We’re here to make the dream real! Wedding planning today goes far beyond simply booking services. What truly matters is crafting a meaningful experience for our couples and their guests. It’s about genuine collaboration, understanding their vision, and bringing to life an unforgettable celebration. As one of our guests recently said, “I don’t know if I’m dreaming or if all of this is truly real…”
Rosanna Ripamonti, Founder, Distinctive Italy Weddings
Rosanna Ripamonti of Distinctive Italy Weddings leads a team of eight seasoned professionals based in the US and Italy, bringing over 20 years of experience in planning unforgettable weddings across Italy’s most iconic regions. Here we discuss how Rosanna started out, her favourite wedding locations, and what international couples can expect of her service…
C&B: “Rosanna, you’ve built an excellent reputation for planning over the years – what first inspired you to specialise in Italian weddings?”
RR: “The joy of collaborating with couples from around the globe, paired with the honour of orchestrating celebrations in Italy’s most iconic and historic venues keeps our work infinitely inspiring…”
C&B: “Yes – Italy’s reputation for being one of the most romantic wedding destinations is so well-deserved! What was your first wedding project and how did it first come about?”
RR: “Back in 1997 I was contacted by an American film producer to plan her 3 day destination wedding near Venice; and the experience was so amazing that I never looked back…”
C&B: “Venice is such a magical backdrop to special occasions. Which other locations around Italy are your favourites?”
RR: “Lake Como consistently tops our list – its breathtaking beauty eclipses the other lakes. It offers an unparalleled selection of exquisite venues, matched by magnificent gardens, and timeless sophistication. We also plan numerous events throughout Tuscany, with Florence in particular offering some of Italy’s most stunning villas and historic castles. Beyond Tuscany, the coastal gems of the Amalfi Coast, the Italian Riviera, and Sicily each provide their own distinctive charm. No matter the location, Italy offers something truly special for every couple. We’re passionate about crafting unforgettable events at iconic venues like Villa del Balbianello in Lake Como and Villa Cimbrone in the Amalfi Coast – however, we also specialise in uncovering hidden gems and curating experiences that are considered to be off the beaten path…”
The vastness of Lake Como, framed by distant Alps and majestic mountains, and dotted with opulent villas and lush gardens, is truly a breathtaking sight. Couples have everything in Lake Como!”
Rosanna Ripamonti, Founder, Distinctive Italy Weddings
C&B: “How do you approach planning a wedding for couples who may not speak Italian or are unfamiliar with the region?”
RR: “We always start with a complimentary consultation. With a team of eight bilingual – and in some cases trilingual – planners, we’re able to guide our couples through the unique nuances not only of each region, but also of every individual venue. No two are the same, and each offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience!”
C&B: “What are a few of the ‘most-wanted’ cultural elements or traditions that couples like to have Distinctive Italy Weddings incorporate into their big day?”
RR: “Today’s destination weddings are all about infusing unique, unforgettable details that elevate the guest experience. Whether it’s arriving in a vintage car or cruising on a Riva boat, those iconic touches have become signature moments. But what really sets each celebration apart is the regional flavour – from a folk group serenading guests through the winding streets of Capri to a local artisan crafting custom leather sandals for every guest on-site during the welcome dinner…”
C&B: “These touches are what makes an Italian wedding truly memorable. Are there seasonal considerations that couples should keep in mind when planning a wedding in Lake Como?”
RR: “Lake Como is at its best from May through most of October with July and August being the driest month. Once the season ends, from November through March, many hotels and venues close…”
C&B: “That’s really good to note. What services do you provide to ensure a stress-free wedding experience for both the couple and their guests both in the lead up to the big day, and on it?”
RR: “We provide a professional planning platform that allows our couples to have a much more hands on, in-control experience of all of their planning details along with regular ZOOM meetings to review the information that regularly is being shared. Budget tools, check lists, design tools, timelines and more are absolutely necessary to ensure that couples are totally relaxed during the planning process and during the wedding days…”
C&B: “Yes, it’s crucial for couples to know that everything from the budget to the travel arrangements are being handled capably. Are you able to share any recent themes in destination weddings that you’ve observed, particularly in relation to Italy?”
RR: “Our couples are focusing more and more on the total guest experience – wanting multi-day celebrations that immerse their loved ones in meaningful moments from ‘one of a kind’ welcome events such as a yacht cruise with dinner. It’s no longer just about the ceremony and reception; it’s about creating a full journey that guests will talk about long after the last dance…”
CONTACT: http://www.distinctiveitalyweddings.com
