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Pop the kettle on or the cork out and get comfortable, while we walk you through the ideal checklist you need to get started with your dream Greek wedding.
As event planners based in Greece and as previous destination wedding couples ourselves, we want to share our years of experience with you to make the planning process as enjoyable as possible. This is part one of our guide – there’s no need to overwhelm yourself at any stage of the planning process – ‘siga, siga’ as the Greeks say: ‘slowly, slowly’.
First things first, let’s talk about where you’re going to do this thing. Greece is a treasure chest of stunning wedding backdrops. Whether you’re dreaming of a beach where the sea kisses your feet during vows, a rustic celebration among olive groves, or an elegant affair in a villa, the perfect setting awaits. But, it’s not just about aesthetics—think about guest logistics and proximity to airports. You want the journey to be part of the fun, not a Herculean effort!
Discussion and compromise are part of the process when planning a destination wedding. It’s a significant commitment for your guests, so aligning your dream location with their budgets and capabilities is essential. Your perfect spot in Greece is out there, but finding it may require balancing your desires with the practicalities of guest accommodation and travel logistics.
In the end, the right venue will not only embody the essence of your love story but also be a delight for those you hold dear, making your special day an unforgettable celebration for everyone involved.
If you don’t want to compromise, an elopement could be the perfect way to go.
1. Always look for a wild card - see what you could get for your money on a lesser known island.
2. If your date isn’t fixed, get quotes for an off season date - this could save you serious €€!
3. Don’t forget to look for suitable accommodation for all of your party, before setting your heart on a venue or be prepared to provide suitable transport.
Ideal Seasons for a Greek Wedding? Temperatures begin to rise towards the end of May and last year was the hottest winter on record, with temperatures remaining high through to November. As I type this in March, it is currently 27 degrees!
With over 250 sunny days a year, dodging peak tourist season could save you a bundle while still basking in glorious weather. Though, Mother Nature loves a surprise, making weather a bit of a wildcard—sunshine in February or unexpected July storms. If you are going off-season though, do your research or lean on your wedding planner to ensure your venue is available and accessible during this time.
1. During the Summer months, the Greeks marry late in the day to avoid the sweltering midday sun. Lying on the beach sipping cocktails is worlds apart from sitting with a full face of make-up in a full wedding gown. The average Greek wedding ceremony usually starts after 7pm.
2. If you do opt for a later ceremony remember that the view and vibe will be completely different.
3. Where and when does the sun set on your chosen date? (An absolute must ask question if you are picturing insta-worthy shots of the sun setting behind you!)
Let’s firstly start by dispelling the myth that destination weddings are more expensive! Setting a budget early on and being clear about what you want (and can afford) is key! Don’t forget your destination wedding is often your yearly holiday and honeymoon rolled into one too, so maybe keep your travel expenses separate.
These are your main expenses when it comes to your wedding, try to prioritise them and allocate a percentage or amount to each one. This will allow you to see how much you have to play with and which things are most important to you both.
Venue (ceremony + reception)
Food and drink
Decor
Flowers
Outfits
Transport
Entertainment (DJ, photo booth, fireworks etc)
Hair and makeup
Favours and gifts
Cake
It’s really important to remember that you are choosing a different country with a different economy, be prepared for some surprises - both good and bad when it comes to the cost. A good planner can help you stretch your euros and make sure you get the wedding of your dreams without a financial nightmare.
When planning your wedding in Greece, one of the most heartfelt decisions you’ll make is selecting the type of ceremony that resonates with you as a couple. Greece’s diverse offerings cater to various preferences, whether it’s a ceremony rich in tradition, a personalized symbolic gesture, a straightforward civil affair, or a celebration of love that embraces the newly legalized same-sex marriages. Here’s a concise overview:
In terms of legal requirements, the greek government website as well as your embassy will be your go to resources
Now, with the big questions of where, when, and budget out of the way, this is the perfect time to approach a planner. They know the landscape, the suppliers, and how to navigate the complexities of a destination wedding, ensuring your day is not just beautiful but can help you to bring a real taste of Greece to your celebration.
Thinking about going it alone? Hear me out. A local wedding planner can be your lifesaver. They know the ins and outs, the who’s who, and how to get things done. They’re like your personal wedding superhero, tackling everything from the tricky bits of paperwork to finding the perfect local vendors.
But don’t just take our word for it, have a read about what some of our couples had to say about the planning process. lior & rom blog or josh & danielle blog
We hope this first instalment of our guide to planning your dream wedding in Greece has given you lots of food for thought and some useful first steps to take on your journey. Next time, we’ll be discussing logistics, design and food & drinks.
We are always on hand to answer your questions through our social channels or if you would like to set up a free consultation we’d love to have a chat.
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