Your Italian Wedding Timeline: What to Plan (and When)
Planning a destination wedding in Italy is one of the most exciting journeys you will ever take — but it’s also one that needs structure, clarity and the right timing.
Because while Italy feels effortless on the surface, the planning behind it needs order, organisation and the right people in the right places.
12–18 Months Before: PRIME BOOKING WINDOW
Tuscany - Think golden vineyards, restored stone villas, and countryside estates. Why book early: Tuscany is one of the most in-demand wedding destinations in the world. The best venues book out 18+ months ahead, especially May–June & September.
Amalfi Coast - Positano, Ravello, Amalfi - postcard-perfect but limited in space. Why book early: Small inventory + huge global demand = book 12–24 months ahead. Venues here often host only a limited number of weddings each season.
Puglia - Massive trend rise thanks to masserie, olive groves, and coastal beauty. Why book early: Puglia is booming. The top masserie often book a year in advance - and some require minimum stays.
Lake Como - Luxury villas, iconic views, celebrity appeal. Why book early: Exclusive villas are often booked two years ahead for weekends. Weekdays offer more flexibility.
Veneto & Prosecco Hills - Elegant villas, historic palaces, and the countryside near Venice. Why book early: Weekends go first, and spring/autumn dates are especially competitive.
9–12 Months Before: BUILD YOUR TEAM
Once the venue is locked, it’s time to secure key vendors:
Photographer
Videographer
Caterer
Florist
Music & entertainment
Celebrant
Planner (if not done earlier)
Accommodation blocks for guests
Why this timing matters:
Italy’s wedding season is short, mostly May to October. Top vendors can only take on so many weddings, so they book quickly.
6–9 Months Before: DESIGN & EXPERIENCE PHASE
This is where the wedding becomes yours. Create your design direction & moodboard, finalise ceremony & reception layout, tastings (in Italy or virtual), floral concept, guest itinerary (tours, dinners, transfers).
Different regions inspire different styles:
Sicily → bold colours, citrus details, baroque venues
Umbria → rustic romance, stone villages, medieval charm
Rome countryside → villas with fountains, cypress-lined drives
Dolomites → alpine elegance, dramatic mountain backdrops
4–6 Months Before: THE PRACTICAL STAGE
Final menu selection
Final floral selection
Transport plans
Guest communication
Beauty trials (if travelling early)
Legal paperwork timeline confirmed (if having a civil ceremony)
Tip: Italy’s bureaucracy requires precision: your planner will guide you through it so nothing is missed.
2–3 Months Before: FINAL DETAILS
Full timeline + master schedule
Seating plan
Final walk-through (virtual or in person)
All vendor confirmations
Weather backup plan
Welcome bag prep
Guest reminders
This is also when couples start getting excited - and a little emotional. That’s normal.
Wedding Month: BEN ARRIVATI!
Whether in Tuscany, Amalfi, Puglia, Sicily, or Venice, this is when everything you’ve planned comes together. If you work with a planner, this is the time when you get to actually enjoy the week, not coordinate it.
Why Planning Early REALLY Matters in Italy
Because Italy is seasonal, logistically unique, incredibly popular, full of venues with strict caps and home to vendors who book out early. Planning 12–18 months ahead is the sweet spot for Australian couples - especially when you’re navigating distance, time zones, and regional differences. As your planner, I help you:
Choose the right region for your style & budget
Avoid hidden fees (service, IVA, music taxes, venue rules)
Match the right vendors to your vision
Build a clear timeline
Make this process calm, organised, and enjoyable
