Italian Special Occasions DMC & Events

Italian Special Occasions DMC & Events We create and deliver bespoke events across Italy, leading the way in sustainable travel and events.

11/12/2024

In 2018, we partnered with Irina Graf and Farhan Hußeynli to create a small yet meaningful documentary about Sicily, a place close to our hearts.

Sicily is a treasure trove of culture and history, deserving exploration that respects its essence while embracing the innovation inherent in its traditions.

We’re happy to share a glimpse from the documentary, featuring an interview Farhan conducted with Ed, an American architect who fell in love with Sicily after marrying a Sicilian.

Ed's journey beautifully illustrates what we aim to provide—a genuine connection to the land, its people, and its traditions.

This philosophy drives everything we do: enabling travellers to embrace authenticity, honour traditions, genuinely value the places they visit, and contribute meaningfully to the local communities they encounter.

This commitment is at the core of who we are and what we do every single day.

Our journey has been "off the beaten path" from day one, over a decade ago.

Driven by passion and purpose, our mission remains steadfast: to inspire and help people experience Italy in all its beautiful diversity.

A heartfelt thank you to Irina from The MICE Blog for her unwavering support in showcasing Italy as a premier destination, and to Farhan for his masterful storytelling that brought Sicily's essence to life.

With the proper guidance, you can transform a complex vision into a seamless, extraordinary event!Ready to create someth...
10/12/2024

With the proper guidance, you can transform a complex vision into a seamless, extraordinary event!

Ready to create something unforgettable?
Let’s make your next incentive travel program a masterpiece. ✨

Luxury is not about opulence or excess. It’s about authenticity, exclusivity, and meaningful connections. For 10+ years,...
06/12/2024

Luxury is not about opulence or excess. It’s about authenticity, exclusivity, and meaningful connections.

For 10+ years, we’ve championed sustainable travel and off-the-beaten-path experiences that celebrate the richness of local cultures, traditions, and landscapes.

It’s heartening to see the industry increasingly embracing this mindset, as highlighted in an article on Meetings Today called “Luxury Redefined: Off-the-Beaten-Path Is the New Luxury of Incentive Travel.”

The shift towards experiential, mindful travel and events resonates deeply with the ethos we’ve always promoted.

Some of the key takeaways from the article that align with our philosophy:

👉 Genuine immersion: Luxury now lies in intimate, authentic experiences that allow travellers to truly connect with a destination and its people.

👉 Sustainability at the core: Environmental consciousness is no longer optional; it’s essential. This aligns with our commitment to creating events and itineraries that respect the environment and local communities.

👉 Crafting memories, not just moments: Today’s travellers and event participants value curated, meaningful experiences over fleeting indulgence.

This evolution reflects a broader cultural shift—a desire for travel and events to leave a lasting impression on both the participants and the destinations themselves.

We’re proud to have been ahead of this curve at Italian Special Occasions DMC, redefining luxury through customised, sustainable, and culturally rich experiences.

The journey is far from over, but the growing emphasis on mindful luxury inspires optimism.

Together, we can continue transforming travel and events into opportunities for genuine connection and positive impact!

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How are you embracing the "new luxury" in your travels or events? Let’s discuss in the comments!

What if your next glass of wine could tell the story of sustainability and craftsmanship? 🍷 When planning our recent ret...
03/12/2024

What if your next glass of wine could tell the story of sustainability and craftsmanship? 🍷

When planning our recent retreat in Franciacorta, we knew the wine-tasting experience had to be more than just delightful – it had to align with our values.

That’s why we partnered with Cantina Boccadoro, an organic vineyard renowned for crafting exceptional wines while leaving a minimal ecological footprint.

Organic farming isn’t the easy route. It demands patience, a deep respect for nature, and a commitment to preserving the purity of the land.

But the reward?

Wines that don’t just taste remarkable but tell the story of the earth they come from, untouched by synthetic shortcuts.

Our delegates had the privilege of savouring wines that embody both exquisite flavour and a vision for a sustainable future.

It was a celebration of craft, care, and conscious choices – a perfect blend for our retreat.

Cheers to sustainability and sophistication! 🥂

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How do you ensure your event partnerships reflect the values and experiences you want to create?

