Getting Married in Italy UK couples: Starter tips
Lake Garda
What are the legal requirements for getting married in Italy if you are from the UK?
Let’s start with the most important part: Legal requirements for getting married in Italy from the UK include providing valid passports, birth certificates, a Certificate of No Impediment, and possibly a ‘Nulla Osta’ from the UK government.
Additionally, you may need to provide evidence of your residency in Italy and any previous marriage terminations. (Decree Absolut). The time spent in Italy before you can legally marry varies but it is usually 4 full working days. Please DO bear in mind you will need to visit a local 'Registry' office (Embassy) or an equivalent, to get a marriage license.
After Brexit, this process is a bit more complex and we suggest opting for a symbolic ceremony instead.
Religious ceremonies are also very popular in Italy as the stunning Churches are superb for a ceremony. In this case, please talk to your local Priest about how to apply for a license.
Please note this is NOT legal advice and our local wedding planners in Italy can assist with more details.
Popular regions to marry in Italy
Lake Como
Tuscany
The Italian Dream
Italy offers stunning backdrops, from historic cities to picturesque lakes and coastlines, for an unforgettable wedding.
UK citizens can legally marry in Italy but must meet specific requirements, including obtaining a "Nulla Osta."
Engaging a wedding planner specialised in Italian weddings will streamline the process and alleviate stress.
Italy presents a range of unique venue options, including historic castles, elegant private villas, and captivating coastal and lakeside spots.
Familiarise yourself with Italian wedding customs and etiquette to seamlessly blend into the local culture.
Thinking of an Italian wedding in Venice? You are not alone! Italy has won couples’ hearts for decades as the ideal place for weddings.
This simple guide will help you get started. From the charm of Lake Como to the beautiful Amalfi Coast, we will help you plan your dream wedding in Italy. Let’s turn your ideas into a lovely celebration of love.
Understanding the Appeal of Italian Weddings
Italy is a beautiful place for a wedding in Europe, offering more than just pretty views. The country has a deep culture that can make your special day unique. Picture saying your vows in front of the soft hills of Tuscany or having your party in an old villa that has a lot of history.
But Italy is not just about looks. The food there is also amazing. You can enjoy delicious meals made with fresh, local ingredients. This tasty food will delight your guests and create lasting memories from your wedding destination.
The Romantic Backdrops of Italy
Italy has many romantic places perfect for any wedding dream. If you want a classic and elegant place, consider Lake Como. Its shiny waters and fancy villas make it a great choice for a memorable celebration. Even stars like George Clooney have picked this beautiful spot for their weddings.
If you love the charm of the sea, the Amalfi Coast is a perfect pick. This UNESCO World Heritage Site lets you imagine saying your vows with colorful villages that go down to the blue Mediterranean Sea.
For those who enjoy a more rustic vibe, the Tuscan vineyards offer their own special charm. Picture saying "I do" surrounded by hills, vineyards, and old farmhouses for a truly romantic and unforgettable experience.
Cultural Richness and Gastronomic Delights
Italian culture is full of traditions. Adding these traditions to your wedding reception can make it very special. You can have live music with traditional Italian singers. Handcrafted wedding favours from local artisans also bring a unique touch. The options for including Italian culture in your big day are many.
Italian food is famous worldwide for its great flavours and freshness, and high-quality ingredients. Your wedding reception is a chance to wow your guests with amazing tastes. You can serve delicious pasta dishes, fresh seafood, and tasty desserts. This is just a glimpse of what you can offer. Are you ready for a traditional 9 course feast?
Besides the traditional dishes, you can work with your caterer to create a menu that suits your style. Think about using seasonal ingredients and local special dishes. This will help you enjoy the best of Italy’s food on your special day.
Villa Corsini, Tuscany
Planning Your Big (or Small) Italian Wedding
When planning a wedding in another country, knowing the legal needs is very important. Please note that legal ceremony can take place only licensed properties, similar to UK venues. So an outdoor ceremony in Tuscany will always be only symbolic, unless you visit a local ‘Registry’ office.
The next step is to think about the best time and find your dream venue. Italy has a lot to offer all year long. There are beautiful flowers in spring and lovely colours in Autumn. Look into wedding venues that match what you want and can fit your guests’ number. The best way to start is with us, simply browse the venues we offer or schedule a call with our wedding venues specialist here.
Choosing the Perfect Season
Italy's diverse climate and beautiful scenery create special experiences for weddings all year round. In spring, the weather is nice and the flowers bloom. This is perfect for outdoor ceremonies by Lake Garda or in the vineyards of Tuscany. Summer brings warm weather, ideal for celebrations on the Amalfi Coast.
