Our Love Story
It was a warm evening in May 2016, and we had both been invited to Stel's surprise birthday party, thanks to our lovely Michelle. The night was buzzing with excitement, and Roxie was doing what she does best—stuffing her face with delicious Keftedes (Greek meatballs). Cos, ever the smooth operator, saw his chance and confidently approached. But Roxie, completely oblivious, was far too focused on her plate of meatballs. In one clumsy but memorable moment, she somehow managed to slap a meatball straight onto Cos’s head. Yes, you read that right—a meatball to the head. The rest was history! Who would have thought that this meatball moment would lead us all the way to Italy, celebrating our love with all of you? From a Greek meatball disaster to our dream wedding in Puglia—here we are, ready for our next adventure together. We can't wait to celebrate with all of our loved ones.
TRAVELLING TO PUGLIA, ITALY
We can’t wait to celebrate with you in the beautiful Puglia! We recommend that our guests stay in Lecce City Center also known as Old Town Lecce, as it’s not only well connected but also conveniently close to our wedding venue. We will be staying at 'Patria Palace'. Nearest Airport: Brindisi (BDS) 39km to Lecce For our guests arriving by air, Brindisi Airport is the closest option, just a 40-minute drive from Lecce. From there, it’s easy to arrange transportation via rental car, taxi, or public transit to your accommodation. Flights to Brindisi are limited so we recommend booking flights in advance. Alternative Airport: Bari (BRI) 167 km from Lecce Lecce offers a range of accommodations to suit all preferences—from hotels to boutique B&Bs and charming apartments. Please see the accommodation section further down detailed list of recommended hotels. Lecce is a known for its stunning Baroque architecture, vibrant piazzas, and fantastic dining, the city is just a short drive from our wedding venue. Staying here will make it easy to get around, explore the area, and join us for all the celebrations. See below a guide for things to do in Lecce.
TAXIS & TRANSPORT
Taxi Drivers in Lecce / Salento Area - Uber operates in Puglia Region - Radio Taxi (in Lecce only) +39 0832 1779 (based in Lecce) - Lecce Taxi +39 328 325 0599 (based in Lecce) - Marcello +39 349 715 9069 (based in Lecce) - Taxi Lecce +39 393 030 6000 (based in Lecce) -Dario +39 348 656 2420 (based in Porto Cesareo) -Antonio +39 347 075 2081 (based in Salice Salentino) -Antonio +39 389 569 5280 (based in Salento area) -NCC Salento +39 350 048 4193 (based in Veglie) Car Hire: If you are staying within Old Town Lecce, please be aware that it is a restricted traffic zone (ZTL). Only authorised vehicles may enter, and fines are enforced. We recommend arranging parking outside the Old Town and walking or taking local transport to your accommodation. Please check with your hotel for more details on parking options/valet service or host for the nearest approved parking and access instructions. If you wish to hire a car we recommend using 'Noleggiare' - you can pick/drop off at Brindisi Airport. https://www.noleggiare.it/en/car-rent/offers/
Schedule
17.06.26
8:00pm
Pre Wedding Celebration - Torre Del Parco
Let the celebrations begin! Join us for our Pre-Wedding Welcome Party at Torre del Parco, Lecce. Light bites, drinks and all our favourite people in one magical place. 🇮🇹
Attire: Smart
Torre Del Parco
1419, Viale Torre del Parco, 1, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy
19.06.26
2:15pm
Coaches to Castello Monaci - Meeting Point
Wedding Day Transport – All Aboard! 🚌💍 Coaches will be ready to take guests from our meeting point straight to the wedding venue, so you can relax and enjoy the ride. Departure Time: 2:30 sharp – don’t be late, we don’t want to say “I do” without you! Return: Coaches will also bring everyone back to the meeting point after the celebrations. Alternatively you can meet at our hotel (Patria Palace Lecce) at 2pm and then head to the meeting point with the bridal party.
