Events

Our Wedding

THE DAY BEFORE - FRIDAY 12 JUNE

Aperitivi📍 BarBagianni, Orbetello🕕 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm, the night before the wedding Because so many of you are travelling to be with us, we want to make the most of our time together, and that means more than just the wedding day! Join us for a relaxed aperitivo in the beautiful town of Orbetello - drinks, nibbles, and a warm Tuscan sunset, and plenty of time to catch up before the big day. Before or after, wander the charming streets of the historic centre, grab some gelato at Le Logge (our favourite!) do a little shopping, or enjoy dinner in town. Your presence is all we need. Whether you pop by for just one spritz or stay the whole time, we’d love to see your smiling faces and share a toast to the celebrations ahead. Plus ones are welcome!

THE WEDDING DAY - SATURDAY 13 JUNE

Wedding day📍 Villa Cannatelli, Monte Argentario🕕 from 4:00 pm – as late as you care to keep dancing Our marriage will take place in the garden of Chiara's family home. This is a house which is very special, bought by Chiara's grandfather, and where Chiara spent many summers growing up. Chiara and Monique have spent many special times here, from inviting friends and family to visit, to undertaking DIY with Chiara's parents. We are excited to share this special place with our closest friends and family.

Getting There

Unfortunately, the family home doesn’t have parking facilities available. To make things easier, we’ll be running a shuttle service from a nearby car park where you can safely leave your car. When you arrive, simply head to the designated car park and hop on the shuttle, which will bring you straight to the venue. To try to avoid people you having to wait a long time for shuttles in a parking lot, we will send out time slots to you individually. If you can't make these that's totally fine, but there may be a bit more of a wait. After plenty of dancing and celebration, shuttles will be ready to take you back to the car park whenever you’re ready to head home. Parking Location: We have some pictures below of the entrance, and you can find it on Google Maps here: <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/MF8kngQMQpUZHvRe6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://maps.app.goo.gl/MF8kngQMQpUZHvRe6</a> The 'what 3 words' location is: ///linguist.hobble.fundraisers House Location:If you are coming directly to the house in a taxi you can find it on Google Maps here: <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/N6yRBpU1pFMzCLt3A" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://maps.app.goo.gl/N6yRBpU1pFMzCLt3A</a> The 'what 3 words' location is: ///crooned.planks.mailer Please note you cannot park at the house.

photos of the parking entrance

Getting Back

Shuttles will return guests to the parking area when you are ready to leave (after an evening of dancing). From there, you have three options: 1. Designated driver: Travel with a designated driver who will not be drinking (you can thank them with gelato later). 2. Stay NearbyThe town of Porto Santo Stefano is about a 30–40 minute walk from the parking location. Beware, it is rural so parts of the walk may be dark. There are a number of hotels in Santo Stefano if you would like to stay overnight. 3. Taxi ServiceTaxis on the island are, very limited, and must be booked well in advance, as they rarely accept same-day requests (especially late at night). If arranged ahead of time, they can collect you directly from the house. All the numbers for taxis on the island you can try are in the 'Travel' section under the 'No Car?' heading.

What's happening on the day?

16:00 – 17:00 - ARRIVAL DRINKS On your arrival, there will be drinks and Italian nibbles on the terrace and around the garden for you to enjoy. We will have a wishing tree, where we would love guests to pin up a wish of goodwill (for the world, or for us, or for whatever you want to bestow your wish on). 18:00 – 18:45 - CEREMONY Our marriage will take place in the garden. Our officiant is Dr Lili Risi, a close family friend, Hot Humanist, and all round spectacular woman (ask her about her time in the ANC). 19:00 – 19:30 - DINNERAfter a short drinks reception, we will eat! Your chef will be <a href="https://www.instagram.com/daniela.maiorano?igsh=dWNtc29hdDlodWk2" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Daniela Maiorano</a>, a fourth-generation Italian chef from Abruzzo. Our dinner will be family-style, outside as the sun begins to set overhead. A feast paired with heartfelt speeches (and of course nice wine). 21:00 onward - PARTYAfter dinner, we invite you up to the terrace for a dancing party! It's our house so there's no curfew on the music or the fun, so let the bubbles flow, show off your best dance moves, and celebrate with us until sunrise. There will be some snacks late in the night to keep you going and minibuses leaving throughout the night to take you back to the parking location when your feet have given out.