For a romantic Autumn wedding, think about September in Tuscany. The weather remains gentle, and the vineyards turn lovely shades of gold and red. Winter weddings in the Italian Alps offer a magical setting for those who dream of a snowy celebration.
Italy has many different wedding venues to match your style and budget.
Historic castles offer a grand and elegant feel, captivating guests with their charm.
Cosy villas with views, surrounded by vineyards or olive groves, present a more intimate and beautiful atmosphere for a multi-day celebration.
Coastal and lakeside venues let you say your vows against stunning natural water views.
Beginner's Guide to Getting Married in Italy
Planning an Italian wedding can feel overwhelming, but we are here to make it a lot easier. We would start with the foundation - the right space, in your budget, and a professional wedding planner in place!
Let’s begin this journey together. We will tackle everything piece by piece. We will focus on the key things that will turn your ideas into a wonderful celebration. Keep in mind, this is your big day – let the joy of marrying in Italy inspire you!
What You Need to Get Started
Starting your Italian wedding planning journey means you need to clearly define what you want. It’s a good idea to get help from a destination wedding specialist like our Julie, who knows about Italian weddings. Luckily, we work with amazing local wedding suppliers already.
A wedding planner will work with you and for you! They will help you choose vendors, assist with legal paperwork if needed, and arrange everything on the day. This will make sure your celebration goes smoothly and you don’t need to worry about a thing.
Start by simply browsing the venues on our website, if you can’t see the one for you get in touch with us.
The Process
The next step in planning your Italian wedding is to decide what type of ceremony you want.
Couples can pick between these choices: legal civil ceremonies, religious ceremonies, or symbolic ceremonies. Each type has its features, legal requirements, and venue options.
Civil ceremonies in Italy are legally recognised everywhere. They usually take place in a Town Hall or Specific Civil wedding venues. If you choose a Religious ceremony, like a Catholic one, there are certain rules to follow, and it might need extra paperwork and agreement between your local Church in the UK and the Church in Italy.
Symbolic ceremonies give couples more freedom. You can say your vows in a special place, like a beautiful villa by a scenic lake. Keep in mind that symbolic ceremonies are not legally binding. You will need to have another legal ceremony in your home country. You can do that in your local Registry Office before you travel.
Step 1: Gathering Necessary Documentation
Once you know what type of ceremony you want for your dream Italian wedding, it's time to gather the paperwork. If you want a legal wedding in Italy, you must submit certain documents to the Italian authorities before your wedding date.
First, get your passports and make sure they are valid for at least six months after your planned wedding date. You also need to get a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI) from your home country. This shows that you are free to marry.
After you have your CNI, get it translated into Italian by a certified translator. You will then need to have this translated document approved by the Italian Consulate or Embassy in your country or through the Apostille Convention if that applies. Please note that you will need to be in Italy a certain amount of full working days before you can legally marry. It usually at least 4 full working days (subject to change).
Step 2: Selecting Your Dream Italian Location
Italy has many beautiful places for couples who want the perfect spot to get married. The best location will depend on what you envision, how much would you like to spend on the wedding and your holidays here, and how many guests you have.
Lake Como is famous for its beautiful views and luxury villas. It is a top wedding destination for those who want elegance and romance. The Amalfi Coast has lovely seaside towns and amazing views, making it a stunning place for weddings.
Tuscany features rolling hills, vineyards, and old cities. It offers a nice mix of country charm and classy style. On the other hand, Rome, known as the Eternal City, gives a special and memorable experience. It combines ancient history with modern life.
Step 3: Booking Your Venue
Once you pick your wedding destination and think of an ideal date, the fun part starts. This is when you secure your venue and start putting together your dream wedding team.
Choosing the right venue is very important. It will shape how your event feels and can affect the style, size, and budget. Think about your guest list, the style you like, and any special needs you may have.
After selecting the venue, it’s time to book great suppliers that will add those finishing touches. You will need photographers, florists, caterers, and musicians to help make your vision come to life. Your wedding planner can suggest great options based on your style and help you find trusted professionals.
Step 4: Planning the Ceremony Details
With your venue, suppliers, and paperwork needs in place, it’s time to focus on what makes your special day stand out: the ceremony. This is the main part of the celebration, where you’ll say your vows and promise to be together forever!
For civil ceremonies, it's important to learn about the rules and processes. These ceremonies usually happen in Italian, so if needed, you should arrange for an interpreter.