Stay inspired with Italian Special Occasions! Sign up for our exclusive newsletter and unlock:👉 Insider Tips: Plan authe...
28/11/2024

Stay inspired with Italian Special Occasions!

Sign up for our exclusive newsletter and unlock:

👉 Insider Tips: Plan authentic, off-the-beaten-path events in Italy with purpose-driven narratives that leave a lasting impression.

👉 Beyond Italy Spotlight 2025: Discover extraordinary destinations to elevate your future events.

👉 Expert Trends & Inspirations: Explore our curated 2025 proposals packed with innovative ideas for bespoke events.

👉 Exclusive Perks: Receive a special surprise crafted just for our subscribers!

Let us inspire your extraordinary vision for 2025: sign up now here https://italianspecialoccasions.com/

23/11/2024

I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to speak about Creative Italy as a sustainable tourism model that stands against over-tourism!

Together with my colleague Federica Baggiani and Sabrina and Mia Ciauri of , through projects like Creative Italy and the Academy at the Feudo in Milazzo, we strive to do so much more than just transform the way people travel. Our mission is to create a meaningful social and positive impact on local territories while showcasing an Italy that goes far beyond the usual landmarks like the Colosseum or St. Mark’s Square.

Creative Italy and the Academy are ambitious projects, but our vision is clear: to reignite the magic of Made in Italy for future generations—and for our own. Sabrina and Mia Ciauri beautifully demonstrated how ancient techniques can be thoughtfully applied to today’s world, blending tradition with innovation.

It’s not always smooth sailing, but we deeply believe that art, craftsmanship, and beauty hold the power to open new horizons for sustainable tourism across all of Italy. From north to south, every corner of this country deserves the chance to shine and reveal its unique spark.

Meeting so many passionate professionals at the Convention has been an invaluable experience—one that has fueled our creativity and inspired us to go oltre (beyond).

As Gatti shared during his presentation on how the agonistic brain works, this quote by Bruce Barton deeply resonated with our team:

"Nothing splendid has ever been achieved except by those who dared believe that something inside themselves was superior to circumstance."

Sabrina, Federica and I are incredibly proud to have presented our collaboration through these projects: Creative Italy, Via Ciauri, and the Academy at Feudo San Pietro in Milazzo.

Together, we aim to craft a brighter and more sustainable future for Italian tourism.

A heartfelt thank you to and everyone who made this Convention such an exceptional and inspiring experience.

If you’re feeling inspired to take climate action during COP29, join us in making the SME Climate Commitment! 🌍By signin...
18/11/2024

If you’re feeling inspired to take climate action during COP29, join us in making the SME Climate Commitment! 🌍

By signing up, you’ll get access to exclusive resources to help reduce your business’s emissions and have the chance to be featured in climate communications campaigns.

👉 Take action and sign up today: https://bit.ly/3NGuK7F

If you make the commitment before November 22, both our businesses will be entered to win SME Climate Hub prizes, such as 1-hour of technical support from business climate experts and exclusive communications opportunities!

🏆 To be eligible for the prize raffle:

1. Complete the commitment form to make the SME Climate Commitment.

2. For the question ‘How did you hear about the SME Climate Hub?’, select “SME Climate Ambition Drive,” and

3. Write in "Italian Special Occasions DMC & Events" as the organization that referred you to the SME Climate Hub.

We appreciate you considering the importance of small business climate action.

We hope you’ll join us in making the Commitment!

SME Climate Hub

Our founder Laura will speak at the 33rd MPI Convention, "Oltre," which will take place in Genoa on November 15th.Our pa...
13/11/2024

Our founder Laura will speak at the 33rd MPI Convention, "Oltre," which will take place in Genoa on November 15th.

Our panel discussion will focus on a critical topic: over-tourism and its impact on the events industry, the environment, and local communities.

We are excited to exchange ideas and explore solutions—whether they are small steps or collective actions, the positive impact we can create together is powerful and far-reaching.

Join us and be part of the conversation!

You can register here: https://mpiconvention.it/.

The program also includes an opportunity to discover Genoa, a beautiful city rich in history, along with interactive workshops.

We look forward to meeting everyone, sharing insights, and sparking creativity on how we can make a difference!

