Italian weddings have long been celebrated for their grandeur, steeped in tradition and elegance. However, the dream of a quintessential Italian wedding comes with an increasingly hefty price tag. According to a study by Facile.it, the average cost of a wedding in Italy today stands at €13,721—nearly double the expense of weddings in the 1980s when €7,000 sufficed for a lavish celebration.
Why Weddings Cost More Than Ever
Over the last two years, about 21% of Italians who opted not to get married cited financial reasons for their decision. For couples who did take the plunge, wedding expenses have soared, with 20% spending between €20,000 and €50,000. In southern Italy, where weddings are often larger and more extravagant, costs can run 17% higher than in the north, reflecting differences in guest numbers and cultural expectations.
Turning to Loans for Love
To make their dream day a reality, over 70% of Italian couples required financial assistance. While parental support remains a go-to solution, an increasing number of couples are turning to personal loans. The study highlights that 10% of newlyweds sought loans for wedding-related expenses, a trend virtually non-existent a few decades ago. On average, couples applying for loans request €9,000 with a five-year repayment plan, a shift reflecting the growing acceptance of credit in Italy.
Regional and Generational Differences
The Italian south boasts larger guest lists—averaging 110 attendees compared to fewer than 80 in the north—with some celebrations hosting as many as 300 guests. Despite these differences, traditions like marrying in one’s hometown remain steadfast. Surprisingly, the type of wedding gifts has evolved: cash envelopes dominate at 50%, while traditional gifts have halved since the 1980s, and honeymoon contributions via bank transfers have surged from 6% in the early 2000s to 26% today.
The Honeymoon: A Non-Negotiable
Even as costs rise, the honeymoon remains a cherished tradition, with 80% of couples prioritizing it. However, a growing number—over 25%—choose to delay their post-wedding getaway to manage expenses better.
Marrying Tradition and Modernity
Italian weddings continue to be a symbol of love and festivity, blending time-honored customs with modern financial realities. Whether it’s a lavish affair in southern Italy or an intimate gathering in the north, couples are finding creative ways to celebrate their big day without compromising on their dreams.
For those considering an Italian wedding, the numbers tell a compelling story of how love, tradition, and financial pragmatism intertwine in today’s world.
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