Tyler and Lexi’s Heartfelt Western September Wedding at The Urban Cowboy in Nashville, TN
Planning a Wedding in Rome? You’ll LOVE This Radiant Wedding at Norwegian Embassy in Rome
We LOVE unique wedding venues, and having your wedding at the Norwegian Embassy in Rome – is UNIQUE! So we talked to Silvia and Marco from CoscarellaPhoto, the wedding photographers behind this shoot, and got the story below…For those planning a wedding in Rome – we added some useful tips at the end!
“Right in the heart of Rome, where ancient history meets modern charm, there’s a hidden gem for couples: the Norwegian Embassy. It’s tucked away between the famous Circus Maximus and the lovely Giardino degli Aranci, and it’s a gorgeous mix of Nordic style and Roman charm. This one-of-a-kind location was the ideal selection for Sarah and Marius, a dynamic couple celebrating their Pakistani and Norwegian heritage.
CoscarellaPhoto
CoscarellaPhoto
CoscarellaPhoto
The big day kicked off at Hotel San Anselmo, a boutique hotel on Aventine Hill. The hotel is surrounded by art and has a lovely historic charm, which made it the perfect place for the couple to prepare for their wedding. Sarah looked radiant in her princess dress, its intricate details making her look like she’d stepped out of a fairy tale. Meanwhile, Marius, looking sharp in his suit, was eagerly awaiting the moment he’d see his bride.
When that moment came, it was pure magic. Marius was moved to tears when he saw Sarah, radiant with beauty and love. The ceremony at the Norwegian Embassy was small and emotional, perfectly capturing the essence of their unique bond.
CoscarellaPhoto
CoscarellaPhoto
CoscarellaPhoto
After the ceremony, the couple set off on a romantic trip to Rome. They kicked off their Italian adventure at the Giardino degli Aranci, strolling beneath fragrant orange trees. At the Circus Maximus, they enjoyed a taste of history at the ancient chariot races while celebrating their own new chapter. As they strolled through Rome’s narrow streets, it was impossible not to smile along with them.
CoscarellaPhoto
CoscarellaPhoto
CoscarellaPhoto
The photo tour included some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and the Imperial Forums, which added a special touch to their story. The Colosseum was a sight to behold, with its ancient grandeur providing a breathtaking backdrop.
They finished off their tour with a tasty treat, authentic Italian gelato! It was a great way to end the day, sharing laughs and sweet moments over some delicious, creamy scoops.
CoscarellaPhoto
CoscarellaPhoto
CoscarellaPhoto
One of the day’s most moving moments came at the end. A young girl, captivated by Sarah’s striking appearance, whispered to her mother, “She looks like Princess Jasmine!” Sarah’s warm smile at the sweet compliment perfectly captured the joy and magic of their wedding day.”
CoscarellaPhoto
CoscarellaPhoto
Planning a Wedding in Rome: Tips for a Seamless Celebration
Legal and Religious Hurdles: Like Running a Bureaucratic Marathon
Navigating Italian wedding laws is not for the faint of heart. You’ll need a nulla osta, which is essentially Italy’s way of saying, “Sure, you can get married here.” When my friend started her paperwork, she described it as a scavenger hunt that only Indiana Jones would enjoy. Translating documents, getting them apostilled, and timing appointments correctly can feel like solving a Sudoku puzzle — blindfolded.
But here’s the silver lining: once you’ve got it all sorted, there’s an immense satisfaction knowing you conquered Italian bureaucracy. And if you’re planning a religious wedding, your church will likely have its own hoops to jump through. My advice? Work with a local wedding planner or a bilingual officiant who knows the ropes. Trust me, they’ll save you hours of frustration and several awkward phone calls in broken Italian.
Timing Is Everything: When to Say ‘I Do’
Rome’s seasons are as dramatic as its architecture. Spring and fall are the darlings of wedding planners, with balmy weather and fewer crowds. Summer, on the other hand, brings two guests you didn’t invite: oppressive heat and hoards of tourists. One August, I attended a wedding at midday, and we all melted faster than gelato in Piazza Navona. Winter, though chilly, has its charm — imagine a cozy ceremony with a view of St. Peter’s Basilica wrapped in mist.
