Are you thinking of having Greece as your destination for your dream wedding? That is just awesome, a great choice.
Greece is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful countries in the world. After so much traveling around the world, I have concluded that this statement is not overrated!
Also, a lot of people believe that Greece is the best location in Europe for a summer wedding ceremony. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, is an idyllic set for many couples.
To make it easy for you, here, at Jim Labraco we created a complete planning guide for a destination wedding in Greece. You will discover everything you need to know before saying “I do”!
Which Greek Location is Best for Your Wedding Day?
Greece offers a wide range of stunning locations, with its unique charm.
- Santorini: Famous for its unique views, white-washed buildings, and iconic blue domes, Santorini is perfect for couples dreaming of a picturesque wedding.
You can easily picture exchanging vows during a sunset that bathes the island in a golden background. We highly recommend it as it is one of the most well-known wedding venues in Greece and the whole world!
2. Mykonos: OK, maybe you already know this island and why it’s famous, right? You guessed correctly. Mykonos is famous for its lively nightlife and luxurious resorts, making it ideal for couples who want to blend their wedding celebration with a vibrant party atmosphere. The island’s beautiful beaches and chic venues offer endless possibilities for special themes and decorations.
- Crete: Another known Greek island that is ideal this time for those who are seeking a mix of natural beauty and historical richness. It provides a diverse landscape of beaches, mountains, and ancient ruins. The island’s warm hospitality and delicious cuisine add a special touch to any wedding.
- Rhodes: Finally, the ideal wedding venue for your Greece destination wedding can be the island of Rhodes. Steeped in medieval history, it offers a unique backdrop with its ancient castles and cobblestone streets, making it a perfect wedding venue. The island’s charm and history make it a great choice for a fairytale wedding!
- Mainland Greece: Besides beautiful islands, Greece offers amazing opportunities for a wedding located on the mainland. You can consider the country’s two biggest cities, Athens and Thessaloniki. Athens, one of the world’s oldest cities offers any type of venues you can imagine. From luxury to more theme-based options. Thessaloniki Greece’s second-biggest city offers a unique urban vibe of a smaller city.
Permit Information – The Basics That You Need to Know
Getting married in Greece requires some paperwork, but the process is straightforward if you plan it early.
Here is what you will need:
- Residency Requirements: No residency requirements exist for foreigners who want to marry in Greece. You need to check with your embassy or consulate to see if it is applicable.
- Documentation: You will need valid passports and birth certificates, to prove you are eligible to marry. These documents must be translated into Greek and certified for your Greece destination wedding.
- Marriage License: Apply for your marriage license at the local town hall or municipality where you plan to marry. This process usually takes about eight days, so plan accordingly.
- If either has been married previously: A death certificate or final divorce judgment, accompanied by an official translation in Greek.
- A Certificate of No Impediment (CNI): This must be completed in English and Greek and notarized at the relevant Embassy.
- The court’s decision: To approve marriage for persons under the age of 18
- An application Fee
Two sets of the aforementioned documents are necessary if both civil and religious weddings are to be held. One pair is for the town hall, while the other is for the priest.
Please note this: Americans married in Greece may be eligible to utilize a legal marriage license obtained in the United States if the license does not state that it is only valid in the originating jurisdiction.
Marriage License – How to Get it
The marriage license application requires:
To hold a civil wedding ceremony, you can apply for a marriage license from the municipality where you live.
- Submitting Documents: Present your translated and certified documents to the local authorities.
- Public Notice: Some areas require a public notice of your decision to marry, which must be published at the town hall for a few days.
- License Issuance: Once all requirements are met, the marriage license is issued and is valid for six months.
Touristy Things That Are Worth the Money
While in Greece for your wedding, take advantage of the local attractions. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
- Ancient Ruins: As we said previously, while in Greece you will have the chance to explore the Acropolis in Athens, the White Tower in Thessaloniki, the castles around the mainland like Peloponnese, and the Palace of Knossos in Crete. Everywhere you look there is a rich history to absorb. Schedule a feasible plan that will be enjoyable and won’t drain you!
- Island Hopping: One more fantastic idea widely known while in Greece is to discover the unique beauty of each island by taking a ferry tour – island hopping. The views from the sea are simply unforgettable!
- Local Cuisine: One of the best cuisines in the world will await you to enjoy it. Taste a traditional Greek feast, with moussaka, souvlaki, Greek salad, and traditional desserts. Consider a cooking class for a hands-on experience!
Favorite Locations on Each Island!
Take a look at some famous examples!
- Santorini: Oia’s cliffside views are the perfect set for sunset weddings.
- Mykonos: Little Venice offers a romantic setting with its waterfront views and townhouses.
- Crete: Elafonissi Beach with its pink sand is a unique and beautiful location.
- Rhodes: The Medieval Old Town provides a historical and captivating atmosphere.
How to Choose Your Vendor Team – Simple Steps
Selecting the right vendors is very important for a good wedding experience.
Consider the following:
- Local Expertise: Hire local vendors who are familiar with the area and have experience with Greece destination weddings.
- Recommendations: Search for recommendations from your venue or wedding planner. Some websites offer great insights and connections to top vendors in Greece.
- Communication: Ensure clear communication with your vendors, especially if there are language barriers. A bilingual wedding planner can be incredibly helpful in ensuring your big day goes smoothly.
First and Basic Steps to Planning Your Destination Wedding
- Set Your Budget: Determine your overall budget and separate funds for different aspects of your wedding.
- Choose a Date: Consider the season and local weather conditions. Greece is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
- Visit the Location: If possible, visit Greece before your wedding to scout venues, meet vendors, and finalize details.
- Hire a Local Wedding Planner: A local wedding planner is important for navigating the complications of a destination wedding. They offer insights into the best vendors, venues, and local customs.
- Book Travel and Accommodations: Secure travel and accommodations early, especially during peak seasons.
- Inform Your Guests: Send out save-the-date cards as soon as you finalize your date and venue!
[for more information insert internal link to the “How to plan a destination wedding” article]
Some Frequent-Asked Questions for a Destination Wedding in Greece!
1. How far in advance should we start planning our destination wedding in Greece?
Ideally, start planning 12-18 months to secure your ideal venues and vendors.
2. Is it expensive as a procedure?
Costs can vary widely depending on the location, number of guests, and level of luxury you desire. Greece offers options for a range of budgets.
3. Can we legally marry in Greece if we’re not Greek citizens?
Yes, non-residents can legally marry in Greece, provided they complete the necessary paperwork and obtain a marriage license, as we described in the previous sections.
Author
By Jim Labraco, our expert florist. The founder and owner of Jim Labraco Custom Floral Artworks!
