She called upon society favourite Luisa Beccaria to design her ivory gown, which featured a delicate round neck, short puff sleeves, button-up back, long train and chic green floral embroidery detailing. Irene credited her mother, Aliai, with designing the embroidery on her dress, as well as those of the bridesmaids, who each wore something different, including her sister, Lydia.
The Milan-based designer also worked on the wedding dress of Lady Gabriella Windsor, the daughter of the Queen’s cousin, Prince Michael of Kent. It was also notable for not being all ivory, with a hint of pink on the skirt.
Irene’s hair and make-up was minimal – showing off her natural beauty (and a great advertisement for her organic skincare line), relying on a make-up artist and hair stylist she met during a Tatler shoot for help – Karina Constantine and Leila Karalic, respectively.
The venue was a Norman cathedral on the mountaintop, Santa Maria della Catena, with stone walls and frescoes galore, decked out in exquisite flowers all chosen for their symbolism. An orchestra played while the couple exchanged their vows, before everyone moved on to toast the happy couple outside, with a local band playing freestyle. Unsurprisingly, dinner was a decadent affair, with the tablescapes in particular showcasing that quintessential Rocco Forte flair, incorporating local artistans and their wares. The evening ended with fireworks – naturally – adding a final glamorous climax.