Rome on a Budget: The Eternal City Isn’t Cheap
Here’s where it gets tricky: planning a wedding in Rome can drain your wallet faster than you can say “Prosecco.” Venues, caterers, and florists charge a premium for working in such an iconic city. One way to stretch your euros is to opt for a mid-week wedding or to plan during the off-season. My friend splurged on a rooftop venue overlooking the Colosseum but saved by choosing local, seasonal flowers instead of exotic imports. The result? A stunning setup that didn’t break the bank.
Blending Roman Culture: When in Rome, Do as the Romans Do
Nothing says “Roman wedding” like incorporating local traditions. Serve supplì (fried rice balls) as appetizers, pair your dinner with Italian wines, and end the evening with a towering torta millefoglie. My favourite touch? A traditional confetti bar (sugared almonds) as wedding favours. It’s both symbolic and sweet — a perfect nod to Italian culture.
Exploring Wedding Venues in Rome: Beyond the Usual Choices
If the Norwegian Embassy is your vibe, imagine tying the knot at one of these other unique locations. Rome has a venue for every personality, from history buffs to hopeless romantics.
1. Villa Aurelia: A Slice of Heaven Overlooking Rome
Perched atop Janiculum Hill, Villa Aurelia is all about elegance with a view. I attended a wedding here once, and honestly, the sunset over the city brought tears to my eyes (or maybe it was the champagne). The downside? It’s in high demand, so book early. But if you manage to snag a spot, the mix of manicured gardens and Baroque interiors is worth every euro. Check out their Instagram.
2. Santa Maria in Trastevere: Where History and Holiness Meet
This basilica is like stepping into a painting. With golden mosaics that shimmer in candlelight, it’s perfect for couples who want a religious ceremony steeped in history. Just be prepared for some tourist gawkers as you exit the church — I’ve seen brides get photographed like they’re celebrities!
Watch this video of a lovely wedding in Santa Maria:
3. Galleria Borghese: Art Lovers, Rejoice
Imagine saying your vows surrounded by works from Caravaggio and Bernini. This venue is a love letter to art and sophistication. However, its intimate size means it’s best for smaller weddings. Also, word to the wise: keep the speeches short; no one wants to be upstaged by a Michelangelo sculpture.
4. Rooftop Venues: Sky-High Romance
Rome’s rooftops are the stuff of dreams. Picture sipping cocktails with a panoramic view of the city skyline. Hotel Eden offers unparalleled luxury, while Eitch Borromini delivers charm and history. I once danced under the stars at a rooftop reception here, and it felt like a scene out of La Dolce Vita. The only drawback? Wind. Keep those candles weighted down!
5. Cinecittà Studios: A Hollywood Twist
For the creative couple, why not exchange vows where some of the world’s most iconic films were made? Cinecittà Studios offers sets that transport you to Ancient Rome, the Wild West, or 1950s Italy. It’s quirky, memorable, and a guaranteed conversation starter.
What I Learned from Weddings in Rome
Every wedding in Rome has a certain magic, but it’s not always picture-perfect. Like the time our car broke down en route to a ceremony in Trastevere, forcing the bridal party to hop on a public bus — in full wedding attire! Surprisingly, the locals clapped and cheered us on, and it turned into one of the bride’s favourite memories.
Planning a wedding in Rome is more than just logistics and budgeting; it’s about embracing the unexpected. You’ll learn to laugh at the small hiccups and savour the once-in-a-lifetime moments. It’s a city that thrives on passion and spontaneity, and if you lean into that, your wedding will be unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose the grandeur of Villa Aurelia, the charm of Santa Maria in Trastevere, or the creativity of Cinecittà Studios, Rome has a way of making every couple feel like royalty. The real beauty of planning a wedding in Rome lies in its ability to merge old-world charm with modern love stories. It’s a city where every corner tells a tale, and your wedding becomes part of its history.
So, take a deep breath, channel your inner Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday, and let the Eternal City sweep you off your feet. And when in doubt? Just remember — a little Prosecco goes a long way. Cheers to your Roman adventure!
