5 Mistakes to Avoid When Planning an Elopement in Italy

Practical Advice for a Smoother, More Meaningful Wedding Abroad

Eloping in Italy sounds like a dream — and for many couples, it truly is.
From Tuscan hills to Venice canals, the romance feels built-in.

But even a small, intimate celebration can be derailed by simple planning mistakes that steal the focus from what matters: you, your partner, and the experience.

Here are five common missteps to avoid — and what to do instead.

❌ Mistake 1: Trying to Make It “Big, But Small”

You’re eloping… but trying to recreate a full wedding day with:

A packed timeline

12 outfit changes

Styled decor setups

Group dinner, tour, spa day, and boat ride — all in one

Do this instead:
Strip it down. Choose 2–3 core moments and give them space.
The beauty of elopement is in slowness and intention, not scheduling.

❌ Mistake 2: Not Accounting for Tourists or Timing

Italy is stunning — and busy.
Planning vows in front of the Trevi Fountain or Piazza San Marco at 2 pm?
Expect hundreds of strangers.

✅ Do this instead:
Plan early morning or golden hour ceremonies.
Choose lesser-known locations or nearby towns (e.g., elope in Fiesole instead of Florence center).

🎞 Want location tips? → Contact us

❌ Mistake 3: Overlooking Symbolic Ceremonies

Trying to do a legal wedding in Italy without a planner?
You’re in for paperwork, translations, and government delays — even for civil ceremonies.

✅ Do this instead:
Get legally married at home (or in Denmark), then have a symbolic ceremony in Italy.
It looks and feels the same, and you control every moment.

📦 Need help? → Elopement Packages

❌ Mistake 4: Choosing Style Over Meaning

Pinterest can tempt you into choosing what looks impressive, not what feels like you.

Big villa with no intimacy

A designer dress that doesn’t fit the setting

A vendor team that feels like a production crew

✅ Do this instead:
Choose authentic over extravagant.
Pick people and places that make you feel calm, seen, and real.

🎥 See our intimate approach → View Portfolio

❌ Mistake 5: Forgetting to Pause and Breathe

Even small weddings can become overwhelming.
When you're coordinating logistics, travel, timelines, and expectations, you can forget what the day is really about.

✅ Do this instead:
Built in quiet. Take 15 minutes post-ceremony to walk, eat, laugh, or sit together.
Let the camera roll — those are often the most emotional moments.

💭 Final Thought

Eloping in Italy should feel like your love story, not a checklist.
Avoid these common mistakes and your day will feel lighter, calmer, and more connected — exactly how it should be.

📩 Want help planning your elopement in Italy? Let’s talk → Contact Us