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An Idyllic Celebration at One of Spain’s Most Unique Wedding Venues

April 15, 2025 | justine

When a love story begins with the words, “He came into my life at the right time, for the better,” you just know the wedding is going to be filled with heart. Malika and Karim’s romantic big day in southern Spain wasn’t just a wedding—it was an unforgettable celebration set against the most surreal backdrop one could imagine. Tucked away on a cliffside overlooking the sea, Love Garden is one of the most unique wedding venues in Spain, and possibly the world.

From the very beginning, the couple knew they wanted a day that honored their connection to the land and their love for nature, literature, and elegance. “We placed our full trust in our wedding planner, who perfectly translated our vision into decor that enhanced the beauty of the venue,” Malika shared. “It was important for us to choose natural tones… green to blend harmoniously with the landscape, along with wood and white accents.”

What We Love About This Wedding:

  • The cliffside ceremony surrounded by dramatic rock formations and a serene turquoise pool
  • A tree-canopied altar that blended seamlessly with the natural surroundings
  • Reception tables named after book chapters, with personalized books gifted to guests
  • Elegant, nature-inspired decor with white florals, lush greenery, and chandeliers
  • The breathtaking view of Morocco, connecting the day to the groom’s heritage

Featured Vendor:
Love Garden

How to Plan a Wedding Quickly (and Beautifully)

Planning a destination wedding in a short amount of time might sound impossible—but with the right help, it can be done. Malika and Karim worked closely with Fiona from Superplanner, who helped them bring everything together with grace and efficiency.

“We planned this wedding very quickly,” Malika said. “Our wedding planner was in charge of finding the right vendors. We fully aligned with her organizational vision and sense of aesthetics.” They trusted Fiona completely. And that trust paid off. Each vendor brought skill and professionalism, contributing to the elegant, understated atmosphere the couple wanted. “We didn’t want flashy. We wanted professionals capable of bringing our big day to life with expertise and elegance.”

How They Found One of Spain’s Most Unique Wedding Venues

For couples searching for unique wedding venues, Malika and Karim’s pick couldn’t be more inspiring. Love Garden, located near Tarifa—the southernmost point of Europe—offers breathtaking views of Morocco across the sea and feels more like a hidden paradise than an event space.

“Love Garden captivated us the moment we discovered it. Its vast open spaces, natural stone caves, serene water features, and the sun shining at its peak… every element came together perfectly.” The ceremony was set beneath a perfectly manicured tree canopy, with rows of white chairs and a sea of fresh white florals framing the altar. Behind them, cliffs and greenery towered overhead while the ocean sparkled in the distance.

“Emotion was at the heart of our entire wedding ceremony,” Malika said. “Walking down the aisle arm in arm with my brother and seeing my husband waiting at the end deeply moved me—it felt like a beautiful promise of happiness.”

Letting the Landscape Lead the Way for the Reception

The reception took place in a secluded part of the property, surrounded by lush landscaping, dramatic boulders, and soft lighting. The couple leaned into the natural beauty of the location while adding elegant touches—crystal chandeliers dripping from greenery-wrapped arches, long tables adorned with soft white linens, candlelight, and delicate blooms. In the end, the atmosphere felt romantic, whimsical, and surreal all at once.

A special personal touch? Malika, a literature lover, named each table after a book chapter. Guests received hand-selected books chosen just for them. A charming, heartfelt gesture that made everyone feel part of the story.

Slowing Down and Taking It In

One of the couple’s favorite parts? The chance to slow down and truly savor the experience. “We got to stay there for a few days,” Malika shared, “which gave us time to share this sacred experience with family—both during and after the celebrations. It felt like being in our own little bubble. A bubble of nature, filled with unforgettable memories.”

And the celebration didn’t stop after dinner. “Every moment carried deep emotion. The heartfelt speeches from my loved ones and my in-laws, and of course, the celebration itself,” she added. “We danced and celebrated until the early hours, lost in the magic of the night. Time no longer mattered; we embraced every second to the fullest.”

More Than a Backdrop: The Power of Unique Wedding Venues

Your venue sets the tone for your entire wedding, and for Malika and Karim, choosing one of the most unique wedding venues in Spain made everything feel effortlessly magical. From the natural setting to the trusted vendors who helped bring their ideas to life, every detail reflected their story, their values, and their connection to the land.

