HAILEE + JOE
VARENNA, ITALY
Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Como, Villa Monastero provided the perfect backdrop for Hailee and Joe’s intimate wedding elopement. As an editorial destination wedding photographer, I find that the villa’s unique mix of Cistercian history and botanical botanical gardens offers a level of light and texture that is rare even for Italy. If you are planning a celebration on the water, you can explore my full Lake Como wedding photographer guide for more insight into the logistics of planning an elopement in Varenna.
The Logistics: Eloping at Villa Monastero
Villa Monastero is a historic gem known for its picturesque beauty and world-renowned botanical gardens. Originally a monastery, the venue has transformed into a premier location for couples seeking privacy without sacrificing the iconic “Grand Tour” aesthetic of Lake Como.
For Hailee and Joe, the focus was on the experience rather than a strict schedule. We utilized the famous loggia, a stone portico with soaring arches, to frame their ceremony against the dramatic backdrop of the Alps. This specific area of the villa is ideal for midday ceremonies, as the architecture provides soft, directional light that creates a timeless, editorial feel.
Why Varenna is Ideal for Intimate Weddings
Choosing Varenna for an elopement allows for a slower pace than the busier hubs of Bellagio or Como. The walk from the village center to Villa Monastero through the “Walk of Lovers” (Passerella degli Innamorati) provides a natural narrative flow for wedding portraits.
Hailee and Joe’s elopement was a beautiful reminder that a wedding doesn’t need hundreds of guests to feel significant. Drawing on my background in the national press, I worked to capture the quiet intensity of their connection—the subtle glances and the shared stillness of the lake—while maintaining a high-fashion aesthetic that matched the grandeur of their surroundings.
Planning Your Lake Como Elopement
Whether it’s the romance of a private boat tour departing from the Villa Monastero pier or a quiet exchange of vows among the exotic plants of the gardens, an elopement here is about the essence of the couple.
If you are currently researching venues in Northern Italy or across the Mediterranean, you can view my full destination wedding photographer guide to see more recent stories and travel insights.
