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Matthew and Callie first locked eyes at a pub in downtown Kalamazoo, Michigan. They exchanged pleasantries that evening, but unfortunately, did not exchange information. By chance, they later discovered they shared mutual friends — who eventually connected them, as if they were always meant to find one another. Their engagement took place in the coastal town of Saugatuck, Michigan. With Callie’s family in town, Matthew seized the perfect opportunity to arrange a surprise photographer to capture the moment at a nearby park. After dinner, the group strolled to the boardwalk, where Matthew knelt just as the sun dipped below the horizon, creating a truly magical moment.
Why Did the Couple Choose Lake Como for Their Elopement?
Callie & Matthew: We’d been dreaming about Lake Como as our next big destination, and the more we talked about it, the more it felt like the universe was nudging us in that direction for our elopement. The timing aligned so effortlessly that it almost felt meant to be. There was something undeniably romantic about it — the stillness of the water, the old-world charm, the way the light settles over the mountains. Since we live on a lake back home in the States, choosing another lake felt symbolic, like a little thread tying our worlds together. And the idea of slipping onto a vintage boat for photos… it felt glamorous, intimate, and perfectly us.
What Makes Lake Como Special for Elopements?
Sam, the photographer: Lake Como is a special blend of history, art, and nature. Most places in the world are known for one of those things, but not Lake Como. It has beautiful historical buildings, inspiring architecture, and stunning natural landscapes all blending seamlessly to create one of the most breathtaking locations in the world.
Can You Get Legally Married in Italy?
Yes, you can but Callie & Matthew decided on a symbolic ceremony and taking care of the paperwork stateside.
Did the Couple Incorporate Any Cultural Aspects of Lake Como into Their Elopement?
Callie & Matthew: We included an olive tree ceremony as part of our elopement, which is a tradition where each partner is supposed to bring soil from their hometown to blend together at the base of a young olive tree. It symbolizes planting your future in the histories that shaped you both. I even planned to bring a tiny amount of my dad’s ashes to mix with mine, as a quiet way of carrying him with me. But — in true destination-wedding fashion — between flights, luggage shuffles, and general chaos, neither the soils nor the ashes actually made it into our suitcases. Our officiant still performed the ceremony, combining symbolic “soils” for us so the moment could carry the meaning without the logistics. Unfortunately, we hauled that little olive tree all over Italy, determined to bring home a living piece of our wedding day. And… despite our best efforts, it’s on the verge of death. Thankfully, the symbolism holds true: even if the tree didn’t make it, our love is very much alive — thriving, rooted, and a whole lot sturdier than an olive sapling in transit.
What Was the Couple’s Experience with Getting Married in Lake Como During The Month of May?
Callie & Matthew: We chose May in hopes of avoiding the influx of tourists, but the weather was a lot chillier and more wet than we had hoped for. I would recommend early June.
Sam, the photographer: Late spring (May–June) or early fall (September) is ideal. You’ll get that golden Italian warmth without the heavy summer crowds. For the best photos, aim for sunrise or golden hour when the lake turns to glass and the light paints everything in gold and rose tones.
What Are the Best Tips for Planning an Elopement in Lake Como?
Callie & Matthew: Lean into social media — it’s truly the secret weapon for planning a destination wedding or elopement. That’s how I found Sam, our photographer, and I’m so grateful I trusted my gut and reached out. I originally assumed he’d be way out of our reach, but messaging him ended up being the single best decision of our entire planning process. Sam wasn’t just a photographer; he became our guide through the whole elopement experience. He’s a wealth of knowledge — the kind of person who instinctively thinks through every small detail you wouldn’t even realize matters. His experience made us feel calm, confident, and completely taken care of. He helped us choose the perfect location, think through logistics, and stay ahead of things we never would have known to consider. Our day ran smoothly because of him. And beyond finding incredible new vendors like Sam, don’t be afraid to ask vendors you’ve worked with before to travel. Having people you already trust adds so much peace of mind, especially when you’re planning something from afar. Combine that with leaning on your venue — they’re experts in their own backyard and often have local partners or discounts you’d never know about otherwise — and you get the perfect balance of familiar and local support. Truly, having Sam there elevated our entire experience. His artistry and guidance shaped our day in the best possible way, and I can’t recommend enough that couples look for a photographer who brings that same level of vision, expertise, and heart.
Sam, the photographer: Do careful research. The best spots to elope in Lake Como are not in famous towns like Como or Bellagio. It’s packed with tons of tourists.
How Did the Couple Personalize Their Elopement?
Callie & Matthew: In this instance, no as we deferred to the wedding planner, who was familiar with the hotel and venue to make all of the arrangements for us.
What Advice Would You Give to Others Planning an Elopement in Lake Como?
Callie & Matthew: It’s not about anyone else but the two of you. Not parents, in-laws, friends, children, it’s about your bond, your forever moment. So make sure the moment reflects what the two of you have always dreamed it would be!
Whether a big wedding or small, destination wedding or local, expensive wedding or within financial reason, make sure it embodies who you are as a couple and find a way to present in the moment!
Sam, the photographer: If it rains, wait 15 minutes, it will pass. GET THE BOAT, why travel across the world just to rob yourself from this epic experience.
What Were the Most Memorable Moments from This Elopement?
Callie & Matthew: Breakfast the morning of. A quiet moment together. One in which we both got to privately share our excitement before the festivities began!
The moment we both saw each other, Callie in her dress, Matt in his tux. Probably the same moment most couples cherish when they are wed but the moment itself can’t be diminished or forgotten!
The boat ride in the rain! We paid for an hour, but maybe had 7 minutes! I didn’t matter, the entire thing had us laughing and we loved every second of it!
Do you need any permits or permission from landowners for this location?
Sam, the photographer: For private villas, yes you’ll need permission from the property owners, especially for ceremonies or photoshoots. Public spots around the lake, like docks and gardens, usually don’t require a permit, but it’s always best to double-check with your planner. Some garden required permits and photography fee that can go up to 600 euros.
