As a wedding planner specializing in destination weddings in the Southern Spain, I’m witnessing both the rise in popularity for destination weddings and an increasing resistance from guests, to the point that some will not even consider participating when they hear it’s a destination wedding.
While creating the guest list, it’s good to know not all will attend and that is ok and expected. People will have their own reasons, being schedule impediments or monetary concerns. Some will let you know about their reasons, others won’t, but in my experience, it’s better to let go and concentrate on each and every one of the guests that do attend.
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A Thoughtful Approach to Wedding Extras
It’s important to remember that none of these additional experiences or activities are expected— they are simply ways to enhance your guests’ time with you if you feel it fits into your vision and budget.
You don’t need to allocate 50% of your budget to guest activities or feel like you’re missing out if your wedding isn’t a non-stop “demonstration.”
In fact, the most meaningful weddings are often those where couples stay true to themselves, focusing on personal moments rather than trying to entertain guests at every turn.
Destination weddings are particularly great for couples who want to step away from traditional norms, as they offer a more flexible format. However, the growing popularity of destination weddings has made them increasingly demanding in terms of expectations. The pressure to keep guests entertained, while creating a seamless, luxurious experience, can be overwhelming.
But it’s worth remembering that your wedding is not a show. It’s a celebration of your love, and your guests are there because they care about you, not because they’re expecting a meticulously choreographed weekend of events. Strike a balance between hospitality and maintaining your own comfort.
This being said, here are some great ideas to make your guests feel valued and appreciated for their efforts in accepting and making the trip for your destination wedding.
Pre-Wedding Gatherings or Other Days’ Events
Better than a destination wedding is a destination wedding weekend, with one or two additional smaller events around your wedding day. This will allow your guests to ease into schedule and feel taken care of.
One of the best ways to enhance the overall experience for your guests is by organizing thoughtful pre-wedding and post-wedding events. These gatherings don’t need to be extravagant or feel like a “production,” but should reflect the local culture, your personality as a couple, and give guests a sense of connection before the big day.
1. Welcome Party with Local Flavor
Kick off the celebration with a casual welcome party. Consider hosting this in a local Spanish finca or by the beach at a charming chiringuito (beach bar). Serve regional specialties like tapas, seafood paella, and pair them with refreshing sangria or local wine. This can be an excellent opportunity for your guests to mingle in a relaxed environment while taking in the beautiful surroundings of Southern Spain. A live flamenco guitarist or a traditional Andalusian dance troupe can add cultural authenticity to the night, giving guests a true taste of Spain before the main event.
2. Private Group Tours
Since your guests are traveling from afar, many will want to explore the area. Organizing group tours or excursions allows them to discover the stunning destinations around Malaga, Marbella, or Sotogrande, and create memories beyond just the wedding day. Consider a private tour of the Alhambra in Granada, a winery visit in Ronda, or even a leisurely boat trip along the Mediterranean coast. These activities are not about putting on a show for your guests, but about offering them the chance to truly enjoy the destination while they’re there. They can be planned in advance but don’t need to consume a large part of your budget.
3. Casual Rehearsal Dinner
While many couples still embrace the tradition of a rehearsal dinner, you can make it unique by choosing a low-key, picturesque location like a rustic Andalusian courtyard or a chic rooftop terrace. Keep the atmosphere casual and personal with intimate toasts or fun activities such as a “meet and greet” icebreaker game for guests who haven’t met each other yet. This is a great way to continue fostering connections while keeping the focus on celebrating your upcoming union.
Read here about why it matters to follow your own values while planning your wedding
Enhancing the Wedding Day Experience
On the day of the wedding itself, the experience shouldn’t just focus on the ceremony and reception. Think about the flow of the day and how your guests can stay engaged and feel looked after throughout. Here are a few ways to elevate the wedding day:
4. Interactive Guest Welcome Kits
A great way to make guests feel appreciated as soon as they arrive is through a personalized welcome kit. Think beyond the basic “thank you” card and bottle of water—offer local delicacies like mantecados (Spanish shortbread), olive oil from a nearby producer, or even a small bottle of locally crafted gin. Include a hand-written itinerary of the wedding events, as well as recommendations for local attractions, cafes, and beaches for any downtime they may have. You could even add custom sunscreen and fans, especially for warm Malaga or Marbella summer days.
5. Luxury Transfers and Concierge Services
Guests often appreciate when transportation logistics are made simple for them. Consider offering private transfers from the airport, or shuttles to and from the wedding venue, especially if it’s in the countryside or a more remote location like Sotogrande. For an added touch of luxury, you can arrange for a small concierge service at their accommodation to handle any requests they might have during their stay, whether it’s restaurant reservations, recommendations for sightseeing, or even childcare.
6. Pre-Ceremony Refreshments and Lounge Areas
To make guests feel truly comfortable on the day of the wedding, set up a chic pre-ceremony refreshment area where they can enjoy fresh lemonade, infused water, or cocktails before the ceremony starts. If the wedding is outdoors, offering shaded lounge areas with comfortable seating will not only elevate the look of the event but also help guests relax and settle into the vibe of the day. These small gestures are often the ones that stand out and make guests feel pampered.
7. Immersive Cultural Moments
Incorporating local traditions or performances during the wedding day can create an unforgettable experience. Consider adding a moment during cocktail hour or dinner where local musicians or dancers perform. Flamenco guitar, traditional Spanish dancers, or even a spontaneous moment where the couple and guests join in a traditional Sevillana dance can be memorable highlights. These moments of cultural immersion offer guests something unique and special, something they wouldn’t experience at a wedding back home.
Read here about the cost of your destination wedding in Malaga!
Post-Wedding Experiences: Keep the Celebration Going
Once the big day has passed, offering additional events or experiences for guests who plan to stay a bit longer will keep the celebrations going and help create even more memories together.
8. Farewell Brunch
A day-after brunch is a lovely, low-pressure way to bid farewell to your guests and close the wedding celebration on a relaxed note. Choose a scenic, al fresco setting—whether it’s a beachfront café or a countryside villa—where guests can enjoy a laid-back Spanish brunch of tostadas con tomate (toast with tomato), tortilla de patatas (Spanish omelette), and freshly squeezed orange juice. This final touch allows everyone to say their goodbyes and wind down before heading home.
9. Organized Activities Without the Couple
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the idea of having to entertain guests all weekend, remember that not every activity requires your presence. Offer optional experiences like a spa or beach day for the ladies, a round of golf for the gentlemen, or a group boat trip that your guests can enjoy on their own. This allows you to have some personal time as a couple while ensuring your guests still have a fantastic time without needing you to guide them through every moment.
Lasting Memories Beyond the Wedding Day
Your destination wedding in Southern Spain is not just a celebration of love, but an opportunity to create lifelong memories for both you and your guests.
You want your guests leave not only with fond memories of your wedding but also with a deeper appreciation of the beautiful region they visited.
But we think it’s essential to strike a balance —your guests will appreciate any extra effort you put into their experience, but they don’t expect a fully orchestrated, non-stop event.
Sometimes, the simplest moments are the most meaningful, and a wedding that feels authentic will always shine brighter than one that feels overly polished.