A relaxed Wedding at Masseria Salamina in Apulia
Venue: Masseria Salamina, Apulia, Italy
Laid-back wedding at Masseria Salamina/Destination wedding in Apulia/Apulia wedding/Masseria wedding
When Rachel and David envisioned their wedding day, they dreamed of a setting that embodied charm, relaxation, and timeless elegance. They found all that and more at Masseria Salamina, a stunning venue nestled in the heart of Apulia, Italy. With its Mediterranean ambiance, rich history, and scenic views, Masseria Salamina perfectly reflected their vision for a whimsical yet understated celebration.
This blog dives into Rachel and David’s romantic day, their unique planning process, and why Masseria Salamina is an extraordinary choice for a laid-back wedding. Whether you’re considering a destination wedding in Apulia or you’re just here for a dose of Italian wedding inspiration, you’re in for a treat.
The Day Begins in True Laid-Back Style
From the moment photographer Toni arrived at Masseria Salamina, it was clear this wasn’t going to be a traditional wedding morning. Rachel was still enjoying a swim with her sisters in the Masseria’s pool. With wet hair and an infectious laugh, she wandered up to one of the elegant suites to start getting ready.
The suites, with their antique furnishings and historic marble accents, served as the perfect backdrop for her relaxed bridal preparation. Rachel did her own makeup with the help of her sisters, and her unhurried demeanor set the tone for the day.
The ceremony took place in a small church in Ostuni, about a 20-minute drive from the Masseria. It was here that Rachel and David saw each other for the first time. The church’s whitewashed facade, nestled in the ancient town of Ostuni known as the “White City,” amplified the romance of the moment, giving them a backdrop straight out of a postcard.
A Vintage Dress with a Personal Touch
Rachel’s dress was a masterpiece with a story. “I tried on many dresses,” she says, “but none of them felt right. I wanted something unique and meaningful.” She decided to order a vintage 1980s dress on Etsy and reimagine it. Rachel spent weeks reworking, embellishing, and personalizing the dress herself, creating a one-of-a-kind gown that blended elegance with individuality.
For her shoes, Rachel leaned towards Emma Hope’s timeless designs. Hair and makeup? She handled that herself with grace and simplicity. Every detail reflected Rachel’s creative and laid-back spirit, perfectly complementing the Masseria’s understated luxury.
David, too, embraced a relaxed formality with a tailored black suit, a warm white pleated shirt, and a classic bow tie. “I wanted something formal but not overly traditional, like a tuxedo,” he shared. The result? A look that felt effortlessly stylish and uniquely him.
Intimate Details that Made the Day
From the flowers to the food, each element felt thoughtful yet relaxed. Their florist, Romy Flower Designer, used a mix of white and pink lisianthus, blue oxypetalum, deep red limonium, and lush green ruscus to create soft, whimsical arrangements. These blooms, paired with candles in small, elegant vases, added subtle touches of beauty to the venue’s natural charm.
Food and drink were a highlight of the day, with Masseria Salamina’s kitchen delighting guests with an authentic three-course meal. The menu featured a starter, a pasta course, and a choice of meat or fish for the main course, all crafted from local ingredients.
For dessert, they skipped the traditional wedding cake in favor of a tiramisu handcrafted by the Masseria’s chefs. Rachel said, “I’ve always loved tiramisu. The team at Masseria Salamina was happy to make it a centerpiece for us.” During the reception, the couple shared their “cake cutting moment” over a decadent slice of tiramisu, a sweet symbol of their easygoing approach to tradition.
Rachel and David opted for minimal decor, allowing the stunning Mediterranean architecture of the Masseria to shine through. The olive trees, rustic stone walls, and rolling green landscapes formed the perfect backdrop, effortlessly accentuating the wedding’s blend of whimsy and romance.
A Vision Brought to Life
The aesthetic? Think “Phantom of the Opera” meets “Mamma Mia,” with a touch of Anya Taylor-Joy’s ethereal energy. It was dark and vampirical yet lighthearted and whimsical. The backdrop of ancient stone and lush olive groves lent itself beautifully to this juxtaposed vision.
The guests were serenaded by music flowing from a pre-selected playlist, accompanied by live saxophone performances from Toni on Sax. With only a few camcorders for DIY video coverage and no official videographer or planner, the day felt intimate, personal, and entirely focused on what mattered most.
Why Masseria Salamina is Perfect for a Laid Back Wedding
Nestled in Pezze di Greco, Masseria Salamina blends history, hospitality, and the beauty of the Apulian countryside into one breathtaking venue.
Unmatched Atmosphere
The masseria’s centuries-old stone walls, elegant suites, and sprawling olive groves exude charm and make for naturally beautiful wedding photos. The Mediterranean feel, complete with sea breezes and lush greenery, provides an idyllic backdrop for any nuptial celebration.
All-In-One Venue
From exquisite food made with local, organic products to luxurious accommodations for your guests, Masseria Salamina caters to every need. Couples won’t have to worry about coordinating between multiple venues. They can relax and enjoy their day knowing every detail is handled with care.
The Perfect Season
For a wedding at Masseria Salamina, the best time of year is spring or early autumn (April to June or September to October). During these months, the Apulian weather is pleasant, allowing guests to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors without the intense heat of summer.
A Helpful Tip
One practical note for destination weddings here is the lack of taxis in the area. Guests will need to arrange transportation in advance or rent cars to fully enjoy their visit without stress. This small detail ensures your guests enjoy a seamless experience from the moment they arrive.
A Relaxing Wedding Experience
Planning a wedding often comes with stress, but for Rachel and David, designing their day was as laid-back as the celebration itself. Rachel found joy in personalizing her dress and save-the-dates, while David loved planning their whimsical yet slightly gothic theme.
Masseria Salamina’s team ensured the couple could focus on what mattered, taking care of the logistics, food, and seamless hosting. This approach allowed the couple to truly relax and cherish every moment of their special day.
Start Planning Your Dream Masseria Wedding Today
A wedding at Masseria Salamina is more than just an event; it’s an experience. It offers an enchanting blend of luxury, authenticity, and heartfelt hospitality that ensures every couple and guest leaves with cherished memories of their time in Apulia.
Whether you’re drawn to the romantic charm, the mouthwatering cuisine, or the unique Mediterranean vibe, Masseria Salamina has every ingredient for a wedding that’s effortlessly perfect.
Thinking about your own destination wedding in Apulia? Visit Masseria Salamina today to explore their stunning venue and start planning your unforgettable day.
