Same-sex wedding in Italy

Your gay wedding in Italy: celebrate your love!

Many same-sex couples have been waiting for this moment for a long time: to treat themselves to an unforgettable and original wedding far removed from traditional codes and ceremonies. Although the issue of same-sex wedding still raises a lot of controversy and is treated differently depending on the country, it is entirely possible to celebrate a same-sex wedding in Italy. Our wedding planning agency, specializing in organizing tailor-made weddings, is at your side to prepare your wedding ceremony according to your expectations, wishes, and desires. Discover our services and benefits to help you plan your big day!

in Europe

Same-Sex wedding in Europe: In the Process of Adoption

Same-sex wedding legislation is a recurring issue in parliamentary debates and the international press. For nearly 20 years, Northern European countries have begun legalizing same-sex wedding at varying speeds, depending on the governing parties and the customs of each country. While the Netherlands was the first country to adopt this legislation in the early 2000s, other countries such as France and Italy have taken longer to legislate on the issue, each for their own reasons and with varying results.
Some media outlets also note that Mediterranean countries, with a predominantly Catholic tradition, and Eastern European countries are taking longer to update their same-sex wedding legislation. Gay wedding is not yet fully recognized in all states. Indeed, this union does not grant the same rights depending on the country where it is celebrated. Today, 13 European countries legally recognize same-sex wedding . For example, France legalized it in 2013 under the government of Jean-Marc Ayrault. That year, parliament adopted the law authorizing civil unions between two women or two men. Furthermore, the decision on the matter will be voted on in Switzerland in December 2021 by referendum to validate or reject the government's bill on wedding for all.

in Italy

WEDDING FOR ALL: WHAT ABOUT ITALY?

Until 2016, Italy was one of the last countries not to have adopted legislation concerning same-sex unions. It is important to note that today, we cannot speak of "gay wedding" in Italy, but of a free union of people of the same sex. This is an important concept to emphasize since the recognition of gay wedding does not really exist in Italy. Indeed, Italy only authorizes wedding between a man and a woman. The union of two men or two women does not grant the same rights as wedding as defined by the Italian constitution. Consequently, it is not recognized as such for foreigners coming to celebrate a wedding in Italy. However, this union grants certain benefits and responsibilities provided for by wedding, particularly in matters of inheritance or adoption.
Let's move on to the question we're asking ourselves: is it possible to organize a gay wedding in Italy? As a wedding planner in the boot of Europe, we can organize a symbolic wedding ceremony. From entertainment to decoration, including choosing a caterer and organizing every last detail, we do everything to offer unforgettable wedding ceremonies... However, this ceremony will not have any legal value and will not grant any official rights. It will therefore be impossible to transcribe the Italian civil union into wedding upon your return to your home country.

the procedures

SAME-SEX WEDDING : THE STEPS TO TAKE

In countries where gay wedding is recognized, the conditions for celebrating the event are identical to those for a heterosexual wedding, including being of legal age, not being bound by another ongoing union, having no family ties between the spouses, consenting, etc. To celebrate your gay wedding at the town hall, you will need, just as for a wedding between a man and a woman, to contact the town hall of your municipality of residence or that of the place of residence of one of the parents of the spouses. Regarding the administrative file to be put together, it includes the identity documents of the future spouses, proof of address, a full copy of the birth certificates and the wedding contract drawn up by a notary. Once complete, the file must be sent to the town hall where the wedding will be celebrated. The banns will be published a few days before the ceremony. Please note that the processing time for applications varies depending on the town hall. It is therefore necessary to plan ahead for these administrative formalities. After the wedding, the spouses will receive the family record book, which will formalize the same-sex relationship. In Italy, while it is impossible for a gay couple to get married in a church, a civil union can be held at the town hall or at the wedding reception venue (provided you have obtained authorization from the authorities). To do this, you will need to contact the embassy or consulate of your home country to obtain the Nulla Osta, a document that certifies your eligibility for a union in Italy. Please note that a civil union—or registered partnership—is distinct from a civil wedding, as mentioned above.

the place

WHERE TO ORGANIZE AN ORIGINAL GAY WEDDING?

At Noces italiennes, our wedding planners are experienced in organizing all types of wedding ceremonies. Whether it's a civil wedding or a symbolic wedding, we adapt to your wishes to make your union an unforgettable moment, in the heart of Italy's most beautiful landscapes. You'll have the opportunity to choose your ideal wedding setting from over a hundred breathtaking locations. Italy's spectacular landscapes will satisfy all the desires of the bride and groom. Say "I do" in the heights of the Italian countryside in Tuscany or in a small trulli village in the heart of Puglia for a magnificent wedding in the sun. The decision to get married in Italy also allows you to discover the masserias of southern Italy, which are enchanting locations for an unusual ceremony. If you prefer to opt for a winter wedding, Italian castles are authentic and romantic wedding venues with unique architecture and atmosphere. Our wedding planners will also help you find the ideal location to organize a brunch the day after your wedding and introduce your guests to the beauty of these exceptional destinations with typical and original activities. Thus, during a symbolic ceremony, the only limit is your imagination! So take the plunge and treat yourself to an exceptional moment in a magical setting.

the ceremony

WHAT CEREMONY FOR A GAY WEDDING?

The official and institutional framework of a civil ceremony can sometimes lack the emotion and symbolism of a wedding. Therefore, many couples opt for a double ceremony, bringing together their loved ones after their civil union to celebrate the nuptials in a more personal way. A symbolic wedding is an opportunity to organize a celebration that reflects the couple's history and is faithful to the spouses' personalities. In fact, it generally has a stronger sentimental value than a civil ceremony. The other advantage of a symbolic ceremony is that there are no specific rules or frameworks. A symbolic wedding can take any form, making it an ideal ceremony for a unique gay wedding. For example, it's up to you to choose who will arrive first at the wedding venue. Future spouses can thus invent their wedding ritual and be in control of how their ceremony unfolds. This will be an opportunity to prepare speeches, read texts, and stage the expression of their love in a solemn atmosphere. This symbolic celebration is also an opportunity for the bride and groom to create the wedding decorations of their dreams. Indeed, a symbolic ceremony offers you the opportunity to surprise your guests with a decoration that reflects your personality. Whether it's a discreet wedding, an original wedding, or an intimate wedding, celebrate your same-sex wedding just as you've always imagined it!

Our team of wedding planners remains at your disposal for any additional information. If you dream of celebrating your same-sex wedding in Italy, don’t hesitate to contact us!

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