When you picture a winter wedding in Italy, you might imagine snow everywhere, freezing temperatures, and maybe even a little chaos. The truth is, in the Italian Alps, winter can actually feel warm and golden. Even with snow on the ground, the sun shines so bright that the whole day feels magical. That’s exactly how it was for Katia & Erio’s wedding in Livigno, and I promise you, it’s an experience unlike any other.
Their ceremony was held at 2,208 meters at the Alpino Lodge, and afterward, they hopped on snowmobiles to reach 2,300 meters for their bride and groom portraits. Honestly, it was unforgettable! It was also my very first time photographing a high-altitude, winter wedding… And let me just say, it felt like stepping into another world! Watching them celebrate against such an incredible backdrop reminded me why I love telling these kinds of love stories.
When is the Best Time?
If you’re dreaming of snowy backdrops and warm sunshine, the sweet spot is usually December through March. That’s when the snow is thickest, the mountains look their most dramatic, and the light is just perfect for photos.
The best part is that winter in Italy doesn’t always mean gray skies. At this wedding, I was surprised by how bright and golden the Alps felt, with snow all around yet sunlight pouring down. It was such a beautiful reminder that a winter wedding can be full of light and joy!
Where to Celebrate a Winter Wedding in the Italian Alps
There are so many beautiful alpine spots, but let me tell you a bit about Livigno, where Katia & Erio said their “I dos.” Their wedding at Alpino Lodge, followed by that epic snowmobile adventure, showed off exactly what makes a winter wedding in Italy so unique but also it’s romantic and adventurous all at once!
Other dreamy locations to consider:
- The Dolomites – iconic peaks, endless adventure, and some of the most breathtaking wedding views in the world.
- Cortina d’Ampezzo – luxury alpine vibes and postcard-worthy panoramas.
- Val Gardena – perfect for cozy, chalet-style weddings.
- Courmayeur – nestled at Mont Blanc, it’s equal parts elegance and adventure.
And if you’re looking for intimacy, Italy’s alpine villages are home to romantic mountain churches and chapels that feel like something out of a fairytale. Or, for something more private, you can host your celebration at an exclusive chalet, where you and your loved ones can cozy up by the fire after a day in the snow.
Each of these places has its own personality, but what they all share is jaw-dropping scenery and a feeling you just can’t re-create anywhere else.
What Makes a Winter Wedding Special
There’s something about the combination of mountains, snow, and sunlight that makes everything feel extra magical. Winter weddings give you the chance to create moments that are totally unique to you:
- A cozy lodge reception with candles and warm drinks.
- Portraits in the snow that look straight out of a movie.
- Little adventures like skiing, sledding, or snowmobiling.
- Saying your vows in a tiny alpine chapel or celebrating in a chalet just for you.
For Katia & Erio, their portraits above Livigno are some of the most joyful photos I’ve ever taken! The snow sparkled, the mountains stretched endlessly behind them, and the smiles on their faces said it all. As my first snowy wedding, it was an experience I’ll never forget!
Why You’ll Never Regret a Winter Wedding in Italy
If you’ve been wondering whether this kind of celebration is for you, think of it this way: a winter wedding in Italy is more than just a wedding. It’s an adventure, a story you’ll never forget, and photos that will make you smile every time you see them.
So whether it’s in Livigno, Cortina, or another alpine gem, I promise you that even if it’s winter, the sun might surprise you and give you the brightest, happiest wedding day!
Thinking about your own Italian Alps wedding? Let’s capture that magic together! Reach out now and let’s start planning your adventure.
