When it comes to selecting the perfect location for a destination wedding, Lake Como has long been a top contender for couples looking for romance, elegance, and breathtaking views. One of the most iconic venues on this stunning Italian lake is Villa Erba, a palatial estate that offers a combination of natural beauty, historical charm, and exceptional flexibility for large-scale celebrations.

In this post, we’ll take you behind the scenes of a recent wedding held at Villa Erba, showcasing its unique features and why it remains one of the most sought-after venues for luxury weddings.

Why Lake Como?

For this Arizona couple, the decision to choose Lake Como as the backdrop for their wedding was an easy one. Not only is the region known for its incredible views and romantic ambiance, but its accessibility was a major draw. With direct flights from Milan connecting the area to most major cities worldwide, Lake Como offers a practical yet stunning destination for international couples.

Above all, this couple was searching for a venue that exuded chic elegance, and Villa Erba fit the bill perfectly. With its stunning architecture, breathtaking gardens, and flexible indoor and outdoor spaces, the venue provided everything they needed for their dream wedding.

The Venue

Villa Erba is one of the most glamorous and sophisticated venues on the shores of Lake Como. The neoclassical architecture, high ceilings, and expansive spaces create a sense of grandeur that’s perfect for a high-end wedding. The venue can accommodate up to 220 guests, with the main ballroom serving as a space for the after-party and dancing. The large, open rooms allow for a seamless flow of guests between different spaces—ideal for couples who want to mix formal and informal settings throughout the celebration. If you are more than 220 guests building a structure is a possibility

One of the standout features of Villa Erba is its lush gardens, which provide a variety of stunning backdrops for ceremonies, cocktails, and photos. One particularly unique feature is the “island ceremony space”, a picturesque area surrounded by water. The couple chose this serene spot for their ceremony, creating a truly unforgettable moment.

For cocktail hour or pre-dinner festivities, the Villa’s stunning gardens are a perfect setting, with panoramic views of Lake Como that will take your breath away. Additionally, the venue offers the option of creating an “orangerie”—a glasshouse that provides a chic and contemporary setting for intimate moments with a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors.

Wedding Design: Elegant & Romantic

The bride, Katya, had a clear vision for her wedding day: chic, romantic, and timeless. She worked closely with Italian designer Vincenzo Dascanio to create a wedding design that reflected her personal style. Soft, creamy colors and delicate brown tones were chosen to complement her gorgeous couture wedding dress, which she found during a memorable shopping experience in Milan.

The wedding design was both modern and romantic, with sleek lines and custom-made features that gave the event a personalized touch. A white orangerie was dressed in creamy tones, providing a sophisticated and serene environment for the ceremony. Custom bars and stages were integrated into the design to ensure harmony throughout the space.

One of the most memorable moments of the day was a butterfly release during the recessional. Guests were thrilled when butterflies landed gently on their shoulders—a symbol of transformation, beauty, and new beginnings.

Entertainment & Atmosphere

As with any luxury wedding, the entertainment plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the celebration. The couple worked with Gabrielle Rizzi Lab to curate an entertainment experience that mirrored the mood of each part of the wedding. The ceremony and cocktail hour were soft and romantic, with music that captured the elegance of the day.

After dinner, however, the mood shifted. The space was transformed into a bold, sexy atmosphere with vibrant neon lights and high-energy entertainment that was the perfect foil to the earlier, more intimate vibe. Given the couple’s Greek heritage, the traditional plate breaking was included in the celebrations, adding a fun and cultural twist to the evening’s festivities.

Tips & Things to Know About Villa Erba

Air Conditioning: One important thing to note about Villa Erba is that it doesn’t have air conditioning, so if you’re planning a wedding in the summer months, you may want to avoid the hottest months of July and August. Early fall or late spring offers the perfect weather for an outdoor celebration by the lake.

Location: One of the biggest advantages of Villa Erba is its proximity to several high-end 4 and 5-star hotels, making it incredibly convenient for both the couple and their guests. No long travel times or complicated logistics—everything you need is nearby.

Rain Plan: With the unpredictable nature of the weather, it’s comforting to know that Villa Erba has a solid rain plan in place. If you’re expecting 200+ guests and the weather doesn’t cooperate, the venue offers indoor options to ensure your celebration can continue uninterrupted.

A wedding at Villa Erba on Lake Como is nothing short of magical. From the sweeping views of the lake to the grand architecture and stunning gardens, this venue offers endless possibilities for couples who want a chic and unforgettable event. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration with hundreds of guests, Villa Erba’s flexibility and beauty make it one of the most sought-after wedding venues in Europe.