Planning a Wedding in Italy from the US: Your Ultimate Guide

Planning a wedding in Italy from the US is a dream for many couples seeking romance, breathtaking scenery, and world-class cuisine for their special day. Whether you envision exchanging vows in a historic villa, on a scenic Tuscan hillside, or by the shimmering waters of Lake Como, Italy offers endless possibilities for creating an unforgettable experience. This guide is tailored for American couples to help you navigate the process with ease, ensuring your wedding in Italy is as seamless as it is stunning.

Legal Requirements for American Couples Marrying in Italy

Italy is a popular destination for American couples because it doesn’t require residency for marriage. However, you will need to provide specific documents to legally tie the knot. Here’s what you’ll need:

•Valid passports for both partners.

•Birth certificates (original or certified copies).

•Affidavit of No Impediment to Marriage (Nulla Osta): This sworn declaration, available through your local US embassy or consulate in Italy, confirms there are no legal obstacles to your marriage.

•Atto Notorio: A declaration signed by two witnesses (who cannot be family) confirming your eligibility to marry. This must be obtained from an Italian consulate or in Italy itself.

•Translated and legalized documents: All documents must be translated into Italian and legalized with an Apostille.

Once you have these documents, you’ll submit a declaration of intent to marry to the town hall (comune) where your ceremony will take place. Then, a civil ceremony can be scheduled at least three weeks in advance. If you plan a Catholic wedding, additional religious documents, such as baptism and confirmation certificates, will be required.

How to Plan Your Wedding in Italy from the US

1. Choose Your Ideal Location

Italy is a country of diverse beauty, from the rolling vineyards of Tuscany to the picturesque Amalfi Coast and the romantic canals of Venice. Civil ceremonies must take place in venues approved by local authorities, such as villas, castles, and town halls. For Catholic ceremonies, a church is required, and one partner must be Catholic.

2. Work with a Wedding Planner

Hiring a wedding planner in Italy can save you significant time and stress. A professional planner will handle local logistics, recommend reliable vendors, and ensure all legal requirements are met.

At Amoretti Weddings, we specialize in planning weddings in Italy for US couples, offering unique advantages tailored to your needs. By managing invoices directly through our UK-based office, we help you avoid paying Italian VAT on many services, reducing costs significantly. These savings often offset our planning fees, making our expert services virtually cost-free for you.

Costs of Planning a Wedding in Italy from the US

The cost of a wedding in Italy varies depending on your location, guest count, and preferences. Here’s an average breakdown of costs:

•Ceremony fees: $300–$1,000

•Wedding planner: $2,500–$10,000

•Venue hire: $2,000–$20,000

•Photographer: $1,200–$5,000

•Decorations: $4,000–$25,000

•Catering (including wine and cake): $120–$200 per guest

By working with a trusted wedding planner, you can find high-quality vendors within your budget while creating an unforgettable experience.

Why Choose Italy for Your Wedding?

Italy is the epitome of romance, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the enchanting streets of Florence to the cliffside villages of the Amalfi Coast, every corner of Italy provides a magical backdrop for your wedding. American couples can embrace a stress-free planning experience by partnering with professionals who understand the nuances of destination weddings and can guide you every step of the way.

Let’s Make Your Dream Wedding a Reality

Planning a wedding in Italy from the US doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right preparation and expert support, your Italian wedding will be a seamless and unforgettable celebration of love. Contact Amoretti Weddings today for a consultation, and let us bring your vision to life with personalized attention and unique cost-saving benefits.