The history: Ashley & Bilal first met the old fashioned way. They were both out having brunch with friends Mondrian Hotel in Los Angeles but exchanged glances and numbers before leaving. They haven’t left the side since their first date.

The site: After a big romantic engagement with friends and family, Ashley and Bilal decided to have the ultimate intimate wedding celebration – an elopement in Italy just for two. You choose the Belmont Hotel Caruso on the breathtaking Amalfi Coast as a breathtaking venue for your I dos. This 11th century hotel is a hideaway in picturesque Ravello with panoramic views, extensive subtropical gardens and frescoed salons.

The atmosphere: Old world glamor with a modern, sexy twist. This wedding exudes class. It may have been small, but no doubt big in style. This celebration was also full of passion. The intensity between our lovers was electrifying and palpable and made for an unforgettable day.

The details: The set up was very simple with a saturated, all white color palette. A violinist was playing A thousand years by Christina Perri as Ashley walked down a white rose petal corridor in the hotel garden. After the ceremony, the couple shared an intimate dinner and danced together under the stars. Ashley wore a simple but dramatic lace dress from Pronovias. This has been paired with Renee Caovilla Beaded heels and Ashley’s long locks have been styled in dramatic Hollywood waves to complete her look. Bilal chose a black tuxedo with peak lapels, a cutaway collar and bow tie. He chose a classic one Paul Stuart Velvet lace-up shoe with patent leather detail.

Tips & highlights:

• Ashley and Bilal got up at 5:30 a.m. to get their first look at Terrazza DelI’infinito Villa Cimbrone in Ravello. This allowed for optimal light and weather for the pictures (and memories) that Ashley and Bilal would take with them.
• If you’re considering fleeing abroad, a local wedding planner should have the necessary connections to make everything super easy and smooth for you in the organizing department. If you’re thinking of running away on the Amalfi Coast, Ashley recommends Victoria Morris at Sophisticated weddings.
• If you want to reduce the stress that can be associated with organizing a wedding, an elopement is an excellent option. These intimate celebrations allow couples to focus on each other, which is what really matters.

Suppliers:

Photography: Joanne Dunn // Planning and coordination: Sophisticated weddings // Videography: Piero Cantarella // Hair and makeup: Beauty painting // A dress: Pronovias // Celebrant: Carmela Cesarano // floral design: Armando Malafronte // Location at first sight: Villa Cimbrone // Wedding location: Belmond Caruso