This is a breathtaking view of the castles which will make any wedding reception unique and beautiful. Imagine arriving at this incredible site by helicopter where you will become Prince and Princess for the day!

These ancient castles overlook the Gulf of Trieste and rise up on an extremely fascinating point of the Adriatic coastline and are surrounded by magnificent flower gardens.

The ancient castle, which is now in ruins dates back to the 11th Century and was used both as living quarters and as a lookout tower. From its high thick walls overhanging the sea, small traces of decorative frescos can still be seen and are most likely parts of the pre-existing private chapel. Under the overhanging cliff a large stone emerges, known to locals as the “White Lady” who according to legend represents a lady of the castle who committed suicide for love.

A little further along is the newer Panoramic Ancient Castle With Rose Garden which dates back to the 14th Century. It was controlled over the years by the Austrians and the Venetians, the rooms of the small fort have significant works of art and historic heirlooms.

The newer Panoramic Ancient Castle is privately owned and has been magnificently restored with period furnishing in each room. You will not be able to resist the breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding hills, the gardens are exquisite and perfect for that unique wedding shoot.

Location:

The castle is located in a small popular village about 20 kms from the town of Trieste. This region is located between Venice and the Istrian Peninsula, at the north end of the Adriatic Sea.

Décor:

The interior is a refined combination of rare and unique furnishings, paintings, priceless books and manuscripts as well as mementos collected and preserved over the centuries which all contribute to the elegant yet warm atmosphere.

The Gardens:

Today the Castles appear as a complex of buildings from different ages, with the foundation being an arcaded courtyard, closed by two massive rampart walls. An added bonus are the surrounding gardens, created in the second half of the 19th century but re-organized a number of times over the years; the walkway unravels towards a series of avenues and romantic pathways guiding you to magnificent period statues, century-old trees, a Mediterranean garden with large flower beds, leading you to the panoramic patios overlooking the sea and a private beach.

Accommodations:

For truly romantic, sophisticated and unforgettable wedding nuptials, the owners of the castle have opened the doors to two splendid bedrooms with a view of the sea, furnished with period pieces.

Also within walking distance are several three star hotels for your wedding guests and many more in the nearby city of Trieste.

Ceremony:

For your Catholic Wedding Ceremony, you will find a charming small chapel set right on the premises outside the castle walls, it can accommodate close to 50 guests. There is a rental fee for the chapel as well as a priest donation for the service. Civil ceremonies can be held at the Civil Wedding Hall and Symbolic Wedding Ceremonies can be held in the outdoor gardens as well as in a number of different settings depending on the number of guests.

Reception:

The Castle can accommodate wedding receptions for up to 130 guests. The reception must be catered, for your convenience our wedding consultants work with several of the top catering companies in the region who will provide superb décor and food. For menu options please do not hesitate to contact our wedding planners.

Leisure Activities:

Aside from the breathtaking views of the castle and a small fishing village this is a very serene setting where brides and grooms to be can relax before the wedding. Prior and after the ceremony your guests will enjoy the rich array of tourists events offered by the area with its many scenic, historical , artistic and gastronomical attractions matched only by the vast offerings of fine and elegant restaurants and small taverns where the cuisine is based on delicious local specialties.

More on this Perfect Wedding Venue:

For additional sight seeing and travel, please keep in mind that this area is located between Venice and a few kilometers from Trieste, it is close to Italy’s international borders but at the same time at the centre of a strategic area that embraces many European capitals and major cities, the Balkans and part of the Middle East. Truly and oasis of calm, undisturbed by traffic but close to the convenience and services of a major city, not far from Ronchi international airport and less than an hour’s drive from Venice airport.

Lastly, please do not hesitate to contact us via this site for more details of this beautiful ancient castle, our wedding planners will be more than happy to answer all your questions.

References: www.wikipedia.org, www.fodors.com, www.eurofish.dk, www.tangoitalia.com,www.peaceinspire.com, www.davenizia.it, chamber of commerce italy.

