everything you need to know to elope in italy
What's an elopement?
The first thing you might want to know if you're considering to elope in Italy is probably what an elopement is! Luckily the modern definition of elopement goes way beyond the old "running away to get married in secret". In facts eloping nowadays means having a small, intimate and authentic wedding, focused on the experience and the emotions of the day. An elopement is a stress-free celebration that truly reflects your values and personality as a couple, and gives you the absolute freedom of creating a unique wedding day with no rules!
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Why eloping?
Every couple has its own reasons to elope: some prefer to go for a smaller and more intimate day, some want to gift their guests with an unforgettable experience, others want to go on an adventure following their soul. If having an intimate and stress-free celebration, 100% focused on your love and authentic to who you are sounds good to you, an elopement in Italy is definitely what you're looking for. Skip all of the boring traditions and crowded ceremonies, and focus on experiences over stuff instead. You'll be able to build your own wedding day, at your own rules.
The cool thing about elopements is that they can take place wherever you want. What about traveling to your dream destination and celebrate your wedding day in front of an incredible landscape? Especially if you bring your closest family and friends with you, a destination elopement will be a truly unforgettable experience. The possibilities are infinite, talk to your local elopement photographer and get inspired!
Where to elope in Italy?
Choosing where to elope in Italy is not easy, but you can start by thinking about what scenery you like the most: the warm Tuscan countryside or the romantic Venice? The ancient Rome or the majestic Dolomites? Browse my favorite list of elopement/wedding destinations here.
A LIST OF THE BEST DESTINATIONS FOR YOUR ITALY ELOPEMENT
Northern Italy
Central Italy
Southern Italy
How to elope in Italy
In both cases, it is highly recommended to get in touch with your Embassy in Italy for any paperwork and legal information. Another great idea would be to work with a local wedding planner who will help you in the process!
Italy recognizes both religious and civil wedding ceremonies. You can either choose to have an official wedding ceremony here, or a symbolic one (after getting married back home) including vows exchange and celebrations.
A list of my favorite elopement vendors in Italy
- Flowers: Flovver, Materia, Ilaria Marrocco Design, Ophicina Botanica
- Wedding planners: Ila Malu, Parade Wedding, Pamela Pizzardo
- Videographers: Memento Story Film, Luno Films, We stories
- Hair + makeup: Yana Rybalko, Laura Coco, Sara Onori
- Ateliers: Ariel Spose, Atelier Eme, Marryme Roma
When to elope in Italy
Although summer is the warmest and sunniest season in Italy, we're blessed with nice weather almost all-year-long. In facts, I would highly recommend to consider other moments of the year for your elopement, to avoid the huge touristic crowds and fully experience Italy in different colors and shades. For example, one of my absolute favorites is autumn! In general, the best months for an elopement in Italy are: April - May - June - July - September - October.
What to do on your elopement day
Once more, there are no rules for what you should do on your elopement day. I would personally include emotional and significant moments as getting ready, first look, wedding vows exchange, ceremony, a small reception and celebrations. But the coolest part is that an elopement allows to add whatever special activity you as a couple like doing. Here's some fun examples:
- hiking in the Dolomites
- wine and cheese tasting in Tuscany
- boat ride along the Amalfi Coast
- handmade pizza dinner
- horseback tour in the countryside
- attending a live concert
- campfire on the beach
...add yours!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Not necessarily. The cost depends on how elaborated your experience will be, and if you'll travel for it. You should choose to elope for the meaning, not for economical convenience.
My recommendations are: an elopement photographer and videographer, a local wedding planner, documents and papers, a good dose of creativity... and lots of love!
I would highly recommend to hire one, especially for destination elopements. Finding the perfect ceremony location, local vendors and arrange the legal procedures will be extremely easier this way!
No. An elopement can be celebrated between the bride and groom only, or surrounded by the closest family/friends! Anything between 0-10 guests can still be considered an elopement.
Elopement photography in Italy
When eloping in Italy, you'll 100% want a photographer to capture your incredible day! My recommendation would be to find someone local to Italy, and specialized in destination elopements. In facts, not many Italian wedding photographers know how to properly shoot an elopement. Your Italian elopement photographer can also offer a lot of help in case you don't have a wedding planner and need some incredible location ideas for the ceremony! I would definitely love to hear about your elopement in Italy, and be your Italian elopement photographer!
elopement photography coverage starting at 3300€
Including:
- 4 hours coverage
- 1 photographer
- 200+ edited images
- 2+ animated gifs
- online private gallery
- personal printing rights
Here's a basic package I've prepared for my couples. Since every elopement is unique, reach out and let's talk about yours! I can't wait to tailor a custom quote for your own special day.
GET INSPIRED:
