Schedule

We'll have a week full of fun, visits, and culinary treats!

Note that the signup sheets are online! Yay! Each activity that has a signup sheet has a link to it in the descriptions below.

Saturday, the 29th

Welcome at the Casale

Join us for a welcome drink (aperitivo), a dip in the pool, and a bite to eat. We'd like to welcome you to Italy and start the week off with a splash - and a referee whistle!  This will be a very casual affair, bring a swim suit to enjoy the pool, wear whatever you like and relax with us. 

Villa Finetta is open to all the guests, everyday, we want you to think of this villa as a HUB for Fun, Food, Friends and Family starting from Saturday 29th. 

Please bring Beach Towels and sunscreen. We have a pool, sport equipment, ping pong table, Foosball Tables, TV (YES! Saturday at 6PM we will be watching Italy beat Switzerland!)  and more. 

Time: 4:00 PM

Place: Villa Finetta ("the Casale"), Via Monteblano, 79, 43039 Salsomaggiore Terme PR. Easiest is to use Google Maps with the address/link I just gave you, and to really just carefully follow the directions, even if it takes you down bumpy rocky dirt roads in the last 5-10 minutes. IMPORTANT: In these last 5-10 minutes, there will be a crossing-style gate, and you'll need to enter the following code: 8524!! 

If you're using the GPS on your rented car, it's a bit more difficult. Your car's GPS may not know Via Monteblano (or Villa Finetta) - happened to JW. In that case, I'd recommend you drive to Hotel Meridiana at this address: Viale Respighi, 12, 43030 Tabiano PR. This is the last known address in the Civilized World, and your car's GPS should know it. When you arrive at the Hotel Meridiana, keep driving, with the hotel on your right side, and enter that bumpy rocky dirt road. That's where you'll pass the gate, with the code 8524. The Google Maps picture above shows you the road you'll have to follow, from Hotel Meridiana to Villa Finetta. For that very last turn to the left, you'll see a sign that says"Strada Privata" (Private Road): take that private road. Gino' posted helpful videos on Facebook that show what it looks like: one video from Viale Respighi over the Hotel Meridiana to the crossing-style gate with the code, and another one that shows what that last turn to the left looks like. If we never see you alive anymore, we are very grateful for the many years of friendship.

About Villa Finetta, you find more info on the reception venue page.  

Signup sheet: none, unlimited, everybody welcome, no rsvp!!

Cost: no cost

Sunday, the 30th

Parma Tour

Enjoy a self-guided tour curated by Gino, the father of the bride, in his stunning home city of Parma, famous for its romantic architecture, phenomenal food, great art, and superb shopping. Tour the city, visit its exquisite 11th century Duomo painted by Correggio and its famous pink marble baptistry, and eat lunch in a traditional trattoria.

Time: Whenever you like, but to enjoy a full day tinn the city he suggested meet-up time is 9AM

Place: Wherever you want, but suggested location is Piazza Garibaldi

Signup sheet: none, unlimited, everybody welcome, no rsvp!!

Cost: No cost

Hi, this Is Ada. THe day Rocco and I were born in Los Angeles an article with a picture of us was published on the front page of La Gazetta di Parma, the local paper. The title was Two Parmigianoi Born In Los Angeles. Through every stage of my life, I have returned here, to this city full of family and Verdi, fabulous salame and Lambrusco and and felt like I was returning to my other home. It Is the greatest gift to know Jw and I will be married In the town that has so embraced me and reflects such a a significant part of who I am.

Of course, my father, Gino, who was born here, will lead the tour of this beautiful city of my heritage, I'll let him take It from here:

Welcome to my town! THis Is Gino, father of the bride, father-in-law to JW, husband to Laura, father of Rocco and Nonno to little Rose.

I’m so happy to be finally able to share the beauty of Parma with friends (new and old) and relatives (new and old!).

One day is just barely enough to explore all of Parma’s treasures, but I’m going to try to give you few tips on what to do in such a short time.

Schedule:

Breakfast (9 am)

You should start the day with a classic Italian Breakfast of espresso and a little pastry. Ideally, we will all be sharing this traditional ritual at one of the cafes in Parma’s main square: Piazza Garibaldi, the beating heart of the city.

Morning: 10 am to 1pm

Piazza Garibaldi is just a short walk to all of Parma’s famous historical landmarks:

-The majestic Piazza Duomo with the stunning Battistero and the Cathedral Ada (and Rocco) called the Angel House when they were little.

