After Wedding Sunrise Session at Duomo di Milano in Italy
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Locally known as Duomo di Milano, this iconic location is very popular for photos, containing over six centuries of history! We woke up before sunrise to meet these two at Piazza del Duomo before the space filled up with tourists. Felicia and Dillon stunned in the early morning light.
When the morning rush began, they made their way to the nearby shopping center Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, stopping for some urban photos with the Metro on the way. The shopping center gave another grand view of Italian architecture. Felicia and Dillon were clearly smitten with each other and a dream to photograph in this early morning scene.
How did you choose the location?
From Emma, the photographer: This location was selected as part of the Bella Vita Retreat! According to Abby and Simona, the founders of Bella Vita, “We knew we wanted to host retreats and styled shoots that were heavily influenced by European culture, hence the Italian name meaning ‘Beautiful Life.'” As a group we stayed together in downtown Milan, and couldn’t pass up an opportunity to take photos with the iconic Duomo.
Are any permits required to get married here or do a photo session?
No permit is required to take photos outside of the cathedral. Photographs are allowed inside the cathedral, but you’ll need to be part of a guided tour in order to access certain areas inside.
Can you have a legal ceremony here?
Yes, you can be legally married here!
How easy is the Location to access? Is it suitable for all ages?
Piazza del Duomo is super easy to access. It’s in the city center with plenty of transportation options leading directly to the cathedral. The cathedral itself is located in the center of the piazza, with Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping center within easy walking distance on another side of the piazza.
What Sustainability considerations are Particularly important in this area?
No littering. If you decide to bring bread to lure birds for your photos, be mindful of wrappers and dispose of extra items.
what are your top tips for planning an elopement or photo session in this area?
If you love the look of this location, I definitely recommend arriving EARLY – as close to sunrise as possible – in order to maximize your flexibility with the location! Because of its majesty and allure, there can be other photographers and couples taking wedding photos at this time, as well as tourists and locals entering the area. When we arrived at sunrise, we had the space mostly to ourselves – but by the end of our session there were plenty of other people walking the piazza.
Arrive early in the day and schedule transportation, hair and makeup services, and any other pre-ceremony activities accordingly.
The cathedral is beautiful all year round. The summer and fall months will be the most comfortable temperature to hold a ceremony this early in the day.
any other advice you’d like to share based on your experience?
Scout the area first, and know which locations you’ll want to visit beforehand. If you’re working with a professional photographer, make sure they do this as well! Also know that there are plenty of restaurants, cafes and bakeries nearby for a newlywed treat after photos. If photos of a Just Married breakfast are important to you, I’d recommend finding a cafe you love and making reservations ahead of time!
The Vendors:
Photography: Emma Mullins Photography
Host: Bella Vita Retreats
Dress: Aire Barcelona
Accessories: White Sands Bridal
Hair & Makeup: The Ivory Standard
Florist: The Blonde Flower
