If you’re looking for a destination that combines rich history, stunning scenery, and a romantic atmosphere, then a wedding in Sicily might be just what you need. With its gorgeous beaches, ancient architecture, and mouth-watering cuisine, Sicily offers an unforgettable experience for brides and grooms who want to make their big day extra special.
Planning a wedding in Sicily may seem like a daunting task, but with the right preparation and guidance, it can be a stress-free and enjoyable experience! So whether you’re dreaming of a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, a destination wedding in Sicily is an opportunity to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Get ready to say “I do” in one of the most beautiful Italian destinations with our guide to planning a wedding in Sicily
Why Choose Sicily?
Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, offers a unique and unforgettable destination for your wedding celebration with its scenic beauty, rich culture, delicious food, warm climate, and welcoming hospitality. You’ll find plenty of idyllic locations that will make your wedding day unforgettable. The island also boasts stunning landscapes with clear blue waters, rugged cliffs, and dramatic coastlines. From the stunning beaches to the charming countryside, there are many picturesque backdrops to choose from for your wedding photos. Plus Sicily boasts a warm and pleasant climate year-round, with mild winters and hot summers with the Sicilians known for their warm and welcoming hospitality.
Another reason couples choose this destination is because of its delicious cuisine, which blends Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. From seafood to pasta dishes, the island’s cuisine is sure to delight your taste buds. Sicily is also an ideal destination for couples interested in exploring history and culture, with ancient ruins, historic castles, and stunning Baroque architecture.
Choosing the Perfect Wedding Venue in Sicily
The first step in planning your destination wedding in Sicily is choosing the perfect wedding venue. The Italian island has some of the most spectacular wedding venues in the world. From picturesque vineyards to historic castles, the options are endless. So whether you’re planning a romantic beach wedding or an extravagant affair, there’s something for everyone in Sicily.
The most important points you’ll need to think about when choosing where to host your big day are:
- Budget: Think about how much you can realistically spend on your wedding. To do this, it’s best to find out how much the core aspects of your day will be. Next, go through your wish list to determine what you can include. Weddings in Sicily can range in price, so it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Start by researching vendors in your price range, and then narrow down your choices based on the type of wedding you’re looking for.
- Size: Destination weddings work for any size wedding. Whether you’re planning a small, intimate occasion or if you’ve got a large number of guests that you’d love to be with you, there will be a venue that can accommodate your guests. But make sure that you’re aware of capacity limits, including accessibility and nearby accommodation.
- Amenities: You’ll find that many wedding venues in Sicily offer a variety of amenities, from catering to planning services. Consider what amenities you need and what you can source independently when selecting a venue in Sicily.
- Ask questions: The most important point when searching for your dream venue is to ask lots of questions. Think of questions beforehand with your partner and bridesmaids so that you’re powered with as much information as possible. Speak to the staff and get a feel for how they interact with you and how they can help you make your dream wedding a reality.
Locations and Venues According To Your Style
The beauty of the island is evoked in so many different ways, from picturesque sandy beaches to historical landmarks and charming towns. For example, a few of the most popular locations include Trapani for its rocky and rugged coastline, beautiful untouched spots, and quaint medieval streets. Another popular spot is Taormina, near Mount Etna, which is known for its volcanic landscapes, ancient theaters, and stunning beach views. Or you can make a statement on your special day by showcasing the incredible landscape views from Catania.
Examples of Venues For Your Wedding in Sicily:
- Castle: Castello Lanza Branciforte Is a historic castle that looks out to the stunning Palermo coastline. A venue of remarkable beauty, Castello Lanza’s ancient origins and historic past further increase its unique charm. Today, the venue represents the intersect between history and modernity, and is an ideal setting to celebrate your wedding day.
- Rustic: Tonnara di Marzamemi is one of the oldest and most important Sicilian properties, offering a gorgeous venue for rustic-style celebrations. For wedding events in full Sicilian style, Tonnara di Marzamemi provides the Loggia, overlooking the sea and old fisherman’s port, and the courtyard of the Palace of the family Bonaccorsi Princes of Reburdone.
