Where We Are Planted: Italian Bachelorette Party

(Author: Rachel)

I have always loved planning surprises. I love the look on people's face when they discover something contrary to what they thought. This spring I had the opportunity to surprise my sister, so although the planning and execution was difficult, I jumped at the chance!

I was able to plan Sarah's bachelorette party (with major help from her friends), and surprise her by being there, when the whole time, she thought I couldn't make it or be involved. I revealed myself by jumping out from behind a tree while Sarah was on a walk with a friend. It was the beginning to a weekend of fun, laughter, and celebration.

We began the bachelorette weekend with a beautiful aperitivo and dinner on the patio of a friends' apartment. The sunset was unbelievable over the mountains, and we all enjoyed a relaxing evening full of some of Sarah's favorite food and dessert.

Surprise moment caught in action.

The aperitivo crew

The sunset view during aperitivo.

The next morning, we packed our cars with picnic food, yoga mats, and swimsuits, and set off for the secret destination, which Sarah still did not know! About three hours later, we arrived at a beautiful villa in the region of Piemonte, Italy.

In perfect weather, we were able to have a delicious picnic on the lawn of the villa, and then spend the sunny afternoon lounging in the pool that we had to ourselves, surrounded by expansive wineries. After a few hours of soaking up the sun and poolside conversation, we moved into the cellar of the villa for a wine tasting session. The villa made their own wine, which we not only got to taste, but also learned all about the making process. In the evening, we proceeded to a local restaurant for a four-course meal featuring the delicacies of the region. After a couple of fun games, we called in a night in our beautiful rooms (with unbelievably comfortable beds, and intricately painted ceilings).

An ideal picnic

Our dinner

Sunday morning began with a gourmet breakfast buffet, followed with a yoga class in the sunshine, taught by Sarah's friend Nura. This was a perfect way to start the day. We, of course, all headed back to the pool for the rest of the afternoon, until we had to pull ourselves away and head back to "reality".