What Makes Santorini The Perfect Location for A Destination Wedding in Greece
Getting married in Santorini is a dream come true for many couples and rightly so! It is hands-down one of the most romantic places in the world. Every corner of Santorini is picture-perfect. Its cobblestone streets, vibrant blue domes, and iconic caldera views make every photo look like a postcard. This enchanting Greek island looks like it was made for weddings – especially because of its incomparable sunsets along the Aegean coastline. This Greek island is a memory waiting to be created.
If you have already made up your mind, congrats! You are about to have a wedding album that everyone will envy! But if you are still not able to make up your mind, here are four reasons why Santorini is one of the best wedding destinations in the world:
- From intimate chapel courtyards to luxurious cliffside villas, Santorini has spaces that feel like they’ve been crafted just for love stories.
- Share the island’s flavors with your guests—think freshly grilled seafood, creamy feta, and crisp local wines from Santorini’s famous vineyards.
- Every corner of Santorini looks like it belongs in a postcard. Blue-domed churches, winding cobblestone streets, and bougainvillea-covered walls set the perfect stage for your wedding album.
- Santorini offers all-inclusive venues that handle everything – from ceremonies to receptions.
Best Time to Plan a Wedding in Santorini
Santorini’s beauty shines year-round, but the best time for a wedding is between May and October. During this period, the island enjoys warm, sunny weather and clear skies, making it perfect for outdoor ceremonies with stunning views of the caldera.
May and June bring pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. July and August are peak summer months and can be busy and hot. For couples seeking cooler evenings, September and early October are ideal as the crowds thin out.
We Bring You the Best Wedding Venues & Accommodations in Santorini
Planning a wedding in Santorini is like bringing a fairy tale to life. Santorini boasts some of the most stunning caldera views and golden sunsets anywhere else on the planet. Apart from that, the island offers numerous venue options which are no match to others. But with so many options, organizing a destination wedding can feel overwhelming – and that’s where we come in.
From cliffside venues with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea to charming private villas, Santorini has it all. But best of all – we know all the best wedding venues in Santorini to match your vision. Whether you are dreaming of a ceremony at a boutique winery or a secluded chapel overlooking the sea, we will help you find your perfect spot.
Accommodations can also be tricky, especially during the busy wedding season in Santorini. With our insider knowledge and partnerships with the island’s top hotels and villas, we make sure you and your guests enjoy the best hospitality. Whether you want elegant suites for your VIPs, cozy boutique hotels for your guests, or a private villa to host everyone under one roof, we have got you covered. We have the right connections in Santorini to make it happen!
To make your wedding stress-free, we also recommend booking accommodations near your venue to save time and ensure a smooth experience for your guests. With our local expertise, we take care of all the details – from venue selection to negotiating accommodations – so you can simply enjoy the magic of your Santorini wedding.
We Bring You the Best Wedding Catering in Santorini
Santorini’s culinary scene is a perfect blend of traditional Greek flavors and island cuisines. With fresh, local ingredients and Mediterranean influences, Santorini’s food scene is sure to leave a lasting taste! This Greek island opens up the doors to an impeccable wedding feast. From light, refreshing salads to rich, hearty meats, the food in Santorini will never betray you.
For a truly authentic wedding menu, we recommend some of the island’s favorites – local dishes such as moussaka, fava, grilled seafood, and fresh Greek salads. Santorini’s famous wines from local vineyards also make for a perfect pairing.
Many caterers on the island specialize in creating menus that blend traditional Greek fare with international influences. Thus, you will have the flexibility to design a menu of your choice. If you are looking for something more fun, live cooking stations such as souvlaki grills or seafood platters served directly from the Aegean will be a fantastic addition to your wedding.
As for beverages, Santorini’s local wines, especially the Assyrtiko, are a must-try for your guests. For some variety, we can arrange cocktail bars with local spirits like Ouzo or raki, or hire experienced bartenders to create signature drinks for your wedding.
We work closely with Santorini’s best wedding caterers to ensure your wedding menu is perfectly aligned with your style, tastes, and the romantic atmosphere of this magical island. We will also take care of all dietary preferences – vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-friendly options.
We Bring You the Finest Wedding Decorators in Santorini!
Santorini’s stunning views offer the perfect backdrop for a dream wedding. You will be in dilemma choosing whether to go for external venue decor if you are dreaming of a cliffside ceremony overlooking the Aegean Sea. The breathtaking views will alone make up for everything! But fret not! We work with the best wedding venue decorators in Santorini and know how to best bring your dream decor to life.
Each venue there has a different charm of its own – a traditional whitewashed chapel or a private villa. For a destination wedding in Santorini, we know how to make the most of the island’s natural beauty. We love working with simple yet elegant local blooms and our clients love it even more! The island is home to stunning bougainvillea which make for pretty venue decor with soft drapes swaying in the breeze. You might even go the extra mile and fancy the warm glow of candlelit pathways.
