Full Santorini Wedding Guide: Your Complete Handbook to a Picture-Perfect Celebration
Did you know that over 1,000 couples from around the globe tie the knot in Santorini each year?
It's no surprise given its breathtaking sunsets and dreamy blue seas.
Our Full Santorini Wedding Guide is designed just for you.
We've got the ins and outs of getting legally married in this Greek paradise, the best spots for your ceremony and reception, and what you can expect to spend.
We'll even take you through the timeline of a traditional Greek wedding and highlight the most romantic areas in Santorini.
Let's make sure your big day is as enchanting as the island itself.
Key Takeaways
Santorini is a popular wedding destination due to its stunning sunsets and beautiful blue seas.
Getting married in Santorini involves gathering necessary documents, meeting deadlines, and navigating legalities.
Local wedding planners can assist with the paperwork and translations required for getting married in Santorini.
The cost of a wedding in Santorini can vary greatly, but the average wedding cost ranges from 15.000 euros and an elopement from 2.500 euros.
Is it easy to get married in Santorini?
So, you're probably wondering, is it easy to tie the knot in Santorini?
Well, it's not as simple as saying 'I do'.
There are documents to gather, deadlines to meet, and legalities to navigate.
However, it's far from impossible.
In fact, many couples worldwide find the process manageable, thanks to helpful local wedding planner.
They're experts in guiding you through the paperwork, which includes birth and marriageability certificates, and arranging translations if necessary.
While the process might seem daunting, remember that it's all part of the journey.
The stunning photos with the breathtaking Aegean Sea backdrop and the unforgettable memories you'll create will make every effort worth it.
How do I legally get married in Santorini?
To legally marry in Santorini, you'll need to complete several important steps.
First, ensure you have all necessary documents.
These include your passports, birth certificates, and if applicable, divorce or death certificates from previous marriages.
All documents must be translated into Greek by an official translator.
You'll also need to obtain a Certificate of No Impediment (CNI), proving you're free to marry.
This takes a couple of weeks, so plan ahead.
Once in Santorini, submit your paperwork to the Mayor's office at least a week before your wedding.
How long do you have to be in Santorini before you get married?
Continuing your wedding planning, you'll need to consider your arrival time in Santorini, as you're required to be on the island for a certain period before tying the knot.
This is to ensure that all legal requirements and paperwork are properly processed before your big day.
The typical duration you need to be in Santorini before your wedding varies, but here's a general guideline:
- Civil Weddings: You should arrive at least one day before to meet with the wedding planner and finalize details.
- Religious Weddings: A minimum of two days is necessary for meeting with the priest and completing religious procedures. Please note that religious weddings are currently available exclusively for Christian Orthodox partners.
- Symbolic Ceremonies: No specific time frame is required, but arriving a few days prior to settle in is recommended.
Where to celebrate a wedding in Santorini?
Now, let's dive into the various breathtaking locations in Santorini where you can celebrate your special day.
Imagine saying 'I do' in Oia, a picturesque village known for its iconic white buildings and stunning sunsets although there are several attractive alternatives.
If you're a beach lover, Perivolos offers a perfect setting with its black sand beaches.
For wine enthusiasts, a Santorini Winery could be your ideal location, with its panoramic views of the Aegean Sea amidst vineyards.
Perhaps you'd prefer to tie the knot at a historic venue?
There are Restaurants, located in great locations, and offer a unique blend of history and charm.
How much does a wedding in Santorini cost?
Considering a wedding in Santorini?
You'll find that costs can vary greatly, depending on your specific needs and choices.
It's important to note that Santorini is a high-end destination, and the average wedding cost can range from 15.000 or an elopement from 2,500 euros.
Yet, it's possible to plan a more budget-friendly event or a lavish one, based on your preferences.
To provide a clearer understanding, let's break down the potential costs:
- Venue: Prices can range from 2.500 to 7.000 euros, depending on the location, exclusivity and the hours you are booking the venue.
- Catering: Expect to pay between 80 to 250 euros per person, depending on the menu and the caterer's reputation.
- Photography & Videography: A professional service can cost from 4.200 to 10.500 euros. Remember, memories are priceless!
How long does a Greek wedding take?
In planning your Santorini wedding, you'll find that a traditional Greek wedding ceremony typically lasts around 15 to 60 minutes depending on if it is a civil or a religious wedding, but the celebrations can go on for several hours or even days.
Greek weddings, particularly in places like Santorini, are known for their festive, vibrant atmosphere.
After the ceremony, there's often a big reception with music, dancing, and plenty of food and drink. This party can last until the early hours of the next morning.
Additionally, in Greece, it's not unusual for pre-wedding and post-wedding celebrations to extend the festivities over a few days.
So, when you're planning your timeline, remember to factor in these traditions.
After all, a Greek wedding isn't just a ceremony, it's an experience.
What is the most romantic area in Santorini?
As you embark on planning your dream wedding, it's essential to note that while Oia is often celebrated as the most romantic spot in Santorini, we'd like to provide a more nuanced perspective.
Oia's enchanting sunsets, picturesque blue-domed churches, traditional Cycladic architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and charming boutiques collectively create a lover's paradise.
While Oia is undeniably captivating, we recommend careful consideration when choosing it as a wedding venue.
The popularity of Oia can lead to significant crowds, making it less ideal for intimate wedding ceremonies.
The limited number of venues available can accommodate smaller weddings of up to 30 people, with a few exceptions offering larger spaces.
For those seeking the unparalleled beauty of Oia for their special day, we suggest early morning photography sessions.
