VERVE and YOU
FOUNDER & EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
CECILIA LUKASZEWSKY
EDITOR-IN- CHIEF
VERVE CONFIDENTIAL LEAD
CREATIVE STRATEGY & CURATION
LUKAMOR STUDIO
ART DIRECTION
IN-HOUSE
VERVE VISUAL TEAM
PHOTOGRAPHER
MICHAEL ZENNARIO
(ALL IMAGERY CAPTURED IN THE FIELD DURING REAL MOMENTS AND CURATED WITH NARRATIVE INTENT )
WRITING & CONTENT
ALL EDITORIAL WRITTEN BY
CECILIA LUKASZEWSKY AND THE VERVE EDITORIAL TEAM.
(Personal observations Independent voice No sponsored placements.)
SPECIAL THANKS
To the spaces and teams featured throughout this edition. Your generosity, design, and attention shaped a story worth telling
This edition was created independently, free from advertising, paid placements, or commercial influence Verve and You remain privately edited to ensure authenticity and emotional intelligence in every narrative
R O M T H E E D I
This issue began with a question: what does it mean to celebrate with depth? I traveled to Puglia not to observe, but to feel. I wanted to understand how a destination can shape more than a wedding—it can shape the way we remember love. What I found wasn’t staged beauty. It was design with purpose, hospitality with care, and a rhythm of living that lingers long after you leave.
One of the highlights was the gala dinner at Relais Histò, curated by the exceptional Diana Da Ros, and support in ceremony direction by Michael Cerbelli. The experience was a full expression of what refined Italian celebration can look and feel like— thoughtful, elegant, and immersive.
We were also graciously hosted by Tenuta Moreno, where the team prepared an outstanding dinner that reflected tradition with taste. At Casa Isabella we experienced warm hospitality, a spectacular showcase of local food and wine, and folkloric music that transformed the evening into something unforgettable. Each of these estates offered their own definition of elegance—Casa Isabella in silent luxury, Li Reni in effortless authenticity prepared a traditional lunch under the sunny terrace, we have a private tasting at Vespa Vignaioli per Passione, where winemaking is defined by intention, clarity, and excellence. Their work is quite proof quite sophistication doesn’t need to announce itself—it simply is.
We closed the journey At Masseria Palombara, where the atmosphere shifted into something more eclectic: a personal welcome, soulful cuisine, and a surprise collection of art made by the owner’s son. It reminded me that creativity often lives quietly, waiting to be noticed.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Everyone talks about Alberobello and its iconic cone roofed houses And yes, they’re magical But I’ll tell you what stayed with me most: Polignano a Mare’s a bold sea cliffs, the poetry of Manduria’s sun-whispering through the vines, and Oria at sunset, where everything seemed perfectly aligned.
Leaning on the sun-warmed stones overlooking the azure water, I felt time slow down, as if Puglia itself was urging me to savor every second. The locals, with their effortless charm, seemed to know a secret manual to living that the rest of the world has forgotten It’s in their leisurely pace, their animated gestures, and the abundant laughter shared over coffee at quaint piazzas
Letter to Puglia, Italy
SIP AND SAVOR: THE TSTE OF TRADITION
Dining in Puglia is akin to attending a culinary orchestra each dish a note played with passion and precision I ventured into hidden osterias where the chefs, part alchemist, part artist, honored age-old recipes with fresh, local produce. One evening, I tasted orecchiette with cime di rapa, a dish so humble yet so decadent; it felt like poetry on a plate. As the sun dipped below the horizon, glasses of Primitivo wine glistened in the fading light, and our stories flowed as freely as the vino
First Class:
Glimpses into the Past
Cultural richness adorns Puglia’s every corner. In Lecce, called the “Florence of the South” for its baroque architecture, I found a city that pulsates with history. The white stone facades, illuminated at dusk, seemed woven with golden threads. Here, art breathes life into the very fabric of the streets and the people who tread them.
A Tale of Two Seas
Where else can you stand with one foot in the Adriatic and the other in the Ionian? Puglia offers this unique dance with two different bodies of water, each offering its distinct melody. Whether it’s the tranquil turquoise of Santa Maria di Leuca or the vibrant sea life around the Tremiti Islands, there’s a sense of being embraced by nature.
