A Villa Balbiano Wedding in Lake Como, Italy

An Iconic Italian Venue

There are certain events I’ve had the privilege to photograph that simply took my breath away. This Villa Balbiano wedding was certainly one of them.

On the western shorelines of Lake Como in Italy, Villa Balbiano stands as a testament to timeless beauty and modern love stories.

Instantly recognizable, this breathtaking historical palazzo—once the residence of Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio—offers an undeniably unrivaled backdrop for a Lake Como destination wedding.

A Portal Into the Past

The Villa’s historic interiors, adorned with exquisite objets d’art and furniture from prestigious auction houses like Sotheby’s and Christie’s, are a step back in time. 

Spectacular 17th-century frescoes, painted by the Recchi brothers and Agostino Silva, grace the walls—which remain mostly untarnished by the passage of time, though some evidence of it adds depth and context.

Spoiled for Choice

With over 2 hectares of gorgeous gardens, an open-air swimming pool, an exclusive boathouse, and a private pier, Villa Balbiano is as exciting to explore as it is beautiful to look at.

Rugged coastlines, historical architecture, rolling hills, blue water, ducks and swans… Lake Como is truly one of the most breathtaking locations I’ve ever seen.

An Intimate Prelude

For K + J, their journey into marriage began with a family-only religious ceremony at the sixteenth-century Jesuit church, Chiesa di San Fedele, in Milan—a place that blends art and spirituality. It was a prelude to the grand celebration that awaited them at Villa Balbiano.

A Warm Welcome

Before K + J’s Villa Balbiano wedding ceremony, they welcomed guests at two other incredible Lake Como venues—each contributing their own unique vibe to the overall experience.

Lakeside at the Lago

K + J welcomed friends and family at the Lago Restaurant inside the Grand Hotel Victoria, providing a picturesque setting for guests to indulge in a night of true culinary decadence.

Drinks at Grand Hotel Tremezzo

After a dinner at the Lago, the evening continued at the stunning Grand Hotel Tremezzo, another jewel nestled along the shores of Lake Como.

Guests enjoyed plush interiors, amazing drinks, soft lighting, and expansive views of Lake Como at the Hotel’s lounge, Sala Contessa.

Cascading Florals by Tulipina

K + J’s Villa Balbiano wedding was a visual masterpiece, made all the more memorable by the masterful floral design framing the event. 

As the bride and groom exchanged vows amidst the grandeur of the Villa, a cascade of purple delphiniums—a visual masterpiece by the one and only Tulipina—lined their path.

Against a mirrored walkway and a backdrop of a cloudy sky, the florals added an eye-catching pop of vibrancy.

Nature also graced the celebration with an unexpected shower, creating an aroma of rain and fresh flowers! It was a reminder that beauty emerges in unexpected ways.

Strings and Fiery Spectacles

As the Elan Artists String Trio played, a spectacular fireworks display added an exciting finale to this stunning Villa Balbiano wedding, leaving guests on a high note.

A Testament to Possibilities

Planned masterfully by Sarah Haywood—this celebration blended classic elegance with contemporary style. From the minimalist Riva boat to the stunning Monique Lhuillier lace wedding gown—the details of this event were unforgettable. 

Set against the backdrop of Lake Como’s timeless beauty, this Villa Balbiano wedding serves as a shining example of what is possible for those seeking a visually stunning destination wedding experience.

Scroll to see the rest of the photos from this Villa Balbiano wedding.

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