🌐 Ecco Laura Notarbartolo, “ultima ma non ultima” Speaker della nostra Convention “Oltre”!
Laura ha una grande passione per i viaggi e per le diverse culture del mondo. Questo perché nata a Roma, da mamma inglese e papà siciliano.

Cresciuta bilingue è crescita e ha studiato all’estero. Questo le ha donato un respiro internazionale che ha portato nel suo ritorno in Italia e nella sua avventura professionale Italian Special Occasions DMC & Events
Una Destination Management Company dedicata all’organizzazione di Eventi corporate e privati ma anche di esperienza uniche lungo tutto lo stivale.

Laura ha una sua filosofia che la guida nel condurre la sua impresa. Il turismo e l’event management sono da lei reinterpretati lontano dagli stereotipi e dal turismo di massa. La sua è anche una costante ricerca di destinazioni meno note e originali.
Esperienze uniche basate sulla valorizzazione della cultura, della storia e delle tradizioni locali italiane per un nuovo modo di raccontare il mondo degli eventi.

Laura sarà fra i protagonisti del panel “Overtourism: come impatta sul mondo degli eventi?”, nella giornata di venerdì 15 novembre.

📣ISCRIVITI alla 33^ Convention MPI Italia | 15/16 Novembre | Genova.
Scopri il Programma: https://mpiconvention.it/

When companies seek retreats that blend immersion with accessibility, they come to us to make it happen.Bringing teams i...
12/11/2024

When companies seek retreats that blend immersion with accessibility, they come to us to make it happen.

Bringing teams into remote, naturally beautiful locations presents logistical challenges, but it’s a challenge we embrace.

We believe a thoughtfully planned, extended retreat can make a lasting impact on both employees and the communities they visit.

Here are some examples of how we make each retreat purposeful:

➡️ Short Visits in Tuscia.

For time-sensitive teams, Tuscia—just an hour from Rome’s international airport—offers a historical, cultural escape.

Here, participants can enjoy a quick, authentic experience.

➡️ Longer Stays in Perugia.

With longer retreats in Perugia, we dive into workshops, tours, and local experiences that build deep connections with the region’s heritage.

These experiences are low-impact, culturally enriching, and foster sustainability.

➡️ Rediscovering Rome.

For those who feel they've seen it all, we curate Rome in a new light—think guided bike tours of ancient aqueducts along Via Appia.

It’s a journey that blends history with eco-friendly travel.

➡️ Extended Retreats in Sicily’s Messina.

For teams willing to venture further, Messina provides authentic Sicilian charm in a serene, off-the-beaten-path location.

It’s a commitment to local development and a deeply immersive experience.

Each destination tells its own story, and we’re here to bring those stories to life through well-crafted, meaningful retreats.

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What experience would make your team retreat unforgettable? ✨

It’s not about turning heritage into activities; it’s about truly understanding and respecting it!At Italian Special Occ...
04/11/2024

It’s not about turning heritage into activities; it’s about truly understanding and respecting it!

At Italian Special Occasions DMC & Events, we believe in honouring Italian traditions by delving deeper than the surface.

Our commitment includes:

👉 In-depth Research: Uncovering the rich history behind each tradition, ensuring we share its full story.

👉 Genuine Acknowledgement: Bringing attention to artisanal crafts like bobbin lace-making, a legacy passed down through generations.

👉 Respectful Engagement: Highlighting remarkable contributors, such as Baroness Angelina Auteri, who transformed lace-making into a skill that empowered local communities.

👉 Deeper Appreciation: Providing experiences that immerse participants in the craft’s authentic cultural significance.

By thoughtfully engaging with these traditions, we create experiences that resonate deeply, leaving participants with a lasting respect for the culture they've encountered.

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What cultural experience are you envisioning for your next event? Let’s make it meaningful!

Crafting experiences with local artisans offers a powerful approach to team-building 🎨Imagine your team learning to scul...
31/10/2024

Crafting experiences with local artisans offers a powerful approach to team-building 🎨

Imagine your team learning to sculpt pottery, weave textiles, or create handmade mosaics. Each activity promotes communication, patience, and shared achievement.

The process becomes more than a task; it’s a transformative journey that strengthens bonds and ignites inspiration!

Here in Italy, we have the privilege of collaborating with skilled artisans whose expertise and stories unite teams in truly unique and meaningful ways.

Ready to design a team-building event that stands out?