Departing the dream-like sands of Puglia feels like leaving a part of you behind. Yet, there’s a comfort in knowing you’re taking a piece with you—etched in memories of before. That, to me, is the romance of Puglia: a love infinitely gentle, infinitely powerful.
Until next time, con amore (with love).
BY
Discovering the Enchantment of Masseria Li Reni
A Private World in the Heart of Puglia
In the sun-bleached countryside of Manduria, where ancient vineyards stretch toward the horizon, Masseria Li Renireveals itself not with ostentation, but with quiet confidence Once a 17th-century noble residence, today it is an exclusive retreat where refined architecture, deeprooted heritage, and contemporary elegance converge Owned by journalist and winemaker Bruno Vespa, the masseria is as much a testament to Italian craftsmanship as it is a working estate home to some of the region’s finest wines and to experiences shaped with intention.
Crossing through its arched stone gates, I was met by the striking geometry of Apulian tradition: vaulted interiors, cool limestone courtyards, and expansive gardens designed not merely for show but for feeling. The estate’s layout is intentional, allowing celebrations to move fluidly from outdoor moments under the stars to refined indoor receptions in restored spaces that retain their soul Two main halls marked by their iconic volte a stella ceilings offer timeless shelter for intimate gatherings or winter weddings, while a 500-square-meter courtyard in ancient Apulian stone transforms into a stage for evening banquets and candlelit ceremonies
This is a property that doesn’t impose itself on your vision it enhances it Whether you're planning a multi-day destination wedding or a single unforgettable evening, Masseria Li Reni adapts From garden ceremonies beneath century-old olive trees to sophisticated cocktail hours by the pool, the estate provides spatial and atmospheric versatility The events team is discreet yet precise professional planners committed to designing a celebration that feels authentically yours, with every logistical detail handled behind the scenes
BY CARLY FERRIS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH MORALES
CULINARY
EXPERIENCE, ROOTED IN THE LAND
A wedding here is also a culinary experience. The estate’s in-house Donna Augusta Restaurant delivers tailored menus that elevate Puglian ingredients into something both elegant and deeply local. Seafood, seasonal produce, and Vespa’s own Primitivo and Fiano wines are paired with grace. Every course, every pour, contributes to the rhythm of the evening— never rushed, never overdone.
For bespoke wedding planning and exclusive access to Masseria Li Reni and other curated venues across Italy, contact www.lukamor.com. For venue details and seasonal availability, visit www.masserialireni.com.
WHEN INQUIRING, BE SURE TO MENTION YOU DISCOVERED IT IN VERVE AND YOU – WEDDING EDITION FOR TAILORED EXPERIENCES AND PRIVILEGED INTRODUCTIONS.
A PRIVATE WORLD IN THE HEART OF PUGLIA
Masseria Li Reni is not designed for mass tourism— it is a haven for those who seek meaningful celebration in a place that honors both tradition and individuality. With additional amenities including two swimming pools (one heated), a small spa, gym, and wine tasting cellar, the estate invites guests to stay, rest, and reconnect long after the last dance.
For couples seeking intimacy, authenticity, and excellence in every detail, Masseria Li Reni is not just a venue—it is the beginning of a story well told.
VESPA VIGNAIOLI
For those wishing to arrange a private tasting or curated visit with your guests at Vespa Vignaioli, visit: www.vespavignaioli.it or for tailored experiences through LUKAMOR: visit www.lukamor.com events@lukamor.com.
Visiting Vespa Vignaioli per Passione was one of the highlights of my time in Puglia. The tour of the winery offered a glimpse into their philosophy wines made with discipline, heart, and a deep respect for the land. The tasting experience was beautifully paced, allowing us to truly appreciate the range and character of their labels. Each glass revealed elegant structure and balance — from the crisp, mineral whites to the rich, expressive Primitivo that has earned its well-deserved reputation. A winery that honors tradition while embracing thoughtful innovation — highly recommended for any wine lover visiting the region.
The architecture of Vespa Vignaioli reflects the same philosophy as the wines modern, intentional, and grounded in authenticity. The tasting rooms are elegant but understated, with panoramic views across the vineyards. It’s a space designed for conversation and discovery — whether you’re exploring their iconic Primitivo or one of the crisp, mineral-driven whites. The team’s deep knowledge and genuine passion made the experience both welcoming and enriching.
