Villa Cetinale

The first time I ever went to a photography retreat, I didn’t fully understand how much it could shape me as an artist and as a business owner. I just knew I wanted to learn, I wanted to be around people who “got it,” and I wanted to create work that felt elevated and true to the kind of weddings I dreamed of photographing.

That retreat was with AMV Retreats, and it brought me to Villa Cetinale in Tuscany. And honestly? I fell in love. Hard!

Villa Cetinale is the kind of place that feels like it’s been waiting for a love story. It’s romantic in that old-world, cinematic way—quiet elegance, dreamy gardens, and that soft Tuscan light that makes everything feel a little more poetic. The estate sits just outside Siena in Sovicille, which makes it feel tucked away and private, but still close enough to explore and soak up the magic of the region.

My Room

What made my first time there even more special is that I actually got to stay in one of the rooms on the property. There’s something different about waking up inside a venue like that. It felt cozy and comfy in the best way—like you’re living inside the experience instead of just visiting it. I remember thinking, “How is this real life?” because everything felt so intentional and beautiful, but still warm and inviting.

The Guests

And then there was the people. I got to be there with friends—my photography family—and that’s something I don’t take lightly. This job can be lonely sometimes, especially when you’re building something big and you’re the one making all the decisions. Being surrounded by creatives who were just as excited, just as passionate, and just as invested in growth made the entire experience feel even more meaningful. AMV Retreats is really known for that combination of community + education + creating, and you can feel it while you’re there.

The Food

The food deserves its own paragraph because it was incredible. Like “we’re still talking about it” incredible. There’s something about eating in Tuscany—simple, fresh, flavorful, and somehow every meal feels like a moment. It became part of the retreat experience in the same way the scenery did: slow down, enjoy it, be present, savor it.

The Scenery

And one of the underrated perks of Villa Cetinale is how perfectly it’s placed for sightseeing. Siena is close, and you’re within reach of other iconic spots if you want to make a little adventure out of your time there. The venue even highlights how well-situated it is for exploring the region, which makes it such a dream for a destination wedding weekend where you’re not just hosting an event—you’re creating an experience for your guests.

The Villa

From a wedding perspective, I can’t recommend this venue enough for couples who want something romantic, timeless, and truly European. Villa Cetinale is literally described as an ideal place to host a wedding, and the gardens and estate setting are a huge part of that appeal. It’s the kind of place where you can picture a welcome dinner under the stars, a ceremony surrounded by greenery and history, a candlelit dinner that feels like a scene from a movie, and a full weekend that your guests will talk about forever.

There’s also something really special about the balance Villa Cetinale has—it’s undeniably grand and beautiful, but it doesn’t feel cold. It feels lived-in and soulful. Like a place that holds stories.

That first AMV Retreats experience at Villa Cetinale gave me more than just pretty images for my portfolio (though yes, the content was unreal). It gave me clarity. It raised my standards. It helped me see what’s possible for destination work, for brand growth, and for the kind of weddings I want to attract and photograph.

Let’s Chat!

If you’re a couple planning a destination wedding in Italy and you want a venue that feels charming, romantic, elevated, and genuinely unforgettable, Villa Cetinale deserves a spot at the top of your list. And I would love to connect with you about capturing your wedding or event there!

And if you’re dreaming about getting married in Tuscany—whether it’s an intimate gathering or a full wedding weekend—reach out to me through my website and tell me what you’re envisioning. I’d love to photograph your day at Villa Cetinale (or help you plan something just as magical elsewhere in Italy).