Reach out – let’s create an unforgettable experience in Italy’s art-filled landscapes!

29/10/2024

If you're looking for a unique reward for your top-performing professionals, our Opera Experience offers an unparalleled opportunity.

Combine the beauty of Italian landscapes, history, and culinary delights with the enchantment of opera, creating memories that will last a lifetime!

At Italian Special Occasions, we have crafted a special travel experience inspired by the opera "Si dice in Italia" by the talented composer Lawrence Siegel.

This exclusive itinerary is more than just a trip; it’s a journey into the heart of Italy, woven around a musical love letter to the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Contact us for more information on how we can help you reward your employees with an extraordinary trip that celebrates success in style.

Curious to know more? Browse through our Opera Experience brochure https://italianspecialoccasions.com/corporate-events/

We had the pleasure of organising an e-bike tour led by none other than Devid Salvadori, former coach of the Italian Nat...
24/10/2024

We had the pleasure of organising an e-bike tour led by none other than Devid Salvadori, former coach of the Italian National Ski Team and now a passionate advocate for sustainable tourism and well-being.

This experience was a highlight of a reward retreat we designed in Franciacorta, a picturesque region renowned for its exceptional wines and breathtaking landscapes.

For us at Italian Special Occasions, partnering with Devid was a natural choice: his professionalism, deep connection to the territory, and commitment to promoting sustainable travel aligned seamlessly with our core values.

Together, we crafted a personalised itinerary that allowed participants to immerse themselves in nature, rediscover the beauty of Franciacorta, and enjoy a well-rounded experience combining physical activity and relaxation.

It was an opportunity to explore the region and foster a deeper sense of connection to the environment and personal well-being!

Our client, deeply committed to recognising and rewarding their employees, sought an authentic and meaningful retreat.

This event wasn’t just a reward; it was a celebration of the team’s achievements and a chance to strengthen bonds through shared experiences in an inspiring setting.

The collaboration with Devid and the choice of Franciacorta created the perfect blend of appreciation, sustainability, and adventure.

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What’s your vision for creating a team experience that promotes well-being, sustainability, and lasting memories? Let’s make it a reality!

📣 Event destination spotlight 📣Overtourism in popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast has created significant challen...
22/10/2024

📣 Event destination spotlight 📣

Overtourism in popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast has created significant challenges for the environment and local communities.

We are committed to mitigating these impacts by promoting smaller, less-known destinations for corporate retreats, team-building events, and incentives - places like Vietri Sul Mare.

What makes Vietri unique? 🤔

The town’s rich artistic tradition dates back centuries. Its beautiful, hand-painted ceramics, influenced by Roman and Moorish styles, are renowned worldwide.

This artistic heritage is a cornerstone of the town’s identity, and we incorporate it into our events through engaging workshops with local artisans.

This allows participants to admire the craftsmanship and actively experience and appreciate the culture through hands-on learning.

At Italian Special Occasions, we also organise culturally respectful events emphasising "Appreciation Without Appropriation." 👐

Our goal is to avoid creating the next "tourist hotspot" but instead support local communities by showcasing authentic, meaningful experiences.

By highlighting hidden gems like Vietri, we allow these smaller destinations to grow sustainably, benefiting from tourism in a way that preserves their character and heritage.

Together, we can create enriching event experiences that benefit local economies and promote responsible, sustainable travel!

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👉 How do you choose sustainable alternatives when planning events?

Whenever possible, we encourage event participants to explore a city on foot by designing walking tours that tell a comp...
16/10/2024

Whenever possible, we encourage event participants to explore a city on foot by designing walking tours that tell a compelling story.

It’s usually a story about the local event destination, its history, food, traditions, and culture.

Walking allows travellers to interact spontaneously with locals, discover unique small businesses, and stumble upon unexpected experiences.

It also encourages them to explore beyond the main attractions and find hidden gems that weren’t on their original itinerary.

JoAnna Haugen explains how walkable cities are cleaner, safer, quieter, and more enjoyable for both travellers and locals.

Don’t miss her article on how to create urban walkability solutions for travellers! https://rootedstorytelling.com/sustainable-development/urban-walkable-city-solutions/

It’s not just the location. It’s the experience. This is what makes your event truly unforgettable.In our recent blog po...
04/10/2024

It’s not just the location. It’s the experience.

