Even if the actual figures are difficult to verify at the national statistics offices, it’s undeniable that marriage abroad is trendy! The practice of getting married abroad is becoming accepted in many countries. In the United Kingdom, for example, one couple in four chooses to marry abroad.

It is possible to say “yes” abroad and have the wedding legally recognized in your country of residence, especially if you are part of the European community, in which case, the administrative procedures are simplified.

In the city Venice, it is now so common for foreigners to get married that a webcam service has been set up to allow guests who can’t be at the ceremony to follow remotely through a live broadcast.

First, you must file a “Nulla Osta”, a certification of the capacity to marry, with the consulate. Depending on your country of residence, you will be asked by the local government to register the marriage at the Italian local prefecture. The average time to complete all the formalities is 1 to 2 months.

Yes, you can get married religiously in Italy, but, be aware that the local curies are often quite demanding about your religious background and your marriage preparation.

The wedding planning profession has developed at high speed in recent years. On the internet, you will find a number of specialists and destinations that will help you create the wedding of your dreams.

Contact a wedding planner, preferably a local agency. Check its references: How many weddings done a year? What testimonies were received? Is the agency registered (I.VA code for Italy)? With minimal research on the internet you can find essential information about your wedding planner and validate their references and experience.

Saying ‘yes’ abroad and having your marriage legally recognized in your country of residence is possible!”

This obviously varies, depending on the desired ceremony and the number of guests. However, more and more people who choose to marry abroad find they spend less. Indeed, you will find it easier to organize a wedding with only a few, intimate guests abroad then in the case of a wedding in your hometown, where you would feel obliged to extend more invitations to acquaintances. You can also plan to honeymoon in the same destination country, hitting two goals in one!

An additional variable in the cost of planning a wedding in Venice will be the period in which you plan to marry. During the low seasons, hotels and restaurants offer special rates that will allow you to save substantially.