Mr. Overland Marries Overseas
Joe Raffetto and Silvia Monetti Tie Knot in Italy
Last updated 11/9/2023 at 2:07pm
Joe Raffetto, owner of California Overland in Borrego married Silvia Monetti from Italy, on Saturday Sept. 16 in Ognio, Province of Genoa, Italy.
The ceremony was held at The Church Di San Rocco in the tiny village of Ognio, and attended by over 120 guests, some coming all the way from Borrego Springs and Julian. Joe's five sisters and their spouses also attended, Linda, Valerie, Laura Chrissy and Theresa.
It was a beautiful sunny day. Rain had been in the forecast, but stayed away.
The reception was held at the Trattoria Del Pippo near the church. During the formal sit down dinner, the food kept coming with all the local dishes and wine. This was followed by dancing on the terrace overlooking the valley.
Joe's family, The Raffetto's, opened the first General Store in the village in 1856. Then in 1902, Luigi Raffetto, a relative, opened the Osteria, serving food and wine. It is still there today, having added hotel rooms.
It was truly a memorable wedding with the happy couple honeymooning in Ireland before returning to their new home in Borrego Springs.