Santorini’s iconic blue and white color scheme can serve as the base for your décor, but we can also introduce vibrant pops of color for a more playful or romantic atmosphere. If you are dreaming of a more intimate indoor ceremony, Santorini’s charming villas and boutique venues can be transformed into enchanting spaces with rustic touches – with floral centerpieces to twinkling fairy lights.
Whatever your theme, our expert team ensures every detail, from the flowers to the lighting, is perfectly coordinated to match the unique charm of this beautiful island. Whether you want a chic feel or a traditional Greek vibe, we will listen to you closely and craft you a wedding of your dreams in Santorini.
Legal Requirements to Marry in Santorini
Getting married in Santorini is a dream for many couples. But, it is important to know the legal requirements to ensure your wedding is valid. In Greece, foreign nationals can legally marry in Santorini. The process is quite straightforward, but it requires some important steps and documents. Religious ceremonies are separate from the legal marriage in Greece. If you have a religious wedding in Santorini, it will not be legally binding unless a civil ceremony is also performed.
Required Documents:
- Marriage Application: The couple must apply in person at the local municipal office, called “Dimarchio” in Greek. The application must be submitted at least 2-3 weeks before the wedding date.
- Passport: Both partners need to provide valid passports. These must be originals and copies.
- Birth Certificates: You’ll need to submit recent, official birth certificates. These must be translated into Greek, either by the local municipality or an official translator.
- Certificate of No Impediment (or Certificate of Capacity to Marry): This document, which confirms that both individuals are legally free to marry (i.e., not currently married), is required. It must be obtained from your home country and be officially translated into Greek. For UK citizens, this document is provided by the local registry office; other countries will have different processes.
- Proof of Termination of Previous Marriages (if applicable): If either person has been previously married, divorce certificates or death certificates (if widowed) must be provided, with translations into Greek.
- Health Certificate: While not a strict requirement, some municipalities may ask for a health certificate issued by a local Greek doctor. It’s best to check with the municipality beforehand.
- Witnesses: You need at least two witnesses who are also required to provide valid identification (e.g., passports). These can either be your friends or relatives or arranged through a local wedding planner if you are eloping.
All documents must be in Greek or officially translated. It is best to use a professional translator to ensure the documents are correctly processed. After your ceremony, your marriage will be legally registered, and you’ll receive a marriage certificate in Greek. You can then have it translated into your native language for use back home
Many couples find it best to delegate the paperwork to a local wedding planner. This ensures a smooth process, especially for international couples who may not be familiar with Greek laws. At TWS, we take care of all the legal processes on your behalf.
Steps to Plan Your Wedding in Santorini
Planning a wedding in Santorini is a dream come true for many couples, but to ensure everything runs smoothly, it requires thoughtful preparation. Here are the essential steps to help you plan your perfect wedding in this stunning Greek island:
- Start Planning Early: Santorini is one of the most sought-after wedding destinations, so it is essential to start planning at least 6-12 months in advance. This gives you enough time to secure your preferred venues, book top vendors, and navigate the necessary paperwork.
- Decide on your guest list: Santorini offers venues of all sizes and budgets. Having a clear idea of your guest count will help you choose the perfect venue (and book early).
- Set a realistic budget: While Santorini is a luxurious destination, it is expensive too. So it is important to set a budget that covers everything – from the wedding venue and catering to accommodation for your guests.
- Understand the legal requirements: If you are a foreigner, make sure to gather the necessary paperwork for a valid marriage in Greece.
- Book your venue early: Santorini has many breathtaking wedding venues but since popular venues can be booked well in advance, secure your venue as soon as possible.
- Hire a local wedding planner: A wedding planner who knows Santorini well can help you navigate the island’s unique logistics, from finding the best locations to handling vendor negotiations and ensuring smooth coordination. They’ll also help you with local customs and regulations.
- Choose your vendors carefully: Santorini is home to talented wedding vendors. Choose vendors who have extensive experience in destination weddings in Santorini and have a reliable name in the region.
- Send invitations early: Send out invitations or save-the-dates well in advance, ideally 8-12 months before the event. Include travel and accommodation details, as well as transportation arrangements for your guests to plan early.
Why Choose The Wedding Saga as the Best Wedding Planners in Santorini?
The Wedding Saga has built a solid reputation as one of the top wedding planners in Santorini. With years of experience on the island, we specialize in every aspect of planning and pulling off a destination wedding in Santorini. From intimate cliffside ceremonies to big, fat weddings by the Aegean Sea, we have seen and done it all!