So if you’re looking for a setting that feels like it was made just for you—one that captures your heart from the moment you arrive—take a note from Malika and Karim. Let the setting speak, and build the rest from there. And of course, surround yourself with people you trust. With the right team, even the wildest dreams can come true.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Ben Levy
Event Planning + Invitation + Event Design – Superplanner
Venue – Love Garden
Floral Design – Pedro Navarro
Catering + Cake – Mimo Catering
Live Music – Inspiration
Videography – Clipheart
Makeup + Hair Styling – Arnaud Sol Dourdin
Wedding Dress – Zuhair Murad
Rentals – MDM Decor

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Minimalist Charm and Mediterranean Magic in this Cyprus Destination Wedding

April 10, 2025 | justine

When Georgia and Joe set their sights on a Cyprus destination wedding, they knew it had to reflect their love, culture, and the stunning Mediterranean landscape. Georgia envisioned a minimal, classic, and timeless celebration—one that would be beautiful now and unforgettable for years to come.

“I didn’t want too much going on,” Georgia shares. “I wanted the location to do most of the talking, with the decor complementing the natural beauty around us rather than competing with it.” This approach let the stunning Cyprus backdrop shine, with elegant touches enhancing the setting without overwhelming it.

Selecting the venue was their first priority. “We had a clear vision for our wedding from the start.” After considering several options, they found the perfect spot, setting the stage for a seamless celebration.

Instead of hiring a wedding planner, Georgia used her detailed planning skills and her mother’s organizational expertise to bring their big day to life. “It was a true team effort.” Pinterest mood boards, a comprehensive PDF, and plenty of spreadsheets guided them. With recommendations from family and friends in Cyprus, they sourced many of their own vendors, ensuring every detail was just as they imagined.

What We Love About This Cyprus Destination Wedding:

Featured Vendor:

Louis Gabriel

Setting the Tone by Welcoming Guests in True Cypriot Style

Hosting a destination wedding meant their guests were there to enjoy not only the wedding day but also the beauty of Cyprus. “We hosted a pre-wedding dinner at our favourite taverna on the island—Vorea’s, a traditional Cypriot tavern in the village,” says Georgia. The evening kicked off the celebrations with traditional meze, local wine, and Greek dancing that kept everyone going until the early hours.

Celebrating Heritage and Love Through Personal Traditions During Their Ceremony

For Georgia and Joe, the ceremony was about more than just vows—it was a celebration of family, heritage, and cherished memories. They chose a church that held deep sentimental value for Georgia’s family. “It was at the top of the village where my family lives, and it held so much sentimental value.” The church had been a place of quiet reflection for her grandfather, making it the perfect setting for this special day. The significance grew even more when Joe proposed to Georgia outside the church at sunset, a moment they would always hold dear.

Opting for a traditional Greek Orthodox ceremony added another layer of meaning, allowing Georgia to share her culture with their loved ones. “It felt so special and emotional to share that moment in front of all our loved ones,” she says, reflecting on the richness of the ceremony.

One of the most memorable parts of the day came after the ceremony. As they left the hilltop church, the sunset created the perfect backdrop for a ride in a retro Mercedes, making the moment feel straight out of a dream. “It was pure magic—one of those moments you just want to freeze in time.” These meaningful traditions and moments made the day truly unforgettable.

Fusing Tradition with Timeless Elegance in Their Cyprus Destination Wedding Fashion

Georgia’s wedding dress was another reflection of her vision—something classic and timeless. After trying on nearly 50 dresses, she found the perfect one. “As soon as I did, it was confirmed—it was the one. The shape was sentimental because both my mum and grandmother wore similar styles for their weddings.” She also added a personal touch by wearing her mum’s original wedding dress to the pre-wedding dinner, tailored into a chic mini.

Joe’s outfit was just as thoughtfully chosen. He wore a green suit that complemented his green eyes and tanned complexion. The color choice was his from the moment he proposed, and he paired it with Gucci loafers and a khaki-faced watch. His groomsmen’s green attire matched the theme, bringing together the look with a coordinated yet timeless touch.

