Why Advance Planning Matters for Lake Como Weddings
Planning a wedding abroad is exciting, but when you’re dreaming of a destination as sought-after as Lake Como, the timing of your planning can make or break the experience. This isn’t just any lake, it’s Italy’s most luxurious and exclusive wedding destination, with venues and suppliers booked months (or years!) in advance.
At Lake Como Weddings by Chelsea, we recommend couples begin planning their Lake Como wedding 12 to 18 months in advance. This gives you time to secure your ideal venue, coordinate with in-demand suppliers, and handle logistics like guest travel, legal paperwork, and accommodation.
Read more about our wedding planning services
Ideal Planning Timeline: Month-by-Month Breakdown
18–24 Months Before: Dream & Decide
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Enquire with your Lake Como wedding planner
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Start researching venues
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Decide on the type of wedding you want: legal or symbolic?
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Discuss your approximate guest count, season, and budget
This is the time to secure the most in-demand venues like:
12–18 Months Before: Book & Begin
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Lock in your venue and secure your wedding date
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Choose a package: civil, symbolic, elopement, or vow renewal
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Begin sourcing top suppliers:
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Reserve hotel blocks for guests (see our hotel planning guide)
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Start paperwork for a legal ceremony (see document checklist)
Planning tip: Want a weekend-long wedding with pre- and post-wedding events? We’ll help you coordinate welcome dinners, boat tours, and brunches: learn more
9–12 Months Before: Send Save-the-Dates & Design
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Finalise your guest list and send Save the Dates
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Start your ceremony design, colour palette, and tablescapes
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Discuss wedding flowers, décor rentals, lighting and entertainment options
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Think about attire and start shopping
6–9 Months Before: Logistics & Legalities
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Submit documentation for your legal wedding (if applicable)
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Finalise catering choices
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Plan transport for you and your guests — we arrange private boats, cars, and even vintage launches
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Plan your wedding cake
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Confirm accommodation details for VIP guests
3–6 Months Before: Details & Confirmations
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Finalise ceremony content (you can write your own vows)
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Finalise menu tastings, floor plans, music playlist
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Schedule hair/makeup trials (we can help you find the best stylists)
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Create a detailed day-of timeline
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Prepare a wet-weather backup plan if needed
1–3 Months Before: The Finishing Touches
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Confirm all bookings and logistics
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Prepare welcome bags, signage, and printed materials
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Make any final dress alterations
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Confirm how long your ceremony will take (learn more)
Shorter Timelines: Can You Plan a Wedding in Less Than 6 Months?
Yes — with the right support and flexibility. Many couples opt for elopements or small, intimate weddings that can be turned around in weeks, especially in low season or mid-week slots.
Read more: Do you plan small weddings?
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time of year to get married in Lake Como?
Most couples choose May, June, or September for the best weather and light. Learn more
Can you help with travel and accommodation for guests?
Absolutely. From hotel recommendations to boat transfers, we coordinate it all.
Do you offer packages that include all suppliers?
Yes. View our full range of services and wedding packages for everything from florals to photographers.
What are the next steps?
Find out here or contact us to start the conversation.
Let’s Make Your Dream Lake Como Wedding a Reality
At Lake Como Weddings by Chelsea, we make the planning process simple, personal, and entirely tailored to you, whether you’re planning two years ahead or two months away.
Get in touch today to secure your date and begin planning a Lake Como wedding you’ll never forget.
