A Fairytale in the Dolomites: Valentina & Andrea's Enchanted Wedding at Castle Freudenstein
High school sweethearts, an unforgettable proposal, and a bespoke Caroline Castigliano gown, discover the love story behind Valentina and Andrea's magical celebration in the heart of South Tyrol.
After eleven years together, Valentina and Andrea returned to the place where it all began to celebrate a wedding that was as heartfelt as it was breathtaking. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Dolomites, their celebration at the historic Castle Freudenstein was filled with timeless romance, unforgettable music, and meaningful moments shared with family and lifelong friends.
From an anniversary proposal worthy of a love story to a bespoke Caroline Castigliano gown designed to reflect Valentina's vision perfectly, every detail was chosen with intention and love.
A Proposal Eleven Years in the Making
Valentina and Andrea's story began as high school sweethearts, growing together through every stage of life before building a home together in London.
For their tenth anniversary, Andrea planned an unforgettable evening at Alain Roux's Michelin-starred Waterside Inn. Throughout dinner, he presented Valentina with ten carefully chosen gifts, each representing a year of their relationship and a cherished shared memory. The final gift led to the proposal.
"I knew our tenth anniversary was a special milestone," Valentina recalls. "Every gift represented a moment in our journey together, making the proposal even more meaningful."
A Medieval Castle Filled with Happiness
Choosing their venue was never simply about finding a beautiful location; it was about returning home. The couple married at the magnificent Castle Freudenstein in South Tyrol, a medieval castle surrounded by vineyards with sweeping views across the Dolomites. Dating back almost 800 years, the castle has long been a place of celebration, and its name translates to "Stone of Happiness."
Although they had originally planned to marry elsewhere, everything changed the moment they stepped inside."It immediately felt magical," Valentina says. "Peter Gostner and Karoline Fink made us feel so welcomed from our very first conversation. Their passion for the venue made all the difference."
A Celebration Designed Around Love, Music & Family
Working alongside wedding planner Miriam Canestrini of Wedding and More, the couple created a day that reflected who they are.
Music became the emotional heartbeat of the celebration. One of the most unforgettable moments came when their former high school teacher, now internationally acclaimed performer Greta Marcolongo, surprised them with a heartfelt rendition of Stand By Me. As family and friends gathered around them, singing together, it became one of the defining memories of the day.
Their evening continued with timeless live music from Aba Chiara & Soul Explosion Show Band, while vibrant coral and blush florals brought warmth, joy, and youthful energy throughout the celebration.
The Caroline Castigliano Experience
For Valentina, choosing Caroline Castigliano was about far more than finding a beautiful dress.
"From the moment I walked into the Knightsbridge boutique, I felt completely understood. The team immediately recognised my vision and guided me towards the perfect gown."
She speaks passionately about the exceptional craftsmanship, luxurious fabrics, and impeccable bespoke process. "Everything was tailored specifically to me, from the fit to every detail. They made what can often feel overwhelming into one of the most enjoyable experiences of the entire wedding."
A Walk Down the Aisle to Remember
Like many brides, Valentina wondered what it would feel like to see her future husband waiting at the altar. She walked down the aisle to an acoustic version of Taylor Swift's "Enchanted," a song that has always belonged to the couple.
"Andrea had taken me to the Eras Tour twice, so the song has always been ours."
The moment their eyes met became one of the most treasured memories of the day.
"I'd never seen him smile like that before. The joy on his face is something I'll remember forever."
Three Moments They'll Never Forget
When asked which moments touched her most, Valentina doesn't hesitate.
Seeing her father for the first time after putting on her gown.
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Looking at Andrea waiting at the end of the aisle.
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Dancing to Stand By Me surrounded by family and lifelong friends.
"Each moment captured exactly what our wedding meant to us."
Wedding Advice for Future Brides
Planning a wedding comes with countless decisions, but Valentina believes the most important choice is staying true to yourself.
"Don't get caught up in trends. Choose what reflects your love story."
When it comes to finding the dress, her advice is beautifully simple.
"Choose the gown that makes you feel completely like yourself. When you feel comfortable and confident, everything else falls into place."
In Three Words
Magical. Unforgettable. Enchanted.
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From everyone at Caroline Castigliano, it was an honour to be part of Valentina and Andrea's beautiful love story. We wish you both a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and unforgettable moments together as you begin this wonderful new chapter.
Suppliers of the day
Wedding Planner — Miriam Canestrini, Wedding and More Bolzano (@weddingandmore_mc)
Venue & Catering — Schloss Freudenstein (@schloss_freudenstein)
Bride's Evening Dress — Clio Peppiatt (@cliopeppiatt)
Bridal Shoes — Manolo Blahnik & Jimmy Choo
Hair — Fernando Hair Studio (@salone.fernando)
Groom's Attire — Etro
Florals — Renata Coser (@renatacoser_floristdesign)
Photography — Lukas Hanifle (@lukashanifle)
Videography — Memoire Films (@memoirefilms)
Cocktail Bar — Stefano Urru (@steurru)
Ceremony Music — Greta Marcolongo (@greta_marcolongo)
Evening Entertainment — Abachiara & Soul Explosion Show Band (@abachiara)
Wedding Stationery — Girandolare Boutique Eventi (@girandolareboutique_eventi)