How to have a wedding ceremony in Italy?
We are going to throw it out there - probably THE most important thing to get right. The ‘getting married part’ is basically the main reason you’re planning this incredible Italian wedding, and there is absolutely no room for mistakes here; if something isn’t completed correctly you’ll be faced with a no ‘I do’ situation and a shed load of stress!
But don’t fear - hook yourselves up with a step-by-step guide for the ceremony option you have opted for from our Shop…thank yourself later!
You do have some options when it comes to your official Mr & Mrs moment…..
Symbolic – a non-legal or religious wedding that can be taken by a celebrant or friends and can be blended by with another religious aspect such as Hindu, Jewish, Persian. These typically take place in private residences…like your venue.
Civil – a legal wedding where you sign your wedding certificate during the ceremony and legally become husband and wife.
Catholic – a religious ceremony that is recognised by the Catholic church – this can also just be a blessing i.e. you’re already married legally in your home country. You can legally marry in the moment in the church as well, which is a little more complicated.
- A 9 point process to get you sorted...have a read here
- Be aware there’s paperwork to do at home and in Italy
- There are costs involved with a civil ceremony - pay the town hall, paperwork at home, paperwork in Italy. Approx. 1,000 euros.
- Options on where it can be held are dependent on whether your venue has a relationship with the local town hall. Be sure to check available dates before you book your venue! Or you can opt for it to be held at your venue.
- Must adhere to a fixed order of service
- You will need to attend a declaration appointment with a translator just before your wedding day
- UK citizens get your hands on this guide
- US citizens this baby is for you. Get yours now!
- Australians, we have you covered here
- Cost of church donation
- You will need a priest who speaks your language, who you will likely need to fly out to Italy. Additionally, you will need to make a contribution to their church
- Consider transport for guests to and from the church
- There are certain church rules to abide by (churches can be strict on dress-code, decorations, candle use)
- The length of your ceremony is decided by the church and music for hymns can come at an additional cost
Perhaps you have already been officially married at home and this is your moment infront of your friends and family.
The style, structure and content of this ceremony is completely up to you. Have readings or stories, include your religions or nod to your cultural heritage.
It is up to you whether you choose to have officiant or not. An official celebrant or a friend or family member adds a wonderful personal touch.
People sometimes worry that this type of ceremony won’t feel like a real wedding - trust us, it will! You are all there together, with the person you love and all dressed up! Ready to have the best day of your life so far!
Honestly, we promise having your dream ceremony is not complicated when you have the right resources and advice to help you through each step. Want to find out what others are doing? Head over to our couples only Facebook group - these guys are totally mad for Italian weddings too! Come and say ciao!
