Gabriella & Christopher
The Couple
Gabriella rosa Addonisio
- Georgia peach.
- Product manager.
- Amateur sommelier.
- World traveler.
- Runs to the gate.
- Hand-talker.
- Hooked on phonics.
- Compulsive list-maker.
Christopher andrew hughes Pardy
- Haligonian.
- Software developer.
- Beer snob.
- Eagle scout.
- Shows up 2 hours before the flight.
- Mumbler extraordinaire.
- Cat rescuer.
- Hopeless romantic.
Together as One
It all started in 2012 when two coworkers took a business trip to the Netherlands to launch a product. She was the product owner and he was the lead developer. Getting on the airplane they were mistaken for a couple - clearly a sign of things to come. While exploring Amsterdam together, they started talking and realized that they shared a love of food, cooking, company, and exploring old European cities. After coming back home they stayed friends, and even hosted a few dinner parties. Finally 6 months later Chris got up the nerve to tell Gabriella how he felt and send her an email. After 2 weeks without a response Chris couldn't help but feel disappointed not realizing that Gabriella was in Italy and completely detached from the web. On her first day back in the office there was a painfully awkward meeting (well, for him; she still hadn't checked her email). Finally that night she read the momentous email and later that week they had dinner, drinks, and laughs. On one of their first dates, after dinner, they went out to the Esplanade and sitting on a park bench overlooking the Charles River and watching the sail boats they decided to make it official.
After about 540 nights of having dinner together Chris knew he wanted to keep doing so for the rest of their lives. He asked her dad, picked out a ring, and then concocted an elaborate plan complete with a pretend startup called Platinum Vermillion that provided "bespoke adventures". Clues were texted to the couple throughout the night which they had to decode to see how their adventure would unfold. After decoding a book cipher they were lead to dinner and drinks. The next clue was a map of the Esplanade that pointed them to the very same park bench where they started dating. There in the freezing cold, with Gabriella huddled like an Eskimo, Chris got down on one knee and popped the question.
Of course she said yes, and now the couple can't wait to take all their family and friends to Italy, the country of amore to celebrate their union.
Bridesmaids
Chiara Matrisciano Junior Bridesmaid
Even though they are far away and don’t see each other much, Chiara and Gabriella have always been close cousins. Two years ago, Gabriella even had the amazing opportunity to be Chiara's confirmation sponsor. Although the younger cousin long ago surpassed Gabriella in height, Chiara is the obvious choice for junior bridesmaid.
Katherine Shea Bridesmaid
Katherine and Gabriella started off as co-workers, but truly bonded when they started commuting to work together after both moving to Beacon Hill. The 90+ minutes spent in the car each day was easily filled with talk of work, but mostly fashion and boys. Even now that both have left Vistaprint, they’ve still remained close friends, although Gabriella promises Chris that these days they just talk about fashion. Gabriella is happy to have Katherine as a bridesmaid.
Emilie Rabehi Bridesmaid
When Emilie’s job brought her to Boston she reached out to her co-worker Gabriella to get a local’s perspective on where to live. Gabriella helped Emilie navigate her new city discussing the merits of various neighborhoods (Beacon Hill is obviously the best). When Emilie moved into an apartment just down the street from Gabriella they quickly became friends. Gabriella is excited that Emilie will be travelling to Italy to be her bridesmaid.
Katherine Sultenfuss Maid of Honor
Katherine and Gabriella became friends in high school and were inseparable, even sharing a locker. Over the years Katherine has always been there for Gabriella, , they've traveled the world together and stayed friends despite being so far away. Gabriella is thrilled that Katherine agreed to be her maid of honor.
Groomsmen
Stephen Pardy Best Man
Stephen has been Chris's brother since he was born. In the intervening 25 years he has also been there as a traveling companion, fellow adventurer, Lego master builder, and occasional partner in crime. Chris knew that there was only one person that he could ever want to be his best man.
