Your Complete Checklist for a Stress-Free Destination Wedding in Italy
- Angela Salzano
- Aug 13
- 4 min read
If you’ve been dreaming of saying “I do” in the heart of Italy, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, timeless architecture, and the charm of la dolce vita, you’re not alone. Italy is one of the top destination wedding locations in the world, attracting couples who want a celebration that blends romance, culture, and unforgettable scenery.
However, planning a wedding abroad comes with unique challenges: navigating legal requirements, finding trusted vendors, and making decisions from afar. That’s why having a clear destination wedding planning checklist and timeline is essential.
As a wedding planner specialising in destination weddings in Italy, I’ve helped couples from all over the world create unforgettable celebrations. Here’s my complete guide to help you plan your Italian wedding with ease and confidence.
Destination Wedding Planning Checklist and Timeline
12–18 Months Before
• Choose your wedding date: Keep in mind Italy’s seasons, local holidays, and peak wedding months.
• Hire your wedding planner: An expert will save you time, stress, and costly mistakes.
• Set your budget: Divide it into categories: venue, catering, décor, travel, and guest accommodation.
• Book your venue: Popular Italian venues, especially in regions like Tuscany, Amalfi Coast, and Lake Como, book up to two years in advance.
9–12 Months Before
• Start your legal paperwork : Requirements vary depending on your nationality.
• Secure your key vendors: Photographer, videographer, florist, entertainment, and caterer.
• Reserve guest accommodation: Ensure comfort and proximity to the venue.
• Send Save-the-Dates: Give guests time to arrange travel and accommodation.
3–6 Months Before
• Confirm ceremony details: Coordinate with your officiant or celebrant.
• Design your décor and flowers: Use seasonal blooms for authenticity and cost-effectiveness.
• Plan pre- and post-wedding events: Think welcome dinners, wine tastings, or boat trips.
1–3 Months Before
• Final dress fitting.
• Review all vendor timelines and contracts.
• Prepare welcome bags: Add Italian treats, local maps, and personalised notes.
2–3 Days Before the Wedding
A few days before your big day, schedule a final coordination meeting with your wedding planner. This is your opportunity to review every detail, from the ceremony flow to décor placement, vendor timing, and guest arrangements. It’s a reassuring step to ensure everything is perfectly organized, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to enjoy your wedding day stress-free.
The First Stages: When and How to Start Planning a Wedding in Italy
For a smooth process, start planning your destination wedding 12–18 months before your chosen date. Your first decisions should include the type of ceremony you want — civil, religious, or symbolic — as this will determine your venue and paperwork. From day one, partnering with a local wedding planner ensures that your ideas become a clear, realistic plan without the stress of handling multiple vendors, time zones, and languages.
How to Choose a Wedding Venue in Italy
When choosing your venue, consider:
Location: Do you picture a clifftop ceremony on the Amalfi Coast, a rustic Tuscan vineyard, or a Venetian palace?
Capacity: Make sure it fits your guest list comfortably.
Accessibility: Especially for international guests.
Season: Coastal weddings shine in late spring or early autumn; countryside venues are beautiful year-round.
Included services: Some venues offer full packages, others require separate arrangements.
Legal Requirements for a Destination Wedding in Italy
The legal process may seem daunting, but with expert guidance it’s completely manageable. Most couples will need:
A “Nulla Osta” (Certificate of No Impediment) from their embassy or consulate in Italy.
Valid passports, birth certificates, and, if applicable, divorce or death certificates.
Translations and legalisations of any non-Italian documents.
Civil weddings must take place in locations authorised by the Italian government, while symbolic ceremonies can be held anywhere.
Setting Your Italian Destination Wedding Budget
When planning your budget, factor in:
Venue rental: Higher for historic or exclusive properties.
Catering: Italian wedding banquets often include multiple courses and premium wines.
Flowers and décor: Seasonal and regional variations can affect prices.
Travel and accommodation: For yourselves and possibly your guests.
Legal and administrative fees: For paperwork, translations, and officiants.
I recommend reserving 10–15% of your budget for unexpected costs, because the little surprises often become the most cherished memories.
Your Italian Wedding, Your Forever Story
Imagine walking hand in hand through cobblestone streets, the scent of fresh flowers in the air, and the soft glow of the Italian sun as you say “I do.” Every detail perfectly planned, every moment captured in your heart forever.
That’s what I create — weddings that aren’t just events but once-in-a-lifetime experiences your guests will talk about for years to come.
From the first email to the last dance, I’ll be by your side to make your dream destination wedding in Italy effortless, beautiful, and uniquely yours.
"Let’s bring your vision to life"
Angela Salzano
Destination wedding planner
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