The stunning Jonio Coast of Calabria at the enchanting  Resort

After the vows were exchanged, the celebration continued at Cantine De Mare, a modern wedding venue nestled along the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea. Known for its exceptional wines, this Italy wedding venue offered both a breathtaking location and an unparalleled experience. Overlooking the sparkling blue waters, the venue created a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, ideal for this young and lively couple. It was the perfect contrast to the history of the cathedral, allowing us to transition from the sacred to the festive in one seamless experience. As a wedding photographer, one of the most rewarding aspects of my job is capturing the personalities of the couple and their guests. The reception at Cantine De Mare was an absolute highlight. The evening started with a delightful dinner, featuring Mediterranean seafood, expertly paired with wines from the region. The warm summer air and stunning sea views created an enchanting ambiance, making it the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening. What made this wedding even more special was the wedding party atmosphere. The band played live music, filling the air with energy and excitement. Guests were soon up on their feet, dancing to the rhythms and creating a joyful, carefree vibe that defined the night. This young wedding was alive with laughter, love, and a sense of fun—exactly what every wedding photographer in Italy hopes to capture. The dance floor was alive with movement, and as the night progressed, the bride and groom shared their first dance under a canopy of twinkling lights. It was a fashion-forward moment, with the bride in her elegant wedding dress, and the groom in a sharp, tailored suit. Their chemistry was undeniable, and as the best wedding photographer on site, I was thrilled to document these timeless memories. The setting, with the sea breeze, the lively music, and the beauty of the surrounding landscape, was a perfect reflection of the couple's personality and the love they share. This was not just a wedding in Italy; it was a celebration of life, love, and the beginning of a new chapter. The stunning venue and the stunning couple made this an unforgettable experience. As a wedding photographer, it’s always a pleasure to witness and document such joyous occasions. The couple’s fashion wedding style was reflected not only in their attire but also in the decor and overall ambiance of the event. From the sophisticated floral arrangements to the chic table settings, every detail was thoughtfully chosen to create a cohesive and stylish atmosphere. The blend of historic charm with contemporary elegance made this wedding a perfect example of how Italian weddings can merge the old and the new in the most stunning ways. In capturing the essence of this Italian wedding, I was reminded of why I love being a wedding photographer in Italy. The breathtaking landscapes, the rich cultural heritage, and the heartfelt emotions make each wedding unique. The wedding of this lovely couple was a beautiful celebration, and it was an honor to be a part of it. From the historic cathedral to the lively reception by the sea, this wedding Italy will remain one of my favorite stories to tell through my lens. Whether it’s the quiet moments of reflection in a centuries-old church or the wild joy of a wedding party by the sea, my work as a wedding photographer is about telling a story—one that celebrates the love and connection between two people, set against the stunning backdrop of Italy. A Celebration on Calabria’s Ionian Coast: Teresa & Pierpaolo’s Wedding Teresa and Pierpaolo’s special day was nothing short of magical, set against the stunning Jonio Coast of Calabria at the modern and captivating Cantine De Mare Resort. This beautiful couple, hailing from the historic town of Rossano, dreamt of weaving together the region’s rich heritage and the fresh, lively energy of a contemporary Italian wedding celebration. The result was a vibrant spectacle—a union of tradition, modern flair, and the undeniable romantic charm that only Calabria can deliver. 