7 ways to maximise your wedding budget without compromise
Photo/Video: Klassen Weddings x Tobi Films
Let’s be real—Italian weddings can be an investment. Sometimes a big one! But how much you spend ultimately depends on your personal style and priorities.
Most La Lista couples share that hosting a three-day celebration in Italy often matches the cost of a single-day event in their home country—while delivering so much more in terms of unforgettable experiences.
Our top tip? Forget about comparing your wedding to anyone else’s. Instead, focus on curating the elements that truly make you happy and see how they align with your budget. With prices rising across the board these days, it’s essential to be realistic from the start. Ask yourself: what are your must-haves? Your non-negotiables? Let those guide you.
1. Rent a venue that has accommodation
Renting somewhere that some of your guests can stay and charging back for that stay can almost eradicate a venue fee line in your budget. When booking, make sure to check that you can host events at the property and whether there is a fee for multiple events.
Be aware… regions like The Lakes and Amalfi often operate on a day rental basis, so accommodation and other events will be at an additional cost, plus will take more time to find. Again, assess what is more you!
Venue: Masseria Borgo Ritella
2. Really consider your guest list
Believe us when we say, intimate weddings seriously rock! Having your truest nearest and dearest around you for your wedding day is meaningful and overall, more chill for you as an experience. Couples have told us first-hand how much pressure they felt dissipate as soon as they reduced their wedding guest numbers. It can save you some cash, too!
Photo: The Lightbox Tales
3. Rent décor
Lots of couples end up buying decorative items for their wedding – this can be a huge waste of money and time. All items can be rented locally through your planner, florist, equipment companies or your caterer.
Better still, join our Couples Community and find a couple hosting their wedding nearby to share decor. It isn’t as hard as it seems and it will certainly save the pennies and is way better for the planet!
Photo: Benjamin Wheeler
4. Recycle your flowers
Plan your décor using flowers that can be recycled through parts of the day or even for the day after if you’re having another event. Best to find a florist who’s up for this before booking them!
Amazing tablescapes aren’t always full of flowers, with a few clever touches and a pro floral designer you can still create an incredible atmosphere.
If you are asking your florist to move flowers during your day, be clear with the timings as this may well affect their hours quoted.
Florist: Amsicora Fiori
5. Consider a photographer and videographer duo
Sitting top of many couple’s post-wedding regrets is not having a videographer. Luckily, we know many incredibly talented duos who work to exceptionally high standards in each area. Not only do they tend to come in at a lower price than a separate photographer and videographer, they have the same style and are used to working together which usually maximises the content they can get on your day and keeps a consistent style.
Video/Photo: ManiSol Wedding
6. Work with a local, flexible caterer
Instead of working with the larger organisations, hunt out smaller, local caterers. They have lower overheads and operations which can mean they can offer more flexibility and lower prices overall, whilst still being comparable on the quality and volume they offer.
Caterer: Guidi Lenci
7. Do fewer things and do them well.
Be budget-clever when you are deciding on the elements of your wedding. Recognise when to narrow down and prioritise guests experience along with your priorities and you will thank yourself down the line!
Photo: Imagined by Sofia
Want more ways to save money? Our membership, The Club offers wedding planning but with the confidence you’re doing everything right. Experienced wedding planner, Lucy White will provide you with all the tools and knowledge she has learnt over 10 years of delivering weddings in Italy. You don’t have to do this alone.