THE DAY AFTER - SUNDAY 14 JUNE

Post-Wedding Beach Party📍 Il Tramonto, Giannella🕕 12:00 – 8:00 pm, the day after the wedding Join us for a restorative swim and plenty of lounging in the sun the day after the wedding! We’ve reserved a special spot at Il Tramonto with plenty of umbrellas for everyone to relax in comfort. There’s a beach bar serving pizzas, panini, snacks, and drinks. Whether you need a little “hair of the dog” or something refreshing to hydrate. If you’re craving something a bit more sit-down, there’s a restaurant onsite too (booking ahead is recommended). We have a reservation for the full day so come any time, but since we hope to have partied hard with you all, we’ll be there from around midday. That said, the real highlight is staying until sunset, after all, it’s not called Il Tramonto (The Sunset) for nothing! We can't think of a more perfect way to end our wedding than watching the sun set whilst sipping an Aperol Spritz on the beach. Plus ones are welcome!

The Plan

GETTING TO MONTE ARGENTARIO

📍 Location: Monte Argentario, Tuscany

Our wedding and events are taking place on and around <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/8NSNTsqTQDGE6c1U8" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Monte Argentario</a> — a beautiful island (technically a peninsula) on the Tuscan coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea. It’s connected to mainland Italy and perfectly located halfway between Rome and Pisa, which are the best major cities to travel through before arriving here. If you want to know how to get to the wedding itself, check out 'the Plan' section of the website.

📅 Arrival Suggestion

If you're with us for the whole weekend, we suggest getting in to Italy on Thursday 11th and departing the following Monday 15th (unless you plan to stick around). This allows you to arrive in the area Thursday evening or Friday during the day, so you can relax and settle in before the celebrations begin. If you have limited annual leave, and have to choose between the aperitivo on Friday 12th or the beach party on Sunday 14th, our suggestion would be that you prioritise the beach party.

✈️ Flying Into Italy

We recommend flying into either Rome or Pisa: Rome Airports:- Ciampino (smaller)- Fiumicino (larger international airport) Pisa Airport: Conveniently close to the city center.Both Rome and Pisa are about a 2-hour drive or train ride from Monte Argentario.

🚆 Train Travel to Italy

If you’re coming from elsewhere in Europe, you can also travel to Rome or Pisa by train, including from London! These journeys often take over a day and usually involve sleeper trains. We recommend using <a href="https://www.rome2rio.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Rome2Rio</a> to help plan your route. Feel free to reach out if you want extra support with travel planning!

🚗 Getting Around: Renting a Car

We strongly recommend renting a car. Since Monte Argentario is an island and the events are spread around, renting a car for the weekend will make getting around much easier. It’s a relatively rural area, so having your own wheels gives you flexibility and freedom. You can rent a car easily at Rome or Pisa airports. Alternatively, if you’d prefer to pick up a car closer to Monte Argentario, there’s a rental company in Civitavecchia which is about an hour by train from Rome and an hour’s drive to the island. Car rentals typically require you to have a credit card, but beware! many budget car rentals don't accept American Express at the desk (even if you have booked online using it). Some allow you to pay your deposit using a debit card (often for a fee) but many won't accept Monzo, or Revolut for this purpose. It is worth booking directly with the rental company and double checking the T&amp;Cs.

🚗🤝 No Car? 

