An expert answers your most popular planning questions
Videographer: Handcraft Pictures
Across the world couples just like you are planning their dream Italian weddings. Whether it’s with a budget of 40,000 euro or 200,000 euro, in a grand villa or an Agriturismo, you have a couple of things in common…. You want this to be the BEST wedding day ever and you have never planned a destination wedding before. We see the same questions being asked so we have some expert answers for you.
How can I save money on florals?
Be realistic about what you want
Choose seasonal flowers
Have less flowers spread out
Research a good florist who is flexible and wants to work with you and your budget to create a look you’re happy with
Move your floral displays through the day i.e. ceremony flowers moved to style the seating plan or bar area. Note, a florist may charge extra for this as they will have to be on-site for longer
Photo: Le Francesche
Everything you need to know about wedding florals, working with florists and tips to make your budget go further
Do venues do rehearsals before the wedding?
With destination weddings it is a good idea to have a run through. If you have a planner they may well arrange this for you and it might be a ceremony run-through with your bridal party, a venue walk-through or a briefing chat with the key party members. Always ask if this is important to you.
Photo: Apulian Ceremony
How important is timing for an Italian wedding?
Hugely! And significantly more important than an at home wedding for these reasons:
Heat
Transporting guests
Sunset shots
Atmospheric table lighting
Outdoor music curfew
Photo: Benjamin Wheeler
Don’t risk making mistakes with the timings on your most important day!
How do I handle a planner going radio silent?
Honest, respectful communication is crucial here.
Check your contract for guidance on the amount of communication you should receive and response times.
Express your concerns and listen to their response, ideally over the phone.
Are they radio silent because this is the point in planning when they are compiling recommendations? Do you need to speak with them or is for reassurance?
If your mental health and planning enjoyment is going to be significantly affected by them, then question whether you want to continue with the relationship.
Photo: Livia Salviati
The Club supports couples experiencing issues with suppliers and helps to fix planning problems caused by breaks in communication.
What makes for good entertainment during the aperitivo to keep things lively?
A sax, violinist, traditional Italian quartet brings such a vibe. Music really does create an atmosphere and steers the mood. Are you looking for chilled? Romance? Classic La Dolce Vita? A bit more party?
Photo: Musica Evento
When should we have a gelato cart?
Avoid the wedding day itself, honestly there will be so much food! Do it when guests will really enjoy it and it can stand out creating a moment itself. Welcome event or Recovery Pool day works well.
Photo: Paola Salviano
Have a question? Here’s how you can get it answered ASAP by top wedding planner Lucy White.
Join The Club: our planning membership will get you access 24/7 to Lucy via its exclusive community. Plus, fortnightly group calls with other members and Lucy to discuss a specific topic, like budgeting, how much you should be paying for suppliers, styling sessions; or simply a Q&A focusing on your queries.
Facebook Couples Community: Lucy answers the first 5 responses to her weekly post in the group.
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