Elope in Tuscany: Your Complete Guide to a Perfect Italian Elopement in 2026

Just the two of you stand together. Golden Tuscan light warms ancient stone walls nearby. Tall cypress trees reach for a soft, blue sky. You exchange quiet vows. A gentle breeze carries your words through olive groves. This picture is real. This feeling captures the heart of an elopement in Tuscany.

My name is Emiliano Russo. I am a wedding photographer living this Italian beauty daily. I see how Tuscany transforms a wedding into a deeply personal event. This region offers a unique setting. It is perfect for couples wanting intimacy over spectacle. Perhaps a large wedding feels wrong for your story. Maybe you crave a simple, profound start to your marriage. If so, you have found the right place. This guide shares my deep passion and practical experience. I want to help you craft an amazing elopement experience here in 2026.

What Does it Mean to Elope in Tuscany?

Let’s talk about what an elopement truly means today. It has evolved significantly from its historical image of running away in secret.

Beyond the Definition: Crafting Your Intimate Story

Modern elopement is a conscious choice. It’s about focusing intensely on your connection as a couple, prioritizing intimacy over a large guest list. Choosing to elope means deciding to make your wedding day profoundly personal, centering it entirely around your love and commitment. An elopement in Tuscany takes this beautiful concept and places it within one of the world’s most romantic landscapes. It’s about creating a day, or even a few days, that reflect who you are, free from external pressures. It’s your story, told your way, in a place that feels like a dream. Imagine exchanging vows in a secluded vineyard, followed by a romantic dinner under the stars at a historic villa. That’s the essence of a Tuscan elopement.

Why Choose Tuscany for Your Elopement? The Heart of Italy Awaits

Couples often ask me, “Emiliano, why Tuscany?” Italy offers many stunning regions, each with its own charm. Yet, Tuscany possesses a unique allure, especially for an intimate elopement.

Tuscany’s Unique Charm vs. Other Regions (like Umbria) – My Perspective

Umbria, often called Italy’s “green heart,” is undeniably beautiful, with lovely medieval towns and gentle landscapes. However, from my perspective as a photographer and someone who lives and breathes Italian weddings, Tuscany offers something distinct for international couples planning an elopement.

Tuscany boasts iconic, dramatic landscapes recognized worldwide – the cypress-lined roads of Val d’Orcia, the endless vineyard rows of Chianti, the Renaissance splendor of Florence. These aren’t just pretty pictures; they evoke a powerful sense of romance and history that translates incredibly well into photographs and memories. The quality of light here, especially during golden hour, is something I find consistently breathtaking.

Furthermore, Tuscany has a very well-established infrastructure for high-quality destination weddings and elopements. You’ll find an extensive network of experienced vendors – from florists to caterers to musicians – who are accustomed to working with international clients and understand the nuances of creating a flawless elopement experience. While Umbria is charming, Tuscany often provides more diverse options and readily available expertise specifically geared towards the destination wedding market, making the planning your elopement process smoother for couples coming from afar, like the United States.

Rolling Hills, Golden Light, and Endless Romance: The Tuscan Promise

Think of Tuscany, and images of sun-drenched rolling hills, ancient stone farmhouses, fields of sunflowers, and silvery olive groves likely come to mind. It’s a region that engages all the senses. The landscape itself becomes a central character in your love story. The charm of Tuscany lies in its blend of natural beauty, rich history, artistic heritage, and, of course, incredible food and wine. It’s a place where life feels slower, richer, and more intentional – the perfect atmosphere for celebrating your commitment.

Trusting Local Expertise: Why My Experience Matters for Your Dream Day

Planning an elopement in Italy from overseas can seem daunting. This is where local knowledge becomes invaluable. Having photographed countless elopements here, I understand the rhythm of the region, the best spots for photos at different times of day, and the hidden gems that don’t always make it into guidebooks. I’ve built relationships with incredible venues and talented Tuscany wedding planner professionals.

When you work with someone who truly knows and loves Tuscany, you gain more than just a service provider; you gain a guide who can help you navigate the process and connect you with the authentic heart of Tuscany. My goal is always to ensure your elopement day feels effortless and joyful, allowing you to simply soak in the magic. I’ve seen firsthand how choosing the right location and team, based on trusted experience, transforms a wedding day into something truly special.

