Weddings in Greece are definitely a dream for many couples from around the world, who picture themselves getting married to the love of their life on a breathtaking Greek island with the most amazing backdrop.
And now that travel is back on the cards, attention has again turned to Greece as being one of the world’s most beautiful places to tie the knot.
From November 9 through to the 11th, 2021- over 500 wedding experts from more than 70 countries will arrive at Rhodes island in the Dodecanese, to attend the 7th annual Destination Wedding Planners (DWP) Congress – the world’s largest business platform for the destination wedding industry.
Destination wedding in Mykonos | Image by Adonis Kekidakis
Leading wedding professionals from all across the globe will meet at the Mitsis Alila Resort & Spa to discuss the latest wedding trends, showcase some of the finest destinations, venues, creative partners, and services offered, connect and collaborate in future events.
It will also highlight why Greece is such an attractive destination for wedding events; and the amazing holiday that goes along with it not only for the couple but also family and friends who attend their special day. “Greece is making destination wedding dreams come true for couples from around the world with its stunning views for perfect backdrops, gorgeous venues, planner and designer extraordinaire, and amazing creative suppliers. Its spot on the map makes it the ideal place to gather guests from all over the world,” announced DWP.
Mykonos island wedding | Image by Adonis Kekidakis
The organisers also highlighted five key reasons they believe couples may choose Greece as the ideal destination to tie the knot:
Rhodes is a place many people have fallen in love with and it has become the perfect destination for lovers of love.
Honeymooners, newlyweds and wedding parties are now discovering the unique experiences that Rhodes can offer, as getting married on this gorgeous island on the Dodecanese provides you with the opportunity to combine your wedding celebrations with a great time away with family and friends.
Destination weddings require lots of planning, so we spoke to Greece’s leading wedding event specialists Lia and Stelios from White Events, to share their tips on saying “I do” in Rhodes.
Why do you think Rhodes is a great wedding destination?
Any Greek island would be the right decision for a couple seeking a Mediterranean theme for their wedding day. But Rhodes will always be our number one suggestion as there is so much variety across the island, making it easy to cover all preferences. There are sea and mountains, rocks and sand, simple venues and churches, as well as more luxurious places where you can tie the knot. Plus, the sun is always shining- but it’s not extremely hot like other islands.
What are your favourite wedding spots on the island?
Too many to choose from but we do have a list of favourites. For churches: Saint Paul’s in Lindos, Prophit Elias in Faliraki, and Agioi Apostoloi in Faliraki. The best venues are the Springs of Kalithea with the beautiful historical baths, and Lindos village for the Acropolis and ancient ruins.
What is the best time of year for a wedding in Rhodes?
June and September would be the best time since the weather is literally perfect, with just the right amount of sun.
What do couples need to know about planning a wedding in Rhodes?
No need to panic. Couples should see their wedding day as a trip to a beautiful island and not as a stressful event. The wedding will last only a few hours but the preparation starts way before. That’s why we recommend researching as early as you can and enjoy each step along the way. Since we are experts in what we do, couples can leave it up to us and peacefully enjoy their time on the island.
How far in advance should couples contact you to help them plan their dream wedding?
Start planning the event early. A year in advance would be ideal for smooth communication between us and the couple to plan everything in a timely manner.
Tell us some of the most romantic things to see & do in Rhodes?
A nice evening stroll along the streets of the Old Town while observing the majestic castle and small boutique stores. And if people think Santorini has the best sunset that’s only because they haven’t seen the one in Monte Smith- simply sit on the bench and enjoy the breathtaking moment.
What are some traditional delicacies/sweets from Rhodes that couples should think about including on the menu?
Greece is known for its Mediterranean cuisine, using pure and fresh ingredients such as olive oil, fresh spices, and seeds is a must. We recommend a platter with our traditional starters such as dolmadakia, pitaroudia which are basically little balls made of chickpeas and a variety of dips such as tzatziki and melitzanosalata (eggplant dip).
Melekouni would be our top favourite sweet option, which is a traditional Rhodian treat served at weddings and christenings. Made of sesame seeds and honey it’s known for its nutritional value.
What has been the most popular wedding theme over the last year?
Boho has by far been the most preferred. Couples tend to want more of a sophisticated and simple theme nowadays, which we have to admit is our favourite too.
What colours and decor do you love working with most?
Natural and nude colours compliment the Greek islands most. Wooden, linen and cotton materials will always look stunning. While plants such as echeveria add that perfect final touch.
Having planned over 200 weddings in Greece, tell us more about the services you offer?
There’s no limit to what we can achieve, as the client comes to us with a vision and we sculpt their idea using our expertise to turn it into a reality. We start from finding the perfect venue and church as well as the theme and aesthetic of the event according to the clients’ needs. We work alongside the best of the best photographers, caterers, florists, and other suppliers to offer a complete and unique wedding experience.