1. The Allure of Calabria’s Ionian Coast Located on the southeastern “toe” of Italy’s boot, Calabria is blessed with expansive coastlines on both the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Seas. While places like Tropea on the Tyrrhenian side have long attracted tourists, the Ionian shore remains a lesser-explored jewel—offering pristine waters, unspoiled beaches, and a depth of culture waiting to be discovered. For weddings in Italy, Calabria provides a quieter, more intimate alternative to some of the country’s more famous destinations like Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast. Teresa and Pierpaolo understood this well. Being from Rossano in the province of Cosenza—often called Rossano Calabro—they were immersed in the area’s Byzantine influences, sun-kissed landscapes, and soul-stirring culinary traditions. They wished to showcase the Ionian Coast’s unique identity, allowing friends and family to experience the warmth and authenticity of their homeland. So, when the time came to choose a wedding location, merging Rossano’s historical center with the modern flair of Cantine De Mare was a natural choice. 2. Rossano, Calabria: A Town Steeped in History Rossano, sometimes referred to as “Rossano la Bizantina,” proudly wears its past on every ancient cobblestone. Its medieval architecture and Byzantine-era monuments attest to the city’s historical significance. The Cathedral of Rossano (known locally as the Cattedrale di Maria Santissima Achiropita), a monumental church dating back to the 11th century, stands at the heart of this legacy. This was precisely why Teresa and Pierpaolo selected it as the site for their religious ceremony: a marriage of modern love in an ageless setting. • The Spiritual Core
Upon entering Rossano’s cathedral, guests felt they had stepped into another era. The basilica’s columns, intricate frescoes, and centuries-old design exuded reverence. Light poured through stained-glass windows, illuminating the couple’s path as they exchanged vows. In these quiet moments of solemn beauty, the cathedral symbolized the spiritual roots anchoring their future together. • A Nod to Byzantine Heritage
Throughout the wedding festivities, references to Rossano’s Byzantine legacy remained front and center—seen in everything from the bride’s subtle gold embroidery on her veil (inspired by local iconography) to the calligraphic style on wedding invitations reflecting medieval aesthetics. For an Italian wedding photographer, capturing these cultural nuances was a highlight, blending the old and the new in frames that told a story far beyond a single day’s celebration. 3. Preparations Amid History and Sea Breezes Before the ceremony, Teresa and Pierpaolo spent the morning making final preparations in Rossano. Surrounded by narrow streets lined with pastel-hued buildings, they reveled in the anticipation shared by their closest friends and family. • Bride’s Suite in the Historic Center
Teresa chose a charming guesthouse tucked within Rossano’s old quarter for her bridal suite. High ceilings, exposed beams, and curated antique furniture offered an ambiance that felt both intimate and elegant. Friends gathered to help her dress, sipping on locally sourced orange juice and nibbling on Calabrian pastries—delicate morsels of dough infused with honey and almonds. As the wedding photographer quietly snapped away, they captured Teresa’s luminous smile whenever she recalled the soon-to-be highlights of the day: a vow exchange at the cathedral and a modern celebration at Cantine De Mare. • Groom’s Retreat Near the Coast
Pierpaolo opted for a minimalist seaside villa not far from the resort. The Ionian Sea’s gentle lapping provided a tranquil soundtrack as he and his groomsmen laughed over stories from college and made final checks on suits, ties, and cufflinks. Morning light danced off the water’s surface, hinting at the larger spectacle that would unfold once everyone converged at the church. 4. A Dream Ceremony in the Cathedral of Rossano Guests arrived at the Cathedral of Rossano mid-morning, greeted by the majestic sight of this 11th-century building. Teresa’s arrival was every bit as dramatic as one would expect: sunlight bathed the church’s exterior stone, and the wind carried a hint of sea salt from the Ionian coast in the distance. • Processional and Vows
A hush fell over the congregation when the organ music began. Teresa, radiant in an understated, lace-trimmed gown, walked down the aisle on her father’s arm. Together, they approached Pierpaolo, who wore a contemporary tailored suit accented with touches of color that matched the bride’s bouquet—small nods to their modern style. The homily, delivered by a local priest close to the family, struck a poignant balance between humor and heartfelt sentiment. The couple then exchanged vows, their voices echoing softly through a space that had witnessed centuries of devotion. • A Photographer’s Delight
