I think I got cleared at the gate, but Ive been all over Asia and Europe in the past few months so I can't say for certain. Sorry, but some of these airports get blurry.

There is a great little guidebook Rome Step by Step you might want to get. It's excellent and not too bulky/heavy. You can get some really great advice in tripadvisor, too--city by city. There is also a Hop on/off bus--do not use the green bus company--poor equipment and narration. Do your research and don't let the touts switch you.

Watch the pickpockets in Rome!

My brother/party of 4 had their luggage and selves misconnect Chicago and DL didn't find it until I called station mgr in Rome--they had to pay E100 to pick it up and get on a ship (after 3 days w/out it and losing a day of their paid hotel, etc)) They paid $1800 per person for coach. DL said they'd upgrade them but Alitalia canceled a flt that day and they all got split up in economy.
(so--suggest you split your clothes if you check a bag, and and carry as much as you can on board) Who are you flying to FCO?
Also--good choice to not have Feb wedding--you people have too much snow!!)

PS--I really didn't mean to make you EEEEEK but it's a real issue going to Rome. Just be armed w/options.