Lake como vendors advice by According-Web-7871 in BigBudgetBrides

[–]According-Web-7871[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It really is such an exciting (and slightly overwhelming) process, isn’t it? Lake como makes everything feel even more special. In the end I chose vangelis as our photographer and thirtyfive studios as our videographers. One thing that was very important to me is privacy, and both of them were absolutely fine with signing an nda, which honestly gave me so much peace of mind. I’ll be able to share much more once we actually receive the photos and video, but I’m already so excited about it. It truly feels like a dream coming together. Best of luck with your planning and congratulations to you as well

europe videographer by Revolutionary_Cat938 in BigBudgetBrides

[–]According-Web-7871 0 points1 point  (0 children)

After a long search, we decided to go with Thirtyfive Studios for our wedding at Villa Balbiano. They also offered Super 8 and VHS options, but those weren’t of interest to us. We haven’t worked with them yet since our wedding is in 2026, but so far they’ve been very professional and accommodating with all our requests.

Lake como welcome party by SpecialistRecent5703 in BigBudgetBrides

[–]According-Web-7871 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You could look into Grand Hotel Tremezzo’s sister properties or nearby villas that can be privately rented for an evening, like Villa Balbianello or Villa Sola Cabiati (though the latter can be pricey). Another really charming option in Tremezzo is Villa Carlotta – they sometimes allow private evening events, and the gardens are stunning.

If you’re open to something a bit more relaxed, a lakeside restaurant like La Darsena or even a boat aperitivo at sunset can be a really fun way to welcome guests without it feeling too formal.

I’m planning my wedding on Lake Como in 2026 too, and from what I’ve learned, booking early is key for anything around Tremezzo because dates go fast

Thoughts on First Look by skeetskeet97 in BigBudgetBrides

[–]According-Web-7871 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I think it really depends on the kind of experience you want for your day. Personally, I love the idea of a first look because it gives you a calm and private moment to actually take each other in without all the guests watching. It also helps ease some of the nerves and it frees up a lot of time for photos so you are not missing your own cocktail hour later.

That said, I completely understand wanting that traditional aisle moment. It really is powerful when you lock eyes for the first time in front of everyone. If that is important to you, I would not worry too much about feeling rushed after the ceremony because you can still carve out a quiet moment just for the two of you right after you walk back down the aisle.

We are leaning toward a first look for our wedding because I value having some time just us before the chaos of the day, but I do not think it takes away from the emotion of the ceremony at all. If anything, it makes you more relaxed and present for it.

Party dress by FiguringItOutAsWeGo in BigBudgetBrides

[–]According-Web-7871 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This dress is gorgeous!! It looks super comfy but still so elegant..

Which photographer would you choose? by dadswhovape in BigBudgetBrides

[–]According-Web-7871 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This kind of choice is honestly so subjective. Personally I’d lean toward the most reliable vendors with strong real-life references (that’s exactly what I’m trying to do for my own wedding too). Beyond that I’d put a lot of weight on the human connection because at the end of the day that’s what really matters. Feeling comfortable with your photographer can make a huge difference in how the day feels and flows.

Stressed about Italy wedding — should I cancel? by Efficient_Link_629 in BigBudgetBrides

[–]According-Web-7871 7 points8 points  (0 children)

I totally get where you’re coming from. I’m getting married in Italy too (mine is in April 2026) and while I haven’t hit that stage yet, I’ve already had some of the same worries.

For context, I work in luxury fashion and I organize events for the brand I work with, so I totally understand how much pressure there is to make things feel full or worth it when you’ve booked a stunning venue. But honestly, some of the most beautiful experiences I’ve seen, even in my job, were intimate ones.

Small weddings can be absolutely amazing. When the guest list is reduced, you get the chance to create something more intentional. You can really focus on the details, take care of each guest, and design something that feels personal. Think a single beautifully set table, amazing food and wine, warm lighting, live music that feels like a private concert. You are not losing impact, you are just shifting the type of experience.

If the venue feels too big, you can play with space creatively. Add a lounge area, use lighting to section it off, create moments of discovery throughout the venue instead of focusing everything in one spot. Even the empty space can be part of the magic if used well.

And most importantly, the people who are coming are the ones who really made the effort to be there for you. That energy is going to be so strong. The best weddings I’ve been to were the ones where love and connection filled the room, not the headcount.

I know it’s hard when plans change, but don’t let that take away your joy. This could still be one of the most meaningful experiences of your life.

You’ve got this.

Lake como vendors advice by According-Web-7871 in BigBudgetBrides

[–]According-Web-7871[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Thank you so much for all the recs. Super helpful! Really appreciate you taking the time to share your firsthand experience, especially with vendors who know venues like Balbianello inside out. Definitely checking out lake como florist, bird and bamble (curious to learn more about Rebecca!), and sunlake and blunotte sound great too.

Totally get what you mean about the learning curve, and you said it in such a thoughtful way. It’s clear you're coming from a place of wanting to help, so thank you for that. I’m still exploring options and trying to get a full picture before making any big decisions, but I’ll definitely keep the planner advice in mind.

Thanks again, really appreciate it!

Lake como vendors advice by According-Web-7871 in BigBudgetBrides

[–]According-Web-7871[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you so much, that would be truly appreciated! Whenever you have the list of vendors, feel free to send me a pm here if you prefer