-The world renown Teatro Regio. This mighty little theater is where Giuseppe Verdi (another Parma boy) premiered all of his Operas. The Regio was built by Napoleon’s wife, Maria Luigia, Parma’s most beloved ruler.

-La Pilotta and the Museo Farnese. You can’t miss it! La Pilotta is a gigantic Spanish Military outpost a block away from the main square. Inside the structure you’ll find  most magnificent Small Wooden Theater next to the sumptuous Museo Farnese.

LUNCH

Parma IS the city of food so it should not be too hard to find a great place to eat. If the heat is too much for you, buy a Panino and a drink and go and eat and explore the beautiful Parco Ducale, home of Maria Luigia and just a bridge away from downtown. 

Afternoons:

If you missed any of the above attractions earlier now is a good time to explore them. Please pay attention to the closing time and the time of admission. 

5 pm:

Make your way to Sunday Evening Party hosted by Laura, GIno, Rocco, Pina and all the Campagna Family

Make your way to my old neighborhood, Oltretorrente. The name means “Beyond the creek” because by crossing Il Ponte Di Mezzo (a bridge over the Parma Creek ) that divides the city in two (the rich people downtown, the poor people on my side!) Here, you’ll find yourself in the most genuine of Parma’s neighborhoods. Stop at my old church (L’Annunciata) where, a lifetime ago, I was the cutest little Altar Boy. 

Piazzale Inzani Dinner

Join the dinner at the wonderful Ristorante Operaviva at Piazzale Inzani!  Le paste fatte in casa, come nella migliore tradizione parmigiano!  Of course! 

Time: 7:00 PM

Place: Ristorante Operativa, at Str. Giovanni Inzani, 15, 43125 Parma PR

Cost: €40

Signup sheet: Click ​​here and add your name to the list to sign up (limited spots). If there's no space on the signup sheet, you can still go to the square because there is other options.

Monday, the 1st

Food Tour, Round 1: Hosted by Gino

Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, Barilla Pasta, Parmalat ….it’s easy to see why Parma IS the city of Food! Like every Parmigiano (that’s right: a person from Parma is called a Parmigiano!) Gino is very proud of his city's culinary excellence and can’t wait to share it with you! Gino will be doing all the necessary translating(his Dutch is pretty much non-existent but he speaks pretty good Italian and almost perfect French….well….almost being the key word there…).

Time: 9 AM

Place: To be determined. You will need your own car/transportation: carpooling is encouraged through the Facebook page. If you didn't join this (private) event page in the RSVP questionnaire, you won't be able to open the page, but you can let me (JW) know and I'll invite you again.

Cost: Free

Signup sheet: Click ​​here and add your name to the list to sign up (limited spots). We can only take a certain amount of people per day. Note that on the 5th of July there will be another chance to join the Food Tour. Also, there are other tours available in Parma, although they will be paid.

Schedule:

10 a.m.

We visit the San Michele Prosciuttificio in Langhirano (just outside Parma) and see how the greatest ham in the world is created…and yes! there will be tasting

Other morning option: If you are up early In the morning, I recommend a tour of a small Parmigiano Reggiano cheese farm, the Bertinelli Cheese Factory. The Bertinelli are family friends. Gino's late brother Flavio painted all the interior walls of the restaurant/cocktail bar/shop you’ll visit at the end of the tour. It's an Incredible experience to watch how the cheese Is made and definitely worth the trip.

11:30 a.m.

We drive to Modena (I know, I know…it’s not Parma but close enough!) to enjoy a fabulous lunch and shopping in a beautiful Farmer's market (closes at 2 PM).

2:30 p.m.

Just outside Modena, we will visit the beautiful Acetaia and Museo Boni. The Boni family knows everything about Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena, a vinegar they call the black gold.

Monday, the 1st

Food Tour, Round 1: Hosted by Gino

Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, Barilla Pasta, Parmalat ….it’s easy to see why Parma IS the city of Food! Like every Parmigiano (that’s right: a person from Parma is called a Parmigiano!) Gino is very proud of his city's culinary excellence and can’t wait to share it with you! Gino will be doing all the necessary translating(his Dutch is pretty much non-existent but he speaks pretty good Italian and almost perfect French….well….almost being the key word there…).

Time: 9 AM

Place: To be determined. You will need your own car/transportation: carpooling is encouraged through the Facebook page. If you didn't join this (private) event page in the RSVP questionnaire, you won't be able to open the page, but you can let me (JW) know and I'll invite you again. 

