Planning A Destination Wedding In Greece: A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a destination wedding in Greece means you'll need to consider your guests every step of the way. From travel logistics to accommodation, you'll want to make sure your guests have all the information they need. It's a good idea to create a wedding website to share travel tips and requirements, as well as send digital invites and accept RSVPs. When it comes to accommodation, booking a hotel block can provide your guests with an easy and discounted option. It's also important to note that the legal requirements for getting married in Greece can vary depending on your nationality, so be sure to consult with a local wedding planner or embassy. With its stunning coastline, ancient ruins, and romantic atmosphere, Greece is the perfect place to make your special day unforgettable.

Communicating travel logistics with your guests

When planning a destination wedding in Greece, it's crucial to consider your guests at every step. Communicating travel logistics with your guests is essential, and there are several ways to go about it.

First, send out 'save the dates' eight to 12 months in advance. Include the destination (e.g. Athens, Greece) and the date. This will give your guests ample time to plan their travel arrangements. You can also include information about the wedding venue and any travel requirements, such as the need for a passport or any recommended vaccinations.

Next, consider creating a wedding website. This can be a one-stop resource for your guests, where you can share travel tips, requirements, and recommendations. You can also use the website to send digital invites and accept RSVPs. This ensures that all your guests have access to the same information and can easily refer to it whenever needed.

When it comes to accommodations, booking a hotel block is often the most convenient option for guests. It provides them with an easy-to-book and frequently discounted option for their stay. However, large hotels may be hard to come by in certain Greek islands or cities, so it's important to start looking into accommodations as soon as possible. Once you've made arrangements, inform your guests and allow them ample time to consider their options and confirm their travel plans.

Finally, don't forget to highlight any unique or special experiences that your guests can look forward to. Greece offers a wealth of breathtaking backdrops, from its thousands of beaches to its ancient ruins and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. By sharing this information with your guests, you can help them make the most of their trip and create unforgettable memories.

Choosing the right vendors

Planning a destination wedding in Greece is an exciting prospect, but it can also be a daunting task. One of the most crucial steps is choosing the right vendors to bring your vision to life. Here are some tips to help you select the best vendors for your special day:

Hire a Local Wedding Planner

A local wedding planner is essential for a stress-free planning process. They can help you navigate the legal requirements, which can vary depending on your nationality, and recommend the best vendors and locations. A good wedding planner will ensure that everything runs smoothly on the day, allowing you to relax and enjoy your celebration.

Shop Around

Don't be afraid to shop around until you find vendors that are the right fit for you. If you have a specific island or area in mind, start by looking for planners and venues there. If you're open to different options, look for a planner in Greece or the US who serves a broader area. Utilise online marketplaces, such as The Knot Marketplace, to find wedding professionals with experience in destination weddings abroad.

Choose Experienced Vendors

Hiring an experienced vendor team is crucial to ensuring your destination wedding goes smoothly. Look for vendors who have specific experience with destination weddings and can capture the beauty of the location and the emotions of the day. This is especially important when choosing a photographer and/or videographer, as you'll want to create lasting memories with high-quality photos and videos.

Trustworthy Feedback

When selecting vendors, it's important to find people you feel are trustworthy and can offer honest feedback. Getting honest reviews and recommendations from others is a great way to ensure you're investing in the right vendors for your special day.

Incorporate Greek Culture

Greece's charm comes not only from its stunning scenery but also from its culture and people. Xenia, or hospitality, is a deeply rooted value in Greek culture, so you can be confident that your vendors will be committed to providing a warm and genuine experience for you and your guests. Consider incorporating traditional Greek customs into your wedding to create a unique and memorable celebration.

Legal requirements for getting married in Greece

Planning a destination wedding in Greece is a dream for many couples, and with good reason. The country boasts over 9,000 miles of coastline, thousands of beaches, and ancient ruins that provide a stunning backdrop for your special day.

However, before you can say "I do", there are some legal requirements that you need to fulfil. Here's a detailed guide to help you navigate the process:

• Passports: Both parties must have valid passports, with an expiration date at least six months beyond the wedding date.
• Birth Certificates: Recent copies of birth certificates are required, along with an official translation into Greek. This translation must be certified by a lawyer, the Greek Consulate in your home country, the Foreign Ministry's Department of Translation in Greece, or a certified translator.
• Affidavit of Marital Status: This document, often provided by your home country's embassy, verifies that you are legally free to marry.
• Civil Ceremony: Civil ceremonies are typically performed at the town hall. If you wish to have a religious ceremony, you must also complete the civil requirements beforehand.
• Marriage Certificate: After the ceremony, you'll receive a marriage certificate in Greek. You can request an international marriage certificate for legal purposes in your home country.

It's important to note that the legal requirements can vary depending on your nationality, so it's always a good idea to consult with a local wedding planner or embassy for the most up-to-date information.

Other Planning Tips:

• Send "Save the Dates" to your guests 8-12 months in advance, including the destination (e.g. Athens, Greece) and the date.
• Consider booking a hotel block to provide your guests with convenient and discounted accommodation options.
• Create a wedding website to share travel tips, requirements, and digital invites, as well as to collect RSVPs.
• Choose the right vendors to bring your vision to life and make your destination wedding in Greece truly memorable.

Booking accommodation for guests

When it comes to booking accommodation for your guests, it's important to consider their needs and preferences. Here are some tips to help you plan:

• The easiest and most convenient option for guest accommodation is usually hotel blocks. Booking a hotel block provides your guests with a discounted and easy-to-book option for the wedding weekend. This option is stress-free for both you and your guests. However, large hotels may be hard to come by on certain Greek islands or in smaller cities, so it's important to start looking into accommodations as soon as possible.
• Once you've made arrangements, be sure to inform your guests promptly. This will allow them enough time to check out the accommodations, consider their own needs and preferences, and confirm their travel plans.
• It's also a good idea to create a wedding website. This can be a helpful resource for sharing travel tips, requirements, and other important information with your guests. You can also use the website to send digital invites and accept RSVPs.
• Keep in mind that Greece has over 9,000 miles of coastline and thousands of beaches, so there's no shortage of beautiful locations to choose from. You can even consider island-hopping for your honeymoon!
• Finally, remember that the legal requirements for getting married in Greece can vary depending on your nationality. It's always a good idea to consult with a local wedding planner or embassy for up-to-date information.

Planning your honeymoon

Santorini, Antiparos, Ios, Hydra and Crete are all popular honeymooning locations. Santorini is famous for its sunsets and whitewashed buildings, while Antiparos is a celebrity favourite, known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful beaches. Ios is a great choice for couples who want a mix of relaxation and nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Hydra is a car-free island, perfect for those looking for a peaceful escape, and Crete offers a mix of ancient history and stunning natural landscapes.

If you're looking for a more active honeymoon, consider island-hopping to explore all that Greece has to offer. With each island offering something unique, you can tailor your trip to your interests. Visit ancient ruins, explore archaeological museums, or wander through cobblestone streets lined with colourful bougainvillea.

When planning your honeymoon, be sure to consider your travel logistics. Booking accommodations in advance, especially in popular destinations, is crucial to ensuring a stress-free experience. Utilise hotel blocks, which offer convenience and discounted rates for you and your guests. Remember to inform your guests of your plans as soon as possible, giving them ample time to prepare for their travels.

Frequently asked questions