As we enter the engagement season, many newly engaged couples are getting excited to plan their weddings. Many find the idea of a destination wedding in Italy attractive, and rightly so. Tuscany is one of the most famous Italian wedding destinations, as a region that is beautiful and rich in culture and history.
Planning a wedding in Tuscany promises a stunning backdrop, a romantic ambiance, and an unforgettable celebration. However, understanding the costs is crucial for couples considering a destination wedding.
As a planner specializing in destination weddings in Italy and doing multiple celebrations in Tuscany every year, I see that many couples contacting me have a very vague understanding of actual costs. It is pretty logical as we usually plan our weddings only once. However, it is essential to gather the cost information before planning as it can inform the decisions and confirm if the destination wedding is right for you and aligns with your financial expectations.
Here’s an updated breakdown of what to expect when planning a luxury wedding in this beautiful region based on the actual numbers as fresh as 2024.
1. Venue Rental
Historical Villas or Castles: Around €10,000 - €20,000 for a full-day rental, depending on exclusivity, location, and season.
Countryside Estates and Agriturismos: Typically range from €5,000 - €12,000.
Tuscany’s unique venues offer charm and character, but popular spots book up quickly, so it’s wise to plan early!
2. Catering
High-Quality Catering Services: €250 - €400 per guest, which includes a multi-course meal, local wines, open bar, and service staff.
Luxury Options: For Michelin-star quality, expect €500+ per person.
Couples can expect to budget €1,000+ per person for a luxury wedding experience, with food and drink as a major highlight of a Tuscan wedding.
3. Flowers and Décor
Floral Design Minimum: Most floral designers require a minimum spend of €5,000 - €6,000.
High-End Floral and Custom Decor: For larger-scale designs and installations, the cost can range from €8,000 - €15,000. Sometimes, significantly more.
Luxury floral designers create intricate installations to transform spaces, from ceremony arches to lush table settings that capture Tuscany’s romantic vibe.
4. Photography and Videography
Photography: Starts at €5,000 and can go up to €12,000 - €15,000+ for renowned professionals and multi-day coverage.
Videography: Pricing is similar, starting at €5,000 for cinematic packages.
These services ensure every moment is beautifully captured with high-end equipment and editing, making it a worthy investment and a family treasure.
5. Music, Lighting, and Entertainment
Ceremony Music: €500 - €3,000, depending on the number of musicians
Live Bands: €3,000 - €15,000 for skilled bands that cover a range of music styles. If a band arrives from outside the region/country, you should add the travel and lodging cost, plus a technical rider.
DJs: €1,500 - €3,000 for professional setups and sound systems.
In addition, some couples consider fireworks, live performers, live painting, dancers, etc. Entertainment is key to setting the mood for the ceremony, reception, and Welcome Party.
6. Wedding Planning Services
Some planners charge a flat fee, which depends on the number of guests and events and typically ranges between €6 – 14,000. Planners based in Italy charge an extra 22% of tax in addition to their fees.
Many wedding planners charge significantly more than a flat rate, often taking a percentage of the total budget, typically 10-15%.
This allows planners to scale their services to the level of customization desired, which is particularly valuable for a destination wedding where logistics are complex.
7. Beauty Services
The typical charge for beauty services comes to 700 – 800 for bridal hair and makeup, and 100 – 150 euros per service for the bridal party.
8. Transportation
Private Shuttles and Transfers: €1,000 - €3,000 depending on the number of guests and travel distances.
Offering shuttles to and from the venue ensures guests can enjoy the day without worrying about logistics.
9. Celebrant, Legal Fees and Paperwork
For couples opting for a legally binding ceremony, expect fees ranging from €500 to €2,000 depending on the paperwork and translations required.
If you need a celebrant for a symbolic wedding, you should allocate from €100 to €3,000 depending on the scope and celebrant's involvement - unless you have a willing and capable family member or friend who will do it for you.
10. Accommodation for Guests
Luxury Villas and Estates: starting at €300 - €500+ per room per night.
Boutique Hotels: starting at €200 - €350 per room per night.
Typically, wedding guests pay for their own accommodation.
11. Extra Events and Activities
It is customary to organize at least one extra event in addition to the wedding day for the guests who traveled far to celebrate with you. Usually, it is a Welcome Party, which takes place the night before the wedding. It can also be a brunch the day after. Often, I help my clients to organize a variety of fun activities, such as wine and olive oil tasting, cooking classes, vintage car excursions, sightseeing tours, etc.
Estimated Total Cost
For 80-100 guests, expect a budget of €80,000 - €120,000, with an average spend of over €1,000 per guest for a luxurious experience.
High-End Tuscany Wedding: these weddings have multiple extras and typically start at €2,000 per guest.
By understanding these costs, couples can set realistic expectations and prioritize what’s most important to them. Tuscany offers an unmatched backdrop for a destination wedding, and with the proper budget, it’s possible to create a breathtaking experience that you and your guests will never forget.
Tips for Budget Management
Off-Peak Season: Opting for a wedding during the off-peak season (October to April) can result in lower venue and accommodation costs.
Weekday Weddings: Hosting the event on a weekday may offer additional savings.
Guest List: Limiting the number of guests can significantly impact the overall budget.
Please get in touch if you are considering a destination wedding in Italy!
Let’s plan this exciting adventure together!
Photography credits:
Jules Bower Photography, David Bastianoni Studio, Elena Foresto Photography, Anna Fowler Photography, Aqua Wedding Photography, Michael Zennaro Photography, Gianni Aiazzi Photography, Irene Fucci Photography, Lace and Luce Photography, Matteo Cuzzola Photography, Innar Hunt Films, Diego Taroni Photography.
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