Poppy & Joseph's Wedding at Masseria Via Gioia in Puglia was a photographer's dream.
I had underestimated how long it takes to travel within Italy to secluded towns and the stunning venues where weddings are held. But I had also underestimated how beautiful these places can be. After a good 6 hours of travel, flights, trains, taxis and communicating with locals in my very basic Italian, I finally arrived in the pictoresque bed & breakfast that would be my home for the next 3 days. When in Italy I never miss the chance of having my favourite treat: a cappuccino decaffeitano con zuchero, and of course, the mandatory daily gelato.
I was excited, and taking in all the new landscapes, smells and sounds. Ready full of inspiration for Poppy and Joseph's wedding, who've been dreaming of this day for years.
The moment I arrived at Masseria Via Gioia, I knew the day was going to unfold effortlessly, and that the photos would turn out beautifully. The pastel wallpapers of the venue, paired with the warmth of the wooden interiors and surrounded by stunning lavender fields and sunny gardens, created the perfect backdrop for this truly gorgeous day.
The ceremony was beautifully simple, with heartfelt readings by their guests under a tree overlooking the main house, and it ended with a sing-along that brought both tears and laughter. By this point I knew Poppy and Joseph's closest friends and family and couldn't help but feel moved by their words too. There's pure joy in documenting genuine generous exchanges of supportive words, hugs and advice for the future.
Everyone enjoyed a reception around the pool, with colourful cocktails and amazing music, and we took about half an hour to do some group shots and couple photos before dinner was served.
The long table in the main courtyard was beautifully decorated with flowers and candles and I enjoyed photographing this moment against a gentle blue sky, and from the balconies of the main house that offer stunning views of the grounds.
We were blessed with the most beautiful pink sunset, the perfect transition into the later hours when the couple took over the decks and played their favourite music until late.
The night time chaos was my favourite. A mix of dancing, boys cruising around with video cameras, the clinking of glasses, everyone requesting songs and mixing cocktails, more tears of joy, then cake, then strawberries, and then everything else, forever.