Michael Addonisio Groomsman
Michael is the sort of person who would loan you the shirt off his back or stick up for you in a fight. In short he's the kind of guy who you'd want with you if you get into trouble, but also the one who may have gotten you into trouble. Chris is excited to have Michael as a groomsmen but more importantly as a brother-in-law.
Ben LaVerriere Groomsman
First becoming friends during a college project in which all their other teammates dropped the class. Ben and Chris bonded over their love of theatre, food, and shared Maine heritage. Since then Ben's been an amazing friend, fellow cook, and beer connoisseur. Chris is happy that he can also now count Ben as a groomsman.
Joseph Addonisio Junior Groomsman
"You didn't ask Joseph's permission?" was not the first thing that Gabriella said to Chris after he proposed to her, more like the fourth. After-all as Gabriella’s younger brother of 14 years, he’s used to being consulted on matters related to His Lella. Chris is thrilled that Joseph forgave him for this oversight and is joining him as a junior groomsman.
Mangia bene, ridi spesso, ama molto.
Eat well, laugh often, love a lot.
Festivities
Traveling is the ruin of all happiness! There's no looking at a building after seeing Italy.
Getting There
Wish you could teleport across the Atlantic? Us, too. Here are the next best options.
Napoli Airport Capodichino (NAP)
Napoli is the closest airport. Or let la dolce vita find you as you explore first. Flying into Roma's airport, Aeroporto Internazionale Leonardo da Vinci (FCO), will give you a chance to see the City of the Seven Hills. From there it is about 2 hours by train or car to reach Napoli.
Linea a Monte del Vesuvio
Trenitalia offers connections between all the major cities in Italy. To get to Ravello via public transportation take the Itercity or Regionale (40 minutes) train from the Naples Centrale Station to Salerno. From Salerno the SITA bus will take you to Ravello, but you will need to switch lines in Amalfi. Alternatively see information below for cab services from Salerno to Ravello.
Bus tickets have to be bought in advance and can be found at caffè bars and Tabacchi. Schedules are available online from Trenitalia and SITA SUD.
Strada Statale 163
You can pick up a rental car at any airport and the highways in Italia are easy enough. However, driving the Amalfi coast while beautiful is narrow and terrifying. Also the towns on the coast are mostly car free; parking is limited and can only be found on the outskirts of town. We advise that you avoid driving the coast and ditch the car in Napoli if possible.
If you want to splurge, a car service from Napoli to Ravello is €100-150 each way. We recommend Jack the Driver or Positano Car Service.
Traghetti e Aliscafi
The closest ferry port to Ravello is in Amalfi. From there you can get a ferry to Capri, Positano, Sorrento, Salerno, or Ischia. Sorrento and Salerno also have connections on to Napoli and other cities. Ferries come less frequently than buses, but we understand if you cannot resist the call of the sea.
You can find Amalfi Coast ferry schedules online at capri.com, further information can be found here
Napoli is a beautiful woman in a dirty dress.
Rest Your Head
We will be staying in Ravello (exact location tbd and to be updated here)- we recommend you do too. Buses and ferries can be used to get to other towns on the coast for visits. There are no shortage of places to stay in Ravello, however we recommend you book early. Ravello consists of two parts: main Ravello on the mountain and Ravello by the sea. We would not recommend staying in Ravello by the sea unless you want to climb 700 + very steep steps, or walk 7km to the wedding venue. Here are a few recommendations to get you started:
Graal Hotel
Very near to the center of town, Graal Hotel offers excellent hillside views from their rooms and pool. About a 5 minute walk to the church and an 15 minute walk to the reception venue Graal Hotel offers convince that is lost with the hotels outside of town. Book directly and mention Gabriella and Chris' wedding to receive 10% off 3+ nights stay.
Villa Piedimonte
A bit further away, but more spacious, Villa Piedimonte still offers spectacular views, great amenities, and a relaxing pool. An excellent choice but not for those who dislike uphill walks, it's about 15 minutes to the center of town and 25 minutes to the reception.