WEDDING OF LENA & ARI

The Date: June 7^th, 8^th and 9^th, 2008

The Location: Majestic Loire Valley Castle

The Ceremony: Non-Traditional Jewish Wedding

No. Of Guests: 48

Thursday and Friday:

Guests flew in from Russia, Australia, UK and even a few from France on that Thursday but the majority arrived at the castle on Friday. Their wedding planner Caroline Berthe had planned out all the activities for the entire week-end.

First the guests were treated to a wonderful and unforgettable hot-air balloon ride which started at dusk and ended way past ten o’clock at night! Everyone met at a pre-determined spot, one hour before sunset. The guests were invited to help prepare and inflate the balloons, a total of four balloons were used to carry everyone. Inflating these giant multi-colored balloons is no easy task and requires a bit of patience and “muscle” …

For those of you who are interested you might want to know that a lot of the work in hot air ballooning comes at the beginning and the end of the flight, when the crew inflates and deflates the balloon. For the spectator, this is a spectacular show; once the crew has found the perfect launching point, they attach the burner system to the basket. Then they attach the balloon envelope and begin laying it out on the ground. Once it is laid out, the crew begins inflating it, using a powerful fan at the base of the envelope. When there is enough air in the balloon, the crew blasts the burner flame into the envelope mouth, this heats up the air, building pressure until the balloon inflates all the way and starts to lift off the ground! But watch out one must be quick to jump in and our guests did just that.

But I digress… here every one chipped in including the future bride and groom and before you knew it was up, up and away!!! It’s hard to resist as one hundred feet of wispy nylon majestically rises, the air is stable, and the winds are calm. All four balloons flew together in harmony. The flight itself was so tranquil and serene; the only sound was the dragon like roar of the burners from each balloon. The views were breathtaking; here the guests were magically transported above the Loire Valley and its beautiful castles, gliding over le Château de Chenonceau and le Château de Razay. Next they flew over the countryside and its glorious forests. The big surprise was when suddenly and just as if it was staged, a mother doe ran across the entire field anxiously looking for her baby fawn which was heard from far away but not in plain site calling for her mother. What an unexpected treat this was!

Unfortunately what “goes up” must “go down” and so the balloon ride was coming to an end. Here the guests braced themselves for the landing. The balloon landing can be a little rough, but our experienced pilot bumped along the ground to stop the balloon gradually, to minimize the impact. Next the ground crew held the basket down once it had landed. But this was not the end of the job for our guests and ground crew who began to push the air out of the balloon. Once the balloon was flattened, the crew packed it into a stuff bag. The whole process was like packing a giant sleeping bag! Champagne was served on the premises during the whole process and one could see how thrilled the guests were with this amazing experience.

It’s now 10:30 pm, the guests are all back at the castle tired but invigorated by the balloon ride. A jazz duo entertains everyone for an informal dinner before everyone retires to bed for a well deserved rest.

Saturday:

The wedding party consisted of several children of all ages as well as adults. What does one do with little children all day you might ask? Well the first thing to remember is that a baby-sitter is a must; preferably someone who speaks their language and can translate for them if needed. Here the children along with their sitter played all afternoon on the grounds of the castle, surrounded by jugglers and gestures dressed in medieval costumes. The bouncy castles were a favorite of the kids where they were allowed to bounce, jump, hop, skip and run around till their little heart’s content! Oh what a ball they had! They also played with medieval wooden games which were plenty of fun but kind of tricky and challenging, games like wooden pin-balls, beautiful wooden chess games and trampolines were also available for kids of all ages as well as puppet and magic shows.