When it comes to symbolic ceremonies, you can be completely creative. You can write heartfelt vows, pick readings that mean something to both of you, and add personal touches that show your shared journey.
Step 5: Finalising Accommodation for Guests
As a good host, it is important to find and suggest places for your guests to stay for your destination wedding in Italy. The place you pick and the venue can affect the types of accommodations available.
These can be fancy hotels, cosy villas, or guesthouses. The villa weddings, in general, do require a minimum 3-night stay out of the season and a 7-night stay in the main wedding season. This is usually from May to September.
Think about the number of guests and how fancy or relaxed you want the setting to be. If you want a more private feel, renting a villa gives everyone a common space to hang out. On the other hand, booking rooms at a hotel gives privacy and may come with lower prices and more options.
While you make these plans, keep your guests in the loop. Share options that fit their needs and budgets. Also, suggest some fun local activities for them to enjoy during their visit.
Unique Venues
Italy has many special places that each have their magic. You can choose from old castles that tell stories of the past, or nice villas surrounded by beautiful views. Your perfect place is waiting for you.
If you want to exchange vows in stunning coastal or lakeside locations, Italy has plenty of options that embody romance. Imagine beginning your married life together in the amazing beauty of Italy's scenery.
Historic Castles and Elegant Villas
Italy's history tells a story through its old castles and villas. Each place gives a special feel for your wedding celebration. In Tuscany, you will find ancient castles surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. This creates a charming, rustic elegance.
In Rome, the Eternal City, you can discover stunning hotels that have lasted for many years. Imagine saying your vows on a beautiful terrace with amazing views of the Roman skyline.
Venice offers a fairytale setting for a wedding, filled with canals and grand Palazzos. Picture arriving at your reception by gondola. As the sun sets over the Grand Canal, you will create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
Breathtaking Coastal and Lakeside Spots
Italy's coastline has many great spots for couples who want a seaside wedding. The Amalfi Coast is known for its steep cliffs, beautiful towns in the sky, and bright blue waters. It is a perfect place for a memorable celebration.
Lake Maggiore, between Italy and Switzerland, gives you amazing views of the Alps. You can say "I do" on the peaceful shores of the lake. You can choose to have your ceremony and reception at nice hotels or private villas.
If you want a more relaxed feeling, you can think about a beach wedding on Italy's beautiful coastlines. With sandy beaches in Puglia and quiet coves in Sardinia, your wedding pictures will be stunning. You will have golden sand and clear blue waters in every photo.
Navigating Traditions
Italy is a warm and welcoming place for couples from around the world. To make your Italian wedding truly special, it's important to learn about local customs and traditions. Knowing the etiquette for Italian weddings helps you have a respectful and culturally rich celebration. We all know that Italians are passionate people and they will tell you if they are offended.
From the music and food to meaningful rituals, discovering the charm of Italian customs gives you the confidence you need. This knowledge allows you to enjoy your special day in Italy even more.
Incorporating Italian Customs into Your Ceremony
Infuse your wedding with real Italian traditions and culture. This will make your celebration special and memorable.
You can include traditions like "confetti," where guests throw sugared almonds at you for good luck and a happy life.
Think about having a traditional Italian wedding cake. You might choose "millefoglie," a tasty layered pastry filled with custard and fruit. Another option is "torta caprese," which is a chocolate and almond cake without flour.
For music, hire a live band that plays Italian folk songs. They can serenade you and your guests with lovely tunes that reflect the beauty of Italy. Adding these touches will make your wedding a true cultural experience.
Etiquette for Guests
As a guest at an Italian wedding, it shows good manners to learn and follow the local customs. You should know that the dress code is often formal.
It’s also important to follow local traditions. Make sure to congratulate both families because family means a lot to Italians. Keep your noise down and be careful with showing too much affection in public since Italians favour keeping things more reserved.
Always RSVP on time. You should choose a gift from the couple's wedding list or help them with their honeymoon. By doing these things, you will show that you respect Italian culture and help everyone have a wonderful time.
In conclusion, getting married in Italy from the UK is a mix of romance, culture, and delicious food, all set against beautiful views. It is important to know the legal steps, pick the ideal season and venue, and follow a simple guide to plan your dream wedding in Italy. Italy has many special wedding venues, from historic castles to seaside locations. Don't forget to include Italian wedding traditions to make your ceremony more genuine.
Congratulations, Your Italian wedding journey is here, full of love and great memories.
Thank you for thinking about Italy as your wedding destination and contact us so we can find ‘the one’ for you!