Design, Discipline & the Language of Wine
BEAUTY AND STYLING AT PUGLIA
Getting ready in Puglia with the warm, talented hands of mazing Artis. A joyful, relaxed moment before the night began.
I had so much fun getting ready with these two talented teams — Patrizia Maiorano for hairstyling and MIMUA | International Make-Up Academy for makeup They both made the whole experience feel so easy, relaxed, and enjoyable — no stress, just good vibes, plenty of laughs, and a lot of talent.
Patrizia instantly knew what would work best for my gala look and created a style that felt perfectly me — elegant, effortless, and natural. The MIMUA team worked their magic with the makeup, enhancing my features in the most flattering way — fresh, radiant, and polished, exactly what I wanted.
If you’re planning any event in the region — whether a wedding, gala, or special occasion — you’ll be in such good hands with these incredible professionals. Talented, kind, and full of heart — they truly know how to make you look and feel your best.
@patrizia_maiorano
Tenuta Moreno
Nestled in the heart of Salento, Tenuta Moreno reveals itself not with extravagance, but with a quiet charm that lingers long after you leave. My evening began just as the golden hour stretched across the olive groves—an elegant welcome that set the tone for a night that would surprise, delight, and soothe the senses in equal measure.
We were greeted on the terrace with a chilled glass of local wine—an unspoken gesture of hospitality that felt both effortless and intentional. What followed was unexpected: a live demonstration of fresh cheese making, unfolding before us in the open air. The aromas, the textures, the warm simplicity of it all—it was a sensory overture. And just as we were savoring the soft, still-warm cheese, we were offered freshly made panzerotti (Apulia’s take on traditional hand-folded empanadas), crisp and fragrant. A perfect balance of rusticity and refinement.
The terrace opened into Tenuta Moreno’s expansive gardens, where citrus trees offered one more surprise—sun-ripened mandarins and oranges, sweet and fragrant, plucked straight from the branches. It was a moment that grounded the luxury of the estate in the authenticity of its agricultural roots.
As the evening unfolded, I wandered into the reception halls—Sala Sallentia and adjoining spaces—each one designed with intimate grandeur. Vaulted ceilings, warm lighting, and timeless decor made them perfect for winter weddings or elegant soirées. The layout invites togetherness, whether for 40 guests or 140, always with an atmosphere of ease and grace. But what truly elevated the evening was the human touch. The staff didn’t just serve—they anticipated. Their attentiveness was intuitive, never rehearsed Every detail, from the pacing of courses to the gentle care in every interaction, felt curated yet personal.
WARM WELCOMES, THE APULAN WAY AT TENUTA MORENO
A gracious hostess serves freshly made panzerotti with a smile, setting the ton for an evening of authenticity, flavor and heartfelt hospitality under the stars.
Tradition in Every Fold.
In the garden of Tenuta Moreno, a local artisan prepares fresh panzerotti by hand—celebrating Apulian heritage with skill, care, and an open-air culinary performance that invites guests into the heart of Southern Italy’s flavors.
Dinner at Tenuta Moreno was a refined celebration of Apulian flavors—elegant, authentic, and deeply satisfying. We began with seasonal vegetables, burrata with sun-dried tomatoes, and a delicate flan of chicory and ricotta. Handcrafted cappellacci with turnip tops, almonds, and smoked ricotta followed, then a perfectly cooked fillet of violet sea bass with wild rice and citrus foam. The evening ended with fresh fruit and local desserts—light, fragrant, and beautifully plated. Each course honored tradition while elevating it with quiet sophistication.
An evening at CASA ISABELLA
History, Luxury & Heartfelt Hospitality
My time at Casa Isabella Exclusive Hotel in Mottola was nothing short of enchanting. Set within an early 19th century Ducal residence built by Duke Nicola di Sangro for his wife, Isabella de’ Medici, the property harmoniously blends noble history with contemporary Italian luxury.
The property, rich in authentic Italian heritage, has been impeccably restored — marrying historic architecture with contemporary luxury in a way that feels both grand and intimate. Wandering through its manicured gardens and elegant salons, it is easy to imagine the most beautiful of wedding celebrations or private events here. Every space — from the sun-drenched terraces to the vaulted dining halls — is curated with precision and taste.
