Ciao for now Italia
‘Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened’ – sometimes easier said than done as we bid farewell to the charming residence of Terre Di Nano where the wedding of dreams came true.
With family who travelled from every side of the world to be there, it was never going to be an easy goodbye. Whilst it’s difficult having family all over the world, this occasion was a testament to how close we all remain despite the distance and when we do see each other, its like no time has passed.
Taking a final look over that landscape, once again I couldn’t comprehend the overwhelming joy and fun we’d shared together that weekend. When there’s so much uncertainty and hatred going on in the world at the moment, I feel so incredibly lucky to have such a solid family who always have each others backs no matter what.
Having lived in Aus for the past few years, being back with family was even more special. It was also a great opportunity to get to know the bride’s lovely family too, as well as catch up with my brother’s oldest friends who I haven’t seen for many years.
The week before with my immediate family in Montepulciano staying at that beautiful villa was also a special time. We spent our days lounging by the pool, soaking up the sun and sampling the best of the local wine and food in the heart of Tuscan countryside. My sister, cousin and I have already agreed we want to return next year to explore more of the region and its historic towns nestled in the picturesque hills.
Before leaving we visited Pienza once again so my dad could see the spot where the Gladiator film was shot. We had a laugh as he performed the famous Maximus speech which he has learnt off-by-heart! We then hit the road and headed for Rome airport to catch our flight back to England.
Getting back to reality has been a struggle following such a euphoric week full of highs. Whilst I will cherish this as one of the best times of my life, I guess it’s important to remember more good times are coming and to feel blessed for having made such enchanting memories with loved ones.
Bellissimo! Ciao for now Tuscany, you will forever hold a special place in our hearts ❤
With the sun shining and speakers pumping tunes, it was another afternoon of fun and laughter as we all reminisced on the fairytale weekend we’d spent together.
It was the perfect opportunity to wear my Lack Of Colours rancher hat and tye-dye maxi beach dress with Birkenstocks and Ray Ban sunnies.
After a couple of hours down by the pool messing around on pizza floaties, we made our way back to the terrace where they served up real pizzas. Made in the authentic wood-fire pizza oven, these were without a doubt the best pizza slices I’d ever had. A light thin base with emphasis on the toppings was what made these so moorish and the perfect cure for those hangovers 😉
Meanwhile a storm was brewing in the distance making for a very moody sky across the valley, yet the rain never came; a terrific Tuscan stormy sunset.
Later that evening the guitar came out and we broke into a singalong. We were even treated to a live version of the song written for the newlyweds which had us all in tears yet again!
Being a very musical family, that night we were in our element singing our hearts out to each other. I sang ‘Dreams’ by Fleetwood Mac, although I was a fair few beers down at that point, so I’m not so sure this was my most tuneful rendition. Singing ‘Let it be’ by Lennon with my brother and dad was particularly special, before we had to bid farewell to the guests and close the book on a wedding weekend we will cherish forever.
I took a step back that night and breathed in the magic of that moment. We truly had shared the most joyful time together and the happiness of everyone present spoke for itself. The memories will always make me smile; ‘That’s Amore’.
As the wedding itself wasn’t until 5pm, we had the whole day to get ready and let the excitement build. Whilst my brother was off for a morning spa trip to calm his nerves, I went to visit the bridal suite to wish my future sister-in-law well and also get a sneak peak of the dress and veil.
The afternoon flew by as we had fun getting ready in our girls dorm. Thankfully our wonderful cousins came by to help with hairstyles and perfecting makeup. With my pearl crown headband to incorporate into my hair, I went with a loosely twisted low ponytail with strands of hair curled around the front to frame my face.
My dress was from Australia by a Melbourne brand Ache, matched with blush satin Senso shoes from my favourite shoe shop in Sydney Zomp. With such a textured dress I kept accessories simple; pearl asymmetric earrings, Michael Kors rose gold watch, a selection of my best antique gold rings, Cinco gold chain anklet and a simple leather khaki clutch. I was pleased to be wearing a breathable dress given the heat and felt like a princess in my pearl crown headpiece and silk ruffle detail dress.
As the welcome drinks were taking place at 4pm on the front lawn, I was ready by 3:30 to be on hand to check everything was setup and running to schedule. It was also the perfect opportunity to grab some pics with my girls in our gowns with the picturesque backdrop.
Having been an overcast day, thankfully by the afternoon the skies cleared and the sun shone through. As guests sipped on their lemonade and mingled on the lawn, the groom and his groomsmen made the finishing touches with their boutonnières. I helped my brother decide on his suit from Massimo Dutti in a deep forest green colour, contrasting to his groomsman in their silver suits.
Being siblings to the groom, my sister and I also had a corsage each to match the wedding flowers.
And so the time came to take our seats for the ceremony. Guests were handed little bags of olive leaf confetti on arrival and each seat had a wooden fan to stay cool in the humidity. With the floral archway set against that incredible Italian landscape as the sun created a golden shower of light, it truly was the perfect setting as the groom waited eagerly for his bride.
