Dani Rawson Photography, a destination wedding photographer who is based in Lake Tahoe, shares her six crucial tips for planning a wedding in Greece.
Dreaming of a destination wedding in Greece? Look no further!
With its picturesque islands, stunning venues, and warm hospitality, Greece offers the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable wedding celebration.
In this guide, I will help you explore essential tips and insights to help you plan a seamless and magical wedding experience in Greece. Trust me, YOU AREN’T GONNA WANNA MISS THIS.
Six Tips for Planning a Wedding in Greece
ONE | Pick Your Location Wisely
When selecting the perfect location for your Greek wedding, it’s important to consider your preferences and logistical aspects. No, but seriously there is a reason I made this tip number ONE.
While Santorini may be the first choice for many, be aware that it features steep stairs and hilly terrain.
If mobility is a concern or you prefer a less touristy atmosphere, explore alternative islands like Paros. Paros offers a wealth of breathtaking venues, delicious cuisine, and easy accessibility. It is EASILY my favorite place.
If you can make Santorini work, then I recommend El Viento.
The food is amazing and the views?! EVEN BETTER. Plus, it gets bonus points because you can EVEN have the owner bake the wedding cake. It is sentimental since he created the wedding venue on the ground of his family’s old bakery and flour farm.
I’m not crying. You are.
Still not convinced? You can even stay in the windmill on the night of your wedding.
TWO | HIRE A LOCAL PLANNER
Enlisting the services of a local wedding planner can make a world of difference.
Trust me, as a destination wedding photographer, I have seen PLENTY of planning mishaps.
SKIP THE STRESS
Local planners possess valuable local knowledge, connections with trusted vendors, and a deep understanding of Greek wedding traditions. A skilled planner will handle all the details, from coordinating transportation and vendors to creating a flawless timeline.
I MEAN, WE ARE TALKING ABOUT:
TRANSPORT AROUND THE ISLAND
VENDOR COORDINATION
CEREMONY TO COCKTAIL HOUR SWITCH
SETTING UP FOR DINNER + RECEPTION
Also, they will be your boots on the ground, ensuring a stress-free and memorable wedding day.
I mean, if you can’t be there yourself to plan it, you might as well have someone who knows what the EFF they are doing, right?!
These reputable planners, Julia and Evita, specialize in Greek Island weddings.
They are FAB at what they do, and you will literally be living your Greek wedding dreams.
THREE | CHOOSE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER WISELY
Bringing a photographer from your home country offers several advantages. And though that may be controversial, here are my thoughts:
It eliminates any language barriers, ensuring clear communication and understanding of your vision.
Not only that but when you work with a photographer who shares your cultural background, they can create an instant rapport, making you feel more at ease in front of the camera — WHICH IS SO IMPORTANT.
Collaborating with your photographer during engagement sessions or pre-wedding meetings allows you to build a relationship and ensures that they understand your style and preferences — and it’s a lot easier to make these happen when you pick a photographer that is local to you. Plusssssss, Many photographers are eager to capture dreamy destinations like Greece, and they often offer custom packages to suit your needs and budget.
So, it really is a win-win if you ask me.
FOUR | Embrace the Local Cuisine and Culture
One of the highlights of a Greek wedding is the delectable cuisine — SO WHY NOT USE IT TO YOUR ADVANTAGE?!
Incorporate traditional Greek dishes into your wedding menu, such as moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava.
Indulge your guests with the flavors of Greece and create an authentic culinary experience.
As far as other cultural aspects go, consider embracing Greek customs and traditions, such as the Stefana (wedding crowns), breaking plates for good luck, and lively traditional dances like the Zorba.
These elements will add a unique and unforgettable touch to your celebration.
FIVE | Be Mindful of the Weather + Timing
Greece has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry, windy summers and mild winters. Which, I mean, compared to some other locations out there is IMPECCABLE.
But, it isn’t the weather that might throw a wrench in your plans, it’s usually the tourists.
When choosing your wedding date, consider the weather and the tourist season. The months of May, June, and September offer pleasant temperatures, less wind, and fewer crowds, making them ideal for a wedding in Greece.
SIX | Plan Activities for Your Guests
A destination wedding in Greece is not just about the ceremony and reception — It’s an opportunity for your loved ones to enjoy a memorable vacation. AND WHEN IN GREECE? You better make the best of it.
Arrange group excursions, such as catamaran tours (our bride did this & invited me and it was SO FUN!), island hopping, historical site visits, or wine-tasting tours, to make the most of their time there.
I pinkie promise that your guests will appreciate the thoughtfulness and create lifelong memories alongside your wedding celebration.
And if you want to see this wedding day in full, check out the blog: A Dream Santorini Destination Wedding
INTERESTED IN PLANNING YOUR DESTINATION WEDDING WITH DANI RAWSON PHOTO?
FOUND THIS HELPFUL?
Check out my other resources:
THREE TIPS FOR WHAT TO WEAR FOR YOUR SESSION
5 TIPS FOR WRITING YOUR VOWS
QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER BEFORE YOU BOOK