- Countryside: La Chiusa Country House is a beautiful and tranquil farmhouse dating back to 1873, located between Noto and Modica. Immersed in the Sicilian countryside with olive and pomegranate trees and a pretty country church only 800 meters away, La Chiusa Country House is a perfect choice for couples looking to celebrate their nuptials in true Sicilian fashion.
- Seaside Villa: Villa Mon Repos is a luxurious 20th-century estate surrounded by the spectacular landscapes of Isola Bella and Mount Etna. Featuring a balcony with mountain and seaside views, the villa also offers 6 bedrooms, a pool and a stunning garden for wedding events.
- Hotel Resort: Zash Country Boutique Hotel is a stunning boutique hotel that elegantly blends historic detail with contemporary elements to experience the best of Sicily and its natural beauty. With picturesque views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, Zash Boutique Hotel provides 13 bedrooms, a gourmet restaurant, and an outdoor pool so that couples and their guests can enjoy a true modern Sicilian style wedding.
Finding the Right Vendors for Your Sicilian Wedding
Once you’ve chosen your perfect destination venue, it’s time to start looking for the right vendors to make your dream wedding come to life. Sicily is home to many talented vendors who specialize in weddings, from photographers to florists to caterers. So here are a few tips for finding the right vendors for your own wedding day:
- Research: Start by researching vendors in the local area and read reviews from other couples. This will help you narrow down your options and find vendors who are experienced and reputable. Local vendors will be familiar with the area and know where to source the best elements you need. For some of the top wedding vendors in Sicily, check out WedBoard’s Sicily section to get inspired and start connecting with your favorite ones. You can easily choose between different vendor categories to find the perfect supplier.
- Reviews and Referrals: Ask people you know who have celebrated their nuptials in the area for their referrals. You can also read reviews online or reach out to other couples. It can help to reassure you if you know that your vendors have also worked with out-of-town couples. Another option is to ask your wedding venue for a list of vendors they’ve worked with.
- Meet with vendors: Once you’ve narrowed down your list of vendors, meet with them in person to discuss your vision for the wedding. It’s important to take time out to meet in person so that you get a better feel for their personalities and ensure you understand each other’s vision.
- Samples: Before you sign any contracts, ask vendors to show you samples of their work. You’ll get a better idea of their style and help you make sure they’re the right fit for your wedding.
- Read contracts: Make sure to read the contracts thoroughly before signing. It’s essential to give yourself plenty of time to take in every point, to understand exactly what you’re getting from each vendor. This will avoid surprises down the road!
Making the Most of the Local Culture and Cuisine
Sicily is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes and delicious cuisines in the world. From the stunning views of Mount Etna to the delicious traditional dishes, there are many ways to make the most of the local culture and cuisine. Here are a few tips:
- Explore: Sicily is known for its delicious cuisine, and many couples opt to serve traditional Sicilian dishes at their weddings. Consider incorporating local dishes into your menu and make sure your guests get to experience the best of Sicilian cuisine. For example, Arancini, Caponata, Pasta alla Norma, Busiate al pesto Trapanese, Sarde a beccafico, and Cannoli are just some of the popular dishes of the region. When selecting a caterer, make sure to ask about their experience in preparing traditional Sicilian dishes and make sure the food will be suitable for all guests.
- Incorporate local traditions: Sicily is a culturally rich region, and many couples opt to incorporate local traditions into their weddings. From traditional Sicilian dances to local music, there are many ways to make your wedding a truly unique experience.
- Visit the local attractions: Sicily is home to some of the most beautiful attractions in the world, from the ancient ruins of Agrigento to the stunning beaches of Taormina. So if you’re planning a wedding weekend, consider including excursions, tours, and activities to make the most of everyone’s time in Sicily.
- Local culture: You’ll probably visit Sicily a couple of times during the planning process, so take the opportunity to take in the local culture, and find ways to include it in your special day. For example, head to local markets to source traditional materials, local flowers, or decoration details.
