Natalie + Gavin’s Trentino Elopement: A Peaceful Alternative to the Busy Dolomites

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When I first spoke with Natalie & Gavin about their elopement, they told me that they were more drawn to the serene Austrian Alps landscapes, but because Italy was such a special place for them, they wanted to elope in the Dolomites/Italian Alps. The more we talked, the more they spoke about the day feeling relaxed, private, and filled with expansive views and great food.

Since they weren’t set on their elopement being in the Dolomites, I threw them a wildcard option; an area with its own Dolomites, but without the famous locations or crowds. This area is found in Trentino, an area with incredible mountains north of Lake Garda. I showed them a few photos from my own adventures there, and they were on board!

Wanting their day to feel relaxed, but with a touch of the finer things, I partnered up with local wedding planner Ilaria to help create a truly magical experience for the couple.

The night before their elopement, we drove up to a remote mountain hut, where we spent the evening exploring and scouting out their ceremony location. The next morning, makeup artist Claudia arrived to get Natalie ready for the adventures of the day, while Gavin joined them for breakfast. Once they were dressed and ready, they shared a first look behind the hut, then changed into hiking boots and headed up the mountain to exchange vows and enjoy the scenery with a short hike.

The second part of their adventure led us to a nearby mountain pasture, where the local mayor allowed them to use his own cabin to prepare a wonderful al-fresco dining experience. The couple enjoyed a wonderful meal created with lots of local and foraged ingredients, accompanied by delicious cocktails with each course. Meanwhile, the resident cows and horses came closer to say hello, curious about us and what we were doing.