Italy allows legally binding civil ceremonies for non-residents, but the paperwork (including a Nulla Osta and, for Irish citizens, an Atto Notorio) takes time and varies by comune, which is exactly why a local planner is worth their fee. Couples who would rather keep it simple often hold a symbolic ceremony in Italy and complete the legal marriage at home in Ireland beforehand.
The most popular regions are Tuscany for rolling-countryside villas, Lake Como and Lake Garda for grand lakeside venues, the Amalfi Coast and Sorrento for cliffside views, Puglia for rustic masserie, and Rome and Florence for city celebrations. Late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) give you warm weather without the peak-August heat and crowds.
An Italian destination wedding for a typical Irish group usually runs from around the same as a mid-range wedding at home up to considerably more for an exclusive-use villa or coastal estate, with venue hire, catering and a planner the biggest line items. The favourable thing is that wine, food and flowers are often excellent value. Tell any of the destination weddings specialists below your guest numbers and budget and they will put together a tailored quote.