Welcome Party at Quercia al Poggio

Vineyard Views, Sunset Dinner & Celebration

A welcome party at Quercia al Poggio, in the heart of Italy, already sounds magical, but photographing Kate and AJ’s celebration felt like stepping into a storybook. Their event was prior to their wedding, an intimate, slow-paced affair, one that blended the rustic charm of the Tuscan countryside with the warmth of two people eager to welcome their closest family and friends.

The evening began with a relaxed wine tour and tasting, the kind of experience that invites guests to pause, breathe, and savor. Glasses clinked beneath soft golden light as everyone wandered between rows of vines, listening to stories of the land and its traditions. The atmosphere was unhurried and joyful, filled with laughter and shared discoveries.

From there, the celebration moved into pizza-making, a delightfully hands-on experience that brought everyone together around the dough, the toppings, and the wood-fired oven. There’s something wonderfully bonding about crafting a meal with the people you love, and this group embraced it fully.

As twilight settled, long tables draped in red-and-white linens were set beneath twinkle lights that stretched across the courtyard. The rolling hills faded into soft blues and purples, creating a backdrop that felt almost unreal. Guests shared food, wine, and stories while the stars slowly appeared overhead.

Throughout it all, Kate and AJ moved through the evening with genuine joy, greeting each guest, raising glasses, and soaking in every moment. Their welcome party wasn’t simply an event; it was an experience crafted with intention, hospitality, and heart.

Photographing a night like this welcome party at Quercia al Poggio was a privilege, a celebration defined not by grandeur but by connection, beauty, and the unforgettable charm of Italy under the stars.

Venue: Quercia al Poggio

Photography: Brian Weitzel Photography