Planning Your Dream Tuscany Elopement: Where to Begin

Feeling inspired? Wonderful! Let’s start planning your perfect elopement in Tuscany.

First Steps: Vision, Budget, and Timing

• Choose Your Timing: When is the best time to elope in Tuscany for you? Consider the weather, scenery, and potential crowds. As we’ll discuss, Spring and Autumn are often ideal.
• Define Your Vision: What does your ideal elopement day look like? Is it rustic and relaxed in the countryside? Elegant and historic in a city like Florence? Adventurous with stunning views? Picture the feeling you want to create. Do you envision just the two of you, or perhaps a handful of your closest loved ones for an intimate wedding feel?
• Set a Budget: Understanding the potential costs of an elopement is crucial. Consider photography, travel, accommodation, venue fees (if applicable), attire, potential planner fees, food, and any activities. Be realistic, but know that an elopement is often more cost-effective than a large traditional wedding. We’ll touch more on costs later.

Symbolic vs. Civil Ceremony: What’s Right for You? (Focus on Symbolic)

You can have a legally binding civil wedding in Tuscany, but it involves specific paperwork (like the Nulla Osta) and requirements, often needing translations and an interpreter if you don’t speak Italian. Getting married in Tuscany involves these bureaucratic steps.

For most of my international couples, I find that a symbolic ceremony offers far more freedom and less stress. You handle the legal marriage paperwork in your home country (like the US) before or after your trip. Then, your ceremony in Tuscany can be held anywhere you dream – overlooking a valley, in a vineyard, by a private villa pool – without the restrictions tied to approved civil locations. A celebrant can craft a deeply personal ceremony focused entirely on your vows and story. This approach allows you to fully embrace the romance and beauty of your elopement destination without getting bogged down in administrative details. It makes the wedding ceremony in Tuscany a purely joyful and personal moment.

The Importance of the Right Team: Photographer & Planner Synergy

While you can plan an elopement yourself, collaborating with experienced professionals can elevate your experience immensely.

• Elopement Planner: A great wedding planner, especially one specializing in elopements, can be invaluable. They handle logistics, vendor coordination, timelines, and potential language barriers. They bring your vision to life, allowing you to relax and enjoy the process. Often, couples find an elopement photographer and planner team works wonderfully, ensuring a cohesive vision and smooth execution. I work closely with some of the best local wedding planners in Tuscany, ensuring the photography integrates perfectly with the day’s flow.
• Elopement Photographer: Your photos will be the lasting visual narrative of your day. Choosing a Tuscany elopement photographer whose style resonates with you and who knows the region is key. Look for someone who captures emotion and understands how to use the incredible Tuscan light and backdrops. As your photographer, I see my role as capturing the authentic connection between you and the magic of the surroundings.

The Best Time to Elope in Tuscany: A Seasonal Guide

Tuscany is beautiful year-round, but certain seasons offer distinct advantages for an elopement.

Spring’s Awakening: Blooming Flowers and Gentle Sunshine (April-May)

For me, Spring (late April and May) is one of the absolute best times to elope in Tuscany. The landscape bursts into color with wildflowers, temperatures are typically mild and pleasant, and the summer crowds haven’t fully arrived yet. The light is soft and beautiful for photography. It feels fresh, hopeful, and incredibly romantic. Imagine photos amidst vibrant poppy fields!

Golden Autumn: Warm Hues and Harvest Magic (September-October)

Autumn (mid-September through October) is another prime season. The intense heat of summer subsides, replaced by warm days and cooler evenings. The rolling hills take on stunning golden, red, and orange hues as vineyards prepare for harvest. It’s a time of abundance and cozy romance. The light becomes rich and golden, perfect for those dreamy sunset shots. Plus, you can incorporate harvest elements like wine tasting into your elopement experience.

Considerations for Summer and Winter Elopements

• Winter (November-March): Winter offers a different, moodier beauty. You’ll find fewer tourists and potentially lower costs. However, days are shorter, the weather can be cold and rainy, and some venues or attractions might have limited hours. It can be wonderfully atmospheric for a cozy, intimate elopement, perhaps by a fireplace in a historic villa, but requires careful planning around weather and daylight.
• Summer (June-August): While sunny, July and August can be very hot, especially inland. It’s also peak tourist season, meaning popular spots are crowded, and accommodation prices may be higher. If choosing summer, aim for early June or late August/early September. Consider venues with shade and water features. Early morning or late evening ceremonies are best.

