Capturing the Soul of Southern Italy

Puglia is a sensory experience unlike anywhere else in Europe. It is a land of vivid contrasts: ancient, twisted olive trees rising from red soil, set against dazzling whitewashed walls and an endless deep blue sky. Deep within the countryside near Manduria lies Masseria Potenti, a venue that perfectly captures this effortless Mediterranean spirit.
For this incredible couple, Masseria Potenti wasn't just a location; it was the ultimate expression of a destination wedding that felt both grounded and glamorous. As a Puglia wedding photographer, photographing here is a creative dream. The way the intense Italian light plays off the white stone walls creates a natural luminosity that makes every portrait feel ethereal and timeless.

Why we love shooting at Masseria Potenti
Masseria Potenti is one of those places that stays with you. It is more than just a hotel or a venue. It feels like a hidden home in the Italian countryside where you can just relax and let go. For couples bringing their friends and family from all over the world, it is the perfect hideaway. The style here is what people call "Puglian Chic." Think bright white walls, huge cacti and beautiful textiles. The best part is that you don't need to add much styling. The Masseria is beautiful on its own.
For us as photographers, the light here is a dream. The white walls act like natural reflectors. This creates that soft, flattering light on your skin that you see in magazines. It makes our job easy and your photos look effortless.

A true Italian celebration
The wedding day was exactly how a destination wedding in Italy should feel. Relaxed, sunny and full of love. The ceremony was held in the courtyard which is sheltered from the wind. It was such an intimate setting for the vows. You could hear the cicadas singing in the background between the laughter and the happy tears. After the ceremony, everyone enjoyed real local food like fresh burrata and focaccia. While the guests enjoyed the aperitif, we took the couple for a short walk to take portraits.
The "golden hour" at Masseria Potenti is magical. When the sun goes down over the vineyards, the light turns a warm honey color. This is our favorite time to shoot. We focused on the real moments. The wind in the bride’s hair, a quiet touch or a big smile. We want you to remember exactly how happy you felt.

Dining under the stars
Dinner was served outside in the main courtyard. There is something so special about dining alfresco in Italy. The long tables were dressed with local flowers and ceramics. As the sun set, the string lights turned on and created a ceiling of stars above the party. From the speeches to the dance floor, the whole night was full of warmth. It was the perfect mix of tradition and luxury. The result is a wedding gallery that feels timeless but also full of life and energy.

Are you planning a wedding in Puglia?
Maybe you are dreaming of a wedding at Masseria Potenti, the famous Borgo Egnazia or a smaller place in the Itria Valley. Puglia is one of our favorite places to shoot. We love capturing weddings for couples who want stylish but real photos. If you are looking for photographers who know how to work with the beautiful Italian light, we would love to hear from you.

The Wedding

VIEW THE GALLERY

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Wedding vendors

Location: Masseria Potenti
Photography: Youri Claessens & Avieta Claessens
MUA: Jessy May Young
Weddingplanner: Le Jour Du Oui 
Videographer: Ben Crocker

Avieta & Youri, thank you so much for capturing our wedding the way we were looking for. First of all, it was wonderful to have you both during our wedding with us, you blended in perfectly with our friends. Second, your images are stunning!! 
We can't thank you both enough.



- the bride

Spectacular Adventures

MORE WEDDINGS

Celebrations, dream destinations, and unique explorations of each couple's connection with images that preserve legacy and memory.

A REMARKABLE, ECO-FRIENDLY WEDDING IN LUCERNE, SWITZERLAND

FASHIONABLY IBIZA WEDDING
IN LUXURY PRIVATE VILLA

HERDADE MALHADINHA NOVA,
A RURAL WEDDING VENUE IN THE ALENTEJO

One-of-a-kind images captured with soul 

I’d love to hear more about your upcoming adventure. Let's create something beautiful together. 

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