Relais Villa Porta

Welcome Dinner

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Farewell Boat Ride

Our Wedding

They say timing is everything, and for us, that couldn't have been more true.Chris and Mandi actually crossed paths once before through mutual friends, but life had us on different paths. It simply wasn't the right time, and we went our separate ways without realizing what the future had in store.A few years later, fate stepped in at a little coffee shop in Windham, New Hampshire called Village Bean. Mandi was working behind the counter, and Chris had become one of her morning regulars. Between coffee orders, friendly conversations, and shared smiles, what started as simple mornings quickly turned into something much more. (And if you've never been to Village Bean, you really should—it's home to amazing coffee, delicious food, and, as it turns out, a pretty great love story.)From there, our lives became one adventure after another. We've traveled the world together, exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and making memories we'll cherish forever. No matter where we've gone, the best part has always been sharing those moments with each other.But our story isn't defined only by the places we've visited—it's defined by the love we've built along the way. Through every joyful milestone and every difficult season, Chris has been Mandi's greatest source of strength. He showed up for Mandi and her family in ways no one else ever had, offering unwavering love, support, and compassion without ever being asked. He simply cared, and that kindness is one of the many reasons Mandi knew she had found her forever person.Then, on August 27, 2025, during a trip to Barcelona, Spain, Chris made one more unforgettable memory. As the sun set over the beach, he got down on one knee and asked Mandi to spend forever with him. Without hesitation, she said yes.Looking back, it's amazing how life brought us together when the timing was finally right. What began with a chance encounter at a neighborhood coffee shop has grown into a life filled with laughter, adventure, unconditional love, and a partnership we're endlessly grateful for.Thank you for being part of our story and for joining us as we begin this next chapter. We can't wait to celebrate with all of you!

Our Love Story

Our Story

Photo Credits: All photos featured throughout this website were beautifully captured by Sam Nappi Photography.

Photos

Q + A

We are so excited to celebrate with you in beautiful Luino, Italy, on the shores of Lake Maggiore!While we weren't able to reserve a hotel room block, we've put together a list of recommended accommodations to help make planning your trip a little easier. I took the time to browse through Booking.com and selected a variety of hotels and villas that are available in the area, giving you several options to choose from.* Please note that the recommendations below have been preset with specific dates and a certain number of guests to help you get started. You will need to go in and adjust the dates, number of people and room preferences based on your own travel plans. Availability and pricing may change, so we recommend reviewing the options and booking what works best for you. *If you're planning to travel with family or friends, consider renting a villa or Airbnb together! There are many beautiful vacation homes throughout the Lake Maggiore area, and sharing a villa is a wonderful way to spend the weekend together while enjoying everything Italy has to offer.We recommend booking your stay through Booking.com or another trusted travel website, as they often have the best selection and pricing. Since July is a popular travel season in Italy, we encourage you to book your accommodations as early as possible.To help you choose the best location, all of our wedding weekend events will take place at:Villa PortaVia Angelo Palazzi 121016 Luino (VA), ItalyFeel free to use the venue address when searching for accommodations so you can see how close your hotel, villa or Airbnb is to all of the wedding festivities.If you have any questions while planning your trip, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Camin Hotel Luino

Smart Stay in Luino center

Mansarda in Centro

Casa An'anasha

Charming Moment

Casa Merita 3

Casa Del Sole

Above the Lake by Maggiore Suites

Casa Porto Vecchio

Casa Sophie

Casa Felice

LaPimpaLUINO

Monty's House

Casa Fiorita

Casa Lago 1

Lago Maggiore holiday house

Hotel Torre Imperiale

Il Rifugio del Lago

Casa Augusta

Veddasca Suite VistaLago

Casa Emmaus per Eventi

Lakeview

Lily House

Casa Rosanna al lago

At the Lake

Dreamy Lakeview Attic Escape

Villa Amatissima by Villa Porta Collection

Residence Al Poggio

Villa Casa Camelia

Honey House

Villas

Airport Transportation

Once you arrive in Milan, Italy, there are a few different ways to make your way to Luino, Maccagno, Colmegna, or anywhere else around Lake Maggiore for the wedding weekend.Private Transfer / TaxiThe easiest and most comfortable option is arranging a private transfer directly from the airport to your accommodation. This is especially convenient if you are traveling with luggage, a group, or arriving after a long flight. We recommend booking in advance.Rental CarRenting a car is a great option if you plan to explore Lake Maggiore or the surrounding areas during your stay. The drive from Milan to the northern Lake Maggiore towns (including Luino, Maccagno, and Colmegna) is approximately 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic. Parking is available at Villa Porta.TrainThe train is a great option and a beautiful way to experience the area.From Milan Malpensa Airport:Take the train toward Luino with the appropriate connectionsFrom Luino, you can continue to nearby towns such as Colmegna or Maccagno by train, taxi, or local transportationIf you are staying elsewhere around Lake Maggiore, you can use the regional train system to connect to nearby towns, or combine the train with a taxi for the final part of your journey.TaxiTaxis are available at Milan airports and can take you directly to your destination. For smaller towns around Lake Maggiore, we recommend arranging transportation ahead of time whenever possible.Staying Somewhere Else Around Lake Maggiore?No problem! Lake Maggiore has many beautiful towns and villages to explore. Depending on where you are staying, you may also have access to:Passenger ferries that connect many towns along the lakeWater taxis for a more private and scenic optionLocal trains and buses to help you get aroundWe recommend using your accommodation address when booking transportation so drivers and services know your exact destination.

