Samantha and Michael’s wedding wasn’t about themes, trends, or traditions. It was about them. Eloping to the Amalfi Coast, they chose Hotel Santa Caterina, a cliffside jewel in southern Italy, as the backdrop for a day that felt entirely, unapologetically theirs. “There was no theme,” said Samantha. “We just celebrated us and who we are, and at the end of the day that is all that truly matters.”

Samantha wore a Galia Lahav gown while Michael had a custom suit made. They kept their ceremony simple. A violinist played Andrea Bocelli as the sun lit up the Tyrrhenian Sea, and they shared personal vows and a symbolic handfasting to mark the beginning of their lives together.

“There were too many highlights to mention,” Samantha said. “From getting ready, to the ceremony, to the party on the boat – we loved and enjoyed every minute.”

The hotel was their biggest splurge, and Samantha says it was worth every penny. “We were getting married in one of the most beautiful places in the world, and I can’t put a price tag on the memories that were made and never will be forgotten.” If they could have changed one thing, it would’ve just been staying a few more days.

“Throw out the rules and do what makes you happy”, the bride concluded. “Society sometimes forgets what a wedding actually is – it’s about the love between you and your partner. Everything will work out in the end. Don’t stress.. and believe in your wedding planner!”