I have two locations in mind for our wedding, but need more details about these places from REAL PEOPLE. Can anyone give us descriptions of these towns?? My favorite: San Gimignano and the # 2 is Volterra. I am planning with Ben on italyweddings.com. He has sent me pictures, but I would like more advice.

Well, this is just my two cents worth - but I would never plan a wedding someplace I have never been. I know some people do it - but considering the cost and complications of it - I think its way too risky and leaves you open for major disappointment.

(But then I'm a planner versus a fly by the seat of the pants person).

You've asked for personal opinions, so here are mine.

San Gimignano, in my opinion, is by far the more charming town. The disadvantage is that it is very heavily touristed and often jammed to the gills with daytrippers. If, however, you get off the "main drag" (whose name I have forgotten), there are quiet and lovely corners, even during the day. If you can plan things for the late afternoon/early evening, after the daytrippers have left, San Gimignano can be quite magical.

As I recall, a great deal of Volterra is built of a dark grey stone, and the overall effect on me was that I found the town somewhat forbidding.

In contrast, I prefer Volterra. I found the two to be similar in terms of "look" but Volterra was so much less touristy. A good location would be the piazza that overlooks the view of the Valley, now that would be stunning. You can check out my trip report page on Volterra and San G athttp://www.markandmonica.com/Travel/italy%2010-6.htm

I can't give you a personal experience, but if you would like a visual, you might try renting the film "Tea With Mussolini," starring Cher and Maggie Smith (quite a combination!) It is set partly in San Gim.

You don't mention where you would be having the ceremony in these towns, but I would chose SanG. over Volterra. The Hotel Cisterna has lovely views over the valley. Volterra has lovely views too and the main square is grande, but I found it a little austere myself.

Since I have been to both places, if I were having a wedding, I would chose a nice setting outside of San G.

weddings.about.com/od/destinationweddings/a/weddinginitaly.htm
Good link for you many middlemen cut them out to save.

SanG best of your 2... but usually chock a block in season.

Congrats!

milan.usconsulate.gov/files/marriage.asp

Good details here be sure and tick all the boxes required

do not solely rely on middlemen or you may not be legal.

Married some time around 2004, they're probably driving the kids to soccer practice by now.

This was topped for an ad, or at least a personal recommendation.