For the wedding photographer in Italy, capturing these intimate scenes means playing with light and shadow across the cathedral’s medieval arches. Striking angles can be found near each column, while subtle changes in the bride’s posture or the groom’s glance yield powerful storytelling images. Freezing the exact moment Teresa’s veil caught a sunbeam or Pierpaolo’s joyful tear left an indelible memory on film. 5. From Sacred to Festive: Journey to Cantine De Mare Following the ceremony, attendees traveled by car or minibus to Cantine De Mare, located along Calabria’s Ionian shoreline. This modern wedding venue served as a sharp yet refreshing contrast to the ancient ambiance of Rossano’s center. Known primarily for its vineyards, wine production, and eco-chic accommodations, Cantine De Mare welcomed guests with sun-kissed terraces and panoramic views of the shimmering Ionian Sea. • A Reception Near the Waves
Stepping onto the venue’s expansive patio, visitors immediately smelled the brine of the sea breeze. Tables were arranged to maximize the coastal view, each draped in crisp linen and adorned with minimalistic centerpieces featuring Mediterranean flowers and sprigs of wild herbs—citrus leaves, oregano blossoms, and olive branches. For the couple, these floral choices celebrated Calabria’s bounty, ensuring every decorative element connected intimately to the region. • Ionian Coastal Flair
The presence of the sea remained constant throughout the day. Surfers, locals, and curious onlookers occasionally floated by on the horizon. Meanwhile, waitstaff dressed in crisp white and black served canapés of marinated anchovies, swordfish carpaccio, and assorted cheeses paired with the estate’s house wines. The soft hum of conversation melded with the sound of distant waves, setting a relaxed, joyful tone. 6. Culinary Brilliance: A Feast of Calabrian and Mediterranean Flavors One of Calabria’s greatest strengths is its food culture—steeped in tradition, yet open to contemporary twists. The newlyweds wanted the reception to reflect this identity, so the dinner menu showcased the region’s gastronomic heritage, adapted by a modern, farm-to-table philosophy. • Appetizers and First Courses
Delicately plated seafood featured heavily, with octopus salad drizzled in lemon sauce, stuffed zucchini flowers in a light batter, and fresh mussels steamed in local white wine. Alongside these, an array of grilled vegetables—peppers, eggplant, and tomatoes—demonstrated Calabria’s devotion to vibrant, sun-ripened produce. Hand-rolled pasta such as fileja, typical of Southern Italy, appeared in imaginative sauces that combined tangy tomatoes and fragrant basil leaves. • Wine Pairings
Cantine De Mare prides itself on its vineyards, so each course was matched with local varietals. Crisp whites cut through the seafood’s richness, while robust reds accompanied spiced meat dishes like ‘nduja-laced sausages. Overseeing this meticulously planned pairing was a seasoned sommelier, who explained each wine’s terroir and the subtle notes swirling in the glass—a highlight for epicurean-inclined guests. • Main Courses and Desserts
A succulent swordfish main garnished with olives and capers drew on quintessential Mediterranean flavors. For those preferring meat, a braised veal option melted in the mouth, showcasing Calabria’s ability to fuse tradition and innovation. Dessert was an extensive buffet, starring local delicacies such as bocconotti pastries filled with sweet jam, plus cannoli shells stuffed with ricotta cream kissed by a hint of citrus zest. At the event’s grand finale, the wedding cake—layered with cream, wild berries, and a dusting of almond crumble—stole the show, symbolizing sweet new beginnings. 7. Sunset Spectacle: Toasts and Speeches As the sun dipped below the Ionian horizon, the communal dinner transitioned into heartfelt speeches and toasts. Families from both sides spoke of Teresa and Pierpaolo’s unwavering kindness, sense of adventure, and deep commitment to each other. Friends recounted humorous anecdotes, referencing water sports the groom loved and pastry experiments the bride tackled in her spare time. • The Emotional Core
Laughter ensued when the bride’s sister described a misadventure from their teenage years involving a rickety fishing boat, an overzealous dog, and a capsized canoe near these very shores. Tears glistened in eyes when Pierpaolo’s grandmother, a Calabria native of over 80 years, praised the region’s resilience and blessed the couple’s future. Each testimonial painted a vivid portrait of a community that cherished the newlyweds, uniting to celebrate their promising life ahead. • Capturing Raw Emotions