This is what makes your event truly unforgettable.

In our recent blog post, we share some of the top entertainment ideas and venues that will leave your guests in awe.

Here’s a sneak peek!

ENTERTAINMENT IDEAS

>Itinerant dinners:

This dynamic concept involves moving through different settings that showcase the history and artistry of the event’s location, with actors and live music creating a fully immersive experience.

>Cultural performances:

Think traditional opera, folk music, or historical reenactments that reflect Italy’s rich heritage.

>Immersive tours:

Private guided tours allow your attendees to explore hidden gems and iconic cities.

>Personalised art workshops:
From fresco painting to pottery, inspire creativity in a stunning Italian setting.

TOP VENUES

>Aristocratic or royal palaces:

Perfect for grand celebrations, offering a historical and enchanting atmosphere.

*For example: Palazzina di Caccia di Stupinigi near Turin is one of Piedmont’s most prestigious Savoy Residences.

>Vineyard estates:

Combine breathtaking views with world-class wine tastings for a truly authentic Italian experience.

*For example: Castello Monaci in Apulia dates to a settlement of an ancient order of French monks in the first half of the 16th century.

>Modern, multifunctional spaces:

Blend modern amenities, cutting-edge technology and flexible design options in Italy’s ancient cities.

*For example: The Esposizioni Restaurant in Rome can host up to 250 guests and is set in the greenhouse of the building, designed by architect Paolo Desideri.

Italy offers endless possibilities for creating magical moments.

Whether you're planning a corporate retreat or a personal celebration, the right mix of entertainment and venue can make all the difference.

Read more about these ideas in our blog https://italianspecialoccasions.com/blog/entertainment-ideas-event-italy/

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What’s your favourite event venue or entertainment idea that made a lasting impression?

We need a bold plan to rethink and reshape tourism.Here are 3 critical turning points to start with, proposed by wine an...
27/09/2024

We need a bold plan to rethink and reshape tourism.

Here are 3 critical turning points to start with, proposed by wine and food tourism expert Roberta Garibaldi:

👉1. Establish a unified tourism management model with qualified and accountable destination managers.

For example, Italy's current state of tourism is fragmented, with varying practices across regions.

To combat overtourism effectively, we need a standardised tourism management model that can be adopted nationwide.

This could include creating a registry of certified destination managers who have undergone rigorous training and passed a qualifying exam.

Just as travel agents and guides are required to meet specific standards, those managing entire destinations must be equipped to make decisions that balance the needs of tourists with the well-being of local communities.

👉2. Create a national study centre.

This research hub would analyse, map, and address overtourism through data and best practices.

It could propose concrete solutions to political decision-makers, becoming a point of connection with local territories.

👉3. Promote rural tourism and transport accessibility.

In 2023, 48.1% of foreign tourist arrivals were concentrated in JUST SIX Italian provinces, mostly in art cities!

It’s essential to encourage travel beyond city centres, tapping into the charm of rural destinations and balancing tourist flows.

To do this, promotion and information must be redefined. Tourists are increasingly interested in discovering smaller and lesser-known destinations. It must be easier for them to get helpful information on hidden gems.

Making these destinations easily accessible by public transport is also paramount.

As event planners and destination managers, it's essential to recognise how overtourism negatively impacts local communities and culture.

But we must address these challenges without losing sight of tourism’s immense cultural and economic value!

What are your thoughts?

Indirizzo

Head Office In Porto Santo Stefano (Tuscany). We Also Have Offices In Rome And Milazzo
Porto Santo Stefano
58019

Orario di apertura

Lunedì 09:00 - 18:00
Martedì 09:00 - 18:00
Mercoledì 09:00 - 18:00
Giovedì 09:00 - 18:00
Venerdì 09:00 - 18:00

Telefono

+390564813473

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Designed for You

We create authentic experiences to transform the way people host their events in Italy. Our DMC was founded in 2014 with a vision to change the way people travel: we wanted to go away from the mainstream, and instead create an authentic experience for our guests.

Our philosophy revolves around the following core principles:

•Embracing local culture and traditions, and weaving this precious heritage into the event experiences;

•Promoting off-the-beaten-track destinations through our extensive regional knowledge;


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