While the children were playing… the adults were also having fun on a leisurely bicycle ride through the countryside along the Loire River. The weather was perfect, the guests were all thrilled and smiling, some riding handle-bar free and laughing like children as if to say: “This is soooo wonderful “! Once we passed the giant red poppy fields one could see that everyone was mesmerized by its beauty…there is nothing like the Loire Valley for its flower gardens and its castles clinging to the hillsides and alongside the rivers. From glamorous castles to picture perfect villages our trip was highlighted by a visit to the Château de Chenonceau, a guided tour of the castle spoken both in Russian and English which made everyone feel at ease. The castle stretches from on white stone piers across the river and its grounds are adorned with rose gardens and mazes. Next we went to Amboise, home of King François the 1st as well as home to Leonardo Da Vinci where he spent the last three years of his life. Here we visited the Da Vinci home and viewed his inventions at the museum. Then we treated ourselves to plenty of shopping.

Its evening and we are back at the castle for an early dinner, buffet style and relaxed with the soothing sounds of the harp and singer. A magician visited each table and amazed us with his magic tricks. Afterwards at the end of the dinner, and for those of us with “two left feet” we were entertained with a ballroom dance show as well as dance lessons from the pros featuring the Cha-Cha and of course the elegant Waltz. Everyone was very grateful for the lessons as we now can show off the next day for the wedding!

Sunday Wedding Day:

Before the actual ceremony started guests lounged at the pool then enjoyed a casual lunch of wine and cheese at the Troglodyte cave of the castle. Here bottles of fine wines dating back to the bride and groom’s date of birth were opened and was a lot of fun.

In the meantime the bride and groom prepared for their big day, the castle provided three private hairdressers and one make-up artist to care for the wedding party guests. We were only expecting the woman that morning at the salon but soon the men as well as the groom joined in as well for a quick trim! The little girls also came in early that day to get their hair done, but later could not resist the beautiful pool and ended up jumping in before the ceremony with their pretty new hairdo’s. Meanwhile the bride was expertly cared for in a private room in front of a sunny window while some guests peaked in and took pictures. The groom also was seen in another room fixing his tie and smiling for the cameras.

And now the big event we all waited for had finally arrived and the ceremony started!

The bride and groom each came down the castle stairs separately, escorted by their respective family members to finally arrive at the bottom of some eighty stone steps. They slowly walked down the beautiful red carpet aisle decorated with thousands of multi colored rose petals. There the guests were seated facing the Huppa and the beautiful castle in plain view.

The bride wore a dazzling long strapless gown with lace and tiny sequins and a long train. Her head was covered with a traditional tulle veil which later revealed her beautiful hair styled with swirls of blond curls each adorned with single pins made of pearls. Her jewelry was simple but pretty; a white satin ribbon around her neck with a small diamond pendant in the shape of a flower. Her bouquet was made of pale peach colored roses and white freesias surrounded by fresh ivy leaves.

The groom looks tense but then relaxed when the couple joined hands and gathered under the traditional Huppa to meet the Rabbi who had arrived from London to perform the ceremony. After the blessings, came the rings then the sipping of the wine and finally, the breaking of the glass. This signaled the guests to shout “Mazel Tov”! Let the party begin… The entire ceremony was filmed live to be viewed through a private internet website for family and friends in Australia and Russia who could not attend the wedding. Bride and Groom toasted with their glasses of Champagne before the end of the transmission. The couple walked down the aisle while little children carrying wicker baskets threw rose petals. What a site! Spectacular pictures were then taken outside on the grounds of the castle by a professional photographer hired by their wedding planner Caroline Berthe.

Now its party time and all the guests return to the castle for cocktails. Dom Perignon 1998 Champagne flowed; foie gras, oysters and numerous French canapé appetizers where served, live jazz was playing and a few very talented singers, who to my surprise were actually guests, joined in the band and song a few songs! Dinner was served outside under a tent, tables were decorated with orchids and papyrus leaves, a live band sang Jewish songs. Next came the raising of the chairs, a time honored Jewish wedding tradition where the wedding couple and sometimes, their parents are hoisted up on chairs and into the air. Guests were laughing, singing and dancing. I even caught a glimpse of a pretty blond woman at a table laughing while smoking a distinguished cigar…and a couple of men dancing the typical Russian dances kicking their feet low onto the dance floor while the rest of the guests clapped and encouraged them..

