Join us for our wedding
Friday, 5th September, 2025
4pm IN THE AFTERNOON
MASSERIA PISTOLA
PUGLIA, ITALY
Countdown
Schedule of events
Thursday, 4th September, 2025 - Welcome Cocktails
7pm - 11pm
Location: Kulto Beach Club
Contrada Capitolo, 70043 Capitolo BA, Italy
We want to say hello before our big day and say a huge thank you for flying over to Italy.
Food and drinks provided.
In a homage to the white city (Ostuni) we kindly ask if you can wear white for this evening.
This will be at a beach club so think beach smart casual - linen etc..
Kids welcome :)
Friday, 5th September, 2025 - Wedding Day
4pm in the afternoon
Make sure to arrive early as there will be a prompt start at 4pm.
This will be an adults only ceremony and reception.
Transfers to and from the venue will be provided - more details to be provided closer to the date.
Parking is also available at the venue if driving.
Formal attire - please see Q&A for inspo if needed.
Location:
Giardini Pistola, SP1,
72015 Cocolicchio BR, Italy
Saturday, 6th September, 2025 - Pool day and recovery
12:30pm in the afternoon
Homemade pizza and Spritz's around the pool.
Kids are welcome - please make sure to monitor around the pool.
Casual attire and swimmers .
Parking available at the venue.
Location:
Giardini Pistola, SP1,
72015 Cocolicchio BR, Italy
Why Italy?
You might be thinking, "Oh wow - I wonder why Heidi and MJ have picked this location."
Well, let us share a little backstory. When Heidi and MJ (yes, this is weird writing in the third person) embarked on their first overseas adventure together, they truly fell in love with Italy and even deeper in love with one another. It was during this trip that they realized Italy wasn't just a destination; it was a place that held a special kind of magic for them.
From the rolling hills of Tuscany, where they enjoyed endless vineyards and charming countryside villages, to the bustling streets of Rome, filled with rich history and vibrant culture, every moment in Italy was a new discovery. They wandered through the endless olive groves in Puglia, savoring the simple yet exquisite pleasures of Italian cuisine and the warmth of its people. Each region they explored felt like stepping into a different world, each with its own unique charm and beauty.
Italy, for Heidi and MJ, offers something for everyone. Its diverse landscapes and rich tapestry of experiences captivated their hearts and became a symbol of their shared love and dreams. This country, with its timeless romance and enchanting allure, is the perfect place to celebrate their union and start the next chapter of their lives together. So, when it came time to choose a location for their wedding, Italy was the obvious choice, a place that holds countless memories and promises even more to come.
Masseria Pistola
Masseria Pistola is a fully restored 350 year old farmstead with a series of connecting buildings and outbuildings, set in four hectares of private gardens, surrounded by estate vineyards and woodland in Puglia, Italy.
Puglia is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets and a very popular destination for Italians during the summer, especially from June to September. Nestled in the heel of Italy's boot, Puglia boasts stunning coastlines, charming historic towns, and an array of delightful culinary experiences that make it a true gem.
As our wedding is just coming off the peak season, we strongly recommend that you book your flights and accommodation as early as possible to avoid disappointment and expensive flights. The region's popularity during the summer months means that availability can be limited, so securing your plans early will ensure you get the best options and prices.
Our wedding venue, Masseria Pistola, is a beautiful example of Puglia's rustic charm. Attached to Masseria Pistola is Giardini Pistola, which features six garden terraces spread over four hectares of amazingly varied planting.
Around the Masseria, you'll find many different towns, each with its own unique character and attractions. Bari, the bustling capital of the region, offers a mix of old and new with its historic old town and modern shopping districts. Monopoli, with its picturesque harbor and charming old town, is a delight to explore. Ostuni, known as the "White City," is perched on a hilltop and offers stunning views and narrow, winding streets filled with history. Lecce, often called the "Florence of the South," is renowned for its baroque architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
One highlight for us on our last trip was the amazing food in Puglia. The region is famous for its fresh mozzarella, handmade orecchiette pasta, and delicious pastries like pasticciotto. Make sure to try these local specialties when you're here. Puglia's cuisine is a true reflection of its rich agricultural heritage, with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that create simple yet incredibly flavourful dishes.
We are so excited to share this beautiful and special place with you and can't wait to create wonderful memories together in Puglia. Thank you for being a part of our journey, and we look forward to celebrating with you!
Travel
We appreciate everyone travelling to make our special day.
Please see the link to directions below
Flying - Bari International Airport or
Brindisi Airport
We recommend flying into either Bari Airport or Brindisi Airport. If you're traveling from Sydney, you'll most likely need to connect through another major European city, such as Rome, Milan, or Frankfurt, before arriving in Bari or Brindisi.
Bari Airport is approximately a 53-minute drive to Masseria Pistola. The journey from Bari offers scenic views of the Apulian countryside, with its rolling hills and charming villages.
Brindisi Airport is around 45 minutes away.
