Exploring Verona Italy, “The City of Love"by Diane M. Kunze, PBC™ Photography: Oliver Kpognon Photography“two households, both alike in dignity, in fair Verona, where we lay our scene...” The site of perhaps the most classic love story of all time, the tale of star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet, Verona, Italy, is known as “The City of Love.” With charming architecture, scenic beauty, and romantic alleys and gateways, romance is everywhere—which is why Verona was the site for the Destination Weddings Italy FAMinar from Dec. 12-14, 2010.The anticipation of the visit couldn’t contend with the reality for the 30 attendees. For some, this was a first-time visit to Europe, to Italy, or both. Filled with scenic beauty, delightful people, incredible food, and of course, wine, it was an experience that left behind indelible memories and friendships.“I could not have asked for a better group of ABC ambassadors in Verona,” says Elise Enloe, MBC™, who organized the event along with Jennifer Stenjem, ABC™. “We had experienced consultants, vendors, and novices from a geographic representation across the United States, Italy, and Asia. We met, we networked, and we made lifelong friends. Being able to share this with immediate family made this trip even more special. We are all looking forward to growing our relationship with Italy and left with plans to return.”A colorful pastDating back to 550 BC, the city of Verona, has a past peppered with takeovers by the Goths, Romans, and a host of other marauders. Because of its location along the Adige River and at the foot of the Lessini Mountains, it has also been an industrial gateway to central and northern Italy, while its port offers access to Europe. It is here where its Medieval, Renaissance, Roman, and Gothic pasts meet in architectural and artistic motifs. This history, along with its famous literary association, has made it a significant tourist attraction.Getting to know VeronaFast-forward to modern day Verona, where, on day one of our seminar, a delightful, witty, and knowledgeable tour guide shepherded us to Palazzo Barbieri, the seat of Verona’s council offices. While there, we were greeted warmly by Verona City officials, took a tour of municipal hall and saw where weddings were performed. Later, we saw sites of the city and, in the evening, visited Palazzo Erbe, Juliet’s tomb and Verona’s City Center. Christmas lights twinkled, making the palazzos seem magical. Our last stop was a tour of Bevilacqua Castle, built in 1059. There, we were served dinner inside the castle, where we were serenaded by an accomplished string quartet and entertained by a fire-breather and poet. Bevilacqua Castle is an exclusive and affordable location for events. It features sleeping quarters and spaces for meetings and/or receptions (visit www.icastelli.net and search for Castello di Bevilacua).The House of CapuletWhat better place to learn the legalities of getting married in Italy than at the home of Juliet, the House of Capulet? That was our day two agenda and, given the intricacies involved, we were happy to learn that our counterparts in Italy were pleased to help with the paperwork required for our couples wanting to “tie the knot” in Italy. After, we ventured onto Juliet’s balcony for photos. While there, I waved to Romeo, my husband Frank. Another touristy opportunity was rubbing one of Juliet’s breasts on the bronze statue of her in the courtyard. Legend has it doing so will bring you good luck.A little vino—a lot of historyIn the afternoon, we toured different venues. Evening dinner brought us to Villa della Torre—a fabulous villa built in 1560 and surrounded by the historical vineyard Palazzo della Torre. Its wine, known worldwide forits depth and complexity, has been recognized by The Wine Spectator in its Top 100 list for five consecutive years. As you can imagine, the meal, the wine, the personalized service from the wait staff, and the seamless landscape made for a unique experience. It was easy to envision holding a wedding in their chapel, which is sanctioned by the Catholic Church, and an elegant reception in their villa (for more, visit www.villadellatorre.it and click on the British flag for an English version).Our final day of seminar brought us to Cappella dei Notai, one of the most esteemed spaces in the old Town Hall in Verona. The Gothic arches and vivid and detailed murals on the walls and ceilings rendered many of us awestruck. We lunched at a local restaurant call Ristorante 12 Apostoli. From its basement, we could view Roman ruins the owners had unearthed during a remodeling project. This rustic and unique atmosphere coupled with excellent food, wine, and service makes it a special location for a small reception or rehearsal dinner. That night, we dined at Villa Pellegrini, which had been home to Napoleon Bonaparte during the battle of Rivoli in the 18th century (www.eliteservicegroup.it/villa-pellegrini-cipolla/eng/index.html).Simply unforgettableRomance, history, and hospitality were everywhere during the Destination Weddings Italy FAMinar, which would not have been possible without the sponsorship and support of the Tourism and Marketing Consortium of Verona. The vendors and others we consulted  with made the trip unforgettable. “It was so much fun meeting everyone,” says Mary Charmoli, MBC™, “Ours was such a cohesive group, which made learning about weddings and Italian culture so much more memorable.” It was a time, says Sharon Conklin, when colleagues became friends, our Italian friends became a treasure, hospitality was a gift, and learning about Verona and Italy’s culture and customs was priceless.[nggallery id=2]