A Romantic Scottish Wedding in the Heart of Italy – Abbazia San Pietro in Valle
When Scottish charm meets Italian romance.
There are some weddings that live in your memory forever — and this one, set in the breathtaking hills of Umbria, was exactly that. Heather & Jack’s destination wedding at Abbazia San Pietro in Valle was a celebration of love, heritage, and connection. From the moment I arrived in Italy, I knew this would be something extraordinary.
As a candid wedding photographer based in Scotland, I’ve always been drawn to moments that feel honest and unscripted. This wedding was full of them — the small looks, the spontaneous laughter, the overwhelming emotion.
The Setting – Abbazia San Pietro in Valle
Tucked into the lush Italian hills near Ferentillo, the venue was nothing short of magical. Ancient stone walls, sweeping mountain views, ivy-covered arches — it felt like stepping into a dream. The abbey is steeped in history and soul, and it created the perfect backdrop for a heartfelt, emotional day.
It was hot — gloriously hot — with sunlight pouring into every corner of the venue, casting that warm Mediterranean glow over everything it touched.
Five Days of Celebration
What made this wedding truly special was the time we all shared together in the days leading up to it. Heather & Jack didn’t just plan a ceremony — they created an experience.
There was a sun-soaked pool party, where guests relaxed, laughed, and enjoyed being completely present. The following evening, they hosted a pizza party under the stars, with twinkle lights above, wood-fired pizza, and a soundtrack of clinking glasses and quiet joy.
These days helped everyone settle in and bond — and by the time the wedding arrived, it felt like we were one big family.
The Wedding Day
The ceremony itself took place in the courtyard of the abbey, framed by ancient arches and climbing ivy. Guests dressed in kilts and flowing summer dresses lined the stone walkway. As H & J walked through a tunnel of smiling faces and flying flower confetti, their kiss felt like a movie moment — but it was real, raw, and unposed.
Afterward, we gathered for group photos beneath the arched gate, capturing the joyful energy of this Scottish-Italian celebration. There was so much colour, texture, and life.
Speeches, Dancing & Mountain Views
Dinner took place in a candlelit courtyard surrounded by stone staircases and terracotta pots. Long tables lined with red florals and glass candelabras created an atmosphere that was equal parts luxurious and intimate.
The speeches were full of laughter and emotion, and as the golden hour slipped into dusk, H & J stepped into the spotlight for their first dance
Behind them, the Umbrian mountains stood silent and still — a timeless witness to a moment of pure connection.
A Few Favourite Frames
Each wedding has a few photos that stop you in your tracks. For me, it was these quiet, cinematic frames — moments full of mood and story, captured without words.
Why I Love Destination Weddings
There’s something deeply immersive about destination weddings. When you take people away from their everyday surroundings and place them somewhere warm, wild, and full of possibility — something changes.
People relax. They connect. They become more present.
For me, it’s not about creating perfect photos — it’s about capturing meaningful ones. The in-between moments. The spontaneous ones. The ones you’ll look back on and feel, not just remember.
Planning Your Own Destination Wedding?
Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement in Italy or a full wedding weekend abroad, I’d love to help you capture the magic. My approach is always laid-back, emotion-focused, and unobtrusive — allowing you to live the day while I document it with heart.
📩 Let’s talk about your plans — whether in Scotland, Italy, or beyond.