This allows couples to capture the magic of Oia's sunsets for their wedding album without contending with the bustling crowds.
By doing so, you can fully embrace the romantic ambiance of Oia while ensuring an intimate and memorable wedding experience.
Here are 3 reasons why Oia continues to stand out:
- Mesmerizing Sunrises: Opt for early morning photography to capture the serene beauty of Oia's sunrises, offering an alternative and equally enchanting backdrop for your special day.
- Iconic Blue-Domed Churches: These picturesque churches provide a breathtaking and distinctly Santorini setting for your wedding photos, creating timeless memories.
- Quaint Cobblestone Streets: Take a romantic stroll hand-in-hand down Oia's charming streets, where every step feels like a scene from your favorite love story.
FAQs
Santorini offers a stunning setting for embracing traditional Greek wedding customs in your celebration. It's important to note that for a religious wedding on the island, both individuals are required to be Orthodox Christians.
Beyond the Stefana ceremony and the significant role of the Koumbaro, you may want to include the "Dance of Isaiah," a beautiful tradition where the newlyweds dance their way into the reception.
Additionally, you can enhance the ceremony and reception by incorporating customs like the breaking of pomegranates for fertility and prosperity or infusing the event with traditional Greek music. These charming options add cultural richness to the celebration while respecting the requirement for both partners to be Orthodox Christians for the religious aspect of the wedding.
Certainly! Expanding on this, feel free to infuse your Santorini wedding with elements from your own cultural background.
Whether it's specific rituals, attire, or music, incorporating your traditions will add a personal touch to the event, making it a unique and memorable experience for you and your guests.
Choosing to have your wedding between June and September allows you to take advantage of Santorini's peak season.
During this time, you can enjoy longer daylight hours, warm temperatures, and the island's vibrant atmosphere, creating an ideal setting for your special day.
Not at all. Expanding on this, Santorini is a popular destination for international weddings, and English is widely spoken.
Local vendors and professionals in the wedding industry are accustomed to working with diverse couples, ensuring that language is not a barrier for you or your English-speaking guests.
Certainly! Further, local wedding planners in Santorini specialize in destination weddings and are well-versed in the unique challenges and details involved.
They can provide invaluable assistance in navigating local customs, securing vendors, and ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for couples planning a destination wedding on the island.
In addition to the mentioned documents, couples should be aware that some paperwork may need to be completed in advance, and it's advisable to check with the local authorities or your wedding planner for any updates to legal requirements.
Yes, both parties must be at least 18 years old to legally marry in Santorini. Exceptions may be made with parental consent.
No, same-sex couples can not legally marry in Santorini, as Greece does not recognize same-sex marriages yet.
While there is no specific waiting period, it's advisable to submit your paperwork well in advance, at least a week before the wedding.
Prompt communication with your wedding planner is crucial in such cases. Providing as much notice as possible allows for adjustments and ensures that the venue and vendors can accommodate any changes smoothly.
It's important to emphasize that a non-local officiant is not allowed for a legal wedding. Coordinating this with your wedding planner will ensure a smooth process and adherence to legal requirements.
While Santorini typically boasts favorable weather, unforeseen conditions can occasionally arise. In such instances, your dedicated wedding planner is well-prepared with contingency measures. These may include relocating the ceremony indoors if the venue provides such an option.
Alternatively, your resourceful wedding planner will diligently explore and present the best possible solutions tailored to your unique circumstances.
At Unique and Forever your special day is of utmost importance to us, and we are committed to ensuring a seamless and memorable experience, come rain or shine.
While there are no strict restrictions, it's advisable to discuss your musical preferences with your wedding planner and venue to ensure they align with local regulations.
Yes, most catering services in Santorini are flexible and can accommodate dietary preferences. Discuss your specific requirements with your chosen caterer.
Yes, it's highly recommended to purchase travel insurance that covers unforeseen circumstances, ensuring peace of mind for you and your guests. Please be aware that, at present, insurance companies do not typically cover wedding-related events.
Santorini has various transportation options, including taxis, rental cars, and buses. Your wedding planner can assist in coordinating transportation for guests.
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations. Consult with your wedding planner to ensure compliance with any restrictions on drone usage.
Yes, it's possible to have a legal wedding ceremony on one day and a symbolic ceremony on another, allowing you to customize your celebration.
Expanding on this, Santorini offers a plethora of activities, such as hiking, visiting historical sites like Akrotiri, exploring Oia's charming streets, and enjoying local wine tastings.
Your wedding planner can help tailor recommendations based on your preferences and the interests of your guests.
We suggest refraining from bringing your own items.
Instead, we recommend working closely with your wedding planner and local vendors to craft something truly exquisite tailored to your taste.
This approach ensures a smooth and visually appealing setup while making the most of the breathtaking Santorini backdrop.
Conclusion
Embarking on your journey to wedded bliss in Santorini is more accessible than you might imagine, thanks to simplified legal procedures.
Ensure a stress-free process by arriving at least a day in advance to manage paperwork seamlessly.
Santorini unfolds a plethora of breathtaking venues to elevate your celebration.
Costs are customizable, aligning with your unique style and preferences.
Whether you opt for a traditional Greek ceremony with extended festivities or choose to keep it short and sweet, the decision is entirely yours!
For an unparalleled romantic backdrop, Oia stands out as the quintessential choice.
In closing, a Santorini wedding promises a magical and unforgettable experience, well worth both the investment and time.
To embark on crafting your unique and forever moment, reach out to our skilled Team.
We will turn your dream celebration into a reality that surpasses expectations!