And now for the grand finale! The bride and groom filled a Champagne glass pyramid with Vouvray, a wonderful local Champagne, proceeded by the cutting of the cake which in this case was a traditional French wedding specialty called “croquembouche” consisting of a giant tower of caramel-glazed cream puffs. Sparklers lit up the cakes which was perfectly coordinated with the start of a dazzling firework show which lasted a whole ten minutes! Dancing followed till the end of the night…

This WAS truly a wedding to remember!

References: www.wikipedia.com, theknot.com,majicjump.com, http://science,howstuffworks.com, www.1800skyride.com, infohub.com,

DREAM RENAISSANCE CASTLE (<– Check this location on our website !)

Is there a more romantic idea than renting a real private historic castle?… a castle located nearby the Châteaux of the Loire Valley, Romanesque Abbeys and Medieval Cities. Here you are almost transported a few centuries back in time… in a Dream Renaissance Castle.

Location:

Discover the impressive cultural heritage of this beautiful region of France. Located in the Loire Valley this castle is just under an hour from Paris on the TGV, France’s high-speed bullet train; you can also ride the TGV train directly from Charles de Gaulle to the local airport not far from the castle in only one and a half hours and offers very attractive low prices. Not far away one will be mesmerized by the many historic Châteaux of Europe such as Chenonceau, Chambord, Amboise and Leonard Da Vinci’s famous mansion where he spent the last three years of his life.

Décor:

This is a magnificent 14^th Century castle offering spacious and refined rooms and apartments. Views of this Renaissance castle are perched atop its picture-perfect hill. Guest rooms range from the grandiose to the more standard-issue, yet always with stylish salons and period furniture. Once the home of several French kings and their royal “mistresses”, it is not surprising to find the elegance of this château to be fit for a King. Large marble fire-places in the foyer and great hall bring a sense of warmth and luxury to these rooms. Vaulted ceilings combined with velvet period armchairs rest on beautiful hand crafted floors. Dripping, luxurious red velvet curtains are hung atop the 20 foot ceilings and are adorned by magnificent bronze and gold chandeliers. The castle features 22 outstanding and spacious rooms to accommodate all your guests, some with canopy beds and large fire-places, others with exposed beams from the 16^th century and lovely views of the front courtyard.

Ceremony and Reception:

Imagine riding in a horse and carriage, a short distance away to exchange your wedding vows in the village’s local church. For your ceremony, the castle will accommodate you and guests outside on the magnificent grounds. Cocktails can be served on the terrace overlooking its superb “ jardins français” or formal gardens. Dinner will follow in a grand reception room (3,440 square feet) featuring a beautiful stone vaulted ceiling, this dinning room seats up to 100 guests. Pictures can be taken in the garden, in front of the castle, or even facing its famous “potager” vegetable garden. But whichever site your photographer chooses, you are sure to be pleased.

Leisure Activities:

On the premises enjoy a game of tennis on the outdoor courts or relax in the outdoor heated swimming pool.

Hot air Balloon rides, horseback riding, wine and cheese tasting at impeccably kept wineries, canoeing and kayaking along the river. For half or full day excursions, visit the historical castles and gardens of the Loire Valley; enjoy sound and light shows at the castles or rent a bicycle for a leisurely visit near the Renaissance Dream Castle. Also of interest your guests will enjoy the famous “Festival de la Tomate”, this whimsical garden grows 300 or so varieties of tomatoes disguised in many different ways such as chutneys, sauces, beauty creams, medicine, paintings, sculptures and alcoholic concoctions, a visit not to be missed… A major feature of the area around Saumur are the fascinating Troglodyte caves which offer lots of scope for a variety of visits for you are your friends encompassing underground museums, mushroom caves, wine cellars, restaurants and even a zoo which are all given a different slant because of their unusual setting.

References: www.wikipedia.com, www.fodors.com, www.nationmaster.com, http://frenchduck.com, www.a-castle-for-rent.com, www.jpmoser.com

MARIE-ANTOINETTE THEME WEDDING

The French inspired style of decadence has been a strong trend in the past couple of years for destination weddings to France and Italy. Both France and Italy have an abundance of Châteaux reminiscent of the glorious Versailles Palace. 18^th Century Palaces and Villas adorn Florence and Venice and sumptuous Châteaux in the Loire Valley of France. All can accommodate small or large wedding receptions.

