The Umbria region, rich in timeless history and beauty, hosted Ellie and Nicholas’ wedding at the Abbazia San Pietro in Valle. After many hours of travel from America to Italy, the couple-to-be, along with their families and friends, didn’t find the expected sunny weather that’s often associated with beautiful Italy.
Abbazia history and unique atmosphere
The Abbazia di San Pietro in Valle, nestled between the Marmore Waterfalls and Spoleto, is a historic residence dating back to the 8th century. It boasts impeccable Romanesque architecture and a spiritually charged atmosphere. Its ancient walls, cloister, and historical frescoes create a captivating backdrop.
Located in the picturesque valley of the Nera River, the abbey offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Umbrian hills. Its meticulously manicured and tranquil gardens serve as an ideal spot for capturing unforgettable photographs and reveling in the charm of the surrounding nature.
Ellie and Nicholas’ Wedding at Abbazia San Pietro in Valle
The wedding at Abbazia San Pietro in Valle starts with bridesmaids bustling around in robes through the evocative rooms carved from the cells of Benedictine monks, others diligently ironing dresses, and the bride focused on perfecting her makeup.
Ellie looked stunning in her opulent first gown, adorned with bold and golden jewelry, paired with her Casadei décolleté featuring sky-high stiletto heels, with which she confidently descended the abbey stairs, walked along a dirt road, and made her entrance into the church.
The wedding ceremony uniting Ellie and Nicholas took place in the abbey church, a single-nave structure culminating in a central apse adorned with remnants of paintings framing the two newlyweds.
The Abbazia di San Pietro in Valle stands as a magical choice for an unforgettable wedding in Umbria, such as the one Elizabeth and Nicholas had, meticulously organized by Chechic wedding planner.
Unfortunately, following the ceremony, the newlyweds and their guests were surprised by a light rain that accompanied the entire aperitif in the abbey’s cloister. Foreigners choosing Italy for their special day often face variable weather with an adventurous spirit, and the American couple was no exception. Accustomed to Manhattan’s harsh climate, the rain and coolness didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of their wedding at Abbazia San Pietro in Valle.
Despite the gray rain dampening the atmosphere, nothing could overshadow the warmth and joy of the moment. The Chechic Wedding Planner team showcased their expertise by setting up a marvelous tensile structure in the lawn in front of the abbey, adorned with flowers and decorations in pure white, transforming a dreary day into a luminous and unforgettable occasion.
Following a swift dinner and touching speeches from witnesses and parents, the atmosphere heated up with the beginning of the celebrations. And in this moment of joy and carefreeness emerged a fascinating tradition: drinking from the groom’s shoe. Though it may seem unusual, this gesture is laden with significance and auspices. It’s a symbolic act, a wish for good fortune, or sometimes a rite of passage. It was a moment of fun and connection, a tradition that further bonded the bride and groom with their loved ones.
FOTOGRAFIE: Matteo Lomonte e Federica Ariemma
Location: Abbazia San Pietro in Valle
Wedding Planner: Che Chic Wedding
FILMMAKER: Karma Wedding
CATERING: Apollinare
FLOWER: I fiori di Ale