Pre-Wedding Events | Wedding Diaries

A couple in white outfits smiles at the entrance of "Osteria daCiaccia," lit by fairy lights. Green plants frame the scene.

A couple in white summer outfits ascends stairs, holding hands, with a marina and palm trees in the sunny background.

Pre-Wedding Events

As this was a destination wedding (at least for my side), it was very important for me to make sure that my loved ones would be able to experience Puglia. For myself, I have been extremely fortunate to travel and have already seen a lot of Europe. I knew for a lot of my relatives that this would be their first time in Puglia, let alone Europe - so I especially wanted to ensure that we had something extra planned for everyone who'd be traveling so far to celebrate with us.

On our wedding website, I included an entire section on the destination - including several recommendations for those who would be arriving a day or two earlier. Places like beach clubs, restaurants, and spas. It was so fun to hear where friends and relatives went during their visit! And even more fun for Mario to know that a whole bunch of Americans were taking over his hometown for a week.

The first "wedding event" was actually a rehearsal dinner, which followed our ceremony rehearsal at the cathedral. This was kept to immediate family at my in-laws' home and was such a special evening with our loved ones. We also invited the priest who would be presiding over our ceremony so we could spend more time together before the big day.

Welcome Party

I think it's fairly common practice to have additional events planned for destination weddings, so I immediately knew I wanted a welcome event to kick off our wedding festivities!

The big pre-wedding event was our Welcome Party, held at Casa Ciaccia in Ostuni. Second to our wedding as one of my favorite nights, it was everything and more. Our friends and family were left speechless by the venue, the food, and the vibes! I remember looking at Mario throughout the evening with a huge smile on my face. I couldn't believe all our people from abroad were in Puglia with us.

A couple in white outfits smile, holding wine glasses. They're in a garden adorned with twinkling lights and flowers. Festive and joyful mood.

A group of people smiling outdoors at night, in colorful attire, against a stone wall backdrop. Festive and joyful atmosphere.

Bridal Party

As earlier mentioned, this was a destination wedding for us since we are not based in Italy. This also meant that we didn't really have the time to plan the more traditional events like a bridal shower or bachelor/bachelorette party with friends. But to be completely honest, we knew that skipping out on these things made more sense for our situation. Plus, we were already married!

Our sweet best man planned a small celebration with our closest friends the day before the wedding.