Iconic Locations: Finding Your Perfect Tuscan Backdrop

Tuscany is home to so many breathtaking areas. Choosing where to hold your elopement ceremony depends on the vibe you’re seeking. Tuscany is one of the most diverse regions in Italy!

Val d’Orcia: Cypress Trees and Postcard Views (My personal favorite spots)

This UNESCO World Heritage site is likely the Tuscany you picture in your dreams. Think iconic, cypress-lined roads winding through undulating hills, charming hilltop towns like Pienza and Montalcino, and vast, open skies. The Val d’Orcia offers arguably the most quintessential Tuscan landscape. As a photographer, I adore the scale, the light, and the endless opportunities for epic shots. Some of my favorite hidden spots here offer complete privacy and breathtaking panoramas – perfect for an intimate wedding ceremony. It truly feels like stepping into a Renaissance painting.

Chianti: Vineyards, Wine, and Rustic Elegance

Placed between Florence and Siena, the Chianti region is synonymous with world-class wine. Its landscapes are characterized by endless rows of vineyards, olive groves, dense forests, and charming stone farmhouses (agriturismos) and castles. It offers a rustic yet sophisticated charm. Eloping here often involves wine tasting experiences and celebrating amidst the very source of Chianti Classico. It’s ideal for couples who appreciate food, wine, and a slightly more verdant, wooded landscape compared to Val d’Orcia.

Florence & Siena: History, Art, and Urban Romance

If you love the energy of cities steeped in history and art, consider an elopement in Florence or Siena. Florence, the capital of Tuscany, offers iconic backdrops like the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Boboli Gardens (though permissions are needed for ceremonies in many public spots). Siena provides a stunning medieval setting with its Piazza del Campo and narrow, winding streets. An urban elopement offers a different kind of romance, blending history with chic celebration. Often, couples might have a symbolic ceremony just outside the city and then explore the historic center for incredible photos.

Hidden Gems: San Gimignano, Volterra, and Beyond

Beyond the most famous areas, Tuscany hides countless treasures. San Gimignano, with its medieval towers, offers unique vertical perspectives. Volterra, perched high on a hill, provides Etruscan history and alabaster crafts. Smaller villages scattered throughout the region offer authentic charm and fewer crowds. Exploring these less-trodden paths can lead to a truly unique and personal Tuscan elopement. Even a seaside elopement is possible along the Tuscan coast, offering a different feel altogether.

My Handpicked Havens: Selecting the Perfect Elopement Venue

While you can have a symbolic ceremony almost anywhere, choosing a home base or a specific venue for part of your elopement day adds comfort and beauty. Tuscany is renowned for its stunning villas, castles, and agriturismos.

My Selection Criteria: Light, Landscape, Exclusivity, and Soul

When I recommend venues or scout locations, I look beyond just aesthetics. My criteria, shaped by years of photographing elopements, include:

• Atmosphere & Soul: Does the place have character? Does it feel authentic and welcoming? The venue should enhance the romantic, personal feeling of your elopement experience. Service quality is also key.
• Quality of Light: How does light interact with the space at different times of day? Are there opportunities for soft morning light, dramatic golden hour shots, and shaded areas for midday? Light is everything in photography.
• Landscape & Backdrops: Does the venue offer diverse and inspiring settings? Think panoramic views, charming courtyards, beautiful gardens, architectural details, vineyard access, or unique natural features. The backdrop for your elopement sets the stage.
• Exclusivity & Intimacy: Can the venue provide the privacy needed for an intimate elopement? Feeling secluded and undisturbed is crucial for couples to relax and be themselves.

Spotlight on Premier Venues: Places I Love to Shoot

Based on my criteria and experiences, here are some specific venues that offer a wonderful setting for an elopement. Each has its own unique soul.

Borgo Santo Pietro: Rustic Luxury and Enchanted Gardens

Shooting at Borgo Santo Pietro feels like stepping into a secret garden. The level of detail is amazing. What I love for elopements is the variety of intimate corners within its lush grounds. You can find seclusion easily. The light filtering through the trees in the late afternoon is pure magic for romantic portraits. It blends rustic Tuscan charm with true luxury, offering an atmosphere that feels both grand and deeply personal. The service here makes couples feel incredibly special.

