In recent years, more and more international couples have chosen to experience an elopement in Puglia, drawn to its golden light, timeless landscapes and the possibility of celebrating their love in the most authentic way.
Elopement in Puglia: what it is and why so many couples are choosing it
An elopement is not simply “running away to get married”. It is a private ceremony, a tailor-made experience without any protocol, often celebrated by just the couple or with only a handful of guests, in a natural or symbolic place that truly represents them.Puglia has become one of the most sought-after destinations for those dreaming of an elopement: centuries-old olive trees, whitewashed masserias, dramatic seaside cliffs and villages that feel suspended in time create the perfect setting for a deeply emotional experience. Its mild climate, Mediterranean colors and local cuisine make every elopement in Puglia not just a wedding, but a journey to treasure forever.
Samantha and James’ Elopement in Puglia
Samantha and James began their day in a small private residence on the Polignano a Mare coastline called Trullammarea whitewashed trullo surrounded by a large garden and the scent of the sea. This is where they got ready, in two separate rooms, wrapped in the pure Apulian light.
On one of the trullo’s walls I captured what is still, years later, one of my all-time favorite photographs—an image that continues to move me every time I look at it.
Their elopement started with a moment they had chosen with great intention: a first look without seeing each other, touching hands while staying hidden from each other’s gaze, feeling only their heartbeat, their presence, their anticipation. The ceremony took place on a cliff overlooking the sea, just the two of them facing the horizon. A symbolic and intimate rite, marked by the exchange of emotional vows spoken with trembling voices and tearful eyes. No noise, no audience just the wind and the sound of the waves.
After the “yes”, they cut the cake and toasted, then we moved to the historic center of Polignano a Mare for a couple session among the white alleys and its most iconic, photographed viewpoints: dramatic balconies overlooking the sea and the famous “town that lives on the cliffs”. Their day ended where it had begun: back at Trullomare, with an intimate candlelit dinner for two prepared by a private chef.
None of this would have been possible without the support of Maria Pia from Puglia Ever After, the wedding planner who organized every little detail, allowing the couple to choose everything from their home thousands of miles away and arrive in Puglia only on their wedding day. A precious guide who transformed their dream into a beautiful reality.
TEAM:
Ph: Federica Ariemma e Matteo Lomonte // Wedding Planner: Puglia Ever After // Location: Trullammare // Celebrante: Apulian Ceremony // Chef: tataraexperience // Fiori: Bocciolo fiori
