Dream wedding in puglia .In the enchanting landscape of Puglia, nestled in the heart of the Valle d’Itria near Alberobello, a wedding took place that was nothing short of magical. Christel, an Emmy Award-winning actress, and Sam Restagno, an investment banker with Italian roots, celebrated their love in the stunning setting of Masseria Grieco. Surrounded by the rustic beauty of trulli houses, ancient olive groves, and the wild, captivating nature of the region, the couple’s wedding was a perfect blend of elegance, emotion, and tradition. Christel, known for her roles in The Young and the Restless and Matilda, among other notable works, chose Puglia not just for its beauty, but also to honor Sam’s Italian heritage. Sam, a successful broker in the investment sector, has always cherished his Italian roots, and this connection to Italy was a significant element in their wedding celebration. Christel’s love for Sam’s background was evident in every detail of the day, especially in the music. She personally selected a playlist of classic Italian melodies, filling the air with the nostalgic sounds for which Italy is world-famous. This choice set a romantic and authentic tone, paying homage to the country’s rich cultural legacy. Puglia has become a premier destination for weddings, especially for international couples seeking a blend of history, natural beauty, and charm. The region offers breathtaking coastlines with crystal-clear waters, endless blue skies, and sprawling olive groves, creating a timeless and evocative backdrop for any celebration. It’s no wonder so many famous actors and celebrities choose Puglia for their weddings, as it offers a unique combination of rustic charm and luxurious experiences. Masseria Grieco, with its stone walls, ancient architecture, and scenic views, was the perfect location for Christel and Sam’s big day. The couple had originally planned to marry two years ago, but they postponed the event after the birth of their first child together. Christel, who already has a son from a previous marriage, shared a deeply emotional moment with her family during the ceremony. Her eldest son moved everyone to tears with a touching speech, where he expressed how Sam had brought a sense of completeness to their family. He described how, since Sam became a part of their lives, he finally feels like he has a father figure, a sentiment that resonated deeply with all the guests. His words were filled with sensitivity and sweetness, making it one of the most memorable moments of the day. As a photographer, I was honored to be chosen to capture this special occasion. Christel and Sam specifically sought a style that would reflect their true emotions and happiness, and my reportage approach was a perfect match for their vision. It was important to them that the photos convey the authenticity of their love and the raw, candid moments that made their day so special. My goal was to capture not just the beauty of the event, but also the little stolen moments—the looks, the laughter, the shared glances—that define their relationship. The result was a collection of images that tell the story of their love in an honest, heartfelt way. For this wedding, I was accompanied by my dear friend and talented colleague, Beatrice Moricci. Beatrice’s artistic eye and keen sense of detail were invaluable in making sure every special moment was captured with care. The videography was beautifully handled by Daniele Di Francesco from Emotional Movie, whose ability to create emotional, cinematic films brought another layer of depth to the storytelling. The entire event was flawlessly organized by Alessandra Linoci, whose expertise in planning ensured that everything ran smoothly, allowing the couple and their guests to focus solely on enjoying the day. The day was filled with joy, laughter, and heartfelt moments, set against the stunning backdrop of the Valle d’Itria. From the breathtaking sunset to the emotional speeches, every detail of the wedding reflected the unique love story of Christel and Sam. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the couple danced under the stars, surrounded by their closest friends and family, celebrating not just their love for each other, but also their love for Italy and the rich traditions that brought them together. Christel and Sam’s wedding was more than just a celebration of their union; it was a celebration of family, heritage, and the beauty of love in all its forms. As a photographer, it was a privilege to be a part of such an intimate and emotional day. The images we captured will serve as a lasting memory of a day filled with beauty, joy, and heartfelt connections—a day that perfectly encapsulated the spirit of Puglia and the love shared by Christel and Sam.
DESTINATION WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER IN ITALY DANIELE VERTELLI
