Insider Secrets to Planning the Perfect Destination Wedding
Dreaming of a wedding wrapped in golden sunlight and surrounded by whitewashed beauty? Then Santorini might already be tugging at your heart. You wouldn’t be the first. More and more couples are stepping away from traditional ballroom ceremonies and embracing the magic of a destination celebration. One that feels like a fairytale and unfolds under wide Mediterranean skies.
But behind those effortless photos and unforgettable moments are thoughtful choices. And that’s where we come in. At Marvellous Wedding, we’ve spent over a decade planning seamless, beautiful weddings here in Santorini. We know what works, what doesn’t and more importantly how to make your love story stand out in the most meaningful way.
Understand Currency & Taxes Before You Book
If you’re crossing borders, your money is too and that can get tricky. Exchange rates don’t stay still and Greece’s VAT (value-added tax) is currently 24%. Many couples forget to confirm whether it’s included in vendor pricing, which leads to budget surprises that are never fun. To soften the impact, consider paying deposits during off-peak months when the Euro is lower. Planning early helps, but so does asking direct questions. Clarify what’s included in quotes and what isn’t. That way, you stay in control of your budget from the very beginning.
Give Your Wedding Dress VIP Treatment
A wedding gown is not just fabric, it deserves more. And when you’re flying across the world to say “I do,” it needs extra love. Never, ever check it into luggage. Instead, carry it on board in a garment bag. Most flight crews are more than happy to help, especially once they hear you’re getting married. Choose a dress that dances with the wind, not one that fights it. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are your best friend in Santorini. Think chiffon, silk, or organza, since they photograph beautifully and you’ll feel amazing.
Build a Pre-Wedding Itinerary Guests Will Love
Your wedding day will fly by but the days leading up to it? Those can be just as magical. Hosting a relaxed welcome dinner by the sea, planning a catamaran cruise at sunset, or organizing a laid-back beach day builds excitement and connection between your guests. But don’t overbook. Give your guests time to explore, rest and enjoy. A gentle itinerary with one highlight per day works wonders. It’s their holiday too and space to breathe makes the celebration feel even more luxurious.
Prioritize Clear and Thoughtful Guest Communication
Invitations are just the beginning. For a destination wedding, your guests will need ongoing updates, especially as travel plans evolve. A wedding website is essential. It becomes a central hub for travel advice, dress codes, event timing and local recommendations. Supplement it with occasional email updates or app notifications. Try not to overload people. Keep it warm, informative and friendly. With the right tone, even logistics can feel like part of the excitement.
Time Your Beauty Appointments Wisely
Every bride wants to glow. But timing is everything. If you’re arriving a few days early, some beauty treatments (spray tans, lashes, gel nails) might be better scheduled locally. Santorini has fantastic salons and we work only with trusted professionals who speak fluent English. That way, you don’t risk chipped polish or faded makeup by the big day. Bonus: getting pampered while looking over the caldera? Absolute bliss.
Embrace the Joy of Letting Go
Here’s the truth most planners won’t tell you: perfection is a myth. Real magic happens when you lean into the moment. With a destination wedding, you won’t be able to micromanage every floral detail or rehearse every second. And you shouldn’t have to. Trusting your planner means giving yourself permission to enjoy the process. We’ll sweat the small stuff, so you don’t have to. You get to be present. And in love. That’s what matters most.
Think About Your Guests’ Experience, Too
Your guests are making an effort to be there. Time off work. Flights. Maybe childcare. Being thoughtful goes a long way. Offer accommodation options at different price points. Give them at least a year’s notice. And let them know there’s no pressure to attend every event. When people feel considered, they show up with full hearts. And that love adds to your day in ways you can’t even plan for.
Include Those Who Can’t Travel
Not everyone you love will be able to make the trip. But that doesn’t mean they have to miss out entirely. Many couples host a casual celebration back home after their wedding: a garden brunch, a family dinner, a sweet little gathering filled with photos and stories. You can also livestream your ceremony or share a beautifully edited video afterward. Distance shouldn’t stop connection.
Handle Payments with Care and Strategy
Dealing with international payments isn’t always straightforward. Some vendors won’t take credit cards and wire transfer fees can be surprisingly steep. That’s why we recommend discussing payment timelines and methods early. Break down large costs into smaller installments, if possible. And always request digital receipts for your records. A solid planner will help manage all this behind the scenes.
Remember Why You Chose This Path
In the middle of timelines, guest lists and Pinterest boards, remember what this is really about. You chose a destination wedding not just for the views, but for the feeling, the freedom, the intimacy, the romance of starting something new in a place that feels like a dream. So if a napkin flies off the table, or the sky turns unexpectedly dramatic? Laugh. Dance. Hold each other tighter. That’s the story you’ll tell for years.
Pick the Right Time of Year to Say “I Do”
Santorini doesn’t have a bad season but each one tells a different story. Summer is lively and sun-soaked, perfect for big celebrations. Spring and early fall bring golden light, quiet streets and milder temperatures. Even winter has its charm. Think about your priorities. Do you want privacy? Do you love heat? Would you rather have fewer tourists? There’s a time for every kind of wedding—it just depends on yours.
Choose Local Experiences That Reflect Your Story
The beauty of getting married abroad is making it feel like yours. That could mean swapping a traditional aisle walk for a barefoot stroll along the cliff. Or having your first dance under string lights in a vineyard. Think Greek musicians, olive wreaths, sunset boat rides, or custom favors from local artisans. Details like these make your celebration unforgettable—and impossible to replicate anywhere else.
Your Destination Wedding Deserves Santorini
Planning from afar can be overwhelming, we know. But you’re not in this alone. With over a decade of experience designing weddings across Santorini, Marvellous Wedding helps couples like you turn dreams into something real, something unforgettable.
From the first decision to the final toast, we walk beside you, guiding every step. Whether you’re envisioning a luxury celebration or an intimate sunset elopement, we’ll make sure it’s as extraordinary as the love that brought you here.
Looking for an expert wedding planner in Santorini? Let’s begin your story beautifully, naturally, joyfully.
Visit Marvellous Wedding and start planning the destination wedding of your dreams.