Sicily turned into a star-studded wedding stage
Singer Dua Lipa dances with her husband, actor Callum Turner, during wedding festivities following their marriage, in Palermo, Italy. Photo: REUTERS
Fresh from their intimate London wedding, pop superstar Dua Lipa and actor Callum Turner turned their attention to Sicily, where they hosted a lavish three-day celebration that brought together some of the biggest names in music, fashion and film.
The couple, who married in a private civil ceremony at London's Old Marylebone Town Hall on May 31, had arrived in Palermo ahead of their guests and settled into the prestigious Villa Igiea Hotel overlooking the Sicilian coastline.
What followed was a star-studded weekend estimated to have cost around $1.7 million. Celebrations began with a cocktail reception and live music gathering in central Palermo before guests moved between some of the city's most historic venues.
Around 200 friends and family members attended the festivities, including Sir Elton John, Charli XCX and George Daniel, Joe Alwyn, Troye Sivan, Mark Ronson, Grace Gummer and Donatella Versace.
The highlight of the weekend came at Villa Valguarnera in nearby Bagheria, where the newlyweds exchanged vows once again during an outdoor ceremony surrounded by flowers and family.
One of the most memorable moments unfolded when music legend Elton John surprised attendees with a performance of his classic hit 'Your Song'. The emotional serenade added a personal touch to a celebration already filled with glamour and spectacle.
Fashion also took centre stage as Dua reportedly wore a custom-made diamond-adorned gown designed by Versace, while guests enjoyed yacht excursions, private dinners and exclusive receptions across Palermo.
The celebrations generated widespread attention in Sicily, with local tourism officials welcoming the international spotlight. Antonio Rini of Palermo Council's tourism department described the wedding as "a great honour" for the city, saying the arrival of globally recognised artists would provide valuable exposure for Palermo.