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How to plan the Perfect Tuscany Wedding
Step-By-Step guide
How to Plan the perfect Tuscany wedding
Dreaming of a romantic wedding in Tuscany? I don’t blame you! With its sunlit landscapes, charming villages, ancient castles and exquisite cuisine, Tuscany is one of Europe’s most coveted luxury wedding destinationsDreaming of a romantic wedding in Tuscany? I don’t blame you! With its sunlit landscapes, charming villages, ancient castles and exquisite cuisine, Tuscany is one of Europe’s most coveted luxury wedding destinations.
As a destination wedding photographer, I’ve had the honour of working with couples from the Netherlands, the US, and beyond—Tuscany always wins their hearts.
Here’s your definitive guide to planning a dreamy celebration that shines as bright as the Tuscan sun.
Why Tuscany is a dream wedding destination
As a destination wedding photographer with years of experience capturing love stories across Europe, I can confidently say: Tuscany has it all.
Breathtaking scenery – Picture dry-stone villas, cypress-lined hills, olive groves, and vineyard-covered slopes.
Romantic ambiance – Golden light, peaceful atmosphere, and that special Italian warmth.
Excellent weather – Mild Mediterranean climate ensures gorgeous outdoor celebrations almost any time of year.
Top-tier vendors – From venues to florists, planners, chefs—Tuscany’s creatives are among Europe’s finest.
Step 1: Pick your dream venue
Tuscany offers a wide palette of venue styles. Here are five standout options:
Castello di Cafaggio (Chianti) – Medieval castle with a private chapel, art-deco dining room, and a hilltop terrace overlooking vineyards. Feels straight out of a fairy tale.
Villa Boscarello (Val d’Orcia) – 17th-century villa surrounded by olive groves, with terraces and a pool, ideal for intimate summer celebrations.
Borgo Stomennano (Siena province) – Restored medieval village with rustic cottages, Italian gardens and refined vintage elegance.
Borghetto Poggio Bianco (central Tuscany) – Farmhouse-turned-stylish estate with wildflower meadows and in-house wedding planning.
Castello di Santa Maria Novella (hilltop castle) – A thousand-year-old marvel for couples dreaming of an epic, fairy-tale ceremony.
Tenuta di Sticciano (Certaldo)
An 18th-century estate surrounded by vineyards and olive trees. With panoramic views, multiple villas and space for multi-day celebrations, it’s perfect for relaxed yet refined weddings in the Tuscan countryside.
Guide to the perfect Tuscany wedding
Getting married in Tuscany is a dream come true for many couples. But planning a destination wedding can be daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with the area. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, don’t worry! In this article, I’ll guide you through the steps to plan your perfect Tuscany wedding.
Here is everything you need to know about getting married in Tuscany!
Step 2: Choose the perfect date
Choosing your wedding date in Tuscany is all about mood and timing:
- Spring & Early Autumn (Apr–Jun / Sep–Oct) – Ideal for outdoor ceremonies in bloom or autumnal glow, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
- Summer (Jul–Aug) – Great for al fresco dinners under starlight, though temperatures can reach 28–35 °C. Coastal or hill venues offer cool relief.
- Late Autumn & Winter (Oct–Feb) – Milder months with moody light, truffle seasons, and cozy indoor venues—think fireplaces and intimate dinners.
Step 3: Assemble your dream vendor team
- Wedding Planner – Essential if you’re planning from abroad. They streamline local logistics, contracts, and vendors.
- Photography – Hire someone who understands light, emotion, and that Tuscan vibe. I specialize in cinematic, story-driven weddings.
- Florist & Caterer – Go for seasonal local blooms and farm-to-table Italian cuisine.
- Music & Entertainment – Consider live Italian musicians to set the tone.
Step 4: Navigate legal requirements
Planning to legally wed in Italy? You’ll need to choose between legal (civil or religious) and symbolic ceremonies – each with its paperwork:
- Symbolic ceremony: No legal docs needed—but most couples get legally married in their home country.
- Civil ceremony: Conducted at the town hall. Requires ID, birth certificates, apostille, Nulla Osta. Start ~6 months early.
- Religious ceremony (Catholic or others): Requires baptismal, confirmation, or permission documents—plus pre-marital classes for Catholic weddings.
Step 5: Organize Travel & Accommodation
Accommodation: From villa rentals for intimate groups to luxury hotels for larger parties—choose what fits your style and guest list.
Transportation: Especially important for rural venues. Book private shuttles or minibuses so guests arrive together, on time, and stress-free.
Step 6: Treat your guests to unique experiences
Make your Tuscany wedding an experience they’ll cherish:
- Wine tasting in a local Chianti vineyard
- Cooking class learning regional specialties
- Sightseeing medieval hilltowns like San Gimignano or Montepulciano
- Outdoor adventure biking or hiking through vineyards
- Spa day to relax pre- or post-wedding
Top wedding planners in Tuscany
Working with a skilled wedding planner is a game‑changer. Here are some of my favourites:
• The Wedding Knot – Sophisticated, boho-rustic weddings in countryside settings
• Tuscan Tours & Weddings – 20+ years of experience with insider venue knowledge
• AMV Weddings – Creative, international luxury weddings with flawless execution
• A Taste of Italy – Elegant, tailor-made weddings with local charm and seamless coordination across Italy.
Final tips for a magical Tuscany wedding
- Book your venue early, especially in peak seasons
- Send Save-the-Dates 8–12 months ahead so guests can plan travel
- Embrace local customs, like welcome aperitifs or olive‑oil favors
- Visit Tuscany in advance, or partner with someone who knows it well
- Plan around light—golden hour is magical for photos and ambiance
