Dreaming of a destination wedding in Spain? Whether you’re envisioning a romantic beach ceremony, a chic vineyard wedding, or an intimate celebration in a historic palace, Spain offers a stunning backdrop for your big day. But before you get swept away by the Mediterranean breeze and the promise of sangria, let’s dive into the practical side of things: how much does a destination wedding in Spain really cost?
Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! In this guide, I’ll break down the costs of a destination wedding in Spain, giving you a clear picture of what to expect, from the venue to the food and everything in between. Let’s talk about your dream wedding without the sticker shock!
1. The Venue: Finding Your Dream Spot
The venue is the heart and soul of any wedding, and Spain is packed with jaw-dropping locations. From the sun-drenched beaches of Costa Brava to the rustic charm of Andalusian villas, there’s a perfect venue waiting for you. But before you start imagining your “I dos” under the Spanish sky, it’s essential to understand the costs.
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Beach Weddings in Costa Brava or Costa Blanca: Picture yourself saying “I do” on the golden sands with the Mediterranean Sea as your backdrop. A beach wedding in Spain can range from €2,000 to €5,000 for a simple setup, including the location, officiant, and some basic décor. If you’re looking for exclusivity, some luxurious beach resorts can charge €10,000 or more.
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Historic Venues and Castles: Spain is brimming with historic castles, palaces, and charming villas that make for a fairytale setting. A wedding in a beautiful Spanish vineyard or medieval castle could cost between €5,000 and €15,000, depending on the location and season.
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Hotel Weddings: Many couples opt for hotel venues as they offer all-inclusive packages, including ceremony space, reception, and even accommodation for guests. Prices here typically range from €8,000 to €20,000, but it’s important to note that luxury hotels or resorts can push that number up significantly.
Pro Tip: Many venues offer customizable wedding packages that bundle catering, flowers, and other services. This can help save you a bit of stress (and money) if you’re trying to keep things simple and streamlined.
2. Catering: Delicious Spanish Food & Drinks
One of the best parts of a wedding in Spain is the food. Spanish cuisine is world-renowned for its vibrant flavors, and your wedding catering is the perfect opportunity to indulge in local specialties. Whether you’re craving seafood paella or tapas, here’s what you need to know:
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Sit-Down Dinner: Traditional sit-down dinners are a classic choice, and they typically cost €60 to €150 per person, depending on the menu and the venue. If you want to serve a more luxurious seafood menu or regional specialties, prices can go higher.
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Cocktail Reception or Buffet: If you want a more relaxed atmosphere, a tapas-style cocktail reception or buffet is a great option. These options usually cost between €30 and €70 per person.
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Bar Packages: You can expect to pay anywhere from €20 to €50 per person for an open bar, depending on the types of alcohol you’re offering. Local wines and cava (Spanish sparkling wine) are delicious and will keep your guests dancing all night.
Tip: If you’re on a budget, consider serving a tapas buffet instead of a formal dinner. Not only will it be more affordable, but it’ll also give your guests a fun, interactive dining experience.
3. The Photographer: Capturing Your Spanish Wedding
Your wedding in Spain will undoubtedly be full of unforgettable moments. From the picturesque landscapes to the heartfelt vows, you’ll want a professional photographer to capture it all. So how much will it cost to have a skilled photographer documenting your destination wedding?
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Wedding Photography: A destination wedding photographer in Spain typically charges between €2,500 and €6,000 for a full day of coverage. This usually includes a second photographer, an edited photo gallery, and some additional services like an engagement shoot or a pre-wedding consultation.
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Extra Services: If you want an album, a videographer, or extra coverage (e.g., a welcome dinner), those services can add €500 to €2,000 to the cost.
Hiring the right photographer is essential, and you want someone who not only captures beautiful moments but also understands the nuances of a destination wedding. If you’re looking for someone who can expertly document your special day while you relax and enjoy your wedding, check out my portfolio. Let’s make your wedding day unforgettable!
4. Floral Arrangements: Flowers That Pop
From your bridal bouquet to reception table décor, flowers bring your wedding theme to life. Spain has a rich selection of local flowers, and they can make your venue bloom with vibrant colors and textures.
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Bridal Bouquets: A simple bouquet can cost around €100 to €200. If you’re dreaming of something more elaborate, like exotic blooms or intricate designs, expect to pay between €300 and €600.
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Table Centerpieces and Ceremony Décor: Floral arrangements for the ceremony and reception can range from €500 to €2,000, depending on the size of the venue and the number of flowers you want to include.
Pro Tip: Go for local and seasonal flowers! Not only will they be more affordable, but they will also add an authentic touch to your Spanish wedding.
5. Entertainment: Bring the Spanish Party to Life
Spain is known for its lively and passionate culture, so why not incorporate some local entertainment into your wedding? Whether it’s a flamenco dancer, a mariachi band, or a DJ, the entertainment will set the mood for the whole day.
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Live Band or DJ: A professional DJ typically costs between €1,000 and €3,000, depending on their experience and how long you want them to play. If you hire a live band or even a flamenco troupe, expect to pay a little more, with prices ranging from €1,500 to €4,000.
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Flamenco Dancers: A flamenco show is a perfect way to add excitement to your wedding. These performances can range from €500 to €2,000, depending on the number of dancers and the duration of the show.
6. Additional Costs to Keep in Mind
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Hair and Makeup: Professional hair and makeup services for the bride typically cost between €150 and €500. For bridesmaids or guests, prices might range from €80 to €250 per person.
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Travel and Accommodation: Since this is a destination wedding, keep in mind that you and your guests will need to consider travel and accommodation costs. Flights, hotels, and transportation can quickly add up, but many venues offer package deals that can help save money.
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Legal Fees: If you’re marrying legally in Spain, you’ll need to factor in legal fees. These can range from €500 to €1,000, including paperwork, translation services, and the official ceremony.
Conclusion: Budgeting for Your Dream Spanish Wedding
A destination wedding in Spain is an exciting and memorable experience, but it’s important to budget carefully to avoid any financial surprises. With costs ranging from a few thousand to tens of thousands of euros, it’s crucial to prioritize your must-haves and find the best options that fit your vision and budget.
If you want to capture every moment of your special day and make your Spanish wedding as beautiful as you’ve imagined, let’s work together! I offer tailored photography packages that will make your memories last a lifetime. Check out my investment page for more details, or reach out via contact for a personal consultation. Let’s make your wedding in Spain the best day of your life!
Start Planning Your Dream Wedding in Spain Today!
With the right planning and the perfect team, your destination wedding in Spain will be everything you’ve dreamed of and more. Let’s start the journey together.
