A Wedding Away: Under the Tuscan Sun

Spring is right around the corner — and it can’t come soon enough! I always find this time of year interminably long and a bit dreary. Come on sun! Show yourself! So when these lovely, picturesque wedding-perfect images of the Villa Poggio Bartoli in Tuscany, Italy came across my desk, I had to share them with you: It’s the ultimate fantasy wedding.

Even if you don’t plan on marrying in Italy, you’ll still appreciate the splendor and romance of the Villa and its surroundings — and you may just change your mind and book your nuptials in Tuscany! The Villa, originally a country home for the Medici family dating back to the 15th century, is now a luxury bed and breakfast. Located in the Tuscan town of Vicchio di Mugello, Villa Poggio Bartoli is just 30 minutes outside Florence — ideal if you and your guests want do a little sightseeing and shopping. (The Villa accommodates 24 overnight guests and will assist in making arrangements for guests to stay nearby or in Florence.)villa poggio bartoli weddingJust picture it: Sun-dappled vineyards, verdant rolling hills, lush flowers and, of course, fabulous food. Couples who marry here can hold their ceremony (up to 250 guests) in any number of spaces throughout the property and outdoor grounds. Or, for a more intimate gathering, the onsite chapel that was restored last year holds 16 guests.

villa poggio bartoli wedding

You can make your grand entrance via horse and carriage…

villa poggio bartoli wedding horse drawn carriagevilla poggio bartoli wedding horse drawn carriage

And your reception can be tailored to meet your needs: The experts on staff will assist with all the arrangements from flowers and linens to entertainment. And Chef Jonathan will work with you to develop a custom menu featuring traditional Tuscan cuisine, paired with wines from the local vineyards. You and your guests can enjoy cooking classes, wine tasting, horse and carriage rides, falconry (golden eagles, falcons and owls call the Villa home) and hillside picnics. Nice! On your wedding day, dance atop the swimming pool. And on the terrace, revel in the view of the golden sunset just beyond the rolling hills.

villa poggio bartoli wedding

Soon, your reception becomes a magical nighttime celebration beneath the starry sky:

villa poggio bartoli wedding

Afterward, retreat to the über-romantic Tower Suite and revel in the unforgettable memories made that day.

villa poggio bartoli tower suite

As I said, it’s a fantasy wedding come true. For more information, visit villapoggiobartoli.it and picture yourselves celebrating under that glorious Tuscan sun.

—Diane Forden