When to Plan Your Destination Wedding in Europe

Smart timing tips for couples dreaming of an unforgettable day

The Season Sets the Tone

Choosing the right time of year is one of the first and most important steps in planning your destination wedding in Europe. Each season brings a different vibe — and very different pricing.

In the world of weddings, we talk about:

• High season – busy, beautiful, and often expensive (usually summer)
• Low season – quiet and budget-friendly, but with cooler temps (winter)
• Shoulder season – the golden middle with great weather and better rates (spring & fall)

Our quiet luxury tip:
For the perfect mix of atmosphere and affordability, we love spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October)

A Word of Caution About August

You might think summer is the best time to get married in Europe, but here’s something many couples don’t know:
August is not your friend.

In many parts of Europe:

• Vendors and locals go on holiday
• Prices surge
• Tourist crowds peak
• It’s extremely hot, especially in Italy, Spain, and Greece

Check Venue Availability (And Don’t Wait on Just One)

Once you’ve chosen your destination, the next thing to do is check venue availability. This is where planning smart really matters.

Our advice:
Reach out to a few venues at once. Some of the most beautiful places, especially on the Greek islands, can take time to respond — even more so in winter when venues shut down.

Waiting on one response can delay your entire planning process. Start conversations with a few venues to:

• Compare availability
• See how responsive they are
• Get a feel for who aligns with your energy

This will help you find a space that not only fits your vision — but also your pace.

Visit the Venue (If You Can)

We know it’s not always possible, but if there’s one step that can bring clarity and calm to your wedding planning — it’s visiting your destination in person.

Even a short trip can help you:

• Walk through your potential venue
• Discover rehearsal dinner options
• Meet your vendor team face-to-face

And let’s be honest: sometimes just standing in the space you’ll get married in brings everything to life in the most beautiful way.

Let a Planner Handle the Details

Feeling a little overwhelmed? You’re not alone — and you’re not meant to do this all by yourself.

Hiring a destination wedding planner is like giving yourself permission to enjoy the process. It’s about:

• Having a expert who knows the area
• Streamlining communication with vendors
• Getting personalized advice based on your taste and needs

From recommending makeup artists to managing travel timelines and sourcing one-of-a-kind rentals, your planner will hold everything together — so you don’t have to.

At Mart Mari Bridal House, we love being the calm in your wedding planning storm. We’re here for the spreadsheets and the sparkles.

Don’t Forget the Legal Bits

Planning a destination wedding also means taking care of the legal side — and it can vary a lot between countries.

Here’s what you may need:

• Valid passports for both of you (and your guests)
• Marriage license paperwork for your chosen country
• Sometimes even: letters of intent, birth certificates, or medical documents

That said, many of our couples choose to legally marry at home and then host a symbolic ceremony in Europe. It looks and feels the same, but saves a lot of time and paperwork — especially across borders. You can read all about Symbolic Ceremonies on our blog.

Let’s Make It Happen

Planning your wedding in Europe is exciting — and yes, a little overwhelming. But with the right timing, a thoughtful approach, and a team by your side, it can feel like the adventure of a lifetime.

Your to-do list:

• Choose the right season
• Avoid the busiest (and hottest) times
• Reach out to multiple venues
• Plan a scouting trip if possible
• Hire a planner you can trust
• Decide on legal vs. symbolic ceremony

And when you’re ready?
Schedule a call — we’d love to hear your story and help you craft the kind of wedding that feels like you.