Planner: Claire Clarke Weddings
Venue: Castello Monaci, Puglia, Italy
Flowers: Annalori Blasi
Celebrant: Douglas Duckworth
““Cat has the ability to understand how to get the best from you as a couple on a day when so much is going on. Her ability to capture in her photos the moment and the couples personality is wonderful. Cat helped make the memories of my wedding day, by laughing, helping and joining in while still being professional; it felt like a friend taking the photos. So very pleased we went with Cat, I’d recommend her in a heart beat.””
Getting married at Castello Monaci and on the hunt for a photographer? Check your date and get in touch - I'd love to hear all about your plans!
