Planning a wedding is a big deal. Planning a wedding in another country? That’s a whole new level of adventure—and stress. If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding in Greece, you’re probably picturing whitewashed buildings, seaside sunsets, and the sound of bouzouki music in the background. It’s magical. But between legal paperwork, language barriers, and not knowing where to even begin with vendors, it can also feel overwhelming.
For international couples, especially those juggling jobs and life back home, planning from afar can quickly turn from exciting to exhausting. You want a day that reflects your love story, not a logistical nightmare that takes over your life. The good news? It doesn’t have to be that way. With the right support and local know-how, your dream wedding in Greece can be as smooth as it is unforgettable.
Let’s walk through what you really need to know—and how to make it all happen without the headaches.
Why Greece Is a Dream Wedding Destination
Greece has long been a favorite for couples tying the knot abroad—and for good reason.
- Scenic beauty: From Santorini’s iconic cliffs to Crete’s golden beaches, the views are unreal.
- Rich culture: Think traditional Greek dances, Mediterranean cuisine, and local wines.
- Mild weather: Sun-soaked skies and gentle sea breezes for most of the year.
- Romantic vibe: Whether it’s a sunset ceremony or a cliffside celebration, Greece delivers romance in spades.
But like any dream location, getting married here comes with a few logistical quirks—especially if you’re not familiar with the local setup.
The Real Challenges of Planning a Wedding from Abroad
Planning your wedding from another country sounds glamorous—until you’re Googling “Greek wedding paperwork” at 2 a.m. Here are some of the common roadblocks international couples run into:
- Language barriers: Communicating with Greek vendors can be tricky if you don’t speak the language. Misunderstandings can lead to costly mistakes.
- Local customs: Weddings in Greece follow different traditions and processes, especially when it comes to ceremonies and legal requirements.
- Time zone differences: Scheduling calls and meetings can become a juggling act.
- Legal paperwork: Whether it’s civil or religious, getting legally married in Greece means navigating official documents, translations, and deadlines.
- Vendor coordination: Finding reliable florists, photographers, caterers, and venues without seeing them in person can feel like rolling the dice.
It’s a lot to handle on your own—but you don’t have to go it alone.
How to Plan a Destination Wedding in Greece Without Losing Your Mind
There are a few key strategies to take the stress out of planning your Greek wedding, even from thousands of miles away:
1. Start With Your Vision, Not the Logistics
Before diving into paperwork or Pinterest boards, take time as a couple to talk about your vision. What kind of vibe are you going for—romantic and intimate, or big and festive? Do you imagine a beachside setting, a rustic vineyard, or a cliffside chapel?
Having clarity on what you both want will make every decision down the line much easier.
2. Get Clear on Legal Requirements Early
This is one area where many couples hit a wall. The rules for getting married in Greece vary depending on your nationality and whether you’re planning a civil or religious ceremony.
Here’s what’s usually required:
- Valid passports and birth certificates
- Certificates of No Impediment to marry (translated and apostilled)
- Translations by authorized Greek translators
- Application submission to the local town hall ahead of time
Sound complicated? It can be, which is why most couples choose to get some professional help here (more on that in a bit).
3. Prioritize Local Expertise
Google can only get you so far. A local wedding planner who speaks the language and knows the ins and outs of the area can save you time, money, and stress.
A Plan Events, for example, specializes in helping international couples navigate every part of their destination wedding in Greece—from choosing venues to handling legal documents and vetting trustworthy vendors. It’s like having a Greek best friend who just happens to plan amazing weddings.
4. Choose Vendors You Can Trust
If you’re planning remotely, you may not meet your florist, caterer, or DJ until the big day. That’s why it’s crucial to either:
- Work with a planner who already has trusted connections
- Or schedule a short pre-wedding trip to Greece (hello, vacation!) to meet vendors in person
Either way, don’t rely solely on Instagram. Ask for full portfolios, reviews from other international couples, and clear contracts.
5. Be Flexible With the Timeline
Things don’t always move at the same pace in Greece as they might in your home country. Embrace a bit of “island time.” Building in extra buffer days around your wedding is smart, especially for last-minute errands or delivery hiccups.
What a Full-Service Wedding Planner Actually Does for You
Hiring a wedding planner isn’t just about someone who picks flowers or coordinates a timeline. A great planner becomes your boots-on-the-ground in Greece. Here’s what that typically includes:
- Handling all legal requirements and paperwork
- Translating and communicating with vendors
- Offering trusted recommendations for venues and suppliers
- Managing your budget and negotiating contracts
- Coordinating everything on the wedding day so you don’t have to
And when that planner is based locally—like A Plan Events—you get the added benefit of someone who truly understands the area, the culture, and what makes a Greek wedding so special.
Small Details That Make a Big Difference
Here are a few little tips that can help make your destination wedding smooth and memorable:
- Send save-the-dates early (at least 8–12 months ahead) so guests can plan.
- Create a wedding website to keep everyone informed about travel, dress code, and accommodations.
- Plan a welcome event (like a casual beach dinner or rooftop drinks) to kick things off.
- Build in downtime so you and your guests can enjoy Greece—not just the wedding day.
Final Thoughts: Your Dream Wedding, Made Simple
Planning a destination wedding in Greece doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Yes, there are challenges—but with the right support, it can be an exciting and joyful experience from start to finish.
By focusing on what matters to you as a couple and working with experienced local professionals like A Plan Events, you can sidestep the stress and simply enjoy your day. After all, your wedding should be about love, laughter, and making unforgettable memories—not chasing down paperwork or translating contracts.
Ready to explore more about planning your perfect wedding in Greece? Check out our helpful planning resources or reach out to start dreaming big—with less stress.