Tuscany in particular is a popular location for American couples wanting that quintessential Italian experience: the romance, the scenery, the food and wine, la dolce vita (the sweet life). To visit the land that “opens up its heart more than any other place” (as is famously inscribed on the Porta di Camollia, the entrance to the walled city of Siena in the heart of Tuscany) is to feel a passion like no other. Called “the green heart of Italy”, this region is famous for its verdant scenery, painterly light, hilltop villages, gastronomic delights and fantastic cities of art. The jewel in its crown is Florence, filled with medieval churches and museums housing breathtaking masterpieces.

Fortunately, it’s now easier than ever not only to get married there but also to plan a unique wedding full of personal touches. To get started, first ask yourself some basic questions about the size and style of your wedding.

How much time can you spend in Italy?
You’ll need to be in the country a few days in advance of the wedding to complete some legal paperwork and fulfill the marriage requirements of Italy. Once you’re there, you’ll want to take advantage of this outstanding holiday destination to explore and enjoy.

Would you like a civil ceremony or a religious ceremony?
Either option is available but, if you’re not sure, it’s worth researching what each entails in terms of locations, paperwork, etc.

How large will your wedding be?
If you’re expecting a lot of your friends and family to make this special trip with you, Tuscany has some extraordinary and surprisingly affordable options that can double as both ceremony location and accommodations for large parties. For instance, you could consider reserving a villa for your exclusive use.

What kinds of events would you like to share with your guests?
A private wine tour, balloon rides, cooking classes, tours of villas or castles? All of these ideas and much more can be organized.

Once you’ve got a general idea of the size and type of your wedding, the best way to ensure that your plans come through is to hire a Tuscany-based wedding and events planner. Working with someone who speaks the language, knows the area well and has a team of dedicated service providers will make all the difference between hoping for your dreams to come true and actually making them happen.

For instance, Roberta Magi and Irene Schiatti own an agency called Tuscan Party (www.tuscanparty.com) that specializes in planning weddings and events in the area. They can work with you while you’re still at home and also once you’re there. You can choose from a set package or have a custom-made affair and you decide how much you want their involvement. They take care of the necessary documents and bookings: the church, restaurants, and hotels. They can organize everything from the wedding announcements and invitations to a medieval setting for the ceremony and panoramic terraces with breathtaking views for the reception. The catering, the music, the flowers, the photos and video, makeup artists and hairstylists, even wedding keepsakes can all be taken care of as well. They have access to the best hotels and prestigious villas. They can even help you find the right wedding gown.

Having a wedding planner who offers a complete service for every aspect of your celebration can mean saving you a lot time and worry as well as adding those thoughtful touches. For instance, Tuscan Party can organize a bus to transport your guests and a Classic Bentley or a horse and carriage to whisk you away. They can schedule a fireworks display to top off your perfect day and balloon rides for your guests the next day.

Importantly, on-location wedding planners such as Roberta and Irene of Tuscan Party know the ins and outs of organizing a detail-filled event in a country with a system quite different from our own. They can cut through the red tape, get the right location and oversee all those small but important details. Then all you’ll have to do is brush up on some sexy Italian – “Cara mia, ti voglio bene”