Planning a wedding in Italy requires careful coordination, from securing the perfect venue to ensuring guests have time to book travel. This Italian wedding planning timeline outlines the ideal Italian wedding planning timeline to help couples navigate each step, from legal requirements to day-of details, ensuring a seamless and stress-free destination wedding experience.
12 to 16 Months Before: Secure Your Venue & Key Vendors
- Choose Your Wedding Destination & Venue
Popular locations like Lake Como, Tuscany, and the Amalfi Coast book up quickly, especially in peak seasons. Securing your venue early allows you to start planning with confidence. - Hire a Wedding Planner or Liaison
If you already have a planner in Italy, consider our liaison service to guide you through vendor communication from home. A local expert can help you navigate the process, manage contracts, and ensure your vision is executed smoothly. - Set the Budget & Guest List
Destination weddings often include multiple days of events, such as welcome dinners and farewell brunches. Factor in costs for venue, catering, travel, and accommodations when setting your budget. - Send Save the Dates
Guests need ample time to arrange travel. Send Save the Dates 12 to 16 months before to ensure they can book flights and accommodations early.
9 to 12 Months Before: Book Vendors & Begin Designing
- Secure Key Vendors
Many vendors book out a year in advance. Confirm your:- Photographer & videographer
- Florist & décor specialist
- Caterer & cake designer
- Entertainment (live musicians, DJ, or band)
- Design & Order Your Wedding Invitations
Destination wedding invites should be both informative and elegant, reflecting the beauty of your Italian venue. Consider:- Hand-drawn venue illustrations
- Bilingual wording
- Wax seals, gold foil, or vellum wraps
- Plan Guest Accommodations
Secure room blocks at hotels or villa rentals and provide guests with travel recommendations.
6 to 8 Months Before: Finalize the Details
- Mail Wedding Invitations
Invitations should go out 6 to 8 months before to allow guests time to book flights and accommodations. - Plan Your Wedding Menu
Italian weddings feature multi-course feasts, often including an aperitivo hour, handmade pasta, fresh seafood, and Millefoglie cake. - Confirm the Ceremony & Reception Details
Work with your planner, venue, or liaison service to finalize:- Ceremony timeline
- Seating arrangements
- Transportation logistics
- Plan Pre- & Post-Wedding Events
Many destination weddings in Italy include a welcome aperitivo the night before and a farewell brunch the day after.
3 to 5 Months Before: Travel Logistics & Day-of Stationery
- Book Your Travel & Confirm Guest RSVPs
Couples should arrive in Italy at least 5 to 7 days before the wedding to allow for final walkthroughs, vendor meetings, and adjusting to the time zone. - Order Day-of Wedding Stationery
Ensure your place cards, menus, seating charts, and welcome signs are designed to match your wedding aesthetic. - Arrange Local Printing for Large Signage
If you’re printing seating charts or welcome signs in Italy, confirm a local vendor or coordinate with your venue. - Prepare for Packing & Transporting Wedding Essentials
- Flat-pack small stationery items (place cards, menus, favor tags) in protective folders
- Carry wedding attire in a garment bag as a carry-on
- Use luggage organizers for travel essentials and wedding accessories
1 Month Before: Final Preparations
- Finalize Seating Chart & Print Locally (If Needed)
Many couples choose to print large signage in Italy to avoid travel concerns. - Confirm Legal Documents & Marriage License
If having a legally recognized wedding, check requirements with your local consulate and the Italian town hall. - Prepare Welcome Gifts & Wedding Favors
Consider local Italian gifts such as:- Mini bottles of olive oil or limoncello
- Sugared almonds for a Confettata station
Wedding Week: Final Walkthrough & Celebrations
- Pick Up Any Pre-Arranged Stationery & Signage
If you have arranged for printing in Italy, schedule a pickup or delivery to the venue a few days before the wedding. - Walk Through the Venue & Meet Vendors
Arrive early in the week to finalize logistics with your planner, venue, and key vendors. - Enjoy a Welcome Aperitivo with Guests
Many couples host a casual pre-wedding gathering with Italian wines and antipasti. - Relax & Enjoy Your Wedding Day
With everything planned and prepared, it’s time to celebrate your unforgettable wedding in Italy.
Need Help with Wedding Stationery for Your Italian Wedding?
We specialize in luxury wedding stationery tailored to destination weddings in Italy. From custom venue illustrations to matching day-of signage, we ensure every detail aligns beautifully with your wedding vision.