The atmosphere is unmistakably Italian: sophisticated, luxurious, but never overstated. Casa Isabella offers a canvas where artful gatherings come to life, making it an exceptional choice for those seeking an elevated event experience in Puglia.
The estate’s private chapel offers an intimate, beautifully preserved space for symbolic ceremonies or private blessings — a rare and meaningful setting that adds depth to any celebration at Casa Isabella. The hospitality team exudes a natural warmth, an ability to anticipate needs without intrusion. From the moment of arrival through every interaction, I felt genuinely cared for — a rare and treasured quality in luxury hospitality.
EVEN THE OUTDOOR SPACES FROM SHADED COURTYARDS TO ELEGANT GARDEN LOUNGES INVITE MOMENTS OF QUIET LUXURY AND CONNECTION
CASA ISABELLA IS A PROPERTY WITH HEART, HISTORY, AND A SOUL
Dinner that evening was an experience in itself: refined and beautifully presented cuisine that celebrated the flavors of the region. Dishes were creative, interactive, and deeply satisfying — an elegant reflection of Apulia’s culinary traditions, elevated to meet international standards.
The evening concluded with live music and traditional Apulian dancing — a moment of joy, connection, and celebration that left every guest smiling and uplifted.
Casa Isabella is far more than an event venue or a luxury hotel — it is a property with heart, history, and a true sense of place. I would not hesitate to recommend it to my clients at LUKAMOR — for intimate weddings, curated celebrations, or bespoke wellness retreats. It is a rare gem within Puglia’s landscape — and one I look forward to returning to again and again.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL ZENNARIO
The spa at Casa Isabella is a true sanctuary of wellness — far more than an amenity. Within its serene, lightfilled spaces, time seems to dissolve. Every treatment — whether a signature massage, regenerating facial, or a moment in the thermal suite — is expertly performed with superb-quality products, offering deep restoration for both body and mind.
It is an immersive, regenerative experience that today’s discerning guests value — not just for beauty, but for true reconnection and wellbeing. Service throughout is gracious, intuitive, and masterful — a reflection of the property’s deep commitment to care.
Taranto— Layers of History, Flavours of the Sea
A city shaped by centuries, Taranto invites you to wander, taste, and discover. Here, the ancient and the contemporary live side by side — a place where every corner speaks of life by the sea.
Taranto reveals itself slowly — a city of contrasts, where layers of history meet the rhythms of modern life. Once one of the great cities of Magna Graecia, its architecture still speaks of ancient splendour: Roman columns rising beside medieval stone, elegant facades softened by the sea breeze. The magnificent Castello Aragonese watches over the old port, while the ancient ruins of the Doric Temple hint at an even deeper past.
Wandering through its old streets, one discovers hidden courtyards, sunlit piazzas, and small trattorias where the flavours of Puglia come alive. It is impossible to resist the simple pleasures here — a glass of crisp local wine, handmade taralli with fennel, marinated olives, focaccia warm from the oven, fresh seafood paired with local citrus.
The city’s old fish market remains one of the most authentic spots to experience daily life, while the newer wine bars and cafés offer a taste of Taranto’s modern energy.
And then there is the sea — always present, always part of the story.
The Gulf of Taranto offers shimmering views and a natural beauty that invites exploration by boat or by foot. Days here are shaped by the light on the water, the sea breeze through the narrow streets, the easy rhythm of life by the coast.
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To linger here is to experience the beauty of the everyday — music drifting from open windows, the scent of coffee in the morning air, the hum of conversation on shaded terraces. In Taranto, every corner tells a story, and the deeper you look, the more it reveals — a city vibrant, layered, welcoming, and distinctly alive.
The fisherman’s mural in Taranto Vecchia — a tribute to the city’s maritime heritage and the generations of families shaped by life on the sea. In these narrow streets, the old and new coexist, telling a story of resilience and deep local pride.
Taranto Vecchia, one feels the weight of history and the pulse of a living city. These streets, unchanged in spirit, have served as both backdrop and character in Italian cinema — a testament to their enduring beauty.
