Perched on the sun-soaked shores of Sicily, Tonnara di Scopello set the stage for a wedding that felt like stepping into a cinematic dream – where rustic Italian charm met modern elegance, and every golden hour shimmered with love. Once a 13th-century tuna factory, the venue’s terracotta walls and turquoise coves became the beating heart of Katia and Danny’s celebration – effortlessly romantic, deeply personal, and undeniably beautiful. From the very first glance, the design told a story of refined simplicity and soul. The couple embraced a palette of soft blushes, sun-faded pinks, and creamy neutrals, woven through delicate floral clouds and hundreds of glowing candles. Katia, radiant in a Vivienne Westwood gown, embodied modern bridal sophistication with a sculptural corset effortlessly softened with fluid drapery and an Italian lace veil. This was not just a wedding. It was an experience – a perfect blend of la dolce vita and modern romance, brought to life against one of Italy’s most breathtaking backdrops.
Our Love Story
The Day We Met
We actually lived in the same building in London for seven years and somehow never met — which feels almost impressive, honestly. Timing really is everything!
We had mutual friends, and Danny had been following me on Instagram for ages but never actually messaged me. Eventually, I got tired of waiting and did what any modern woman would do — slid straight into his DMs. The rest, as they say, is history!
The Proposal
Danny proposed at Tonnara di Scopello during our first Sicilian road trip in 2024 — which, funnily enough, became our wedding venue 14 months later! I had absolutely no idea it was coming and, in true vacation spirit, drank far too much Sicilian wine beforehand. By dinner, I could barely sit up straight… so really, when he got down on one knee, I was already halfway to the floor. Timing, right?
The Engagement Ring
My ring is from G. Collins & Sons — a beautiful British, family-run jewellery house that means a lot to us. One of Danny’s groomsmen is Josh Collins, who now runs this second-generation family business, started by his father in 1985. For obvious reasons, when the time came to plan the proposal, Josh was, of course, the first to know — and thrilled to be the one making the ring. It feels extra special knowing it was made with that much love.
Our Wedding
The Vision
The theme was rustic elegance — simple, warm, and full of character. I’ve always believed less is more, so we let the venue do the talking. For the décor, we kept things soft and romantic: lots of candles, delicate flowers, and touches of pink. The main brief, though? A party — everyone we love in one place, dancing until the sun came up.
Our Team of Vendors
Lisa from Isla & Smith was an absolute star. She somehow made every one of our crazy ideas happen and was such a dream to work with — calm, creative, and endlessly patient. I also had the most wonderful hair and makeup team, which makes all the difference. You spend more time with them than you realize on the day, so surrounding yourself with positive, uplifting people is everything.
The Location
I run a travel agency, Little Blue Door, so I’m always searching for destinations that feel truly one of a kind. Tonnara di Scopello had been at the top of my list for years — a 13th-century former tuna factory set against the most breathtaking stretch of Sicilian coastline. It’s not just another Instagrammable spot, however, but a place with real soul and history. The fact that we also got engaged there was just the sweetest cherry on top. It really is “our place.”
The Ceremony
Our florist, Fluida, absolutely nailed it — she’s a true artist. The ceremony took place by the sea, surrounded by a dreamy cloud of pastel blooms. I walked down the aisle with my mother as one of my favorite songs by RY X played, while the bridesmaids and groomsmen made their entrance on Vespas — peak Italian energy!
We also pre-recorded our vows and had them played during the ceremony as we held hands and listened — the most emotional moment. (Highly recommend this if you’re too nervous to speak live!)
The Cocktail Hour
We themed the cocktail hour Tonnara Pink, inspired by the venue’s beautiful deep pastel façade. Everything tied back to that soft, romantic palette. And, naturally, we had a sprawling buffet — because in Sicily, abundance is a love language.
The Reception
The reception was exactly what we wanted — chaotic perfection! Chef Natale Giunta’s paccheri pasta had everyone in a food-induced trance, The Gypsy Queens took over the room, and from there it was all napkins in the air, tambourines out, and a few too many shots. Basically, the Italian wedding dream!
The Special Touches
We kept things intimate — around 95 guests — and we really wanted everyone to feel part of something personal. So instead of simple name cards, each guest found a note waiting for them with a photo of either myself or Danny. It was probably the most emotional detail of the day — a little love letter to say how much they mean to us (and that making the trek to Sicily didn’t go unnoticed!).
Our Favorite Moment
The minute we cut the cake, the heavens absolutely opened — full thunderstorm, lightning and all! Guests ran for cover straight into what we’d dubbed the Rave Cave.
Honestly, the timing couldn’t have been better — pure drama, and the perfect cue to switch from dinner to dance floor. We named it DK-10, after DC-10 in Ibiza (and yes, also Danny + Katia + 10th of September).
Our Style
The Bridal Looks
I’m forever obsessed with my Vivienne Westwood dress. The second I tried it on, that was it — game over. No one does a corset like Westwood. Nothing makes you feel more snatched or sculpted! My second look was a custom Kricket Marie mini from Texas — short, fun, and naturally, corseted. I wanted something sexy but comfy so I could dance in it until sunrise. They nailed it.
Our Bridesmaids’ Looks
I’m obsessed with brown — it’s so chic and unexpected for bridesmaids. All my girls were bronzed and gorgeous after summer, so the color just worked. Their dresses were custom-made and turned out perfectly!
Our Advice
For the Planning Process
First things first: find the venue! It sets the tone for everything. After that, trust your planner, trust the process, and don’t stress the small stuff — you’re marrying your best friend, and that’s the only thing that really matters.
For On The Day
Put the phone down. The day flies by faster than you think, and your energy sets the vibe for everyone else. Be present, have fun, and take it all in — it’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime feelings.
For Post-Wedding
Go on a minimoon! Give yourself a few days to slow down, take it all in, and just be together — no schedules, no to-do lists, just you and your new husband or wife. It’s the best way to let everything sink in.
Vendors
Photography: Antonova Kseniya, Matt Godkin
Videography: Plus Two Films, Nova Luna Films
Wedding Planner: Isla & Smith Bespoke Events
Venue: Tonnara di Scopello
Florist: Fluida Design
Stationery: Vine in the Wild
Cake & Catering: Chef Natale Giunta
Music: The Gypsy Queens, Laga Khan, Yet More Music
Hair: The Gigi Monaco
Makeup: Asya Yureva
Style
Bridal Dress: Vivienne Westwood
Second Bridal Look: Kricket Marie Atelier
Bridal Veil: Amaré Bride
Bridal Shoes: Gianvito Rossi
Bridal Jewelry: 1stDibs Style
Wedding & Engagement Ring: G. Collins & Sons
