Simplicity and sophistication – that's what Laura Joann Finch and Philip Robert James Lucock were searching for when it came to their wedding getaway. And what better place than the stylish and ever so romantic setting of Italy's undiscovered gem, the beautiful Lake Orta, San Giulio.After Phil's surprise proposal in the Big Apple, New York, the couple travelled high and low before finding their dream destination abroad, stumbling upon the stunning, unspoiled lake in Italy. Untouched by tourist travel, the enchanting area almost appears to have been hidden by the Milanese.
The happy couple's closest family and friends flew to Milan for a few days of indulgence before stopping in the clustered mountains and mysterious lakes of the secluded San Giulio. While in Milan, they sampled rustic Italian cuisine and fine wine, while scoping out the designer-studded displays in fashion's favourite capital of the world. Milanese call it La Cenerentola (Cinderella) because they have long considered the lake to be secretly superior to the larger and more commercial areas of Como and Maggiore. And for this reason, Laura and Philip exchanged vows in its perfectly intimate and peaceful surroundings to start their married life as they mean to go on.
They married in the ancient baroque hall, Villa Bossi on the picturesque lake front. The beautiful bride arrived by boat along the lake's tranquil waters, with guests awaiting her and her proud father's arrival.
Laura wore an Allure Couture bridal gown flown in from the US, a truly sensational and elegant lace detailed dress which she teamed with Jenny Packham shoes. Carrying her grandmother’s antique cream rosary beads and matching bouquet, she walked down the aisle to Pachelbel's Canon in D played by a string quartet.
Guests were then transported on a champagne boat trip to the historic and mesmerising St Julius Island before enjoying a sumptuous seven-course dinner where they witnessed Italy’s envious sunset illuminating the surrounding forested hillsides and small chapels.A romantic candlelit reception saw the happy couple's first dance where they embarked on their new life together to the sound of Etta James' At Last.