Castello di Casole, A Belmond Hotel: Timeless Elegance and Epic Views

This restored castle truly captures the historic grandeur of Tuscany. For photography, the scale is inspiring. The long driveway, the stone walls, the terraces overlooking the vast estate – every angle offers a stunning backdrop. Castello di Casole provides a feeling of timeless elegance. I find the light interacts beautifully with the ancient stone, creating rich textures. It’s perfect for couples seeking a sophisticated, impressive setting with exceptional service and those wide, cinematic Tuscan views.

Villa Cetinale: Baroque Drama and Legendary Gardens

Villa Cetinale is iconic. Photographing an elopement here is working within a piece of history. The famous Holm Oak avenue leading to the hermitage creates such a dramatic perspective. The formal gardens offer symmetry and elegance. It requires exclusive rental, ensuring complete privacy which is ideal for an intimate elopement. The atmosphere is unique, almost theatrical. Capturing a couple amidst its baroque architecture and legendary landscape feels like creating fine art.

Conti di San Bonifacio: Vineyard Romance in the Maremma

This wine resort offers a slightly different Tuscan feel, nestled in the rolling hills of the Maremma. I appreciate the focus on the vineyard landscape here. It provides an authentic connection to the land and Tuscan wine culture. The light in Maremma has a special warmth. For couples who love wine and seek rustic elegance, Conti di San Bonifacio is fantastic. The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, and the opportunities to capture romance among the vines, especially at sunset, are wonderful.

La Foce: Val d’Orcia Vistas and Garden Masterpieces

La Foce is all about those breathtaking, quintessential Val d’Orcia views combined with world-renowned gardens. While access needs careful planning, the photographic potential is immense. The structured gardens offer geometric beauty, while the views provide that epic Tuscan scale. Capturing an elopement ceremony against the backdrop of the Crete Senesi from here is special. It has a profound sense of history and place, deeply connected to the landscape. It suits couples who value natural beauty and garden artistry.

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco: Refined Luxury and Rolling Hills

This estate embodies sophisticated Tuscan luxury. It’s expansive, offering incredible views and a feeling of total escape. What strikes me here is the impeccable attention to detail and the sense of refined tranquility. The landscape around Castiglion del Bosco is classic Tuscany, perfect for golden hour photos. For eloping couples seeking privacy, exceptional service, and a truly high-end experience surrounded by beauty, it’s an outstanding choice. The quality of light over the hills here is consistently beautiful.

Lupaia: Intimate Charm and Cozy Views

Lupaia offers something different: incredible charm and intimacy on a smaller, boutique scale. Perched on a hill near Montepulciano, its terraces provide lovely views. Shooting here feels personal and cozy. Each room is unique; the courtyards are delightful. It’s perfect for couples wanting an authentic, romantic, and very private Tuscan elopement experience without the scale of larger resorts. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and feels like a true escape. The views at sunset are wonderful for photos.

These are just a few examples; Tuscany is home to countless gems. The key is finding the one that resonates with your vision and style.

An Anecdote: Capturing Magic at Conti di San Bonifacio

I remember photographing a couple’s elopement at Conti di San Bonifacio. They exchanged vows late in the afternoon, overlooking the vineyards as the sun began to dip. The light was pure gold, catching the bride’s veil and illuminating the rolling Maremma hills. Afterwards, we wandered through the vines, capturing quiet moments of laughter and tenderness. They enjoyed a private wine tasting, followed by an intimate dinner on their terrace under a canopy of stars. It wasn’t just a ceremony; it was a seamless flow of romantic experiences, perfectly integrated with the stunning location. The venue’s team worked closely with us, ensuring every detail enhanced the couple’s day. That synergy, that focus on the couple’s experience in Tuscany, is what makes a venue truly special for an elopement.

Capturing Your Story: Choosing Your Tuscany Elopement Photographer

Your elopement photos are more than just pictures; they are tangible memories of one of the most significant days of your life. Choosing the right elopement photographer is a deeply personal decision.

