Hollee and Myles celebrated their love with a deeply romantic elopement in Laglio, Italy. They took a boat to the idyllic town of Nesso, embraced by the joyful cheers and claps of the locals who celebrated the newlyweds while they captured beautiful memories. Their intimate, elegant reception at the historic Relais Villa Vittoria, surrounded by their closest loved ones, was a testament to their profound bond. Hollee was radiant in our ethereal Eva Gown and Ella Veil, while the air was filled with the enchanting scent of jasmine. The lush gardens, breathtaking views of Lake Como, and stone walls cloaked in ivy created an unforgettable evening.
Beginning their journey through the modern world of Tinder, Hollee and Myles found an unexpected connection in the same small town, with their introverted natures leading them to seek something more meaningful. As their love grew, they planned an adventurous backpacking trip to Europe, which fatefully fell through due to pandemic restrictions. Yet, Myles, determined to create a beautiful setting for his secretly planned proposal, arranged a getaway to the charming town of Wooli, Australia. One morning, beside a picturesque lake, they paused for a stroll. Myles dropped to one knee and asked the question, bringing forth a joyful flood of tears for both.
We're both not the type to enjoy being the centre of attention...when it came to our wedding, we really wanted something intimate and romantic.
THE COUPLE
Hollee & Myles Burgess
WEDDING DAY
June 24, 2024
TO US, MARRIAGE MEANS...
To us marriage is more than just a commitment – it's building a life with your best friend. A life where you're grateful to share in the big moments, but most importantly, in the small moments you share together daily. It's a celebration of all we have achieved together and all that is yet to come.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Fiona Murtaj.
MOST TREASURED WEDDING MOMENT
Whilst our photos were being taken, Myles and I enjoyed a boat ride across Lake Como to a little picturesque village called Nesso. Locals and tourists alike were smiling, clapping and congratulating us as we had our pictures taken. Myles and I felt a little awkward in front of the camera but all these people just made us laugh and genuinely enjoy this time together in what felt like a very surreal moment.
FINDING YOUR DREAM WEDDING GOWN
Hollee is a self-described dreamer. An avid reader of fantasy novels, she was looking for a gown that perfectly represented her. During her first fitting, she fell in love with two pieces - our divine Eva Gown, and our romantic Ella Veil. "(they) ticked all the boxes – it was ethereal, whimsical and dreamily detailed." She had her eye on our Ella Veil before her first fitting, and seeing both together she described: "I had a little 'pinch me' moment where I was just so overwhelmed that I'd found my dream dress."
THE VENUE
As an avid Star Wars fan, I dreamed of getting married at the famous Villa Balbianello in Lake Como, Italy. However, the venue was far beyond our budget so we decided upon the beautiful Relais Villa Vittoria – a nineteenth-century boutique hotel located in the romantic village of Laglio on the banks of Lake Como.
WEDDING AESTHETIC
As a boutique hotel, the villa helped create a luxurious holiday-type feel that we wanted our guests to enjoy. After all, they had travelled all the way to Italy for us! We were surrounded by private gardens, an infinity pool, and a unique pink-coloured villa and enjoyed our reception on the lake-view terrace.
WEDDING SCENT
Dolce & Gabbana, The One.
HAIR & MAKEUP
Glamour curls and simple, natural-looking makeup – nothing too heavy.
FLOWERS & BOUQUETS
I really wanted a pop of colour in my bouquet so I decided on shades of pink, yellow and white in dahlias, poppies, cosmos, daisies and snapdragons. On the morning of the wedding, I just picked out what flowers I liked at a local florist and had them put it together for me into a bouquet.
WEDDING CAKE
We didn't have one – three courses plus a tiramisu for dessert was plenty for us!
FOOD & DRINKS
The villa offered a set three-course menu as well as canapés after the ceremony. The starter consisted of fried eggplant with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese and basil. The first course was fresh pasta with basil pesto, lemon zest and swordfish. The main course was a beef fillet with red wine sauce and sauteed vegetables followed by a tiramisu for dessert.
ADVICE FOR BRIDES-TO-BE
Start the planning process as early as possible!
WEDDING VENDORS
Venue: Relais Villa Vittoria
Photography: Fiona Murtaj Photography
Hair & Makeup: @arymakeuphair