How to Plan the Perfect Destination Wedding in Greece
Greece is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting destinations for a wedding. With its stunning beaches, historic venues, and breathtaking views, it’s no wonder that couples from all over the world choose to tie the knot in this beautiful country.
Planning a destination wedding can be overwhelming, but with the right guidance, you can create the perfect Greek wedding experience. Here’s how to make your dream wedding in Greece a reality!
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Understand the Legal Requirements
Getting married in Greece is fairly simple for foreign nationals, but it’s essential to know the legal requirements before making arrangements. Here’s a quick overview:
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Documents Needed:
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Passports for both the bride and groom.
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Birth certificates (translated into Greek).
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Certificate of No Impediment (to prove you're both free to marry, which needs to be translated into Greek).
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Marriage License:
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You can get married at a town hall or a licensed venue. Civil ceremonies are the most common option for destination weddings, but religious ceremonies are also possible if you meet certain criteria (such as being Greek Orthodox).
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Your wedding planner can help arrange the paperwork and make sure everything is in order.
Remember to check the specific requirements of the region where you plan to marry, as these can vary.
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Set a Budget
As with any wedding, setting a budget is essential. A destination wedding can be more cost-effective than a traditional wedding in your home country, but costs can quickly add up. Consider the following:
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Travel & Accommodation: Your guests will need to travel to Greece and stay in local accommodations. Consider options such as hotels, resorts, or villas for group bookings.
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Venue & Decorations: Your venue costs will vary depending on location, type, and whether you need additional decor, flowers, or furniture.
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Vendors & Services: Photography, catering, music, entertainment, and floral arrangements should all be factored into the budget.
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Legal Costs: Don’t forget to account for legal fees, document translations, and other associated costs.
Ensure you communicate your budget clearly with your wedding planner to avoid any surprises along the way.
3. Pick Your Wedding Date Wisely
The time of year you choose to marry will significantly affect your wedding experience. Greece’s peak wedding season is from late spring to early fall (May to September), when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the most expensive and busiest time of year.
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Spring (April - June): Perfect for mild weather and fewer crowds. It’s a great time if you want to avoid the high-season rush but still enjoy pleasant weather.
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Summer (July - August): The high season for Greek weddings. Expect warmer temperatures and higher prices. Summer weddings are ideal if you want the full Greek island experience.
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Autumn (September - October): A wonderful time for a wedding with cooler temperatures, fewer tourists, and beautiful fall colors.
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Winter (November - March): For a quieter, off-season wedding, winter can be a great choice, especially in places like Crete, which stays relatively warm. Be prepared for fewer available vendors and services during this time.
4. Embrace Greek Wedding Traditions
Greece has rich wedding traditions, many of which you can incorporate into your own ceremony to make it even more special:
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The Koumbaro/Koumbara: In Greek weddings, the koumbaro (groom’s best man) or koumbara (bride’s maid of honor) plays an important role, including holding the wedding rings and sharing a special bond with the couple.
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The Stefana: The couple wears a crown made of intertwined ribbons or flowers, symbolizing the couple’s union and shared life ahead.
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The Dance: Greek weddings are famous for their lively music and traditional dances, such as the famous "sirtaki" dance.
Including these traditions will add an authentic touch to your Greek destination wedding.
Or interested to experience such an event as a spectator?
Look no further! At The Secret View, we specialize in creating unforgettable moments in a breathtaking setting.
Contact us today at hello@the-secret-view.com, and let’s start planning your dream wedding.