A wedding in Tuscany is always special, but to have one in an abandoned village, only accessible by a dirt road and tucked high in the Casentino hills? Well that’s very special indeed! Imi and Freddie’s wedding at Novanta 90 was everything I’d hoped it would be in the lead-up - no fuss, great vibes, and copious amounts of good food and music.
The ceremony took place in the forest, surrounded by trees, with Imi’s sister, cousins, aunt and uncle playing live music throughout, with friends and family singing along too. And instead of a traditional ring exchange, the rings were passed around the whole group in a small wooden box - a ‘warming of the rings’ - so everyone had a moment to hold them before the vows.
Later in the afternoon, cocktails and antipasti were served in the orchard while the sun dipped lower through the trees. Guests lounged around, chatting and laughing, before a couple of beautiful speeches - first from Imi’s dad, then from Imi herself, which had just about everyone reaching for tissues.
Dinner followed down in the Tettoia tent - big sharing plates, long tables, stories and food passed hand to hand. Once the tiramisu ‘wedding cake’ appeared (with espresso martinis to go with it), the party really kicked off. The DJs - all good friends of Imi and Freddie - kept the dance floor going, and then the ceilidh broke out with everyone throwing themselves into it, kilts and all.
It was a day full of music, meaning and proper celebration - and the fact that so many of their friends and family were part of the day made it feel even more personal. No big production, just the right people in the right place, coming together in the most honest and effortless way.
Massive thanks to Imi and Freddie for having me along - what a brilliant experience that was…
Novanta 90 Wedding Suppliers
Venue: Novanta 90
Dress: Halfpenny London
Suit: Sirplus