If you can’t rent a car yourself (maybe you don’t drive) don’t worry, there are options! - Rental Sharing:We’ll help connect you with others who have rented cars, so you can share rides and travel together as a “car-rental family.” We’ll be in touch with details closer to the date. - Cycling:The Argentario area is a favorite with cyclists, and biking can be a great way to explore.E-bikes are recommended ⚡️: The terrain is hilly and winding, and if you’re planning to cycle to the events, expect about a 40-minute ride.Where to rent 🚲: The Bike &amp; Boat Argentario Hotel offers both e-bikes and regular bikes, making it an easy option if you’d like to hop on two wheels. Their details are in the Accommodation section.Good to know ⚠️: There are almost no cycle lanes, and Italian drivers can be inconsiderate, so some confidence and experience with cycling are important. - Other:There is also some (limited) public transport in the area, but there are no (reliable or regular) taxi services. That also means no Uber! Below are the only taxi services, and they must be booked in advance 🚕. Taxis would be best for one-off journeys if e.g. your car rental family are off at a vineyard the day you arrive. ● Ncc di Andrea Schiano e Pesce Angela - +39 340 193 1311● Colonnelli Taxi - +39 337 704 361● Tuscia Driver Service Monte Argentario - +39 331 122 6005● Ncc Costa D'Argento - +39 331 122 6005● Servisio Taxi Argentour di Mauro Fuso - +39 335 536 5374

🚃 Train to Orbetello

If renting a car isn’t for you, or you're meeting friends/family who are already here, you can take the train to Orbetello Scalo station. Trains run from Rome Termini and Pisa Centrale stations regularly. Your car-rental family can help arrange to pick you up from the station and bring you to your accommodation.

Travel

Where to Stay?

There are many places to stay nearby. We have some suggestions for all budgets and tastes below, but feel free to explore other options in the area. The closest little town is Porto Santo Stefano, but there are also great options on Giannella by the beach, up in Monte Argentario itself, or further afield in the mainland town of Orbetello. If you want to be in walking distance (e.g. 30mins walk) of the shuttles for the wedding, we recommend staying in Porto Santo Stefano, which is the closest town to our house. We are trying to secure discounts for our guests at some of these locations, so check back soon. Many of the hotels won't release their dates for 2026 until September or October 2025, so if it seems like the whole month is already booked up, they likely haven't yet released them.

This is a stunning "camping village" directly on Giannella Beach. It's very affordable, with a range of options, from brick-and-mortar cottages and lodges to pitching a tent, and everything in between. Don't be fooled by its affordability, it's under the gorgeous shade of pine trees, is right on the beach, and there is a very large swimming pool. It's extremely family friendly, and a good place to spend a few days relaxing. Note: Some of the budget options don't include towels etc, so if you want them make sure to add that when booking. If you stay here, you can even walk to the beach party the day after the wedding along the beach (about 30 mins walk). The link below has a code to give you 10% off!

Argentario Camping Village

This is a lovely hotel right on the water in the little port town of Porto Santo Stefano. The hotel is right on the sea and each room comes with your own parasol and lounger so you can enjoy it. It is also at the end of a great strip of bars and restaurants. They have kindly offered us 10% off if you use the link below!

Hotel Restaurant La Caletta

In the heart of Porto Santo Stefano, a simple, family run hotel.

Hotel Week End

This hotel is on the edge of Porto Santo Stefano, and offers bike rentals for those keen to take advantage of the popular cycling routes around the island.

Bike&Boat Argentario Hotel

If you want a more luxury and boutique experience, this is a gorgeous hotel a short drive from the house. It is a 4* hotel with a pool and access to its own small beach. There are a range of room options. Book early to avoid disappointment.

Boutique Hotel Torre di Cala Piccola

Another luxury option with great view of the sea and it's own pool! This hotel is a little outside of Porto Santo Stefano, but you get amazing surroundings in return.

Hotel Villa Domizia

Accommodation

Attire

Wedding Day

For our wedding ceremony, the dress code is "colourful formalwear." Think brightly coloured linen suits and gowns. Monique will be wearing a traditional Indian bridal outfit and invites you to join in by wearing sarees, shalwar kameez, kurtas, or other Indian attire (only if you feel comfortable, of course, and no matter your background). Chiara will be wearing a western linen suit, so you will be in good company if you're not planning on going the Indian route. Dress to the nines - we are not worried about being outshone! We want everyone to feel their most gorgeous selves. Monique will be wearing red, and Chiara cream, but there are no prohibitions on colour so wear whatever colour you'd like - the brighter the better! The weather will likely be hot, so bear that in mind, but we will be in the shade for most of the day, and things tend to cool in the evenings. If you're not sure about what to wear, speak to one of us (especially formal menswear expert, Chiara, who will be delighted to help!). We would strongly recommend wearing flat, comfortable shoes. The wedding will take place on around the house and you will be walking on grass, pebbles, stone, and there are a few uneven paths which you will need to take care on. Above all, we want your feet to dance for as long as possible!