It is not just about the stunning views. It has more to do with creating an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. Whether you want to design a wedding with a Greek island vibe or secure the perfect venue with jaw-dropping views, our experts are there for you. Want a sunset ceremony by the caldera? Consider it done. Need help coordinating travel for your guests? We’ve got you covered. From decor to DJ, we bring your vision to life in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
At TWS, we believe your wedding should reflect your unique love story. Santorini’s natural beauty allows us to create personalized celebrations that can go as unique as you want. From traditional Greek music to private yacht tours for your guests, we take care of everything, ensuring your wedding is as enchanting as the island itself.
Things to Keep in Mind While Planning Your Wedding in Santorini
- If you’re planning a sunset wedding, book your venue early as the best spots with sunset views tend to get reserved months in advance.
- Santorini’s narrow, winding streets can make transportation tricky. It’s a good idea to book your accommodation close to your wedding venue so that you don’t have to deal with delays or the hassle of getting around the island.
- A wedding planner who knows Santorini can make a huge difference. They will take care of everything, from legal requirements to negotiating with local vendors, leaving you stress-free on your big day.
- Santorini can get very hot in the summer. If you’re planning a wedding between June and September, opt for an early morning or evening ceremony to avoid the midday heat.
How to Reach Santorini
How to Add Santorini’s Unique Touch to Your Wedding:
- Classic Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, tzatziki, and Greek salad fuse perfectly into wedding menus. For desserts, you can go for Greek sweets baklava, loukoumades, and a fresh yogurt parfait with honey and walnuts. Greek wines and ouzo are perfect signature drinks for weddings.
- Get the party started with lively Greek music, bouzouki band, or a DJ for Greek pop and folk tunes. You can also have a live performance of the famous Greek “Sirtaki” dance.
- Santorini’s charm is in its dramatic caldera views. Choose a venue over the Aegean Sea that offers that. You will find many in Oia or Fira.
- You can choose to keep the décor simple and elegant with the iconic blue and white color scheme of the island. Use local flowers like bougainvillea and lavender along with traditional Greek elements like olive branches and seashells.
- Give guests a taste of Santorini by gifting them with small bottles of local Santorini wine or olive oil.
- Make the most of Santorini through activities like a wine-tasting tour at a local vineyard, a catamaran cruise around the island, or a relaxing spa day for your bridal party.
Services
Complete Wedding Planning
We offer comprehensive assistance in organizing and executing every aspect of your wedding, from concept, venue & vendor management, negotiations to overlooking logistics on the celebration day, ensuring a stress-free and unforgettable experience.
Venue Booking
With years of experience and a vast network of rusted venues, we excel in finding the perfect match according to your vision, budget, guest list, ensuring a memorable setting for your special day.
Wedding Decor
Our expertise lies in creating breathtaking and personalized settings through creativity, attention to detail, and personalization to turn your wedding dreams into a reality. We infuse our years of experience in creative wedding decors with your vision to create a memorable setting.
Vendor Sourcing
We have built a robust network of trusted suppliers and professionals serving different locations which allow us to match your needs and budget with the top-notch vendors. We also take care of vendor negotiations and on-site logistics on the wedding day, letting you enjoy your day without any worries.
Wedding Packages
Our expertise lies in crafting all-inclusive solutions that cater to your unique vision and budget, streamlining the planning process and ensuring a well-coordinated wedding experience that reflects your individual style.
Client Servicing
Our services are based on commitment to personalization, strong communication, and dedication to ensure your needs are not only met but exceeded.
FAQ
Is Santorini a good destination for a wedding?
Absolutely! Santorini is one of the most popular and stunning wedding destinations in the world. With its breathtaking caldera views, whitewashed buildings, and vibrant sunsets, it is an unbeatable choice for weddings of all sizes.
What are the legal requirements for a wedding in Santorini?
To marry in Santorini, foreign nationals must submit specific documents that we have covered in this guide. The wedding must be conducted by a local mayor or civil officer to be deemed valid. It is advisable to consult an experienced wedding planning company in Santorini to help with the paperwork.
How do we plan our wedding in Santorini if we live abroad?
Planning a wedding in Santorini from abroad can be made simple with the help of a local wedding planner like TWS. A professional planner can guide you through the legal requirements, vendor selection, and logistics so that everything runs smoothly even from a distance.
Are there any restrictions for having a wedding on the beaches of Santorini?
While beach weddings in Santorini can be magical, there are some restrictions. Certain beaches require permits, and some areas may not allow large events due to environmental protection laws. It is important to check with a planner about specific regulations for beach weddings.
What activities can we offer our guests in Santorini?
Santorini offers plenty of activities for your guests to enjoy – wine-tasting tours at local vineyards, sunset cruises, hiking trails, and visits to the island’s ancient ruins. A day at the beach or a visit to a local spa can also be great options for guests.
Do we need to hire a wedding planner in Santorini?
Yes! Hiring a local wedding planner is highly recommended. A local planner has in-depth knowledge of the island, access to trusted vendors, and experience navigating the legal requirements, ensuring your wedding day goes off without a hitch.