Cost: Free

Signup sheet: Click ​​here and add your name to the list to sign up (limited spots). We can only take a certain amount of people per day. Note that on the 5th of July there will be another chance to join the Food Tour. Also, there are other tours available in Parma, although they will be paid.

Schedule:

10 a.m.

We visit the San Michele Prosciuttificio in Langhirano (just outside Parma) and see how the greatest ham in the world is created…and yes! there will be tasting

Other morning option: If you are up early In the morning, I recommend a tour of a small Parmigiano Reggiano cheese farm, the Bertinelli Cheese Factory. The Bertinelli are family friends. Gino's late brother Flavio painted all the interior walls of the restaurant/cocktail bar/shop you’ll visit at the end of the tour. It's an Incredible experience to watch how the cheese Is made and definitely worth the trip.

11:30 a.m.

We drive to Modena (I know, I know…it’s not Parma but close enough!) to enjoy a fabulous lunch and shopping in a beautiful Farmer's market (closes at 2 PM).

2:30 p.m.

Just outside Modena, we will visit the beautiful Acetaia and Museo Boni. The Boni family knows everything about Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena, a vinegar they call the black gold.

Tuesday, the 2nd

Po River Boat Tour

CHANGES ON THE POSTED SCHEDULE - time changed 7:30 PM!!!, price changed.

PO RIVER BOAT TOUR.    JULY 2nd 7.30PM

We’ will boarding the Stradivari, a funky large boat with a dance floor, a small swimming pool and a full kitchen,

We meet at our friend Roberto’s Osteria Bortolino in Viadana . The Boat is docked walking distance from the Osteria so you can arrive any time before 7.30 if you want to have a drink or some food. You can also have a nice walk alongside the Po’ river. On the boat we will have Prosecco, Water, appetizers and a live band. There is also a full bar on the boat but it’s not included on the price. 

The price went up a bit because we were expecting more people to come (we are around 60 at the moment) and there is a fixed price for the boat itself, so unless we find more friends to come with us (please feel free to invite friends), we probably looking now at 55 Euros per person. The more people we bring the less we pay….After the Boat Tour feel free to stop at Osteria Bortolino for more food and drinks.

Address: Via al Ponte 6 Viadana 46019 Viadana (MN) https://maps.app.goo.gl/qcG9zh7Pej53vPx79 In Viadana, a small village 35 minutes outside Parma. You will need a car to get there. Carpool is encouraged through the Facebook page. If you didn't join this (private) event page in the RSVP questionnaire, you won't be able to open the page, but you can let me (JW) know and I'll invite you again. Note: The boat is docked few steps away from Osteria Bortolino, where we will party on Friday the 5th .You will find plenty of parking at the there. When you arrive let people know you’re with the Jada party and they will direct you to the boat.

Time: 7.30PM

Dress code: Floral. Flower patterns on your dress or shirt, a flower clip, or anything else that' screams flowers.

Cost: €55 per person, and includes the tour the aperitivo, the dance floor and the on deck pool. 

Signup sheet: Click ​​here and add your name to the list to sign up 

Wednesday, the 3rd

Go have fun! Explore!

Thursday, the 4th

Bortolino Osteria Dinner: Hosted by Gino, Laura and Roberto

Join us for dinner! And stick around for the party afterwards (see below). 

Time: 8 PM

Place: Via Al Ponte 8, 46019 Viadana. Note: Bortolino is 35 min from Parma. Carpool is encouraged through the Facebook page. If you didn't join this (private) event page in the RSVP questionnaire, you won't be able to open the page, but you can let me (JW) know and I'll invite you again. Tip: Consider booking one of Roberto’s Bed-and- Breakfast rooms if you want to stay overnight. due to excessive celebrating (they sleep up to five) Rooms can be shared and breakfast provided In the morning..

Signup sheet: Click ​​here and add your name to the list to sign up (limited spots).

Cost: €40 per person, includes food and drinks.

Special Note: Bortolino is Gino's home away from home. Whenever he goes to Italy he visits Roberto, the Osteria’s longtime owner, who is like a brother to him. He's known Roberto since they were teenagers, they share a common love of Punk Rock Music (it’s a long story.) so it was natural for me that when he moved to London in the 80’s Gino made his British home his home away from Parma.