Other Events

There is no dress codes for the drinks, or the beach. We have booked beds and umbrellas for the beach, but you will need to bring your own towel. That said, we love to dress up, so if you need an excuse to have your #ItalianSummer #LaDolceVita fashion moment, look no further.

Gifts

Your presence is truly the best gift we could ask for. We know traveling for our wedding is no small thing, and it means the world to us. Instead of gifts, we’d love if you could write us a card (bonus points if it’s handmade, but no pressure!) so we can have a special memento from each of our wonderful guests. If you really want to give something more, we would ask you to consider donating to one of these charities: ● <a href="https://stars-egypt.org/donate" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">STARS (St Andrew's Refugee Service)</a> - A refugee service provider in central Cairo that works to enhance the quality of life for refugees and vulnerable migrants through four broad program areas: education, psychosocial, legal, and community outreach. Monique worked for STARS after her masters, and it holds a special place in her heart. ● <a href="https://donorbox.org/psychological-first-aid-for-our-people-from-gaza#info" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hakini</a> - means “tell me” in Arabic, and it provides free mental health support for Palestinians. Hakini has set up an emergency hotline to provide psychological first aid for the people of Gaza, and operates through a network of local health care providers to support the psychological needs of people on the ground, with an emphasis on collective healing.

GENERAL 

Suncream: You will probably want to have sunscreen with you. For the wedding, most of it will be outside, but we've planned it so there is lots of shade, and you should be ok, but it's still Italy in June. For everywhere else... it's Italy in June. Beach cover-ups are also helpful in the sun. Insect repellent: As the house and the area is in the countryside, there are mosquitoes, so we strongly recommend insect repellent. After-bite is also good. Water bottle: Italians don't tend to let you order tap water for free, so if you're a keen hydrator you might want to bring a water bottle around with you. For the wedding we will of course be providing plenty of water, but you might still feel better keeping your bottle with you. Sea shoes: The beach for the beach party is completely soft and sandy, so no shoes needed for that. However, if you plan to visit any of the coves on the island (check out the things to do page), sea shoes can be helpful. These can be bought fairly cheaply in the area (around €10).

What to Bring

Things to do

If you are planning on sticking around, and want to explore the area, Monte Argentario and the Maremma region offers so many wonderful experiences. Whether you want to relax on the beach, dive into local history like a Spanish fortress or Roman ruins on tiny islands, enjoy the freshest seafood, wine tasting in the Chianti hills, or embark on an adventure farther afield, there is something here for everyone. We have some suggestions below, but feel free to ask us for help, and let us know if you are staying nearby after the wedding, as we will remain in the area for some time and might join you on your adventures!

Quick Pick List

Too much to choose from? Here's our quick pick list: Solo/Self-Guided Activity: Spanish Fortress visit, waterfront stroll, historic centre exploration Relaxation: Beach lounging, snorkeling, wine tasting Active Activities: Hiking, biking, horseback riding Guided Tours: Boat trips, wine tasting, sailing lesson Day Trips: Island cruises, Tarot Garden, thermal spa visit

Around the Area

This is the closest little town to where we will host the wedding. It is a port with a large marina and most shops you will need (although opening times are at the whim of the owner in true Italian fashion). The town also has a Spanish Castle left over from the 16thC Franco-Spanish war when the Island was occupied. The port has restaurants, bars (which is where you get coffee in Italy), gelato, and some shops. We enjoy Bar Guilia for breakfast coffee and evening aperitivi as you're right on the water (plus the gelato is good). There is a market which is usually open on Tuesdays, and the Marina has a delightful waterfront walk especially with an ice-cream in hand (just be careful not to trip on the ropes tying the boats ashore). Many of the excursions leave from Porto Santo Stefano.

