I start the day taking a few photos of Venice as I walk from my apartment on Giudecca island to the Belmond Hotel Cipriani. The Cipriani is placed almost opposite the iconic Piazza San Marco. Its location means that it is quiet and exclusive. Affording its privileged guests the privacy they seek. However, just a short 5-minute ride in a water taxi and you can be in the bustling centre of Venice.
The bride is getting ready in her apartment that overlooks the water. As she is with her stylist I start with a few detail photos. She has a custom-made dress by Zuhair Murad. Shoes by Louboutin. A few carefully selected pieces of jewelry and of course their lovely bespoke design stationery. On completing the photos of the accessories I go to meet the groom and his parents. Consequently, I take a few photos of them finishing getting ready before they have to catch their water taxi to go to the church.
Next the bride. Her impressive dress contains multiple pieces, the bridesmaids all help her to get ready and as they help her I document the entire process. With all the guests already on their way to the church, it is now our turn to take a water taxi. It only takes 8 minutes to walk from the Belmond Hotel Cipriani to Il Redentore church. However, it is even faster for us by boat. On arrival, everyone is inside the church and eagerly awaiting the bride.
Catholic ceremony at Il Redentore Venice
The processional is beautiful, the bridal party enters in couples. Finally, the bride enters accompanied by her father and brother, she is emotional, but rightly so. Her handsome groom awaits her and once united they take their place together in front of the altar. The ceremony follows and about an hour later they exit the church to petals and a large group photo on the steps of Il Redentore church.
After the ceremony, we take some photos in front of the church. The wind plays with the brides Zuhair Murad bespoke wedding gown. Next photos with their families before we take a water taxi. We have planned a short boat ride and photo session on our way back to the Belmond Hotel Cipriani wedding reception.
Belmond Hotel Cipriani wedding reception
The drinks reception takes place at the Cips Club. Everyone enjoys the refreshments and good company and of course, the location, as the San Marco backdrop is one of a kind! Inside the “Granaries” an opulent decor awaits to surprise the guests. As dusk falls the doors open and the guests enter inside.
Many of them stop to take photos of the stunning decor. Once everyone is inside the bride and groom also make their entrance. Food, wine, and amusing and emotional speeches follow. After dinner, there is the cake cutting followed by the first dance and party.
I love to photograph weddings in Venice and this Belmond Hotel Cipriani wedding will be hard to top!