Important Considerations for Planning a Sicilian Wedding
When planning a Sicilian wedding, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. From the local laws and customs to the climate and the type of food served. Here are a few important factors to keep in mind:
- Local laws and customs: Every country has its own laws and customs, and it’s important to familiarize yourself with these before planning your wedding in Sicily. This will help you avoid any unnecessary complications. This also means making sure you have all of the right legal documents for your nuptials such as a valid passport, ID card, birth certificate, the Nulla Osta, and any divorce papers or death certificates if you’ve been previously married,
- Seasons: The time of year you get married in will depend on your style and needs. Summer is best for warmth, sunshine, bright blue skies, and outdoor celebrations. During winter you’ll find the best rates and fewer crowds, plus you can make the most of the citrus season. Spring and fall are best for moderate temperatures and gorgeous seasonal colors.
- Venue restrictions: Every venue has its own set of restrictions, and it’s important to familiarize yourself with the restrictions before booking a venue. Make sure to ask about the restrictions and make sure they won’t interfere with your wedding plans.
How to Create a Memorable Experience for Your Guests
Creating a memorable experience for your guests is an important part of planning a successful wedding. From the ceremony to the reception, there are many ways to ensure your guests have a wonderful time. Here are a few tips for creating a memorable experience for your guests:
- Personalization: Personal touches can make a big difference in the ceremony. Consider including a personalized reading or writing your own vows to make the ceremony unique and special.
- Choose a signature cocktail: A signature cocktail is a great way to add a personal touch to your wedding and make it more memorable. Make the most of Sicilian and Italian flavors to show off your destination. For example, a Negroni or Amaro Averna.
- Interactive elements: Incorporating interactive elements into your wedding is a great way to keep your guests entertained and engaged. Consider including traditional games, photo booths with Italian-themed props, or a local Sicilian band to make the day more enjoyable for your guests.
- Create a meaningful send-off: The send-off is often the last thing your guests will remember about your wedding, so it’s important to make it special. This could be a sparkler send-off with the stunning Sicilian backdrop or a special song to make the moment even more memorable.
Tips for Planning a Stress-Free Wedding in Sicily
With the right tips and tricks planning your Sicilian destination wedding doesn’t have to be overwhelming. There are lots of ways to ease any stress including:
- Hire a wedding planner: A wedding planner in Sicily will help take the stress off your shoulders, especially if they’re local with an abundance of knowledge about the area. It also helps if they have experience working with international couples. This way you can trust that they can lead the planning process and create the wedding of your dreams.
- Delegate tasks: Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, and it’s important to delegate tasks to make the process easier. Involve your family and friends in the planning process and assign tasks to each person to make the process more manageable.
- Take time for yourself: Make sure to take time for yourself to relax and recharge. Plan a few days off from organizing to focus on yourselves, make sure you’re feeling your best, and remind yourselves why you’re planning the magical day. This could be a staycation to a spa retreat or a special date night.
- Set expectations: It’s important to set realistic expectations when planning a wedding. Don’t expect everything to be perfect and remember that it’s okay to make mistakes. Have some backups in place to ease any worries.
- Enjoy the process: Planning a wedding can be stressful, but it’s also an incredibly exciting and special time. Enjoy the process and don’t forget to have fun.
How to Plan a Wedding That Reflects Your Unique Style
Your wedding should be a reflection of your unique style and personality. From the decorations to the music, there are many ways to make your wedding a true reflection of who you are as a couple. Here are a few tips for planning a wedding that reflects your unique style:
- Incorporate your personalities: Incorporating your personalities into the wedding is a great way to make it unique and special. Consider adding personal touches such as a favorite song, a theme your guests know you both love, or a reading from your favorite book to make the day even more special.
- Choose a signature color: Choosing a signature color is a great way to make your wedding stand out. Think about colors that represent your wedding style, the season, and the atmosphere you want to exude.
- Add special touches: Small special touches across your ceremony and reception can make a big difference in the overall feel of the wedding. You could incorporate personal touches such as homemade decorations, a favorite cocktail or dessert, or a song that is symbolic of your time together.
For more advice for planning a destination wedding in Sicily or anywhere across Italy, head to WedBoard. You can explore and price out stunning venues across Europe and find more inspiration for your special day. You’ll also discover more tips and inspiration including, Top Tuscany Wedding Venues and Villas, What is The Cost of a Wedding On the Amalfi Coast, and A Guide To Your Lake Como Wedding Costs.
Featured image: Rosita Lipari