Porto Santo Stefano

Orbetello has a lovely historic centre with good shopping (clothes, books, furniture), a cinema, and bars. The town juts out off the mainland into the lagoon, from which some of the earliest trans-Atlantic hydro-plane flights once took off. If you are eating in Orbetello, do as the locals do by having a ‘passeggiata’ (a stroll). This is the Italian tradition/pastime of walking lazily up and down the main street after you eat (with an ice cream if you fancy). Traditionally this allowed the young people to eye each other up under their families noses, so feel free to check out the locals. Orbetello has a market which typically sells seasonal fruit and vegetables, fresh fish, as well as home-ware and clothing. It is in the Via Caravaggio every Saturday morning, from 08:30-13:00. If you're self-catering and need a big shop (or just forgot your swimsuit) the COOP in Orbetello is huge and should have everything you need.

Orbetello

Porto Ercole is the other port town on Monte Argentario (so naturally it is rivals with Porto Santo Stefano). Porto Ercole is smaller, but has old fortifications, and still some charming shops and restaurants. Some of the <a href="https://www.getyourguide.com/porto-ercole-l177435/beach-trips-tc63/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">excursions by boat</a> will leave from Porto Ercole.

Porto Ercole, Strada Provinciale Porto Ercole

Beaches

There are so many little coves and beaches around the island (more than 20!). <a href="https://www.invacanzaallargentario.it/en/beaches-and-coves-of-monte-argentario/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">This website</a> gives a good overview, and you'll see that some are easily accessible from the main road, while some require a hike or even a boat to reach. Pick one that suits you and give it a try. The waters in this region are crystal clear, so bring a snorkel as you can easily explore the sea bed and fishes. We haven't visited them all, but some we recommend are:- Pozzarello: Easy access, a good restaurant, and deep waters for proper swimming. &nbsp;- I bagni di Domiziano: It's is special for us and we like to go there in the morning and swim out to see Roman ruins that are falling into the sea (or you can walk through the sea on the rocks below if you have sea shoes).- La Cacciarella: Requires a bit of hiking (there are two paths, one longer and easier, one shorter and harder) but the sea bed is gorgeous and it's a rewarding swim! Some can be rocky in places, so bring sea shoes if you have them!

Coves of Monte Argentario

The beach is one of the spits of land connecting the island to the mainland and is a conservation area so you are surrounded by untouched nature. The water is very calm and the gradient is very mild, so it is great for kids. On one side of the strip facing the lagoon you can go bird-watching, and the other side facing the sea has a wonderful beach. Because it’s a protected reserve, you can’t drive a car there, so instead you rent a bicycle to cycle (like Monique is doing here) through a pine forest to reach the best spots. It's an amazing experience, which makes up for the lack of facilities. This is also the beach where Caravaggio is thought to have died (while on his passage home from exile having been pardoned by the Pope). There is a little monument to him on the path to the sea.

Feniglia Beach

Gianella is the opposite spit of land to Feniglia, and is not a conservation area, so this side has restaurants and beach resorts (including il Tramonto where we will be having our beach party) and you can drive easily to wherever you want to go.

Giannella

Activities and Excursions 

‘The Tarot Garden’ is hard to describe. It's an art park full of sculptures by Niki de Sainte Phalle. It is the largest artistic project by a woman artist in the world (so big she even lived in one of the sculptures while building it). It contains 22 figures covered in mirrors and mosaic all made locally and many painted by her over the 17 years it took to complete. It is a surreal and magical experience - Chiara has been many times and always spots something new to enjoy. It is worth booking tickets in advance if you can. It is a 35-45 min drive from Monte Argentario.

The Tarot Garden

This is a nearby winery (around 45min drive) that we love, and they offer a spectacular sunset tasting where you can even see Monte Argentario. They are a newer outfit and have done a beautiful job of taking over the vines planted by the previous owner. The owners are knowledgeable and friendly, and the wine is delicious. The estate includes&nbsp;15 hectares of vineyards, situated at around 250 meters above sea level, planted with&nbsp;Fiano, Alicante, Sangiovese, and international varieties such as&nbsp;Grenache, Syrah, Merlot, and&nbsp;Cabernet. There are other vineyards in the area, so feel free to explore if this is not to your tastes.

