My story with Sicily began in 1999, at a time when I was young, ambitious, and eager to explore the world. I travelled through the south of the island, discovering several beautiful cities, unaware then that Sicily would leave such a profound and lasting impression on me.
From the very first moment, I was captivated by the colour of the sea – an intense, luminous blue that felt almost unreal. Sicily awakens the senses instantly. I still remember my first cappuccino there; to this day, it remains the best I have ever tasted – simple, rich, and perfectly balanced. I discovered arancini, those iconic golden rice balls filled with minced meat, tomato sauce, and green peas – a true symbol of Sicilian comfort food. Fresh fish, handmade pasta, exceptional local wines… I watched elderly women patiently preparing pasta by hand, passing down traditions shaped over generations. Everything felt warm, authentic, and deeply human. Sicily felt like home.
I returned to Sicily in 2012 under very different circumstances – by sea. At the time, I was working as a chef on board a sailing yacht, and we crossed the channel near Messina. The strong currents were challenging, serving as a reminder of the raw power of nature in this region. Sicily is not only beautiful; it is alive, intense, and full of character.
Experiencing Sicily from the sea revealed yet another extraordinary dimension. Sailing around the Aeolian Islands – Stromboli, Panarea, Salina, Alicudi, Filicudi, Vulcano, and Lipari, all of volcanic origin – offered a perspective both wild and poetic. One of the most unforgettable moments was in Stromboli, where the active volcano puts on a spectacular natural performance each night. Watching glowing lava illuminate the dark sky from the sea was an almost mystical experience – powerful, raw, and deeply moving.
Life on the islands felt beautifully authentic. I loved meeting local people and purchasing products directly from producers – fresh vegetables, cheeses, olive oil, and wine, all crafted with pride and
care. The fish was exceptional, both in quality and variety. I was even able to fish directly from the boat in the deep surrounding waters, rich with stunning marine life. It was an experience that perfectly captured Sicily’s intimate connection to nature, the sea, and tradition. 
My most recent return was in 2023 with WEMA, and this time I discovered yet another side of Sicily – refined, elegant, and perfectly suited for high-end destination weddings. We visited exceptional luxury properties, charming farms, and exquisite hotels. The landscapes were breathtaking, especially Mount Etna, often crowned with snow while remaining an active volcano. Locals affectionately call it Mamma Etna, a powerful symbol of strength and protection.
During this journey, I also uncovered hidden gems – including villages where The Godfather was filmed – places filled with history, mystery, and cinematic beauty. Sicily has evolved remarkably over the years, embracing sophisticated design and luxury while preserving its soul. It is no coincidence that Dolce & Gabbana, themselves Sicilian, draw so much inspiration from the island’s colours, shapes, traditions, and rich heritage.
Today, as a wedding planner based in France working internationally, Italy remains one of my favourite countries in which to design weddings. Sicily, in particular, holds a very special place in my heart. It offers everything couples dream of for a destination wedding: extraordinary gastronomy, exceptional wines, romantic landscapes, rich culture, and an atmosphere that feels both grand and intimate.
Sicily is not simply a destination – it is an experience. It tells a story. It creates emotion. And for couples seeking authenticity, beauty, and unforgettable memories, Sicily is truly a dream place to say “I do.”
the story from Nadia Fry (originally published here)
(Nadia Fry is an international wedding planner and the founder of Nadia Fry Events. Based in the South of France, she specializes in bespoke destination weddings across France and Italy, with a particular passion for Italy and Sicily. With a refined eye for detail, strong cultural understanding, and extensive experience working with international clients, Nadia designs elegant, meaningful celebrations that reflect both the couple’s vision and the soul of each destination.)
