A wedding (or elopement!) among Italy’s picturesque mountain range, the Dolomites, is currently on our must-list for those seeking adventure elsewhere. We’ve featured some rather jaw-dropping unions with the peaks + lake (Lago Di Braies) in view, and now it’s time to answer that burning question: just how do you pull off a wedding in the Dolomites? We got all the intel from Maya (of Maya Lora Photo), who also happened to photograph today’s boho elopement — so you’ll get plenty of inspiration and information, alike!
For the day’s design, Stella Danila Events stepped in to create a rustic + bohemian scene. From macramé-esque gowns to a lakeside ceremony, all the way to a cozy reception table in the woods. Come for the FAQs, stay for all the style + romance!
Let’s let Maya Lora Photo take it away with her gorgeous photos + advice!
The bride donned two different Atelier Zolotas gowns for the day and as major macramé fans, these looks are speaking to us!!
How to Get to the Italian Dolomites
If you are coming from out of the country, the easiest way to get there is to fly into Milan then rent a car or take a train to the mountain region. The drive there is pretty easy and is really pretty! You’ll drive through mountain cities and towns on the main toll road. (Note that the toll roads are a bit pricey but it’s the fastest way to get there.)
Just picture yourself here…gorgeous!!
Italian Dolomites Wedding Locations
The Italian Dolomites are full of amazing places for a wedding. Lago Di Braies has become a popular wedding and elopement destination over the years. When you see photos of the lake you’ll know why! Take a boat ride alongside the lake or walk along the rim where you’ll find a cute little chapel, boathouse dock, and a loop trail through the trees.
After taking photos at Lago Di Braies, head over to the cute little mountain village of Cortina D’Ampezzo. It’s the perfect place to get some greenery and the Dolomites as a backdrop. You’ll definitely feel like you’re in the sound of music!
And lastly, if you really want to add some adventure into your day, you can hike to the Three Peaks in Alta Pusteria for a stunning view of the amazing Dolomite peaks.
When to Go
If you are planning an Italian Dolomites wedding, I would suggest going during the fall. The fall colors are incredible! The temperatures are on the cooler side (about 40 degrees F), but the cloud cover makes for beautiful lighting. The fall time also seems to be a little less touristy.
Where to Stay in the Dolomites
There is a wide variety of lodging in the Dolomites but if you are wanting an early start at Lago Di Braies before the crowds, I would highly recommend staying at Hotel Lago Di Braies. It is the only hotel literally steps from the lake. Or, there are also a ton of little hotels 5-10 minutes away.
Not that the Dolomites need any embellishments, but this floral arch by Riccardo Ciceri is quite the ceremony backdrop!
Things to Know
When planning your Italian dolomites wedding at Lago Di Braies there are a few things to take into account that will make your photos and day more special. First off, I would highly recommend a sunrise ceremony to beat the crowds. People get to the lake super early and you don’t want a million people in and around your ceremony.
Secondly, get a photo permit for the lake house and dock. We had a photo permit and got to use the boathouse and dock, and were able to be the only ones on the lake for an hour before the boat rentals opened. That means nobody in your photos and you truly get the experience of a lifetime!
The most stunning little reception table for an elopement!
Where to Find Your Vendors
When hiring your vendors (such as a florist, planner, rentals, etc.) look in the surrounding areas for those who are willing to travel to Braies. Our team came from the areas of Lake Como and Milan. They are each only a few hours away and you can usually find vendors in those cities who cater to the mountain area. You can always import vendors you trust from other areas, as well!
And a final tip from us at GWS: dogs are always encouraged! 😉
Thanks so much to this creative team and be sure to catch the travel bug from We Stories above!
photography: Maya Lora Photo // venue name: Lago di Braies, Dolomites, Tyrol, Italy // event design: Stella Danila Events // planning: Stella Danila Events // florals: Riccardo Ciceri // wedding dress: Atelier Zolotas // bride’s ring: Linea Laboratorio Orafo // hair stylist: Chiara and Remo // makeup artist: Hayley Noel Artistry // videography: We Stories // paper goods: Grigio Cielo Studio // calligraphy: Grigio Cielo Studio // cake: Sweetlylab // tabletop rentals: TablesetRentals // furniture rentals: TablesetRentals // models: Chiara Daga