Claire & Simon’s destination wedding video at Fattoria Mansi Bernardini
When Claire and Simon contacted me about potentially filming their wedding in Italy, it was an offer I couldn't refuse. Having made wedding films in Tuscany in previous years I knew it would be an outstandingly beautiful location which would be visually different to the films I make in the UK.
Prior to leaving, I met the couple to talk through the schedule and find out their expectations for the day and the details which were most important to them. Claire and Simon have two small children which, as well as the couple, were an important focus for their wedding video at Fattoria Mansi Bernardini.
I arrived in the town of Lucca with one full day clear before the wedding. I always recommend this as it allows time to re-arrange travel if there are any issues at the airports. It also means I can scope out the venue the day before and film any 'B roll' footage. In this case I filmed some aerial shots of the villas and the stunning landscapes meaning I could concentrate on filming people on the day itself.
In the afternoon, the couple met their guests for welcome drinks at Piazza Cittadella in Lucca where the groom's father works as an artist. This was covered as part of their videography package and serves as a fun, informal introduction to the weekend's events.
Drone footage from the wedding film at Fattoria Mansi Bernardini.
On the wedding day itself, Claire and Simon were both getting ready in different villas on the estate meaning I was able to jump between both properties and film bride and groom preparations simultaneously.
Then around lunchtime, guests gathered for an outdoor ceremony in front of Villa Bernardini before a lunch was served on the elevated terrace overlooking Lucca plain. The day before I rehearsed an aerial shot showing the side of the villa which allowed me to quickly set-up and film during the reception on the actual day.
““It’s too much, so emotional re living it all. You have an incredible talent. Thank you so so very much xx””
One of Claire and Simon's ideas for the wedding day was that guests would be taken on a journey from one location within the estate, to another as the day progressed which I wanted to show in their wedding film. So after a surprise opera performance by some family friends, attendees were lead along a shaded path to the marquee which had been decorated by the florist and Gemma, the wedding coordinator.
After the meal, speeches and a brief dive into the swimming pool by a few friends, we then proceeded to the outdoor evening entertainment provided by the incredible band, Brightlights who had journeyed from France to perform at Claire and Simon's wedding. Following their first dance to 'Stand by me' surrounded by a sea of sparklers, the evening swung into action with the dance floor packed for the entire duration.
If you're looking for a destination wedding videographer in Italy to capture your family celebration, get in touch and tell me about your plans.