Belmond Hotel Caruso
The site of our reception, Hotel Caruso, for those looking to splurge on a once in a lifetime experience. Formally an 11th century palace, the hotel is run by the Belmond hotel chain, known for their opulent retreats. Number 1 rated on TripAdvisor, you'll defiantly be wowed.
Vacation Rentals
Vacation rentals are the most affordable option on the coast, great for groups, and come in a variety of options like cozy apartments or large villas with a pool. TripAdvisor (we swear Gabriella doesn't get a cut!) and Airbnb have the most options in the area. Beware the that the terrain is hilly and the map deceptive. Places are further away in distance and elevation than they look! Many homes are 10+ flights of stairs from the main road. We recommend asking before booking.
Il mistero di Ravello
Su nude rupi
erte sopra il mare
ti nascondi, Ravello
come nido di numi
o paese di fiabe.
Le tue bianche case
le tue mirabili chiese
non vantan pretese
al turista
venuto quassù
sol per vedere
quel che nascondi
nei cieli lontani
nei mari profondi
dove, tra il pulviscolo
d'oro dello spazio,
il mistero dell'infinito
vive........
Why Ravello
The Amalfi coast is not far from where Gabriella's parents met and married. For Gabriella it represents fond childhood memories from family vacations there, for Chris it was love at first visit. Ravello, official music town of the Amalfi Coast has, more than other towns on the Amalfi Coast, offered escape throughout history. Be it Romans fleeing barbarian invasions or those seeking inspiration like artist M.C Escher or composer Richard Wagner. It's peaceful atmosphere, fascinating streets with small alleys and little squares, and ancient noble villas all greatly kept make Ravello the jewel of the Amalfi coast.
Here are a few of our favorite things...
Villa Cimbrone
Villa Cimbrone is an 11th century Villa turned hotel and park, only a 10 minute walk from the center of town down quaint cobblestone streets. Walk the Terrazzo dell'lnfinito where the Mediterranean and the sky run together in a view that Gore Vidal called “the most beautiful view in the world”. Or stroll the terraced gardens, regarded as one of the most stunning examples of English style landscapes in Europe.
Villa Rufolo
Right off the piazza, Villa Rufolo is the smaller of Ravello's two gardens but no less beautiful. The 13th century villa is also host to an annual summer concert series thrown by the Ravello Art's Society that features piano concerts, chamber music, and a grand orchestral performance on a stage built jutting out over the Mediterranean Sea. We recommend buying tickets in advance!
Capri
Perfect for a day trip or an overnight visit, Capri is just short boat ride from Amalfi. The beautiful island served as a retreat from Roman city life for the Emperor Tiberius who built numerous Villas on the island. The island now plays home to two small towns, Capri and Anacapri. However what Capri is most famous for are the waters surrounding it, you can journey by boat to see the White Grotto, or the world famous Blue Grotto, as well as the picturesque Faraglioni.
Hiking
With it's breathtaking coastal views and relatively undeveloped mountain sides the hiking along the Amalfi Coast is unrivaled. Sentiero degli Dei, or Path of the Gods, is the most famous hike between Bomerano and Positano, cutting through mountain gorges and skirting precarious cliff sides all while offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean. It's easiest to start in Bomerano which is reachable by bus via an Amalfi connection. Nearby is Valle delle Ferriere which loops from Ravello through Atrani, Amalfi, Pogerola, and Scala before returning to Ravello. Make sure to bring along some water!
Pompeii
To the north of the Amalfi coast lie the ruins of the ancient Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Buried in ash after the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius these towns have been preserved for centuries giving you a glimpse at how Romans lived, as well as the horrible tragedy. Pompeii is reachable by train from Sorrento or Napoli.