Attire: Black Tie
Port Napoli (Coaches will stop on the main road at this point)
Via F. Calasso, 15, 73100 Lecce LE, Italy
3:30pm - 3:00am
Ceremony & Wedding Reception
Castello Monaci
Contrada Masseria Monaci, 73015 Salice Salentino LE, Italy
Accommodation Information
We’re so excited to celebrate our wedding with you in Puglia, we will be staying in Lecce Baroque town (Historical City Centre). To make your stay is as convenient as possible and to ensure you’re close to all the wedding events, we recommend staying in or around the town centre, (marked yellow on map) We will be staying at ‘Patria Palace' which is the designated wedding party hotel. Below, we’ve curated a list of handpicked hotels, B&Bs, and holiday apartments that are either within Lecce Baroque town close to our own hotel or just a 5-minute walk away. Whether you’re looking for luxury, comfort, or a more local experience, you’ll find a variety of options to suit your preferences. We advise you to book early, as most of the hotels in Lecce are boutique-style with a limited number of rooms available. However please note some of these hotels do not release their dates until September/October 2025 so it may appear sold out on booking.com prior to these months. Since Lecce is a popular summer destination, accommodations tend to fill up quickly. Flights to Brindisi, Puglia are also quite limited so we advise booking these in advance. To help you navigate, we’ve also attached a map of the Baroque town, highlighting the key locations and accommodations. We can’t wait to see you there! On the day of the wedding we will have coaches at meeting points to take everyone to the Wedding venue which is around a 30-40 minute drive from Lecce. We have provided links to all recommended accommodation below, which are all within a few minutes walking distance from eachother:
Lecce City Centre Boutique Hotels (Baroque Old Town)
(We recommend staying here in the Baroque old Town) Boutique Hotels within the Baroque Old Town
Patria Palace LecceRisorgimento ResortSanta ChiaraPollicastro Boutique HotelMantatelurèPalazzo De NohaPalazzo Dei TolomiAbalto suites & roomsPalazzo PaisielloPalazzo Sant Anna LeccePalazzo Persone Dimora StoricaPalazzo RolloDimora San GiuseppePalazzo CavourSanta Croce Luxury Rooms (next door to Patria Palace)Le Club Boutique HotelGrand Hotel Di Lecce
Your Guide to Puglia
Whether you’re here just for the big day or making a holiday out of your trip, Puglia has so much to offer – from coastal gems to charming hilltop towns. Here’s a curated guide to help you explore this magical region. 💫 For Fairytale Charm Alberobello Famous for its iconic trulli houses, this UNESCO World Heritage site feels like stepping into a storybook. Don’t miss a stroll through Rione Monti for the ultimate fairytale vibes. Locorotondo This picturesque town in the Itria Valley is known for its whitewashed buildings and circular layout – the perfect place for a slow wander and a long lunch. Cisternino Charming, peaceful, and slightly off the beaten path, Cisternino is all about narrow streets, relaxed piazzas, and local flavours. 🌊 For Coastal Beauty Polignano a Mare Dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear water, and the famous Lama Monachile beach – this town is a must for sea lovers and photo-takers alike. Monopoli With its beautiful old town, sandy beaches, and working fishing port, Monopoli offers a real slice of authentic coastal life. Gallipoli On the Ionian coast, Gallipoli is perfect for beach days and sunset aperitivos. Its historic center is also built on a limestone island! Otranto A stunning seaside town with a beautiful cathedral, medieval castle, and some of the best Adriatic beaches in the region. Santa Maria di Leuca Right at the tip of Italy’s heel, this peaceful town is where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea – with breathtaking views and turquoise waters. Torre Sant’Andrea Famous for its dramatic sea stacks and arches, it’s an ideal spot for swimming, cliffside exploring, or simply soaking in the beauty. 🏛️ For History & Culture Lecce Often called the “Florence of the South,” Lecce is full of ornate Baroque buildings, Roman ruins, and vibrant city life. Bari Puglia’s capital is lively and full of contrasts – explore the old town’s winding alleys or enjoy a gelato by the sea promenade. Ostuni Nicknamed the “White City”, Ostuni offers jaw-dropping views, winding cobbled streets, and an incredibly romantic atmosphere. Castel del Monte A mysterious octagonal castle and UNESCO World Heritage site – it’s unlike anything else in Italy and perfect for a day trip. Grotte di Castellana Take a guided tour through incredible underground caves and rock formations – a cool and unforgettable experience, especially on hot days! 🌿 For Nature & Relaxation Gargano Peninsula A nature lover’s paradise, this area has it all: forest trails, cliffside beaches, hilltop villages, and even a sanctuary in a cave. Torre Guaceto This protected marine reserve is ideal for a beach day far from the crowds – bring a snorkel or just enjoy the peaceful surroundings. If you’re planning to road-trip around Puglia, renting a car is the easiest way to explore the countryside and smaller towns at your own pace.
Share your photos with us
We would love to create a beautiful collage of memories at our wedding, and we invite you to be a part of it! Feel free to capture special moments at the wedding itself and share them with us – whether it's during the event or in the days that follow. Your snapshots will add even more joy to our celebration. Let's make our wedding day a collection of love and shared memories!