From Your Hotel/Villa to Villa Porta

If you're staying in downtown Luino, getting to Villa Porta is quick and easy! The venue is located just a few minutes from the town center.Villa PortaVia Angelo Palazzi 121016 Luino (VA), ItalyStaying in LuinoGuests have several transportation options:Taxi: A taxi ride from downtown Luino to Villa Porta takes approximately 5–10 minutes.Train: You can also take the regional train from Luino to Colmegna Station, the closest train station to Villa Porta. The ride is only a few minutes, and from Colmegna Station it's about a 10–15 minute walk or a very short taxi ride to the venue.Uber: While Uber is available in some larger cities in Italy, it is very limited in the Lake Maggiore area and may not be available in Luino. We recommend arranging a local taxi or using a rental car if possible.Driving: If you have a rental car, complimentary parking is available at the venue.Walking: Depending on where you're staying, Villa Porta is about a 25–35 minute walk from the center of Luino. The walk follows the lake for part of the way and offers beautiful views, though there are some hills near the venue.Staying in MaccagnoIf you're staying in Maccagno, getting to Villa Porta is simple!Train: Take the regional train from Maccagno to Colmegna Station, the closest train station to Villa Porta. The ride is only a few minutes, and from the station it's approximately a 10–15 minute walk or a very short taxi ride to the venue.Taxi: A taxi from Maccagno to Villa Porta takes approximately 10–15 minutes.Driving: If you're renting a car, complimentary parking is available at Villa Porta.Staying Elsewhere on Lake MaggioreIf you're staying in another town around Lake Maggiore, there are still plenty of convenient ways to get to the venue.Ferry: Many lakeside towns are connected by passenger ferries, making it easy to explore the lake while traveling between destinations. Depending on where you're staying, you may be able to take a ferry to Luino and then continue to Villa Porta by taxi or train.Water Taxi: Private water taxis are also available in many areas around the lake and can be a scenic and convenient transportation option.Train: Several towns along the eastern shore of Lake Maggiore are connected by regional train service, making travel to Colmegna or Luino simple.Driving: If you have a rental car, complimentary parking is available at Villa Porta.We recommend allowing a little extra travel time, especially on the wedding day, so everyone can arrive relaxed and ready to celebrate.If you have any questions about transportation or choosing the best way to get to the venue, please don't hesitate to reach out. We're happy to help!

Transportation 

Staying a little longer or looking for something fun to do while you’re here? There is so much to explore around beautiful Luino and Lake Maggiore!Take a stroll along the lakefront promenade, enjoy a coffee or aperitivo with a view, explore the charming streets of town, or visit the famous Luino Market (held every Wednesday) for local finds, food, and shopping.For a relaxing day, pack your bathing suit and enjoy the lake, or take a boat ride to explore nearby towns and islands. If you’re feeling adventurous, the surrounding mountains offer beautiful hikes and incredible views.A few other nearby places to visit:Locarno, Switzerland — a beautiful lakeside town just across the border with charming streets, cafés, and mountain viewsAscona, Switzerland — a picturesque waterfront town with a relaxed Mediterranean feelStresa, Italy — a classic Lake Maggiore destination with stunning views and access to the famous islandsBorromean Islands — a must-see experience with beautiful gardens, historic villas, and breathtaking sceneryMost importantly, take some time to slow down, enjoy the views, eat amazing food, and soak up everything that makes Lake Maggiore so special.

Coffee, Cafés & Sweets

Start your day the Italian way with an espresso, cappuccino, and something sweet. Luino has plenty of charming cafés and pastry shops perfect for a slow morning, a quick coffee break, or an afternoon treat.Classic Italian Coffee &amp; BreakfastPasticceria CerinottiA lovely local pastry shop and café — perfect for a morning cappuccino, espresso, and traditional Italian pastries.I Segreti del Caffè – Il Bar dei BimbiA cozy café in the center of Luino with coffee, tea, pastries, and a relaxed atmosphere.Bardo’s CaféA friendly espresso bar that’s great for a casual coffee, aperitivo, or a drink after exploring town.Caffè ClericiA classic Luino café option for coffee, a quick breakfast, or watching the town go by.Pastries &amp; Sweet TreatsPasticceria Dolce SmeraldoA great stop for cakes, pastries, and a traditional Italian breakfast.Mollica Angela – Pasticceria SicilianaA bakery-style stop for Sicilian-inspired sweets, pastries, and coffee.GelatiamoPerfect for an afternoon gelato break by the lake.Easy Morning StopsCaffè TeatroA convenient spot for a morning coffee or a casual drink while walking around Luino.Il CampagnoloA local bakery stop for fresh baked goods and a simple Italian breakfast.