Roberto eventually came back to Italy and, with ferocious determination, worked hard to get the money to buy an abandoned, 100-year-old Osteria next to the Po’ river. It took Roberto more than  30 years to restore the Osteria Bortolino to its ooriginal glory and it is now THE place to go in the area for food, drinks and live music. 

Bortolino Osteria Party: Hosted by Gino, Laura and Roberto

Yay, party at Bortolino Osteria!! Osteria Bortolino has a large backyard ideal for fiestas! We will have a band, a DJ AND we welcome aspiring artists, frustrated singers, instrumental virtuosos…. If you have any musical talent (whatsoever), you will be encouraged to play ans sing a (few) songs after dinner. There will bea microphone and some guitars at the location. Feel free to bring other instruments.

Time: Around 9:30 PM, or whenever you want. Just not TOO early, it' Is Italy...

Place: Via Al Ponte 8, 46019 Viadana. Note: Bortolino is 35 min from Parma. Carpool is encouraged through the Facebook page. If you didn't join this (private) event page in the RSVP questionnaire, you won't be able to open the page, but you can let me (JW) know and I'll invite you again. Consider booking one of Roberto’s Bed and Breakfast rooms if you want to stay overnight. Places are limited but room-sharing is possible.

Cost: No cost, just buy your drinks and wines fromm Roberto's incredible collection at the bar

Signup sheet: none, unlimited, everybody welcome, no rsvp!!

Friday, the 5th

Food Tour, Round 2: Hosted by Gino, Father of the Bride

Note that this is the same tour as on Monday (make sure you don't accidentally book twice). 

Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, Barilla Pasta, Parmalat ….it’s easy to see why Parma IS the city of Food! Like every Parmigiano (that’s right: a person from Parma is called a Parmigiano!) Gino is very proud of his city's culinary excellence and can’t wait to share it with you! Gino will be doing all the necessary translating(his Dutch is pretty much non-existent but he speaks pretty good Italian and almost perfect French….well….almost being the key word there…).

Time: 8 AM

Place: To be determined. You will need your own car/transportation: carpooling is encouraged through the Facebook page. If you didn't join this (private) event page in the RSVP questionnaire, you won't be able to open the page, but you can let me (JW) know and I'll invite you again. 

Cost: Free

Signup sheet: Click ​​here and add your name to the list to sign up (limited spots). Note that this is the same tour as on Monday (make sure you don't accidentally book twice). We can only take a certain amount of people per day. Also, there are other tours available in Parma, although they will be paid.

Schedule:

8 a.m.

A tour of a small Parmigiano Reggiano cheese farm, the Bertinelli Cheese Factory. The Bertinelli are family friends. Gino's late brother Flavio painted all the interior walls of the restaurant/cocktail bar/shop you’ll visit at the end of the tour. It's an Incredible experience to watch how the cheese Is made and definitely worth the trip.

11:00 a.m.

We drive to Modena (I know, I know…it’s not Parma but close enough!) to enjoy a fabulous lunch and shopping in a beautiful Farmer's market (closes at 2 PM).

2:30 p.m.

Just outside Modena, we will visit the beautiful Acetaia and Museo Boni. The Boni family knows everything about Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena, a vinegar they call the black gold.

Saturday, the 6th: The Wedding

Wedding

We'll have a beautiful ceremony at the church, Oratorio San Tiburzio. It's a smaller church, with capacity for 90 people - although we can probably squeeze a bit. There's only 50 seats, so we would like everyone to give priority to people who are a bit older, or not very mobile. Thank you!

Time: 2PM

Place: Borgo Palmia, 6, A, 43121 Parma PR, Italy 

Dinner and Party (🇺🇸 Reception)

Garden dinner reception and party at the Casale.

It's time to celebrate!  Join us at our romantic Casale nestled in the Parma hills to celebrate our union. Food will be diverse and bountiful with options for all types of palates. Instead of a formal sit down dinner, there will be food stations where you can help yourself to an array of Parma delicacies. 

Let's get lost in the romance of a summer evening in Italy together! Find your table in the garden and share a meal with friends (new and old). After dinner, we will enjoy speeches, drinks and a joyous evening full of music and dancing.  

Time: welcome around 5 PM; dinner around 7 PM.

Place: Villa Finetta, Via Monteblano, 79, 43039 Salsomaggiore Terme PR. Parking will be tight. Please carpool as much as possible: If you have an extra seat, post it on Facebook. For those who drive, please park your car tightly next to the other cars, without leaving unnecessary gaps (while of course leaving space to exit).

RSVP

If you haven't already, RSVP here.