Many couples have seen the charm of Paris-Theme receptions over the past few years. In fact, it’s possible that this devotion to France and its Châteaux has turned into a craze, especially now that Eva Longoria of Desperate Housewives and fiancé Tony Parker held their lavish nuptials in a swanky Château just south of Paris called Château de Vaux-Le-Vicomte.

Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte

Vaux-le-Vicomte was in many ways the most influential work built in Europe in the mid-17^th century. It is located 34 miles southeast of Paris and was the work of three geniuses of the 17^th century: the architect Le Vau, the painter and sculptor Le Brun and the landscape gardener Le Nôtre. The building impressed King Louis XIV so much that he commissioned the same three men to create the Château de Versailles. The first view of Vaux-le-Vicomte and its grounds is breathtaking. It is smaller than Versailles however the gardens are spectacular. In fact several scenes from Sophia Coppolla’s award winning movie “Marie-Antoinette” were filmed on location in the gardens of the Château; you surely remember the fire works for Marie-Antoinette’s birthday, or the playful boat scene with her friends as well as the promenades in the gardens.

Inspired by the fashion epic, Marie-Antoinette, decadent reception décor is a must. Brides will show a flair of bourgeoisie by boasting big gowns, brocade, gilded colors, hand written invitations, lush floral centerpieces, champagne-tasting bars, seven course meals and dessert displays.

Your Marie-Antoinette Wedding Theme

The Inspiration: Kirsten Dunst in Sophia Coppola’s award winning movie

“Marie-Antoinette”

The Theme: Romantic, Whimsical and Decadent.

The Motto: More is better!

The Metallic: Gold, Gold and More Gold, Silver, Precious Jewels also. Mix them up.

The Venue: A grand ballroom with airy, light décor and paisleys. Look for sand-colored patterns on the walls, (damask, toile), grand chandeliers, over the top molding, drapes and valance combinations with lavish tassels.

Colors: Focus on neutrals on the pastel end of the wheel for your base: porcelain, pale pink, and peach, oyster, shell and pearl. Accent with frothy, feminine colors that aren’t oversaturated: dusty rose, salmon, celadon and pale blue.

Textures: Silky damasks in multiple layers. Avoid using the same combinations at every table but use complimentary colors. A must have: Plumes, plumes and more plumes! Think fans, vintage shoe clips, hair embellishments, centerpieces and boutonnieres; chunky, vintage style jewelry such as chandelier earrings, sparkling chokers and satin ribbons on the neck, bouquet wraps and stationery.

Flowers: Roses, roses, roses!

Plenty of roses, peonies and hydrangeas will complement your rich neutral palette of colors.

Wedding Cake: A festive croquembouche or macaroons cake such as the ones made by Ladurée in Paris as well as a dessert buffet, with tons of tiny pastries for guests to help themselves to.

Must-Haves: Gold chargers, luxurious napkins folded into a fleur-de-lys, silk fans opened on a plate with a hand written guest tag in gold calligraphy, rose topiaries on the tables, parasols, satin bows, gloves and ruffles, garters and tiaras, tulle, silk and taffeta. Masquerade masks for you and your bridal party is a must!

Additional touches: Champagne fountains with rose petals floating in a basin and decadent chocolate fountains. Find the best ostrich plume pen to compliment your satin damask guestbook. Lastly adorn your fingers with pink sapphire costume rings which Marie-Antoinette loved as well as plenty of pearls!

References: Retrieved from official website of the chateau of Vaux-le-Vicomte, www.wikipedia.org, www.weddingfavorstolove.com, www.palmbeachdailynews.com, www.wedsmack.com, www.weddingbycolor.com, www.favorideas.com, www.findgalegroup.com,www.etsy.com, www.fodors.com,