Reggia di Caserta
From Napoli it's a short train ride to Caserta where Gabriella's parents grew up. There in the former seat of the Kingdom of Naples is the Reggia di Caserta, home to the Bourbon kings of Naples during the Baroque era. It is noted as one of the largest (47,000 square meters) and most beautiful palaces in the world and a perfect example of Baroque era opulence. The splendor of the palace inside is only matched by the 120 hectare park behind it, home to miniature castles and artificial ponds in which the princes would practice their land and naval warfare, as well as stunning fountains and botanical gardens.
Via San Gregorio Armeno
In the heart of Napoli, Via San Gregorio Armeno is known as Christmas Alley. Home to the craftsmen of the Presepio, world famous ceramic Christmas figurines. Stroll down the street to see some of the wonderful, and weird creations, or step into a shop to pick up a truly unique souvenir. And it's right around the corner from some of the best pizza on earth!
Vietri Sul Mare
The Amalfi coast is known for many things, amongst them it's beauty and it's world famous ceramics. While all the towns along the coast have their own locally made products Vietri offers shop after shop with an un-paralleled selection. Vietri is on the Sita bus line towards Salerno.
Campania Artecard
If you're planning on exploring the Campania region picking up the Campania Artecard is a great way to gain free admission and discounted entry to many of the must see places in the area. Including free admission to Pompeii, Herculaneum, Reggia di Caserta, and others. Also included is free use of the public transport system throughout the region, including buses and trains along the Amalfi coast.
Mimi Bar Pizzeria
Ravello
You haven't eaten pizza until you've eaten pizza in Italy, and while each region has their own specialty the Napolitano style with its thin crispy crust and delicious toppings is by far our favorite. Tucked away just off the town square Mimi makes up for their lack of a view with delicious food and rustic ambiance.
Ristorante Villa Maria
Ravello
You would think you're in heaven sitting on the patio of Ristorante Villa Maria, shaded by old trees and vines while drinking in the view of the surrounding mountains as well as an excellent glass of wine. The menu features local specialties like Spaghetti alle vongole made with vegetables sourced from the restaurant's own organic garden.
Al Ristoro del Moro
Ravello
Just a few minutes walk out of the center of town. Make sure to request a seat on their balcony overlooking the outskirts of Ravello and the town of Minori below. With classic local dishes like polpo and filetto di orata presented with a touch of elegance fitting the setting, Al Ristoro del Moro is an excellence choice for a magical dinner out.
La Strada
Praiano
In the small town of Praiano along the main road La Strada offers classic Italian home cooking of pizza, pasta, and pesce. While the main floor has the classic warm vibe of a lot of the small family restaurants in the area it's their top floor with it's large open air patio with amazing views that makes this a must visit location.
La Terra
Positano
About an hour from Ravello near the mountain town of Nocelle, La Terra offers delicious food with a view of the Mediterranean and surrounding mountains from it's position perched on the cliffs. It's warm and inviting staff, and classic Italian cuisine give it's breathtaking views something to strive for.
Le Palme Ristorante Pizzeria
Atrani
Head down the hill from Ravello and you'll reach the small coastal town of Atrani. Here just off the beach, nestled amongst the unique coastal architecture of the city is the Pizzeria, Le Palme. Sit outside on their patio, order a pizza or some octopus salad and a good wine, and realize how simple life can be - good food, good friends, good wine. We take no responsibility if this makes your favorite pizza place back home seem a little lackluster.
Cioccolato e Gelato Andrea Pansa
Amalfi
Right in the bustling town square of Amalfi, Andre Pansa showcases the great Italian artisanship with pastries, chocolates, coffee, and gelato. A great place to take a break from the shopping and sight seeing of Amalfi and people-watch. You can either relax with a cone of gelato, or if you're looking for a pick-me-up so you can continue exploring we'd recommend a Shakerato.
Anni, amori, e bicchieri di vino; nun se contano mai.
Years, lovers, and glasses of wine; these things must not be counted.
Registry
What we want most for our wedding is to have all of our friends and family there to celebrate the occasion with us, and so, more than anything we would simply enjoy your presence. (We mean it!)
That being said, if you do want to get us a little something we've created a wedding registry on 
.