More Than Photos: Finding a Connection and Artistic Vision

Look beyond technical skill. Find a Tuscany wedding photographer whose artistic style speaks to you. Do you prefer light and airy, dark and moody, or true-to-life documentary? Equally important is finding someone you connect with personally. You’ll spend a significant part of your elopement day with your photographer, so feeling comfortable and understood is vital. Read their reviews, look through full galleries if possible, and schedule a call to chat. Does their approach feel right for you?

What Makes Emiliano Russo Studio Different: My Approach to Your Day

My passion lies in capturing authentic emotion and connection within the stunning context of the Italian landscape. I focus on storytelling – not just posing you against a pretty backdrop, but capturing the laughter, the tears, the quiet glances, the way you hold hands as you walk through an olive grove. I strive to understand your unique story and personality, making you feel relaxed and allowing genuine moments to unfold naturally. My deep knowledge of Tuscany means I know how to harness its incredible light and find those unique spots that elevate your photos from beautiful to breathtaking. I aim to create images that feel timeless, romantic, and deeply personal – images that transport you back to the feeling of your day in Tuscany every time you look at them. Choosing me means choosing a partner dedicated to preserving the soul of your elopement.

The Moments You’ll Cherish Forever: Why Investing in Photography Matters

An elopement is an intense, concentrated experience. Investing in professional elopement photography ensures these fleeting moments are captured beautifully and artfully. It’s about preserving the feeling of your vows, the joy of your celebration, and the beauty of the place where you committed your lives to each other. These photos become heirlooms, shared with loved ones who weren’t present, and treasured for generations. You are investing not just in pictures, but in the enduring memory of your dream elopement.

Crafting Your Bespoke Elopement Package: Photography Meets Planning

Many couples seek an elopement package for simplicity. While some venues or planners offer all-inclusive options, true magic often lies in personalization.

Tailoring the Experience: Beyond Standard Packages

A standard Tuscany elopement package might include basics like a celebrant, bouquet, and a few hours of photography. However, your elopement should be as unique as your love story. Think about what truly matters to you. Do you want extended photography coverage to capture getting ready moments and a romantic dinner? Are specific activities like a vintage car tour or a cooking class part of your dream? A bespoke approach allows you to build a package tailored precisely to your desires and budget.

My Collaboration with Tuscany’s Finest Planners and Venues

This is where collaboration shines. As your elopement photographer, I often work hand-in-hand with exceptional wedding planners and venues across Tuscany. We form a team dedicated to bringing your vision to life. The planner handles the intricate logistics – booking vendors, managing timelines, coordinating details – while I focus on capturing the beauty and emotion of it all. We communicate constantly, ensuring the schedule flows naturally, allowing ample time for both planned moments and spontaneous photo opportunities. This synergy means you get the best of both worlds: expert planning and dedicated artistic capture, resulting in a perfectly orchestrated and beautifully documented wedding experience.

Integrating Photography for a Flawless, Beautiful Day Flow 

I recently worked with a couple and their planner for an elopement in Val d’Orcia. The planner had arranged a stunning villa and a symbolic ceremony overlooking the hills. We coordinated the timeline meticulously. I suggested starting photos during the soft morning light as they got ready separately, capturing the anticipation. We planned the “first look” at a specific viewpoint I knew would be breathtaking. The ceremony was timed for the late afternoon golden hour. The planner arranged for aperitivo to be ready immediately after, allowing the couple to celebrate while I captured candid moments. We then slipped away for portraits as the sun set, before they returned for their intimate dinner. This seamless integration, born from close collaboration between planner, venue, and photographer, allowed the couple to fully immerse themselves in each part of their day, knowing everything was taken care of and beautifully captured. That’s the goal: a day that feels effortless for you and looks stunning in photos.

Beyond the “I Do’s”: Creating a Multi-Day Tuscan Elopement Experience 

Why limit the magic to just one day? Eloping in Tuscany offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourselves in Italian culture and create a truly memorable journey together. This is something not often highlighted, but it can transform your trip.

Activities Before and After Your Ceremony

Think beyond the wedding ceremony. Plan activities for the days surrounding your elopement. Arrive a few days early to settle in, explore your surroundings, and shake off jet lag. Stay a few days after to bask in your newly married glow. This turns your destination elopement into a romantic getaway.

