FAQ
How much does a wedding in Italy costs
1000 euro per person is a good general rule for nice weddings. Not a luxury high end wedding, just for a nice, two\three day celebration with decent suppliers. With big numbers slightly less as some costs distribute better for larger numbers.
Costs can vary widely. Small, intimate venues might start at around €4,500, while lavish affairs—especially in places like Noto or Taormina—can easily exceed €50,000 just for the venue. The general rule is that the venue and catering take up around 50% of the budget so you are not sure if your budget is enough, divide it in half, then by a number of guests you want to attend and see if you can feed people for what comes out. Overall, a full destination wedding in Italy typically ranges between €40,000 to €120,000, inclusive of venue, catering, flowers, photography, and more. Per-person catering costs often land between €150 and €190. On top of that you need to add costs for open bar and extras if you want a gelato cart for instance.
What paperwork is required to legally marry in Italy?
Legal procedures differ based on ceremony type (civil, symbolic, religious). Civil and Catholic weddings generally require official documentation and possibly translations; symbolic ceremonies are more flexible and don’t have the same legal requirements. If you decide you want your wedding to be legally binding, please reach out with your documents and we will be able to tell you what the process is. It varies from country to country.
PWe offer a service called Legalities and Translation for 2,000 euro or if you book full planning it’s already included.
Do I need a wedding planner—and why?
Yes, local or well-connected planners are invaluable. They can manage legalities, negotiate contracts to avoid hidden fees, coordinate logistics, tap into the best local vendors, and reduce stress through seamless execution. Don’t take our word for that, see what previous couples said: https://g.page/r/CQjpWh-0lWEgEAE/review
When should we start planning and book vendors?
For big weddings, over 100 guests you should start planning even two years ahead to have a choice of venues, especially if you are looking to get married during the weekend.
Begin planning 12–18 months in advance. Send Save-the-Dates at least eight months before the wedding, and secure vendors early—especially venue, catering and photographer, as the good ones get booked up in advance!
What hidden costs should I budget for?
Italian venues often have extra fees for cleaning, overtime, power usage, or exclusivity. You may also need security deposits (refundable but sizable), weather contingency plans (e.g., tents), travel and transport for guests, and legal paperwork—including translations and VAT (which is typically 22%). Always include a 10–15% buffer for unexpected costs.
Can much of this be planned remotely, or do we need to be in person?
Some elements—such as vendor selection or vision and design—can happen remotely. But a venue scouting trip is essential! We invite couples to come at least once before the wedding so they can see the venue in person and try the food. If not, we do video calls from the location and help the couple with floor plans and renderings.
What about guest logistics and etiquette?
Travel can be a significant expense for guests, potentially leading to declines or stress. Early communication and thoughtful planning—including flight, lodging, and transport—are essential. The general rule is that a couple provides: transportation to and from the wedding venue|venues. It does not have to be door to door transfer, often impossible in Italian towns, drop off and pick up point is enough.With regards to the accommodation, this one is tricky as everyone has a different situation. In general, guests DO NOT EXPECT you to pay for their accommodation. What you should do is communicate in a timely manner the place or area where the wedding will take place or where transfers will be booked from.
Can I visit venues in person before booking?
It’s highly encouraged. Also a site visit with a couple is included in our fee and you should definitely come and see everything in person. Plus, pictures don’t show the true beauty of this place.