Outside B&B Buonanotte Margherita, Taranto Vecchia — a well-regarded guesthouse whose charm and hospitality have earned it years of recognition. Personal touches like this wall of awards and hand-painted details reflect the care and pride found throughout the old town.
Gulf of Taranto
A place where sky and sea meet in shades of endless blue — the Gulf of Taranto offers a slower rhythm of life. Sailing these waters is an invitation to pause, to savour, and to connect with nature, with others, and with yourself.
Sailing through the Gulf of Taranto on a sun-drenched afternoon was one of the most relaxing moments of my journey. Aboard a sleek catamaran, we enjoyed a light, elegant lunch — local wine, mozzarella cheese, and soft focaccia with sun-dried tomatoes while the sea sparkled all around us.
The gentle rhythm of the waves and the panoramic views created the perfect atmosphere to unwind. There was a moment — glass in hand, sunlight on the water —when I could feel time slowing down. Sometimes, the simplest pleasures — good company, beautiful scenery, and the Mediterranean sun — leave the most lasting memories.
Castello Aragonese, Taranto
Sailing past this iconic 15th-century fortress during a catamaran lunch on the Gulf of Taranto history, sea, and sunlight blending into a perfect Apulian afternoon
Masseria Palombara
A STORY IN TEXTURE, HOSPITALITY & ARTISTIC DISCOVERY
Masseria Palombara makes its first impression not through grandeur, but through atmosphere — textured, personal, layered with stories. The owner greeted us with genuine warmth, sharing how this has become a haven for VIP guests in search of privacy and quiet charm.
Later, I learned this was no oneoff: the family’s home truly feels like a living gallery — each room scattered with eclectic art, rare objects, and artifacts gathered from travels across the world. I found myself pausing more than once to admire the quiet presence of his paintings. Every piece carries its own story... — all you need to do is ask, and you’ll be rewarded with a tale full of personality and provenance.
Masseria Palombara is rare in its ambition: a place of serene, eclectic style and bold character, where hospitality is personal, creativity flows freely, and every space invites you to slow down. If you find yourself in Puglia with time to spare, this is a stop to cherish — one that will stay with you long after you leave.
A table set with care and quiet elegance local ceramics, traditional linen, and the authentic flavours of Puglia.
Evening at Masseria Palombara — where personal hospitality meets artistic touches, from live music to rare objects collected over decades.
Simple, timeless comforts — a place that invites guests to slow down, reflect, and savour. My personal advice: come with curiosity. Eat well, linger with joy, and embrace the quiet pleasures of this place that is the true spirit of Masseria Palombara.
CULINARY EXPERIENCE, ROOTED IN THE LAND
Dining at Masseria Palombara reflects the spirit of the estate itself — curated, personal, and deeply connected to place. The interiors are understated, textured with natural stone, collected objects, and the soft light of Puglia. It is a space designed for conversation and enjoyment, not spectacle.
A PRIVATE WORLD IN THE HEART OF PUGLIA
For bespoke wedding planning and exclusive access to Masseria Palombara and other curated venues across Italy, contact www.lukamor.com. For venue details and seasonal availability, visit www.masseriapalombara.com.
WHEN INQUIRING, BE SURE TO MENTION YOU DISCOVERED IT IN VERVE AND YOU – WEDDING EDITION FOR TAILORED EXPERIENCES AND PRIVILEGED INTRODUCTIONS.
Dining at Masseria Palombara is an experience of quiet pleasure and subtle mastery. Each ingredient tells a story of the land, while the chef’s refined techniques elevate traditional flavours with effortless grace. Inventive cocktails, infused with local botanicals, add a creative note to the meal. Every dish — thoughtful, balanced, and deeply rooted in place — lingers in memory long after the last bite.
A VENETIAN MOMENT
From Italy’s southern masserias to the canals of Venice from timeless estates to contemporary retreats we seek places where beauty, soul, and exceptional hospitality meet If you are a hotelier, owner, or venue director who offers extraordinary settings for weddings or private stays and would like to collaborate with VERVE and YOU Wedding Edition we would love to connect.
We are always seeking exceptional properties for future editorial features, client experiences, and curated journeys Our next edition is taking shape and your property could be part of it
We would love to hear from you EDITOR@VERVEANDYOU.COM
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