Local Transport
Hire car companies - Hertz, Sixt, Europcar, Sicily by Car
Both airports are well-equipped with all the major rental companies such as Hertz, Sixt, and Europcar. We highly recommend renting a car at the airport to make the most of your stay. Having a car will give you the freedom to explore the stunning landscapes and historic towns at your own pace, and it will make traveling to your hotel or Airbnb much more convenient.
Additionally, the region around Masseria Pistola is full of hidden gems that are best accessed by car. From the historic streets of Alberobello, famous for its unique trulli houses, to the pristine beaches of Polignano a Mare, there's so much to see and do. Driving in Italy can be a bit adventurous, so we strongly suggest opting for full insurance coverage for peace of mind.
To help you navigate, here are a few tips:
Google Maps: Make sure to have a reliable GPS or maps app on your phone. Italian road signs can be tricky, and having navigation will be incredibly helpful. Please note - some 4G/5G signals are very weak so we recommended pre downloading maps to avoid getting lost.
Local Driving Rules: Familiarise yourself with local driving rules and customs. Italians are known for their spirited driving style, so stay alert and patient.
Parking: Parking can be a challenge in some of the smaller towns. Look for designated parking areas to avoid fines and ensure your car is safe. Often white lines next to car space means car parking is free.
Other Transport Options
Train or Taxi
For those who don’t wish to rent a car, we recommend flying into London / Paris / Rome and connecting to Bari or Brindisi. From both cities, there are rail links to Fasano - Fasano is ~15 mins from Locorotondo and Masseria Pistola.
Upon arrival to either airport (Bari or Brindisi) you will have no issues getting a taxi for your onward travel. Cash is very recommended for Taxi's.
Please note Uber is not available around Masseria Pistola and is not widely available in Puglia.
Fabio (London Taxi Service) +39 320 070 3113
Marco (Fanelli Taxi) +39 389 125 7826
Angelo (Semerano Taxi) +39 330 964 927
Angelo (Saponaro Taxi) +39 338 668 2406
Giovanni (Colucci Taxi) +39 330 326 269
Angelo (Zito Taxi) +39 337 937 020
Pacifico Taxi +39 338 946 5188
Puglia NCC +39 339 752 0845
Recommended Accomodation
Puglia offers unique accommodations such as Masserie and Trulli.
Masserie: These are renovated farmhouses with elegant courtyards and modern amenities, providing a serene countryside retreat surrounded by olive groves and vineyards.
Trulli: Traditional Apulian dwellings with conical stone roofs, offering charming interiors and a glimpse into the region's rich history and craftsmanship. Staying in a Trullo provides an immersive and memorable experience in rural Puglia.
The closest towns to the venue are Loccorotondo and Fasano.
Hotels
- Masseria San Giovanni
- Dimora Le Ginestre
- Borgo San Marco
- Masseria San Martino
- Villa Luis
Nearby Towns
Monopoli
Castello Carlo V: A medieval castle located by the sea with impressive views and historical exhibitions.
Cattedrale di Santa Maria della Madia: A beautiful cathedral with intricate architecture and an interesting history.
Porto Antico: The old port area, perfect for a stroll and taking in the sea views.
Restaurants:
La Locanda sul Porto: Known for its seafood and beautiful views of the harbor.
La Dolce Vita: A great spot for traditional Puglian cuisine with a modern twist.
Osteria Perricci: Family-run restaurant famous for fresh, local seafood dishes.
Ostuni
Città Bianca (White City): The historic old town known for its whitewashed buildings and narrow streets.
Cattedrale di Ostuni: A stunning cathedral with a unique rose window.
Piazza della Libertà: The main square, bustling with cafes, shops, and historical buildings.
Restaurants:
Osteria del Tempo Perso: A charming restaurant set in an ancient grotto, offering traditional Puglian dishes.
La Taverna della Gelosia: Known for its romantic atmosphere and delicious local cuisine.
Riccardo Bar: Perfect for a casual meal or aperitif with a beautiful view of the old town.
Alberobello
Trulli Houses: The UNESCO World Heritage site featuring iconic whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs.
Trullo Sovrano: The largest trullo in Alberobello, now a museum showcasing the history and culture of these unique structures.
Rione Monti: The picturesque district with the highest concentration of trulli.
Restaurants:
Il Trullo d'Oro: A lovely restaurant offering traditional Puglian food in a trullo setting.
La Cantina: Known for its rustic charm and delicious, authentic cuisine.
Trattoria Terra Madre: Focuses on farm-to-table dining with fresh, local ingredients.
Polignano a Mare
Lama Monachile: The iconic beach located in a deep ravine, famous for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs.
Statue of Domenico Modugno: Celebrates the famous singer who was born in Polignano a Mare.
Grotta Palazzese: A unique cave that has been transformed into a stunning restaurant.
Restaurants:
Grotta Palazzese: Dining in a cave overlooking the sea, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
Antiche Mura: Known for its warm atmosphere and exquisite seafood dishes.
La Locanda Porta Picc: A charming place offering a range of local specialties and great wine
Registry Details
We’ve had a few lovely people ask about a registry, and while your presence at our wedding truly means the world to us (and is the greatest gift of all!), if you’d like to contribute to something special, we’d be so grateful for any support towards our honeymoon.