Happy Moments Collector
Photos: Julia Kaptelova
Planning a destination wedding in Italy is a dream come true for many couples, but with all the complicated logistics, it can easily tip over into an overwhelming experience. That’s why we turned to Anastasia Aslanyan for advice, founder of Happy Moments Collector, a full-service wedding and event planning company with extensive experience coordinating couples' special day across every corner of Italy. Whether you're considering the stunning shores of Lake Como, the rolling hills of Tuscany, or a charming villa on the Amalfi, here are the team's top tips to help you bring your dream Italian wedding to life!
Photos: Evgeniya Savina
Start Early, Especially with Venues
Italy is one of the most popular wedding destinations, and the best venues can book up fast—sometimes even two years in advance! Start your planning process early, especially when it comes to securing the venue.
However, keep in mind that certain venues, especially exclusive locations, may not open their bookings that far in advance. This is where a local wedding planner can make all the difference! With their connections to venue managers and owners, they can help you stay in the loop and ensure you book your dream location as soon as the calendar opens. Starting early and having a planner on your side gives you the best chance of securing your ideal venue.
Photos: Julia Kaptelova
Choose the Right Season & Day
Italy is beautiful year-round, but each season has its pros and cons. Summer, for instance, is perfect for lake and coastal weddings but can be hot and crowded. Spring and early autumn are ideal due to the moderate weather, fewer tourists, and stunning natural backdrops.
Additionally, for destination weddings—especially if your guests are flying from faraway places like the U.S., Canada, Australia, or Asia—consider not sticking to a weekend. Hotel and venue costs tend to be higher on weekends, and many of your guests will likely arrive in Italy for at least a week to enjoy a holiday and recover from jet lag.
Planning your events on weekdays can be a great way to take advantage of lower rates, and it’s perfectly fine since most guests will already be in Italy for an extended stay, usually arriving on the weekend. This way, they’ll be well-rested and ready to enjoy your celebration!
Photos: Nata Nagornykh, Andrew Bayda
Hire a Local Wedding Planner
A local wedding planner is your best friend when organizing a destination wedding in Italy. From understanding the local vendors to navigating language barriers and dealing with legal requirements, having someone on the ground who knows the ins and outs can save you tons of time and stress. Plus, they can recommend hidden gems that you might not have found on your own!
Look for experience, check reviews, and don’t hesitate to ask for references. Most importantly, make sure to interview potential planners to ensure you’re dealing with someone you feel comfortable with. Keep in mind that vendors often prefer to work with planners rather than directly with the couple, as it’s much easier and more comfortable for them to streamline communication and avoid answering numerous client questions.
Photos: Julia Kaptelova
Be Aware of Legal Requirements
If you’re planning to legally marry in Italy, make sure you understand the paperwork and legal requirements. Italy’s bureaucracy can be a bit tricky, so it’s important to have all the documents in order, including translations and necessary approvals. Your planner or a legal consultant can guide you through the process to make sure everything is smooth.
Understand Regional Differences & Venue Peculiarities
Each region of Italy has its own unique charm, style, and approach when it comes to weddings. From the rustic elegance of Tuscany to the glamorous lakeside villas in Como or the coastal allure of Amalfi, the venue options, service styles, and overall experience can vary greatly depending on the region. Additionally, each venue may have its own particular rules, requirements, and quirks, which can sometimes catch couples off guard. This is where a professional wedding planner with insider knowledge of the market can be a lifesaver. Your planner can guide you to the best options suited to your style and budget while navigating any regional or venue-specific complexities.
Photos: Andrew Bayda
Consider Local Vendors
When planning a destination wedding in Italy, it’s essential to choose vendors located near your wedding venue. This helps you avoid extra costs related to travel and accommodation, which can add up quickly if you hire vendors from outside the region. Additionally, it’s important to work with vendors who have experience at your chosen venue. Local vendors familiar with the venue will know how to navigate your venue's rules smoothly, ensuring everything goes off without a hitch.
Stick to a Realistic Budget
Destination weddings can add up quickly, especially in a country like Italy, where certain regions are known for luxury. Be clear about your budget from the start and prioritize what matters most to you—whether that’s the venue, food, décor, or entertainment. A good planner can help you allocate your budget wisely and avoid any unnecessary expenses while still creating the stunning wedding you envision.
Photos: Julia Kaptelova, Andrew Bayda
Prepare for the Weather
Even if you’re planning for sunny skies, it’s always good to have a backup plan in case of rain or unexpected weather. When considering venues, be sure to ask about the Plan B options they provide. Many venues will give you different capacities for their indoor rooms, but this might mean splitting your guests into separate groups, which may not align with your vision. Be clear on how the Plan B scenario will look. If the venue suggests setting up a tent or external structure, be mindful of the additional costs — these setups are often expensive and require extra days for both installation and dismantling. On top of that, you may need extra décor to make the tent feel as beautiful as your original plan. Always factor these potential costs and logistics into your budget and timeline to avoid surprises.
Photos: Julia Kaptelova
Plan Travel & Transportation Logistics
When planning a destination wedding in Italy, consider where your guests are flying from and the location of your venue. Major international airports in Rome and Milan may not always be close to your chosen venue, especially if it’s in a remote region like Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast.
Keep in mind that popular wedding destinations in Italy often lack Ubers or fast taxi services. Organizing shuttle services is essential to make transportation easy and stress-free for your guests. Ensure you allocate enough budget for this, as without proper planning, your guests could end up stranded at the venue with no way to get back to their accommodations.
Photos: Andrew Bayda
Take Time to Enjoy the Location
Italy has so much to offer beyond the wedding day itself. Consider arriving a few days early to explore the local area, enjoy wine tastings, or relax with your family and friends before the big day. This is also a great way to feel more grounded and connected with your wedding location, making the entire experience more special.
Embrace Local Culture & Cuisine
One of the best things about having a wedding in Italy is the incredible food and wine! Work with your caterer to create a menu that highlights local ingredients and traditional Italian dishes. Whether it’s a full Tuscan feast or an elegant seafood spread, your guests will love indulging in the flavors of Italy. Incorporating elements of local culture—like live Italian music or regional décor—will also give your wedding an authentic and special touch.
Photos: Konstantyn Zakhariy, Julia Kaptelova
Enhance Your Guests’ Experience with Thoughtful Extras
Your guests will be traveling far for your wedding, so make their experience as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. Start by offering a variety of accommodation options that cater to different budgets, ensuring everyone feels comfortable. Consider hosting a welcome party or other pre-wedding events to kick off the celebration in style. These extra touches help set the tone for the wedding weekend and give your guests a chance to relax and connect before the big day. A well-planned guest experience will make your wedding even more special and memorable for everyone involved.
Trust Your Planner
Finally, trust the professionals you’ve hired. Planning a destination wedding can be challenging, but your planner is there to turn your vision into reality with their experience and expertise. Trusting them allows them to do their best work, and when you place that trust in them, they’ll often go above and beyond to make your day truly special. The relationship you build with your planner matters — being kind, polite, and open in your communication creates a positive partnership.
Photos: Julia Kaptelova, Nastia Vesna
