Couples getting legally married in Italy are amazed at the stateliness of the civil ceremony. 'Italy really takes marriage seriously!' commented a guest at a recent wedding in Colle Val d'Elsa, a 10th century medieval village between Florence and Siena historically recognized for its crystal glassware craftsmanship and thus nicknamed the 'Bohemia of Italy'. The celebrating Councillor was wearing the traditional Italian red, white and green sash for official events and guests sat on period hand-carved mahogany chairs while the articles of law governing the rights and responsibilities of married couples were read in Italian and simultaneously translated into the couple's mother tongue language.

Italians are very proud to host civil weddings and some officiants go so far as to dedicate personalized poems or readings to the bride and groom during the ceremony. Most Wedding Halls provide a parchment copy of the Marriage Certificate for framing, along with a small gift to remind the bride and groom of the fact that their act of matrimony will be filed in the town hall registry - forever! Some towns go so far as to offer a toast to the entire wedding party with snacks and great Italian prosecco. Each Italian Wedding is a special and unique event.
Legal Civil Ceremonies are held only in authorized areas or Wedding Halls which are usually located at the headquarters for the town government. The buildings have a historical importance for the town and are almost always wonderful examples of medieval, renaissance, neo-classical and even contemporary Italian architecture. Wedding Halls are decorated with period works of art and furniture, walls are often frescoed or lined with priceless paintings and tapestries.

Each town government establishes a fee schedule for residents and non-residents marrying in the Wedding Hall and these fees are subject to change each year. Booking rules are also set by the town government and though times for advance booking may differ considerably from town to town, the typical timeframe is six months prior to the wedding date.

Paperwork requirements focus on certification of no-impediment to marriage from the couple's country and/or sworn statements/affidavits attesting freedom to marry. All paperwork is submitted to the town hall wedding office when the couple goes to sign their wedding promise two or three days before the wedding date. Although the paperwork is simple and the steps are clear, it is always best to hire a local person to deal with the Italian authorities to make sure the process goes smoothly. This person may also act as translator as required by law for the wedding promise and wedding day ceremony.

Two witnesses are required to be present during the ceremony and sign the official register alongside the bride, the groom and the translator. All must be at least 18 years old and have a valid passport or ID.

Some wedding halls provide music during the ceremony, such as the Red Hall in Florence, though couples may decide to bring their own musicians for a more personal touch.

Photographers are welcome with a reminder not to point flashbulbs directly at any artwork.

Rice and confetti may be thrown outside the town hall building.

Write to us for a free consultation