As I witnessed my brother marry his beautiful bride surrounded by all of our close family and so many great friends, I only wish I could’ve paused time at that moment. Many tears of joy were shed as they exchanged their vows and speeches were made about their love as they’ve grown up over the past 10 years together.
At the request of the bride and groom and in my own effort to be in the moment, no phones were allowed during the ceremony. These are a few snaps my mum managed to capture and of course there will be professional photos to follow, but I was happy to be present and soak up every minute of that special time.
The bride and groom then welcomed guests to join them on the terrace for champagne and canapés. With an Italian quartet playing as the sunset over the valley, everyone was on a high and congratulated the couple on their seamlessly executed ceremony.
Soon I was being called to have family photos on the lawn. With the sun now twinkling low in the sky, the entire landscape was dripping in golden light.
Every inch of the wedding was so photogenic and I was eager to make sure I captured photos with as many of my family as possible, not an easy task given the size of our family.
One of the most important shots to get was us three siblings with our new sister-in-law, and what a stunner she is!
The champagne reception continued for a few hours as the bride and groom had to run around getting photos with all of their guests. The canapés kept our hunger at bay as they served wonderful platters of Italian meats, exquisite cheeses and breads.
I couldn’t get enough of this breathtaking view as the sun set creating different hues of pinks and gold across the sky. Prosecco in hand and all of my family around me, this moment felt like we’d left planet earth and reached our own heaven.
Soon it was time to move onto the reception dinner set amongst the olive grove. With fairy lights twinkling overhead and lavish bouquet centrepieces to complete the tables, it looked like a magnificent movie set.
Each place setting came complete with a little bag of lavender and wooden heart with ‘That’s Amore 31.08.19’ carved on the front of it.
The table layout in a U shape worked wonderfully as the bride and groom could see every one of their guests from the head table.
I had the pleasure of being seated on the top table next to my sister with all of our family down the row in front of us.
In true Italian style, the dinner was compiled of four courses. To start, a deliciously thick, rich tomato gaspachio soup.
Secondi was zucchini and leek pesto pasta with ricotta cheese and crispy bacon.
Following tradition of having meat as a main course, we had beef done medium-rare with creamy dauphinoise potatoes and a mixed salad. Being served one by one, the waiters at Terre Di Nano did a fantastic job of getting around the 120 guests efficiently.
To accompany the food there was plenty of the estate’s own Terre Di Nano wine to go around. Being in the region renownd for Montepulciano wine, this was the perfect red to compliment the rich, meaty flavours of the dinner.
With the wine flowing and speeches made giving thanks to all of those involved in planning the day, it was time to cut the cake. Guests gathered around the end of the olive garden to watch as the newlyweds cut into the millefoglie – cake of one thousand layers made of pastry, cream and berries, yum!
A shot of Limoncello and the party continued in the barn next door where the bride and groom had their first dance to Jack Johnson Better Together. Then, just like the stars of their own film, their friend played his original song written especially for them…tissues at the ready again!
So we danced the night away until the early hours of the morning and it was all over in the blink of an eye. Every part of the wedding exceeded expectations and still gives me goosebumps just thinking about it all. From the emotional ceremony overlooking the sweeping hills of Tuscany, to the dreamy dinner beneath the stars, I couldn’t fault one minute of the day.
Most of all, the smiling faces of friends and family who celebrated with us was something money couldn’t buy and is a true testament to the big hearts these two have.
We had the entire back terrace at Idyllium to ourselves with a selection of bubbles, wines and beers served by our own barman who kept everyone’s drinks flowing. With its prime location and flawless service, it’s no wonder this cocktail bar is known as one of the best in the region.
I had such a wonderful time hanging out with my family and friends of my brother’s, some of which I hadn’t seen for years! Sipping our bubbles overlooking that Tuscan landscape with my awesome cousins by my side, I couldn’t have been happier at that moment.
Pre-wedding excitement was certainly on a high and I was extremely prouder of my big brother for bringing together so many loved ones here in Italy for the occasion.
As the night drew in, it was soon time for the groom to say goodbye to his fiancé the final time before their wedding the next day. Joining us for dinner just around the corner, it was a special meal together as a family of five before he became a married man.
And so is evident from the wavy photo above, I knocked back a fair few proseccos as the night continued and we enjoyed another delicious Italian meal involving plenty of bread and pasta. I wore my electric blue lace cap sleeve Lipsy dress for the occasion with stiletto nude heels. These proved quite the challenge when walking the cobbled streets of Pienza, however I had my sister and future sister-in-law by my side to give a helping hand!
What an evening it was and terrific welcome to what was to become the wedding of the century. Idyllium; A romantic interlude…let the wedding day commence ❤
Following an eye test to get my prescription, I went about trying on the different frames. With my heart shaped face and square jaw line, the assistant advised on the types of designs that would work for me. I wanted a frame that was subtle yet stylish, so I opted for a thin gold pilot style actually meant for men.