Curated Experiences: Wine Tasting, Cooking Classes, Artisan Visits

Tuscany offers endless possibilities for unique experiences:

• Private Wine Tasting: Visit a boutique vineyard for an intimate tasting and tour.
• Hands-On Cooking Class: Learn to make pasta or other Tuscan specialties together.
• Truffle Hunting: Depending on the season, embark on an exciting truffle hunt with trained dogs.
• Artisan Workshop Visit: Discover local crafts like pottery or leatherworking.
• Hot Air Balloon Ride: Get a bird’s-eye view of the rolling hills at sunrise.
• Explore Historic Towns: Wander the charming streets of San Gimignano, Siena, or smaller villages.
• Relax at Thermal Baths: Unwind at natural hot springs like Bagno Vignoni.

These activities add depth to your experience in Tuscany and create wonderful, relaxed memories.

Extending the Photography: Capturing Your Entire Journey

Consider adding photography coverage for some of these activities. Imagine photos capturing your joy during a cooking class, the romance of a vineyard tour, or the adventure of exploring a medieval town. This creates a richer, more complete visual story of your Tuscan elopement journey, documenting not just the peak moment, but the entire beautiful experience surrounding it.

What to Expect on Your Elopement Day in Tuscany

While every elopement is unique, here’s a sense of how your special day in Tuscany might unfold:

A Relaxed Timeline: From Getting Ready to Sunset Toasts

The beauty of an elopement is the lack of rigid schedules. Typically, the day flows gently:

• Morning: Enjoy a relaxed morning. Perhaps have breakfast together or get ready separately, building anticipation. I often capture these quiet, intimate getting-ready moments.
• First Look (Optional): A private moment before the ceremony where you see each other for the first time. Always incredibly emotional and yields beautiful photos.
• Ceremony: Your intimate wedding ceremony, whether just the two of you or with a celebrant, held at your chosen backdrop.
• Celebration: A toast with prosecco, perhaps cutting a small cake, enjoying the moment.
• Photoshoot: Exploring the stunning surroundings for your couple portraits. We wander, talk, and capture natural moments in beautiful light.
• Activity/Relaxation: Perhaps a pre-planned activity, or simply time to relax and soak it all in.
• Evening: An intimate dinner – maybe at your villa, a fantastic local restaurant, or even a private chef experience. Capturing the ambiance of your first meal as a married couple can be lovely.

Embracing Spontaneity and Authentic Moments

While planning is important, leave room for spontaneity! Some of the best moments happen unexpectedly. Maybe you stop for gelato in a charming village, share a dance under olive trees, or simply pause to watch the sunset. As your photographer, I’m always ready to capture these genuine interactions. The goal is a day that feels like you, full of joy and authentic connection.

Understanding the Investment: Cost Considerations for Your Tuscany Elopement

Talking about the cost of eloping in Tuscany is important for planning. While generally less expensive than a large wedding, costs can vary widely based on your choices.

Key Elements Affecting Your Budget

• Photography & Videography: Investing in experienced professionals is key. Packages vary based on coverage hours and deliverables. Expect this to be a significant portion of the budget. My own bespoke collections reflect the dedication and artistry involved.
• Travel & Accommodation: Flights to Italy (Florence or Pisa are common entry points), car rentals, and your chosen accommodation (villa, agriturismo, hotel) are major factors. Luxury options will naturally cost more.
• Venue Fees: Some locations might have site fees for ceremonies or photoshoots. Exclusive rentals of villas can be substantial.
• Planner Fees: If you hire a professional wedding planner, their fees vary based on the level of service.
• Vendors: Celebrant, florist (bouquet/boutonnière), hair and makeup artist costs add up.
• Attire: Your wedding outfits.
• Food & Drink: Meals, celebratory toasts, potential private chef costs.
• Activities: Any special experiences you plan.
• Paperwork: Fees associated with legal documents if pursuing a civil ceremony.

A very rough starting estimate for a well-planned, beautiful Tuscany elopement package including quality photography, accommodation, basic vendors (celebrant, florals, H&MU), and meals might begin around €18,000 – € 35,000+, but can easily go higher depending on luxury choices, venue rentals, and duration of stay/activities.

Thinking About Potential Extra Costs

Remember to budget for things like travel insurance, potential translation costs (for civil ceremonies), vendor travel fees if they are not local to your chosen spot, and tips. It’s wise to have a small contingency fund for unexpected expenses.