Tenuta il Quinto - Wine Tasting

The Thermal Springs of Saturnia are free and open 24hrs so you can go any time, but they do get very busy. Facilities are limited so bring your own towels and snacks, and water shoes are recommended. Beware, because it’s a natural thermal spring it does smell like sulphur. The town overlooking the springs is very ancient (pre-classical Greece) and it is near an Etruscan necropolis along the Roman road ‘Clodia’, which has a charming Roman Gate (2nd Century BCE). There are also luxury spa and wellness resorts nearby, continuing the traditions of this area for millenia. There is a good explanation of the area and what is worth seeing nearby <a href="https://www.discovertuscany.com/maremma/thermal-baths-of-saturnia.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>. This is a 1hr 20 - 2hr drive (traffic depending) onto the mainland.

Thermal Springs - Cascate del Mulino di Saturnia

There are many varied excursions from boat trips and snorkeling to horseback riding and cycling. You can even visit the butteri, the traditional Maremma cowboys! Look especially for excursions leaving from Porto Santo Stefano or Porto Ercole for things nearby. Maremma Excursioni: Lots on offer and good reviews, seems to have a great offering for kids -<a href="https://www.maremmaescursioni.it/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.maremmaescursioni.it/</a> Get Your Guide: This website helps you find tours and excursions in the area: <a href="https://www.getyourguide.com/province-of-grosseto-tuscany-l166505/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.getyourguide.com/province-of-grosseto-tuscany-l166505/</a>

Excursions

A little further afield, this long stretch of the Maremma coast is Tuscany's first protected natural conservation area. It has pristine nature and spectacular <a href="https://parco-maremma.it/en/the-park/vedere-gli-animali/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">wildlife</a> (wolves spontaneously returned to the area after its protection). The park has many activities (tours on horseback or in a canoe) all available on its website. Perfect for nature lovers.

Parco Regionale della Maremma

Things to Do

Our Story

Photos

Registry

Driving in Italy

General

The Italians are famous for their love of fast cars and their ability to make a 1970’s Fiat Panda go at a speed worthy of Lewis Hamilton. But have no fear – you do not have to drive like an Italian to drive in Italy! Basics: Italians drive on the right hand side of the road. The steering wheel of your car will be on the left hand side of the car. This means that on the motorway, the “slow” lane is the right hand lane. Speed: It is fair to say that cars drive fast and over speed limit (even though there are speed cameras on roads)! Our first tip is to drive at a pace which is comfortable to you. Don’t feel the need to drive at a speed faster than you want to, and don’t be bullied. You might find cars get frustrated that you want to abide by the speed limit, and drive very close to the back of you to form a nice orderly queue behind your ass. This is quite normal in Italy. Keep your pace – again don’t be bullied – and just allow them to overtake you, which they will do at the earliest possibility. You can mutter your best wishes to their ancestors as they drive past you. Indicating: Drivers are less consistent at indicating in Italy. Don't count on someone's indicators to know where they're going, so trust your instincts - if you feel like a car is trying to push in to a lane or overtake without indicating, just give them some space and let them drive in their own way. Insurance: We always advise getting the highest level of insurance when you rent your car. Many credit card companies provide insurance which covers damage to rental vehicles – unfortunately, Italy is often exempt from this for a reason. It’s honestly not worth the argument with rental companies. Despite all of this, we genuinely love driving in Italy. Once you’re used to the road, which doesn’t take long, the views can be breathtaking, and the service stations are a real highlight. Most will have a proper coffee bar serving excellent coffee – traditionally, you order an espresso and stand at the bar and sip it – and a variety of delicious Italian snacks.

Highways

When driving on motorways, we advise staying in the slow lane if you are driving at the speed limit, with one exception. Trucks and vans will stay in the slow lane, and you may wish to overtake them. The motorways in Italy are slightly narrower than that in the UK which means that the first time you overtake a large vehicle on the motorway it can be a bit daunting, but you will find after overtaking one or two you will get used to it pretty quickly. The key is to keep your pace and to focus on the road ahead, rather than looking at the van next to you. If you are driving from Rome or Pisa to Monte Argentario, here are some service stations we like to use to stop halfway: Between Monte Argentario and Rome: <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/RSkEdJyXtXfVdG8Q9" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://maps.app.goo.gl/RSkEdJyXtXfVdG8Q9</a> Between Monte Argentario and Pisa:<a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/VuzFXoAkqsu961Sf8" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://maps.app.goo.gl/VuzFXoAkqsu961Sf8</a>