Crafting a Personal and Elegant Celebration at Dafermou Winery

Choosing the reception venue was a bit of a journey. But once Georgia and Joe discovered Dafermou Winery in Lefkara, they knew it was the perfect fit. The winery’s stunning mountain views and minimalist design aligned perfectly with their vision. “It had stunning mountain views combined with a modern, minimalist feel, which fit perfectly with our vision.” Plus, the fact that it’s a winery gave guests the chance to enjoy wine made from the venue’s own grapes. Adding a meaningful connection to the local culture.

The decor was kept simple yet sophisticated, allowing the natural beauty of the venue to be the star. Personal touches like flowers, candles, and fairy lights added a warm, intimate feel, creating a welcoming atmosphere for their guests.

The celebration kicked off with a champagne tower, followed by a delicious dinner and hours of dancing. “It was everything we could have hoped for—full of love, laughter, and the best vibes!” One of their favorite moments was opting for a sweetheart table, allowing them to enjoy a quiet pause together while everyone else dined. “It was such a beautiful way to sit back, take it all in, and just enjoy each other’s company.”

Personalizing Their Cyprus Destination Wedding Day with Meaningful and Fun Details

Georgia and Joe made sure to infuse the celebration with personal elements that captured the joy and energy of the day. A Polaroid camera and guest book became a cherished keepsake, allowing guests to snap photos and leave messages. “It’s such a wonderful way to relive those moments. And we now have such a fun collection of memories to flip through.” The selfie mirror was another hit, giving guests the chance to get creative while adding fun to the celebration.

Some moments truly stood out. “One of my favorite highlights was when a friend of ours sang for us. Joe and I just couldn’t resist joining in. And before we knew it, we were having a full-on bride and groom karaoke session!” The Greek money dance, a traditional part of their culture, provided another unforgettable moment. Neither Georgia nor Joe knew exactly what they were doing, which made it all the more fun. “Then, in true Joe fashion, he decided to give a speech during it. (And yes, he was wearing a vest, as only Joe would.)”

Georgia sums it up perfectly: “Honestly, every single moment was lovely. We really felt like we got to soak it all in, enjoy the time with our guests, and dance the night away. It was perfect!”

Why It’s the Big Moments, Not the Small Details, That Count

As much as the couple meticulously planned every detail, they realized that the small things weren’t as important as the overall atmosphere. “Whether the napkins are Lefkara lace or cotton don’t matter. You remember the incredible time you had, and trust me, your guests won’t even notice those tiny details.”

Her advice for couples planning their own destination wedding? “Create a day that feels right for both of you but also keeps the guests in mind. You want everyone to feel the love and joy, and set the tone for a magical day.”

In the end, it wasn’t the minor hiccups—like a blowing veil—that defined their day. It was the love, joy, and connection Georgia and Joe shared with their guests. Their story is a reminder to focus on what truly matters: the moments that make the day unforgettable.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Louis Gabriel
Ceremony Venue – Prophet Elias
Reception Venue – Dafermou Winery

 

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This Monforte de Lemos Wedding Featured a Custom Vintage-Inspired Wedding Dress

April 8, 2025 | justine

When you know, you know—and for Sabela and Alessandro, their love story started with a twist of fate that led to a timeless celebration in the heart of Galicia. Their romantic Monforte de Lemos wedding brought together vintage charm, cultural nods, and heartfelt personal touches, all set against the dreamy backdrop of a historic manor.

The couple’s journey began in London back in 2016. “We met in the most unexpected way,” Sabela shared. “I’m Spanish, Alessandro is Swiss, and we worked in the same department of a luxury hotel. We were also neighbors!” Alessandro fell first, but it was their official first date that made Sabela realize he was the one.

A few magical months later, Alessandro returned to Switzerland to continue his studies—but they knew distance wouldn’t break what they had. “Some relationships are simply meant to last, and ours was one of them. We were soulmates, and no miles between us could ever break that bond.”

As their love grew stronger across countries, so did their vision for a celebration that felt elegant, timeless, and romantic. “We envisioned our wedding with an elegant, timeless style infused with a romantic vintage feel,” Sabela said. “The color palette featured soft pastel shades of pink, salmon, burgundy, and orange, creating a warm and dreamy atmosphere.”

