11 October 2024 / Real Weddings
Wedding at La Tonnara di Scopello
Magical Wedding at La Tonnara di Scopello
Dylan and Anna had always dreamed of a wedding that combined the laid-back charm of their home state, California, with the rich history and stunning landscapes of Italy. After much consideration, they found their perfect match in Sicily.
The couple felt an immediate connection to the Mediterranean island, finding striking similarities to their beloved California – from the rugged coastlines to the golden sunsets. And what better place to celebrate their love than La Tonnara di Scopello? This stunning, historical venue became the perfect backdrop for their special day.
The Venue: La Tonnara di Scopello
Located on Sicily’s northwest coast, La Tonnara di Scopello is a magical place rich in history and natural beauty. Once an active tuna fishery, this centuries-old venue has been restored into a breathtaking wedding location that can accommodate around 50 guests.
The dramatic cliffs, known as the “faraglioni,” rise majestically from the turquoise waters, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere thatfeels both intimate and grand. With spectacular views and the charm of rustic stone buildings, La Tonnara di Scopello offered Dylan and Anna the dream destination wedding they were looking for.
The water surrounding La Tonnara has vibrant, mesmerizing colors, and the venue itself sits right atthe edge of the sea, giving guests panoramic views that are simply unforgettable. The ancient walls of the tonnara, coupled with the natural beauty of the cliffs and crystal-clear waters, made it a truly unique setting for this celebration of love.
Day 1: Pizza Party by the Sea
The festivities kicked off with a welcome pizza party on La Tonnara’s beautiful terrace overlooking the sea. As all of Dylan and Anna’s guests had flown in from California, this casual event was the perfect way for everyone to relax, mingle, and take in the incredible Sicilian surroundings. Friends and family enjoyed delicious, traditional Italian pizzas fresh from the wood-fired oven, accompanied by local wines and the sound of waves lapping against the shore.
The warm Sicilian breeze, combined with the stunning views of the cliffs and faraglioni, created an unforgettable first evening. The laughter, the shared stories, and the spectacular sunset set the tone for the magical weekend ahead.
Day 2: The Wedding Day – Wedding at La Tonnara di Scopello
The second day was the most awaited—Dylan and Anna’s wedding day. The morning began with a delicious breakfast served in La Tonnara di Scopello’s charming breakfast room, where the guests could enjoy a variety of local delicacies while soaking in the stunning sea views.
As the day unfolded, Dylan and Anna retreated to separate rooms to prepare for the ceremony. Every bedroom at La Tonnara overlooks the sea, giving the bride and groom tranquil spaces to get ready while surrounded by the beauty of the Mediterranean. Anna spent the morning with her bridesmaids, who helped her into her stunning gown, while Dylan and his groomsmen suited up in a nearby room.
The ceremony itself was a breathtaking moment. Set against the backdrop of the faraglioni and the sparkling blue sea, the couple exchanged vows beneath a gorgeous floral arch that complemented the natural beauty of the location. The ground floral arch was a mix of soft greens, delicate white blooms, and blush roses, perfectly framing the ceremony while adding to the romantic ambiance of the setting. As Dylan and Anna said “I do,” the golden light of the afternoon bathed the scene, making it feel almost dreamlike.
Cocktail Hour and Dinner Under the Stars
After the emotional ceremony, guests were treated to a cocktail hour on the terrace, where they could enjoy refreshing drinks and delicious appetizers as the sun set over the horizon. The terrace, with its sweeping views of the sea and cliffs, offered the perfect place for guests to relax, take photos, and toast the newlyweds.
The dinner reception was nothing short of spectacular. In the courtyard of La Tonnara di Scopello, two long, rectangular tables were elegantly set up beneath a canopy of fairy lights that twinkled like stars in the night sky. The setting was intimate yet grand, combining the rustic charm of the venue with modern touches that gave the evening a magical glow.
The food was, of course, one of the highlights of the evening. Guests dined on a feast of Sicilian specialties, including fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and local cheeses, all paired with carefully selected regional wines. Each course was a celebration of the island’s rich culinary traditions, and the meal perfectly complemented the ambiance of the evening.
Dancing and Party in the Cave – Wedding at La Tonnara di Scopello
After dinner, the newlyweds cut their cake—a beautiful, tiered creation that perfectly matched the elegance of the evening. Following the cake cutting, the guests moved back to the terrace for the first dance, accompanied by live music from a local band. As the couple swayed under the stars, surrounded by their closest friends and family, the moment felt nothing short of magical.
The night continued with dancing on the terrace, where the live band played lively tunes, encouraging everyone to join in the celebration. As the evening progressed, the party moved into a nearby cave, where a DJ set transformed the space into an energetic and unique dance floor. The cave’s natural acoustics created a one-of-a-kind experience, and guests danced late into the night, making memories they would cherish forever.
The day after the wedding, Dylan and Anna hosted a goodbye pasta party as a final thank you to their guests who had traveled all the way from California to celebrate with them. This relaxed, informal gathering gave everyone a chance to reminisce about the wedding, enjoy more delicious Sicilian cuisine, and say their farewells.
Held on the terrace once again, the pasta party featured several types of handmade pasta, served family-style with a variety of sauces and toppings. Paired with local wines and limoncello, it was the perfect way to cap off a weekend of love, laughter, and celebration.
Dylan and Anna’s wedding at La Tonnara di Scopello was a true blend of Californian charm and Sicilian beauty. From the stunning sea views and historic charm of the venue to the personal touches that reflected the couple’s love for their roots, it was a wedding that everyone in attendance will remember for years to come.
If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding that combines natural beauty, history, and unforgettable experiences, a wedding at La Tonnara di Scopello is truly something special. Just like Dylan and Anna, you can celebrate your love story in one of the most magical places in the world.
Wedding at La Tonnara di Scopello photos:
Dream team of Wedding at La Tonnara di Scopello:
Wedding Planner and Designer: Italian Wedding Designer
Wedding Venue: La Tonnara di Scopello
Caterer: Pitò
Florist: Frazzita Flowers
Audio & Lights: E20
Band: Mantropia
Photographer: Serena Libutti
Videographer: Danilo D’Amato