From whimsical getaways in the woods to classic chateau ceremonies, the best Vogue weddings can involve either a three-day affair of pomp and circumstance or one evening of understated elegance. After all, it’s a big moment for the bride and groom, who are set on the perfect dress and tux, perfect scenery and perfect vows. As always, the magazine’s features don’t disappoint—we saw extravagantly calligraphed invitations, centuries-old landmarks and impeccably designed altars. Here, a compilation of the most picturesque and romantic nuptials in 2016.
Chanel Dror and Eric Tarlo
The two exchanged vows at the romantic Château du Grand-Lucé in France’s Loire Valley, where they kept decor simple from the Saturday picnic to the evening cocktail party, allowing the scenery itself to take center stage. "There wasn’t a cloud in the sky, and the temperature was damn near perfect in the high 70s," Chanel explained.
Krissy O’Neill and Brett Shapiro
This dream destination wedding had guests flying to Italy for a four-day weekend in Positano that involved locally sourced catering and a '70s-inspired afterparty. The couple tied the knot on the terrace of the Villa Treville by the Amalfi Coast. "Our hope was that when our guests left the next morning they truly felt like they’d been treated to a vacation, where Brett and I just so happened to get married," Krissy told Vogue.
Valerie Boster and Michael Macaulay
Valerie said "I do" in a silk, chiffon and tulle dress designed by friend Thakoon Panichgul. The wedding was made even more intimate with a bagpiper playing in the background as guests crossed a small bridge to get to the venue—a spot her family frequented even before she was born. "It's our retreat for holidays in the summer and winter months," Valerie said. "It's almost completely wooded and wild, with trails, waterfalls, and most importantly, quiet."
Kyly Zakheim and Ryan Rabin
After Ryan proposed to Kyly during their safari trip in Kruger National Park at Londolozi, the two decided it would be the best place for their big day despite the fact that it was not typically a wedding venue. "Despite the extensive travel requirements and likely logistical complications, we were determined," she said. Guests even dressed up in safari-chic attire and were transported from point A to point B as animals surrounded their paths, only adding to the lush vibe.
Isabeli Fontana and Diego Ferrero
In the truest definition of a summer getaway, Isabeli Fontana married Diego Ferrero on the beach at the Soneva Fushi resort in the Maldives. While we have yet to know the details from that day, the social media photos speak for themselves—the two sharing a high-five, dancing to guitar song and a cake topper that uncannily resembled the bride and groom.
Samantha Tritsch and Ryan Fuld
With their sights already set on NYC, the couple sought the New York Public Library, transforming it into a celestial palace of sorts, where LED fabric lit up the walls like twinkling stars and the dance floor was marbled in black and white prints. "The reception was like a perfect starry night," Samantha said.
Hillary Hogan and Keith Putnam-Delaney
At the Longue Vue House and Gardens, Hillary envisioned her wedding with the movie Great Expectations in mind—that is, natural floral arrangements in antique urns, French chandeliers, vine-adorned candelabras and garden furniture. "We had guests coming from the East and West coasts, as well as Europe, Asia, and the Middle East," she told Vogue. "We wanted them to feel the soul of New Orleans—the food, the music, the revelry, and the Southern hospitality."
