5 Things to Know Before Getting Married in Italy
And Why Planning Ahead Makes All the Difference
Getting married in Italy is a dream for many couples — romantic landscapes, historic villas, unforgettable food, and the iconic Italian dolce vita.
But behind the beauty lies a reality many couples don’t anticipate.
Italy is magical — and complex.
If you’re planning a destination wedding in Italy, here are five essential things you need to know before saying “I do.”
1. Civil or Religious Wedding? Understanding Italian Legal Requirements
Before choosing your venue or flowers, you must understand the legal process of getting married in Italy as a foreigner.
The good news? You do not need Italian residency to marry in Italy.
The reality?
Paperwork matters — a lot.
Civil vs Religious Weddings in Italy
- Civil weddings are legally binding and usually take place at a town hall or approved venue.
- Religious weddings (especially Catholic) can also be legally recognized but require additional church and civil documentation.
The Nulla Osta
Foreign couples must obtain a Nulla Osta, an official document confirming there are no legal impediments to marriage.
Important to know:
- Requirements vary by nationality
- Documents must be translated and legalized
- Timelines are strict
- Missing one document can delay — or cancel — your ceremony
Many couples choose a symbolic wedding in Italy and complete the legal marriage at home to simplify the process.
A local wedding planner ensures all documents are correct, translated, submitted, and approved — without stress or last-minute surprises.
2. Transportation Is Essential — and Often Underestimated
Most Italian wedding venues are:
- Countryside villas
- Hilltop estates
- Historic borgos
- Vineyards far from city centers
Beautiful? Absolutely.
Easy to reach? Not at all.
What couples don’t expect:
- No Uber in most regions
- Limited taxis, especially at night
- Guests will drink — driving isn’t an option
- Transportation costs in Italy are higher than expected
Wedding shuttles are not a luxury — they’re a necessity.
Without proper planning, guests get stranded and timelines fall apart.
A wedding planner designs safe, realistic transportation logistics that protect both your guests and your celebration.
3. Venue Manager vs Wedding Planner: Know the Difference
This is one of the biggest misconceptions when planning a wedding in Italy.
Venue Manager:
- Manages the property
- Oversees accommodations
- Enforces venue rules
Wedding Planner:
- Coordinates all vendors
- Creates and manages the wedding timeline
- Solves problems in real time
- Oversees the entire wedding day
- Protects your interests
Many couples assume the venue manager will “handle everything.”
In reality, their role is the venue — not your wedding.
On the wedding day, someone must cue music, manage transitions, coordinate catering, and handle unexpected issues.
That role belongs to a wedding planner.
4. Wedding vendor’s contracts in Italy: Why details matter
Italian wedding contracts often look simple — until the fine print.
Common surprises include:
Catering contract examples:
- Catering prices are based on fixed service hours; extra fees apply for extended time. Always define your wedding timeline before signing.
- Open bar hours that don’t match your actual event schedule.
- Setup costs, extra chairs, and tables for the aperitivo are sometimes not included, and the breakdown of these costs may be unclear.
- Staff and kids meals are not defined
- Wine and drinks: what is included, quantities provided, and the cost of any extras.
A small detail in a contract can lead to unexpected costs or timeline issues.
Always have your contracts reviewed by a local wedding planner before signing.
5. Italian Weddings Follow a Different Rhythm
Italian weddings don’t follow the same pace as weddings in North America or Northern Europe.
Expect:
- Later start times – even more if you get married in the summer the heat is not a joke!
- Long aperitivo
- Multi-course dinners lasting hours
- A relaxed, flowing timeline
This rhythm is part of the charm — if you plan for it.
Without understanding local customs, timelines feel confusing and key moments lose impact.
A local planner translates Italian wedding culture into a seamless, guest-friendly experience.
Get in touch with us to start planning your Tuscany wedding.
We help couples from the USA, Canada, UK, and worldwide bring their dream Italian wedding to life.