Parking

White line parking spaces are free (and therefore difficult to find). If you find one it's your lucky day! Blue line parking spaces are usually paid. There will be a meter nearby that usually takes card, but it is easier to download the EasyPark app to pay for parking: <a href="https://www.easypark.com/en-it" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.easypark.com/en-it</a> Some will have signs saying you get a certain amount of time (e.g. 1 hour) free. To benefit from the free time, you use a little sign, often in the form of a cardboard analogue clock, showing the time you arrived in your window. Most rental cars have this in the glove box. Yellow line parking spaces are for disabled people and permit holders. Unless you have a permit for these, believe me you will get fined if you park here. You will see Italians parking in creative ways (and also just straight up double parking). If you're feeling brave you can try this, but you may get a fine in the post in a few months...

What to say

Greetings

You might of course be familiar with “Ciao!” (Hi/Goodbye). This is informal and perfect for friends, but too informal for strangers. Use:Buongiorno! Good morning/good dayBuon Pomerriggio! Good afternoonBuona Sera! Good evening In shops and restaurants, when you are leaving:Buona Giornata! Have a good dayBuona Serata! Have a good eveningGrazie mille! Ciao! Thanks a thousand, bye!Grazie! (pronounced "grah-tsi-eh") Thank you Some other useful phrases:Mi dispiace! I’m sorryAiuto! HelpDov’é... Where is... (insert the English word if you don’t know it!)

Ordering Food/drink

I would like: Vorrei...Could we possibly have: Possiamo avere...Please: Per favore A bottle of water (still/sparkling): Una bottiglia d’acqua (naturale/frizzante) A bottle of house wine (don’t worry, house wine in Italy is still very good!): Una bottiglia di vino della casaWhite/red/rose: Bianco/rosso/rosato Can I have the menu? Posso avere il menu? It’s delicious, thank you! Molto gustoso, grazie! Where is the bathroom please? Dov’é il bagno per favore? A coffee/espresso please. Un café/espresso per favore. The cheque, please: Il conto per favoreCan we split the bill in (2, 3, 4)? Possiamo dividere il conto in (due, tre, quatro)

Travelling in Italy

We really want a card from you

Your presence is truly the best gift we could ask for. We know traveling for our wedding is no small thing, and it means the world to us. Instead of gifts, we’d love if you could write us a card (bonus points if it’s handmade, but no pressure!) so we can have a special memento from each of our wonderful guests.

Can we give you something else/more?

If you really want to give something more, we would ask you to consider donating to one of these charities: ● <a href="https://stars-egypt.org/donate" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">STARS (St Andrew's Refugee Service)</a> - A refugee service provider in central Cairo that works to enhance the quality of life for refugees and vulnerable migrants through four broad program areas: education, psychosocial, legal, and community outreach. Monique worked for STARS after her masters, and it holds a special place in her heart. ● <a href="https://donorbox.org/psychological-first-aid-for-our-people-from-gaza#info" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hakini</a> - means “tell me” in Arabic, and it provides free mental health support for Palestinians. Hakini has set up an emergency hotline to provide psychological first aid for the people of Gaza, and operates through a network of local health care providers to support the psychological needs of people on the ground, with an emphasis on collective healing.

There is no dress codes for the drinks, or the beach. We have booked beds and umbrellas for the beach, but you will need to bring your own towel. That said, we love to dress up, so if you need an excuse to have your #ItalianSummer #LaDolceVita fashion moment, look no further.

Dress Code

Photo sharing

We have hired photographers and will share those photos as soon as we get them, but in the mean time, help us capture more photos from our wedding, and let us see it from your perspective! We've set up a photo sharing page where you can share your pictures and see all the other guest photos too (who knows who got an iconic pic of you in the sea). To upload and view the photos, visit:<a href="https://www.weddingphotoswap.com/chiara-monique" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.weddingphotoswap.com/chiara-monique</a> If asked, enter these details for our wedding: Wedding ID: 971552Wedding Password: wildboar We look forward to seeing all your photos!

Monique & Chiara

Monique & Chiara

M&C