What We Love About This Monforte de Lemos Wedding

  • A tailor-made vintage-inspired gown with silk and organza details
  • A champagne tower and live 70s music during cocktail hour
  • A personalized pocket square made from the bride’s dress fabric
  • A welcome event featuring a live concert for out-of-town guests
  • A unique watercolor seating chart printed on fabric

Featured Vendor:

Sam Ponsford Bodas

Making Their Guests Feel Welcome Right From The Start of Their Monforte de Lemos Wedding

The couple’s top priorities were clear from the beginning: the venue, music, and food. With guests traveling in from Switzerland and all over Spain, they wanted the wedding weekend to feel like a shared experience from day one.

To set the tone, they hosted a casual welcome event at the Hotel Parador in Monforte de Lemos. A flying food dinner and live music by The Peppermints created the perfect atmosphere. “We had a blast!” Sabela said. It gave everyone a chance to connect, relax, and ease into the celebration.

Choosing a Venue That Let Them Personalize Every Moment

The couple knew they wanted a venue that felt intimate, romantic, and full of character. “We fell in love with the Pazo de Treilán, especially with the dining hall. It is a gorgeous location—romantic, rural, and chic. It’s a small estate compared to others in the region but has many areas to create different ambiences.” Renting the entire property gave them creative freedom to design a day that felt true to them.

“Walking down the aisle with my dad was so beautiful,” Sabela recalled. “Seeing all my loved ones looking at me with tears of joy in their eyes. And seeing the love of my life waiting to marry me!”

Finding the Right Wedding Look That Represented Their Personal Style

Sabela had a strong vision for her look from the beginning—and finding the right designer made all the difference. She worked with Spanish designer Sara Lage to bring her dream dress to life.

“I wanted to give my look a retro flair, with the high neck and puffed organza sleeves, evoking a style from the 60s or 70s,” she shared. The custom gown featured a stunning mix of silk satin, muslin, organza, and bambula in ivory tones.

To complete the look, she wore ivory patent leather shoes from Stuart Weitzman and pearl earrings from her grandmother—sentimental and stylish. Alessandro’s wedding day outfit was just as intentional: a tailor-made dark blue silk suit by Canali, ivory shirt, and a pocket square crafted from extra fabric from Sabela’s dress.

It was thoughtful, personal, and perfectly in sync with the day’s aesthetic.

Shop Similar High-Neck Wedding Dress:

 

Keeping Their Monforte de Lemos Wedding Reception True to Who They Are

Their Monforte de Lemos wedding was full of music, personal details, and regional flair. A traditional Galician bagpipe performance kicked off the celebration, followed by an outdoor cocktail hour with food stands, fresh seafood, and a champagne glass tower.

One of the most unique details? The seating chart—hand-painted in watercolor and printed on fabric for a soft, romantic touch that tied in with the venue’s charm.

Throughout the evening, friends and family shared heartfelt speeches, and the newlyweds hit the dance floor to live 70s music by Lexter. “We danced the night away until my feet got numb.”

There Will Be Hiccups—Plan Anyway

Even the most organized couples face last-minute changes. That’s why Sabela brought on a wedding planner in November, after booking their venue and saving design inspo in September. “I found most of them through recommendations and Instagram. My main requirements: aligned on aesthetics and style, experienced, responsive, and resourceful.”

She offered this advice for future couples: “Keep your cool the week before because there will be so many eventualities and unexpected changes that are out of your control.”

JB Tip: Thinking of planning a destination wedding like this Monforte de Lemos wedding? Prioritize communication with your vendors, trust your planner, and don’t forget to carve out time for those once-in-a-lifetime memories—like dancing ‘til your shoes give out.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Sam Ponsford
Event Planning – I Do Me Too
Ceremony Venue – Pazo de Treilán
Reception Venue – Hotel Parador Monforte de Lemos
Floral Design – La Constanza Flores
Catering – Josmaga
DJ – Ayman
Live Music – Lexter
Videography – Lobos Video
Invitation Design – Alexandra Motovilina
Makeup + Hair Styling – Vicky Vargas
Wedding Dress – Sara Lage
Bridal Accessories – Stuart Weitzman
Groom’s Apparel – Canali
Rings – Cartier

 

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