It’s taking a bit of getting accustomed to wearing them, but what a world of difference they make to my vision; watching TV from the sofa, walking to work and looking out over the harbour, it’s like seeing everything in HD. I can proudly say I am now part of the four eyes glasses gang and unashamed to be so 🙂
One of my favourite bloggers Andy Csinger is the perfect example of how to achieve this effortless yet chic style. By adding a pop of colour with accessories or throwing an oversized trench coat on top of a tee, the most basic of outfits are transformed for the office or even grabbing a cocktail after work.
A note to take from this method of dressing is paying close attention to the fit of your garments. A little mini skirt with an oversized blazer or baggy shirt with skinny jeans; these are just some of the ways Andy uses tailoring to add a hint of masculinity to otherwise very feminine silhouettes.
Little details such as gold jewellery or a tie up back are another way of achieving class and style with just an everyday outfit. Sticking to a tonal colour palette also keeps looks clean and elegant, and of course an all black ensemble is always a killer statement. So keeping in mind that less is more, invest in the timeless pieces and shape your look from there using the basics as your blank canvas.
To think that this time last year I packed my suitcase and ventured down to the Southern Highlands to embark on my farm work, I still can’t believe my luck to have ended up in such a place much like my home back in England. That quaint little town of Moss Vale became my home for 4 months, during which I established some of my closest friends who I continue to catch up with on my visits back to the Aussie countryside.
Now I find myself back in Sydney making the most of working city life and soon to move into a different role for another 6 months of my visa. I’m unsure where this next chapter will take me, but I hope to make the most of this year and continue making many beautiful memories with all the wonderful people I meet along my journey.
In light of this, I endeavour to source my clothes sustainably by visiting vintage thrift stores, charity shops or markets. Surry Hills is full of quirky, cool vintage outlets and of course my favourite past time at the weekend is to visit the famous Kirribilli Markets to dig out some bargains of previously owned and loved garments. My most recent purchases were a pair of Levi shorts for $5, a Kookai denim playsuit for $10 and a forest green silk shirt dress for $5.
So here in my beautiful flat located in Lavender Bay, I’m lucky enough to have my own three double door wardrobe – what a dream! I have the luxury to organise and proudly display my pieces which makes getting dressed each morning easy and fun. I’ve always been a shoe addict too, so I’ve used the bottom few shelves of the middle section to store these, placing my beloved mules from Zomp and Prada heels from my auntie at the front.
My wardrobe here is definitely a fraction of the size back home in England, however I have learnt to be more minimal by sticking to key pieces which can be worn different ways. Layering is an essential component to acheiving this, so I make sure to have a range of tanks, blouses, shirts and jackets.
Having good fitting jeans in different washes is also an absolute must. My favourite brand of denim at the moment is Neuwlandstrat as they make great quality, bum hugging pants – and they match my Dutch last name!
Whilst I wish I could ship the rest of my wardrobe from home out here to Oz, I’ve learnt a more simple, less is more approach to dressing now. However with such a fantastic wardrobe setup which also pleases my inner neat-freak, I can’t help but occasionally treat myself to a few new additions. At the moment I have my eye on a gorgeous Lack Of Colours felt Rancher style hat in Ivory – this will be a staple piece for summer and perfect for my holiday back to Italy in a few months!
As the tunnel fills with a maze of stalls, the good vibes weekend atmosphere echoes amongst the hustle and bustle of Kirribilli streets.
Whilst the sun beats down and eager shoppers feel the heat, the cluster of fresh drink and food stands provide gourmet offerings from numerous cuisines.
Out on the green spills the recycled fashion stalls where vendors eagerly sell off clothing for a fraction of their worth. If you’re lucky (and patient enough to have a good route in the bargain bins), you’ll find yourself walking away with barely worn designer pieces for as little as $5!
Chatting with the friendly sellers, there’s also opportunity to practice your haggling skills and negotiate a good price. With a modest changing room setup behind the park shed, you can even try before you buy.
I was excited to see if these Wrangler shorts would fit but unfortunately they were a little too big – I’m still on the hunt for those perfect bum hugging vintage denim Levis!
This delicate jewellery is very similar to a stall at Paddington Markets where I recently purchased my new favourite ring. I can’t get enough of stacking fine gold rings, so I’m keen to build my collection with these hand-made, good quality designs which are so unique.
I would highly recommend visiting Kirribilli Markets not only for the one-of-a-kind bargains you can bag, but to take a stroll in this North Sydney local neighbourhood and soak up that infectious Sunday ambience.
Decorated with all the sparkle and colour you could imagine, our lovely friend hosted the most fabulous party as her Birthday also falls on this day. I was very excited to be back in my favourite hanging cosy seat complete with sequins and a disco mirror ball – my very own throne!
This time last year (as a newbie to Australia) I was also introduced to the Ozzy Birthday party staple Fairybread. I was addicted to this simple combo of white bread, butter and sprinkles, so I knew exactly where I was going to get my sugar hit ready to dance the night away again.
Another Mardis Gras down and I feel truly thankful for the beautiful friends that have made me so welcome and embraced my presence on such a special day for the gay community. Happy Mardis Gras ❤
Dani Aneka 