Top 10 Tips for Your Dream Wedding in Greece

If you're considering a destination wedding in Greece, congratulations on selecting one of the most enchanting and picturesque locations globally! Greece combines breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, offering a perfect backdrop for your special day. To help you plan a seamless semi-luxury wedding in this stunning country, here are our top tips.

1. Choose the Perfect Location

Greece is filled with beautiful destinations, each offering its own unique allure. Here are some top choices:

  • Santorini: Renowned for its iconic white-washed buildings and mesmerizing sunsets, Santorini is perfect for couples seeking romance and stunning wedding photo opportunities. Picture exchanging vows with the caldera as your backdrop or at an intimate cliffside venue.

  • Mykonos: Known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches, Mykonos blends glamour with tradition. The island's charming windmills and lively atmosphere make it a popular choice for semi-luxury weddings.

  • Athens: Experience a mix of ancient history and modern elegance by hosting your wedding in Athens. With its historic sites and rooftop venues boasting Acropolis views, Athens is ideal for couples wanting a culturally rich celebration.

  • Crete: This diverse island offers everything from rugged mountains to tranquil beaches. Crete’s luxury resorts and quaint villages provide versatile settings for grand celebrations or intimate gatherings.

  • Corfu: With its Venetian-inspired architecture and lush landscapes, Corfu is a hidden treasure for couples desiring a fairy-tale ambiance. The island’s private estates and charming chapels are perfect for a semi-luxury wedding.

2. Hire a Local Wedding Planner

Hiring a local wedding planner is essential when organizing a destination wedding in Greece. They possess valuable knowledge about the best venues, reliable vendors, and local customs. A skilled planner can manage logistics such as securing permits, coordinating with suppliers, and ensuring your wedding vision comes to life.

3. Book Your Wedding Photographer Early

Greece is home to countless picturesque locations, from Santorini's sunsets to Mykonos' cobblestone streets. To capture these unforgettable moments, secure a wedding photographer in Greece well ahead of time. Look for photographers specializing in destination weddings who understand the unique lighting and scenery of your chosen location.

4. Consider the Weather

While Greece generally enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate, it's wise to plan for seasonal variations:

  • Summer (June to August): Great for beach weddings but can be quite hot; evening ceremonies are recommended to enjoy cooler temperatures and stunning sunsets.

  • Spring (April to May) and Fall (September to October): Ideal for milder weather with fewer crowds; these seasons often offer better venue availability and rates.

Always have a contingency plan ready in case of unexpected weather changes, especially for outdoor ceremonies.

5. Embrace Greek Traditions

Incorporating local customs can make your wedding truly special. Consider these ideas:

  • A traditional Greek wedding crown (stefana)ceremony.

  • Including Greek desserts like baklava or loukoumades in your menu.

  • Hiring a local band to play lively Greek music during the reception.

6. Organize Accommodation and Travel for Guests

Ensure your guests have a smooth experience by:

  • Booking hotel blocks close to your venue; many resorts in Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete offer group packages.

  • Coordinating transportation from the airport or ferry port.

  • Providing a detailed itinerary with travel tips, including local attractions.

7. Simplify Legal Requirements

Marriage paperwork can vary based on nationality and the type of ceremony (civil, religious, or symbolic). Your wedding planner can assist you through the process, which typically includes:

  • Obtaining a marriage license in Greece.

  • Providing necessary documents like birth certificates and affidavits of single status, often translated into Greek.

  • Ensuring all paperwork is submitted within the required timeframe.

8. Curate Your Wedding Decor

Greece’s natural beauty requires little enhancement; however, thoughtful decor can elevate your celebration. Choose elements that harmonize with your surroundings:

  • Use earthy tones and natural materials to complement the landscape.

  • Incorporate olive branches, bougainvillea, and local flowers into your arrangements.

  • Opt for lighting such as fairy lights or candles to create an enchanting atmosphere during evening receptions.

9. Delight Guests with Local Cuisine

Treat your guests to an authentic Greek dining experience featuring:

  • Fresh seafood, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables.

  • Traditional dishes like moussaka, tzatziki, and spanakopita.

  • Local wines from Santorini’s vineyards or Mykonos’ boutique wineries.

Consider hosting a pre-wedding dinner or post-wedding brunch to further celebrate with local flavours.

10. Don’t Forget to Enjoy the Moment

Planning a destination wedding can be overwhelming; however, it's crucial to enjoy every moment. Delegate tasks to your planner and trust your vendors to execute your vision. Whether you're enjoying the sunset in Santorini or dancing under the stars in Mykonos, take time to appreciate the joy of your special day. By following these tips, your destination wedding in Santorini, Mykonos, Athens, Crete, or Corfu will be an unforgettable celebration of love. Start planning early and let Greece's enchanting landscapes and warm hospitality turn your dream wedding into reality.