Get what you want from your wedding, whatever your budget
Setting a budget is one of the most critical steps in planning your dream Italian wedding, whether that’s an intimate gathering or an extravagant celebration, we have the answers to how to make your budget work for you. Without a clear financial plan, it's easy to get swept up in the magic and overspend but you must create a realistic budget, manage your expectations to really make the most of every euro.
Tips for Success
• Set Your Budget Before Engaging Vendors: avoid disappointment and keep in control of your budget.
Start with our free budget tool that breaks down costs and helps you understand real-time pricing for venues and vendors.
• Work with the right planner: Choose a planner experienced in your price range and vendor style to set realistic expectations and guide your choices.
• Prioritise what matters most: Identify must-haves early—like a dreamy venue, unforgettable food, or show-stopping florals—and be prepared to adjust other areas if needed.
€1,000 Per Guest: Stylish and Affordable
An elegant celebration with thoughtful touches that prioritise Italy’s natural charm and culinary traditions.
Photo: Barbara Markiewicz Photography
How to Make It Work:
• Planning Support: Join The Club for expert, tailored and real time guidance + a day-of coordinator for smooth execution.
• Venue: Host the wedding and welcome event at the same location. Boutique villas, agriturismos, or wine estates in Tuscany, Umbria, or Puglia are ideal. Guests can pay for their rooms, reducing transport and accommodation costs.
• Stick to 2 events - welcome and wedding are ideal.
• Food and Drink: Keep it simple but delicious. Offer a welcome aperitivo, a two or three-course meal, and a bar with local select drinks.
• Entertainment: Hire a live musician or DJ for the reception.
• Decor: Seasonal florals and basic lighting will still create a stunning ambiance.
• Photography and Video: A combined package ensures every moment is captured.
You Need Professional Help!
Book a 121 Concierge Call with expert wedding planner and La Lista founder, Lucy White to fully understand how to build and manage your budget. Lucy will tailor this private 60 minute session to ensure you get the bespoke advice you need to feel more confident and in control of your wedding planning.
€2,000 Per Guest: Refined and Memorable
This budget lets you elevate select elements of your wedding while balancing luxury and practicality.
Photo: Ginger Beard
How to Make It Work:
• Planning and Styling: Hire a full service planner who has experience as a stylist to ensure cohesive decor and a seamless flow.
• Venue: Opt for exclusive rentals of historical villas, seaside venues, or luxury agriturismos in Sicily or along the Amalfi Coast. Some transport may be needed, but keep guests close to the venue.
• Host 2 events, focusing on high-impact decor and curated experiences.
• Food and Drink: A five-course meal paired with premium wines, plus a cocktail hour with Italian aperitivo and artisan antipasti.
• Entertainment: Live musicians for the ceremony and reception, with a DJ for the after-party.
• HMU Artist: Invest in a professional hair and makeup artist to perfect your wedding-day look.
€3,000+ Per Guest: The Ultimate Luxury Wedding
For couples who want to go all out, this budget delivers a truly spectacular, multi-day experience.
Photo: Faye Wilde
How to Make It Work:
• Support: Full service luxury wedding planner - serious Italy experience is a must for this level of event.
• Venue: Iconic private villas on Lake Como, grand palazzi in Venice, or exclusive beachfront properties in Sardinia. Some guests may stay off-site, so plan for bespoke transport solutions.
• Events: Multiple high-end events, each with unique themes, gourmet catering, and premium drinks.
• Decor: Custom, expansive decor, from floral installations to personalized touches for every event.
• Entertainment: A full world-class band.
• Photography and Videography: Comprehensive multi-day coverage with drone shots, highlight reels, and luxury albums.
• Extra Touches: World-class hair and makeup artists, opulent backup plans for unpredictable weather, and elevated extras like performers or fireworks.
Stretch Your Budget
1. Lean on local experts: Experienced planners and vetted vendors are worth their weight in gold. They’ll know how to deliver your vision without unnecessary costs.
2. Be strategic: Opt for venues that combine ceremony, reception, and accommodations to simplify logistics and cut transport costs.
3. Invest in quality: Prioritise meaningful details—like photography, food, and decor—that guests will remember.
Your Italian wedding doesn’t have to be extravagant to be unforgettable. With thoughtful planning and a realistic approach, you’ll create a celebration that’s as magical as the country itself. Cheers to your Italian love story—cin cin!
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PLANNING | REAL WEDDING | BUSINESS | SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT | INSPIRATION | WANDERLUST
