Where to start when planning your destination wedding in Greece


Planning a destination wedding can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, especially when coordinating everything from abroad. The logistical challenges, legal requirements, and cultural differences can add to the stress of creating your perfect day. As wedding photographers based in Greece, we know firsthand the procedures and the obstacles you might face while planning your wedding in our beautiful country.


No to worry, we’ve got your back! We’ve tailored the following guide to ensure it addresses common concerns and provides practical steps for brides-to-be planning their dream wedding in Greece. It aims to ease your planning process, offering practical tips and insider knowledge to help you plan each step of your wedding, ensuring it’s on time, stress-free, and unforgettable. Follow the steps and be sure that it will all worth it at the end!

 

 

1. Choose the Perfect Location

 

Greece offers a variety of stunning wedding locations on the mainland or the islands, each with its unique charm. Here are some ideas:


  • Santorini: Famous for its stunning sunsets, unique architecture, and a caldera like no other.
  • Ios: Known for its secluded beaches, amazing views, and traditional Cycladic charm.
  • Sifnos: A hideway with white-washed alleys and crystal-clear waters.
  • Crete: Offers a mix of historic sites, gorgeous landscapes, and rich culture.
  • Athens: Ideal for those who want a mix of history and modernity.

 

We do have some recommended venues on the islands and in Athens, where we also based. Read all about the top wedding venues on the Greek islands here, and in Athens here.

 


2. Understand the Legal Requirements

 

Getting married in Greece involves some legal paperwork, as in any other country. Here’s what you’ll typically need:


  • Valid passports
  • Full birth certificates with Apostille stamp
  • Certificate of No Impediment to Marriage (also known as a Single Status Certificate)
  • Divorce/adoption/change of name/death certificates (if applicable)
  • Marriage license application (which must be submitted in Greek)

 

Ensure you start this process early, as obtaining and translating these documents can take more than 3 or even 6 months. Ask the local authorities/city hall at your wedding location or your embassy in Greece for more details and clarifications.



3. Hire a Wedding Planner

 

A local wedding planner can be invaluable, especially if you’re planning from abroad. As much you may think you can do it all by yourself, a local wedding planner can take some stress off of you and give you solutions for things you haven’t even imagined. They can help with:


  • Venue selection: Recommending and securing the perfect spot.
  • Vendor coordination: Arranging services from florists, caterers, musicians, etc.
  • Legal paperwork: Ensuring all documents are correctly filed.
  • Day-of coordination: Making sure everything runs smoothly on your big day.
  • Last-minute changes: Dealing with issues like guests not being able reach the venue, sudden weather conditions, your dress not arriving on time (God forbid!) –they can be life saviors!



4. Plan Your Travel and Accommodation

 

Coordinate travel arrangements for you and your guests well in advance. Consider the following:


  • Flight/vessel bookings: Ensure you book flights/vessel tickets early to get the best rates.
  • Accommodation: Block rooms at hotels or rent villas for you and your guests.
  • Transportation: Arrange for transportation to and from the airport, and to/from the wedding venue.



5. Select Your Wedding Vendors

 

Choosing the right vendors can make a huge difference, especially when they’re locals and know all about your venue and conditions the time you want to get married. Here are some key vendors every wedding should include to be perfect –just make sure you book everyone on time:


  • Photographer/Videographer: Keep those precious moments alive forever through some stunning photos and videos that match your style.
  • Florist: Decorate your venue with beautiful fresh floral arrangements and get to hold the bouquet of your dreams.
  • Caterer: Provide your guests with delicious local and Mediterranean cuisine.
  • Entertainment: Hire a band or DJ to keep the party going.
  • Hair and Makeup Artists: Ensure you’re pampered and that you look your best on your special day.



6. Plan Your Itinerary

 

Keep those Excel files filling up: creating a detailed itinerary can help keep everything on track. Remember to include the following:


  • Guest list: Make sure everyone RSVPs on time for you to have a valid guest count and build your seating chart
  • Pre-wedding events: Welcome dinner, rehearsal, party etc.
  • Day-of timeline: Timing, location, and order of events –let us help with that if you don’t have a planner.
  • Post-wedding activities: Brunch, sightseeing tours, boat cruise etc.


 

7. Consider the Weather

 

Greece enjoys a Mediterranean climate, but it’s essential to consider the best time of year for your wedding. Based on each season’s conditions, we recommend the best time of the day for your ceremony, so you & your guests enjoy it the most, and you get those stunning golden-hour photos:


  • Spring (April to May): Mild weather, small chance of rain, beautiful blooms –ceremony time: 18:00.
  • Summer (June to August): Hot and sunny, perfect for beach weddings, consider a place under the shade –ceremony time: 19:00.
  • Autumn (September to October): Warm weather, fewer tourists, ideal months for popular islands/venues –ceremony time: 18:00.
  • Winter (November to March): Cooler and less crowded, only indoor venues available on the mainland –ceremony time: 15:00 - 17:00.



8. Embrace the Local Culture

 

Incorporate Greek traditions to make your wedding unique:


  • Greek music & dances: Hire a local band, with bouzouki or more contemporary, and include traditional dances.
  • Greek cuisine: Serve local dishes such as souvlaki, Greek salad, and fresh fish.
  • Greek customs: Include traditions like the Stefana (wedding crowns) and Koufeta (sweet almonds offered to guests)


 

9. Communicate with Your Guests

 

Keep your guests informed throughout the planning process. Create a wedding website or send regular updates to provide:


  • Travel information: Flight details, visa requirements, etc.
  • Accommodation options: Recommended hotels and booking links.
  • Event schedule: Dates, times, and locations of all wedding-related events.
  • Local tips: Sightseeing suggestions, local customs, and language tips.


 

10. Enjoy the Journey

 

Remember, your wedding is a celebration of your love. Amidst all the planning, take time to enjoy the process, 'cause it's most likely to happen only once in your life. Whether it’s a pre-wedding trip to Greece to finalize details or a quiet moment together to savor your engagement, cherish every moment.

 

Planning a destination wedding in Greece can be a magical experience with the right preparation. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to a stress-free, beautiful wedding that you and your guests will remember for a lifetime.

 

For more inspiration and tips, check out our gallery of stunning Greek weddings and contact us to capture your special day with breathtaking photography. Happy planning!