From a photographer’s perspective, these toasts often yield some of the most unguarded and tender images. Each speech can provoke a reaction—smiles, tears, or boisterous applause. The trick is to remain unobtrusive yet present, ready to freeze a fleeting tear rolling down a cheek or the grin that lights up the bride’s entire face. Such candid photography underscores the authentic humanity fueling a wedding’s narrative. 8. Unleashing the Party: Music, Dancing, and Coastal Vibes One hallmark of Southern Italian weddings, particularly in Calabria, is the robust appetite for celebration. Live bands or DJs, a flair for folk traditions, and the spirited nature of locals combine to create unforgettable parties. Teresa and Pierpaolo’s event at Cantine De Mare was no different. • Band and Folk Influences
The couple hired a versatile ensemble capable of bridging modern pop ballads with traditional tarantella rhythms. Early in the evening, they played acoustic lounge sets, lulling diners into a dreamy ambiance. After dessert, the tempo picked up. Rousing tarantella tunes spurred guests onto the dance floor, where swirling skirts and animated footwork displayed Calabria’s cultural heritage in kinetic form. The glow of overhead fairy lights and the rhythmic strumming of guitars all enhanced an atmosphere pulsing with life. • First Dance by the Sea
Breaking from the folk vibe for a moment, the couple took center stage for a contemporary first dance. The bride’s fluid gown—equal parts sophisticated and playful—swept across the floor as the groom guided her gently. Waves in the distance provided a subtle percussion, mingling with the band’s smooth instrumentation. Onlookers circled around, capturing snippets on their phones, though many found themselves too captivated to think about technology. The romance of the Ionian Sea, combined with the bride and groom’s connection, enthralled everyone present. 9. A Young Wedding’s Heart: Spontaneity and Energy Calling it a “young wedding” goes beyond referencing the bride and groom’s age. It signifies the vibrancy, whimsy, and sense of fearless joy that permeated each moment. Teresa and Pierpaolo sought to highlight their adventurous spirits, inviting guests to ditch formality once the dancing commenced. • After-Party Surprises
In a nod to their shared love of water sports, the couple arranged a late-night beach bonfire. A short stroll from the main venue led attendees to a quiet cove where soft music, additional drinks, and cozy seating arrangements awaited. Some embraced the chance to dip their toes in the Ionian waves under moonlight, capping the evening with an element of spontaneous, youthful thrill. • Fashionable Twists
Another standout detail was the bride’s choice to swap her long veil for a chic flower crown later in the night, referencing the region’s floral diversity. Meanwhile, the groom discarded his tie, opting for a more relaxed look that echoed the wedding’s carefree spirit. The transformation illustrated the fluid line between elegance and casual fun, reflecting Calabria’s ability to seamlessly merge a storied past with modern vitality. 10. Flourishing in Every Photograph: The Role of an Italian Wedding Photographer Documenting Teresa and Pierpaolo’s wedding demanded a skilled eye—someone who understood both the cinematic potential of Calabria’s Ionian coast and the personal significance of Rossano’s cathedral. The photographs aimed not just to record visuals but to convey atmosphere, emotion, and cultural essence. • Bridging Two Worlds
The day spanned two distinct environments: the medieval streets of Rossano and the contemporary chic of Cantine De Mare. A photographer with an appreciation for both historical grandeur and sleek modern lines found ample opportunities for dynamic storytelling. Medieval backdrops lent themselves to timeless black-and-white shots, while the resort’s crisp angles suited a more editorial or fashion-forward style. • Capturing Local Flavors
Scenes extended beyond bride and groom portraits, celebrating the region’s bounty: succulent seafood, robust wines, and the Ionian sunlight dancing on glassware. A truly immersive wedding album includes these smaller details. A close-up of a hand-embroidered table napkin or the swirling foam atop an espresso cup can anchor memories of a day bursting with flavor and significance. 11. The Grand Finale: Cake-Cutting with a Calabrian Touch Late in the evening, or rather early into the next morning, the couple led a procession to the outdoor lounge area for the final highlight: the wedding cake cutting. Candles in hurricane lanterns framed the display, while a gentle breeze rustled the trees. • A Toast to Calabria
With the Ionian Sea as an incomparable backdrop, Teresa and Pierpaolo sliced through a multi-layer cake adorned with delicate sugar flowers reminiscent of local flora. Glasses filled with sweet local wine—perhaps a Malvasia-based dessert wine—sparkled in toasts. For many of the international guests, sampling an authentic Calabria dessert wine marked the perfect conclusion to a day that fully embodied southern Italian warmth. • Bidding Farewell to a Perfect Day