Restaurants 

Whether you’re looking for a romantic lakeside dinner, traditional Italian cuisine, or a casual meal after exploring Lake Maggiore, Luino offers plenty of wonderful options.Romantic DiningTiffany Restaurant – Villa PortaA beautiful choice for a memorable evening, offering refined Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, seafood, and a charming lakeside setting.Il Leon d’OroLocated at Camin Hotel Luino, this restaurant offers an elegant atmosphere with Italian and Mediterranean dishes—perfect for a romantic dinner.Ristorante Due ScaleA local favorite for seafood, pasta, and classic Italian dishes in a welcoming setting.Casual Italian FavoritesOsteria Pizzeria Alla FerroviaA relaxed local spot for pizza, pasta, and traditional Italian comfort food.Il Vecchio Granaio – Cucina Casalinga &amp; PizzeriaA great option for homemade-style Italian cooking, pizza, and a cozy atmosphere.Al BrancaA laid-back choice for classic Italian dishes and pizza.Traditional &amp; Local ExperiencesAl CantinoneA traditional restaurant with a warm atmosphere, regional flavors, and a good wine selection.Agriturismo VoeujaA rustic countryside experience featuring local ingredients and traditional Lombard cuisine.Café &amp; Lunch StopCubo Cucina e BottegaA modern, casual option for lunch, coffee, or a lighter meal.

Bars, Aperitivo & Nightlife

After a day exploring Lake Maggiore, enjoy an Italian aperitivo, a cocktail by the water, or a relaxed evening drink with friends.Aperitivo &amp; Lakeside DrinksPorto ChiaraA lovely spot for an evening drink in the center of Luino — perfect for cocktails, wine, and starting the night with an aperitivo.Caffè SottosopraA lively café-bar option for coffee during the day and drinks in the evening.La Boheme – Terrazza AVAVA beautiful terrace-style spot with lake views — ideal for a sunset drink or a relaxed evening.Porto Nuovo Drink &amp; FoodA casual lakeside stop for drinks, snacks, and enjoying the atmosphere by the water.Pubs &amp; Casual Nights OutBitter PubA good choice for craft beer, cocktails, and a more relaxed pub atmosphere.Pub ElveziaA classic local pub for drinks and a casual night out.Barrel – Luino Tap RoomA fun option for beer lovers and a laid-back evening.Dancing &amp; Late NightsLoft 53 Club &amp; RestaurantThe main late-night option near Luino, with a restaurant, music, and dancing. Best for guests looking for a proper night out.

Things to Do

Registry

Join us for an evening of Italian hospitality, delicious food, beautiful views, and time together as we kick off our wedding weekend at Villa Porta.We invite guests to embrace Italian Summer Chic — effortless, elegant, and comfortable. Think light, breathable fabrics, flowy dresses, linen, elevated separates, tailored trousers, and stylish yet relaxed pieces perfect for a lakeside evening.Soft colors, summer textures, and timeless pieces are encouraged. Kitten heels, wedges, loafers, or other comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the villa grounds and enjoying the lakeside setting. A light sweater or layer is also a good idea for the evening breeze by Lake Maggiore.Come ready to enjoy good conversation, great food, and your first taste of an unforgettable weekend together.

What Is Black-Tie Attire? Simple Guide

25 Black-Tie Dresses to Shop Right Now

Read These Tips Before Renting a Tux

We invite you to join us in celebrating our wedding day with timeless elegance. Our dress code is Dolce Vita Black Tie, and we encourage guests to embrace a formal evening look as we celebrate overlooking the beautiful shores of Lake Maggiore.For gentlemen, tuxedos or formal black tie attire are requested. If a tuxedo is not your style, a classic black suit with a formal dress shirt and tie or bow tie will be perfect. Think timeless, elegant and inspired by classic Italian style.For ladies, floor-length gowns, elegant evening dresses and sophisticated formal attire are encouraged. Embrace the glamour of the Dolce Vita — think timeless silhouettes, beautiful fabrics and evening elegance. All colors are welcome, with the exception of white, which we kindly reserve for the bride and groom.We recommend bringing comfortable shoes for enjoying the celebration and exploring the venue grounds, as well as a light layer for the evening breeze by the lake.We can’t wait to see everyone dressed up and celebrate this unforgettable evening together in Italy.

Join us for a relaxed day on the water as we wrap up our wedding weekend together on beautiful Lake Maggiore.We invite guests to embrace Dressy Casual — polished, comfortable, and perfect for a boat ride. Think sundresses, linen sets, flowy tops, elevated casual pieces, button-down shirts, tailored shorts or trousers, and effortless summer style.Comfortable shoes are encouraged, as we’ll be enjoying time on and around the boat. Don’t forget your sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and a light layer for the breeze on the lake.

Dress Code

Wedding Party

thevitielloswedding.com

Mandi & Chris

Mandi & Chris

Dress Code

Welcome Dinner

WEDDING

Ideas & Advice

Farewell Boat Ride