Destination Weddings in Spain: everything you need to know
Planning your dream wedding and want to say ‘I do’ in Spain? With its sun-soaked beaches, rich culture, and stunning architecture, a destination wedding in Spain offers you the chance to celebrate in a truly unforgettable setting. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, our guide will help you navigate the planning process and turn your wedding into a magical experience.
Have a read, start planning, and when you’re ready, reach out for expert help. Enjoy!
Why Choose Spain for Your Wedding Destination?
Getting married in Spain gives you the chance to do things your way while immersing yourself in a vibrant, artistic culture. One of the biggest perks? The sunny weather, perfect for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. Imagine exchanging vows under a radiant Spanish sky, with the Mediterranean Sea as your backdrop or a vineyard’s rolling hills surrounding you.
Spain is also known for its stunning architecture and historic charm. Whether it’s a centuries-old Masia (manor) nestled in the mountains or a luxurious villa on the coast, your wedding will have a unique backdrop unlike anything you’ll find at home. For couples seeking a truly elegant and traditional setting, Spain offers plenty of breathtaking options around every corner.
Top Wedding Destinations in Spain
Hotels: Convenience Meets Budget-Friendly
Many couples opt for hotels because of the convenience of all-inclusive packages, which often make planning simpler and more budget-friendly. However, hotels can sometimes lack the charm that comes with a truly authentic Spanish wedding experience.
Villas and Masias: Authentic Spanish Charm
For a more personalized, authentic experience, consider a restored Spanish villa or a historic Masia. These venues allow you exclusive use of the property, ensuring that you and your guests feel pampered and catered to from start to finish. Whether it’s an intimate wedding or a large gathering, these venues offer a perfect balance of charm, culture, and exclusivity.
Villas and Masias also often offer fully inclusive experiences with fantastic Spanish catering, décor, and entertainment, giving you the best of both worlds: the ease of an all-inclusive package with the unique feel of a private, traditional venue.
Event Spaces: A Modern Touch
If you prefer a more modern setting, event spaces can be a great option. Just be sure to think carefully about the venue’s capacity. Too large, and the intimacy of your wedding may be lost; too small, and you might feel cramped. Get the balance right, and you’ll create an atmosphere that your guests will remember for years to come.
Church Weddings or Symbolic Ceremonies?
Another important decision is whether you want a traditional church wedding. If so, ensure the church aligns with your denomination and local customs. Alternatively, if a church wedding isn’t for you, a symbolic ceremony at your chosen venue is a wonderful option. You can have a church wedding and then hold the reception at your venue, or opt for a symbolic outdoor ceremony followed by a celebration in nature.
Weddings are deeply personal, so trust your instincts when choosing the arrangement that best reflects your values and dreams.
Choosing Your Wedding Services
Catering
Once your venue is chosen, it’s time to start thinking about the key wedding services. Catering is usually the first service to plan, as it will set the tone for the reception. When selecting your caterer, consider dietary preferences, allergies, and dishes that most of your guests will enjoy. Don’t forget to ask about extras like hired bars, desserts, and even late-night snacks.
If you’re staying at the venue for several days, you can even request home-chef meals from the catering team, allowing you to indulge in gourmet cuisine without the stress of cooking.
Music and Lighting
Music and lighting can usually be arranged by the same provider. Give them detailed information about your venue size, style, and schedule to ensure they can craft the perfect ambiance for your wedding. Let them guide you with suggestions to strike the right balance between your preferences and what works best in the venue’s unique setting.
Additional Services: Babysitters, Drivers, and Cleaners
Consider the extra services that will help make your day seamless, such as babysitters for younger guests, drivers to shuttle people to and from the venue, and cleaners to ensure everything runs smoothly. These thoughtful touches can make a world of difference in ensuring everyone has an enjoyable and stress-free experience.
Should You Hire a Wedding Planner?
Hiring a local wedding planner can be invaluable, especially when planning from abroad. Not only will they help you navigate the language barrier, but their local connections will ensure you have access to the best vendors and services, even beyond what you might find in an online search. A wedding planner also brings peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying the lead-up to your big day without worrying about logistics.
If you’re already set on a venue, ask whether they provide in-house wedding planning services. This one-stop-shop approach can be incredibly helpful, especially when it comes to coordinating multiple aspects of the day seamlessly.
How to Find a Catering Company
Your wedding planner or venue owner will often have trusted recommendations for catering companies that suit your needs. Choose a catering provider that knows your venue inside and out to avoid unnecessary stress and ensure the day runs smoothly. Venues that offer an in-house team are a great option, as their familiarity with the space will make it easier to coordinate everything from the welcome cava to the midnight snacks.
How Do I Get Started on My Wedding in Spain?
Now that you’ve got the basics, it’s time to start planning your unforgettable Spanish wedding. If you’re considering a wedding just outside Barcelona, in the beautiful seaside town of Sitges, we’re here to help. At Sitges Luxury Rentals, we’ve hosted hundreds of stunning weddings over the past decade and offer a fully inclusive service. From catering and decorations to entertainment and all the small details, we’ll ensure you can relax and enjoy your day.
Ready to turn your dream wedding into reality? Contact us today to start planning the wedding of a lifetime under the Spanish sun.