Fireworks weren’t part of the plan, but the star-studded Calabrian sky proved impressive on its own. The bride and groom exchanged lingering glances, aware that this carefully curated celebration was drawing to a close. Family members lingered around tables, swapping final anecdotes and toasting new friendships. Some guests already planned to return for a vacation on Calabria’s Ionian coast, lured by the beauty they’d discovered through the wedding festivities. 12. Reflections on Calabria: A Hidden Gem for Weddings in Italy While many associate Italy’s wedding scene with Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, or Lake Como, regions like Calabria offer equally captivating experiences. As an Italian wedding photographer, capturing events in areas that remain less exposed to mainstream tourism often provides a more authentic and personal angle. From the vantage point of wedding professionals, Calabria boasts: • Rich Cultural Tapestry: Influences from Greek, Byzantine, Norman, and Spanish rule manifest in cuisine, architecture, and folklore. • Breathtaking Landscape: Cliffs that plunge into crystalline seas, rolling hills dotted with olive groves, and medieval villages perched atop coastal bluffs. • Gastronomic Treasures: Spicy ‘nduja, sweet bergamot-based confections, and a variety of fresh seafood from the Ionian Sea. • Unhurried Pace: Life unfolds more gently in Calabria, letting couples truly savor each wedding moment without the rush of a busier locale. 13. An Enduring Love Story Teresa and Pierpaolo’s wedding was far more than a single afternoon of vows followed by a party. It symbolized a commitment to each other, yes, but also to the region they call home. Their union represented a bridge between Rossano’s historical roots and the Ionian coast’s contemporary charm—beautifully reflecting the essence of Calabria itself. In doing so, they reminded everyone present that Italy’s southern shores hold an endless capacity for romance and celebration. Months later, the newlyweds sat in their new home flipping through their wedding album. Every image stirred laughter, tears, or longing. A photo of Teresa’s father smiling proudly in Rossano’s cathedral. A candid snap of Pierpaolo hugging his best friend near the shimmering Ionian Sea. The ephemeral glow of candlelit tables on Cantine De Mare’s patio, flickering like memories in their hearts. Each scene was a testament to the transformative power of love, community, and the unwavering splendor of the Ionian Coast. 14. Looking Ahead: Future Visits and Lasting Impact Many wedding guests returned to their own countries or different parts of Italy, but Calabria now held a special place in their memories. Some planned to revisit the region for a second glimpse of Rossano’s cultural jewels and Cantine De Mare’s breezy terraces. Others urged the newlyweds to host future anniversaries or family reunions along this Ionian shoreline. Even the couple’s social media channels buzzed with photos of midnight bonfires, local wine tastings, and sunsets that painted the water in lavender and gold. In this sense, the wedding transcended personal significance; it also served as an ambassadorial event for Calabria’s Ionian Coast. Friends had always known Teresa and Pierpaolo to be an adventurous, loving duo, but now they also associated them with a place so intimately tied to them—where golden beaches meet Byzantine relics under the watchful gaze of the southern Italian sun. 15. An Ode to Southern Italy’s Spirit To fully grasp the resonance of an Italian wedding in Calabria, one must understand the region’s collective heart: a spirit that values authenticity, friendship, hearty laughter, and genuine connection. Teresa and Pierpaolo’s big day emulated those values, underscoring how a wedding can blossom into a deeper cultural exchange. The Emotional Final Moments Well after midnight, the lively music gave way to gentle acoustic melodies. A few couples lingered on the dance floor, eyes closed, swaying in unison. Teresa, leaning on Pierpaolo’s shoulder, quietly thanked him for choosing this Ionian paradise. He brushed a strand of hair from her face, whispering gratitude for her unwavering love—love that had made each detail of this day radiate with purpose. In an age of fleeting digital encounters, this wedding in Calabria felt like a return to genuine human warmth—a breath of fresh sea air for everyone involved. As the groom’s mother once put it, watching the final slow dance, “This is the Calabria we carry in our blood: full of soul, full of hope, and always looking out to sea for new possibilities.”