Fairy Tale Vibes & Waffles: Why Belgium is the Perfect Wedding Destination
Picture this: you’re standing in the courtyard of a centuries-old castle, ivy climbing its stone walls, while a soft mist rolls over the Belgian countryside. The scent of fresh waffles drifts in the air, and as you exchange vows, your guests raise glasses of world-class Belgian beer in your honor. Sounds magical, right?
Belgium is a hidden gem for destination weddings, offering historic castles, charming cityscapes, and gourmet delights that will make your celebration unforgettable. Whether you’re dreaming of a regal château wedding or a cozy countryside affair, here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect “I do” in Belgium.
1. Finding Your Perfect Wedding Venue in Belgium
Belgium is packed with breathtaking wedding venues, from medieval castles to modern glasshouses. Here are some of the best:
🏰 Château Weddings (Because Who Doesn’t Want to Feel Like Royalty?)
- Château de la Hulpe – A fairytale castle just outside Brussels, surrounded by lush gardens and a dreamy forest. Perfect for a romantic outdoor ceremony.
- Kasteel van Brasschaat – This elegant castle near Antwerp combines old-world charm with modern luxury, ideal for grand weddings.
🌿 Garden & Outdoor Venues (For a Whimsical Nature Wedding)
- De Serre – A stunning urban greenhouse venue in Antwerp, blending botanical elegance with a modern touch.
- Orangerie venues in Bruges or Ghent – Many Belgian estates have gorgeous orangeries that make for stunning, light-filled ceremony spaces.
🌆 City Chic & Historic Vibes (For Those Who Love Urban Romance)
- Brussels Grand Place – Imagine exchanging vows with medieval architecture as your backdrop. Many boutique hotels and event spaces in Brussels offer stunning views.
- Ghent’s Hidden Gems – This city is packed with historic buildings that double as wedding venues. Check out the Castle of the Counts for a medieval-inspired ceremony.
Tip: Booking a wedding in Belgium’s off-season (October to March) can save you a lot, plus you might get that moody, romantic fog for extra drama in your photos.
2. The Legal Side: How to Get Married in Belgium as a Foreigner
Before you start planning the decorations, let’s make sure your “I do” is legally binding.
✅ Civil Ceremony Required – In Belgium, only civil ceremonies performed at the local commune (town hall) are legally recognized. You can have a symbolic or religious ceremony afterward.
✅ Residency Rules – At least one of you must have lived in Belgium for 30 days before filing for marriage, or you may need special paperwork if you’re both non-residents.
✅ Documents Needed:
- Passports
- Birth certificates (translated and legalized)
- Proof of residence
- Certificate of no impediment (proof you’re not already married!)
For full details, check out this marriage guide for foreigners.
Pro tip: Many international couples opt for a legal marriage in their home country first and then celebrate with a symbolic wedding in Belgium.
3. When’s the Best Time to Get Married in Belgium?
Belgium’s seasons all have their perks, so choose what fits your dream wedding vibe:
🌸 Spring (April – June): Mild weather, blooming gardens, and fewer tourists. Perfect for outdoor ceremonies.
☀️ Summer (July – September): Warm days, long evenings, and great for castle weddings, but expect higher venue prices.
🍂 Autumn (October – November): Golden foliage, crisp air, and a cozy atmosphere. Plus, more venue availability!
❄️ Winter (December – March): Magical Christmas markets, candlelit receptions, and the chance for snowfall.
Dreamy Detail: If you’re a winter wedding lover, Belgium’s Christmas markets could make for an epic wedding week experience for you and your guests.
4. Belgian Wedding Traditions to Include in Your Celebration
Want to add some local flavor to your wedding? Here are some beautiful Belgian traditions:
💌 Personalized Handkerchiefs – In Belgium, it’s traditional for the bride’s family to gift her a handkerchief embroidered with her initials and wedding date. These make gorgeous keepsakes for your guests!
🍫 Chocolate Favors – Skip the generic wedding favors and gift your guests handmade Belgian pralines from chocolatiers like Neuhaus or Leonidas.
🍻 Belgian Beer Toast – Instead of champagne, why not raise a toast with Belgium’s famous Trappist beers? Some wedding venues even offer custom beer pairings with dinner.
💃 Wedding Waltz – Belgian weddings traditionally begin with a waltz, and then the floor opens up to all guests.
5. Food & Drinks: Treat Your Guests to a Belgian Feast
Belgium is heaven for food lovers, so why not bring some of these iconic dishes into your wedding menu?
🥩 Main Courses:
- Carbonnade Flamande (a rich Flemish beef stew)
- Mussels & Fries (because why not?)
🧇 Desserts:
- Belgian Waffles – Set up a waffle station with toppings like chocolate, fruit, and cream.
- Speculoos-flavored cake – A spiced cookie that’s perfect for wedding cakes!
🍹 Drinks:
- Trappist Beer Tasting Bar
- Belgian Hot Chocolate Station (perfect for winter weddings!)
6. Capturing the Magic: Choosing the Right Wedding Photographer
Your wedding photos should be just as magical as your love story. Belgium’s stunning scenery – from grand castles to misty canals – deserves to be captured with an artistic, romantic touch.
At Your Happy Moments Photography, I specialize in capturing destination weddings with a warm, natural style. Whether you’re saying “I do” in a historic castle or dancing under twinkling lights in a greenhouse, I’ll ensure every moment is beautifully documented.
Check out my investment packages to find the perfect photography option for your big day. Have questions? Let’s chat – contact me here and let’s start planning your dream wedding photography in Belgium!
Final Thoughts: Why Belgium is Perfect for Your Destination Wedding
With its fairy-tale venues, world-class food, and charming traditions, Belgium is the ultimate destination for a romantic, unforgettable wedding. Whether you choose a grand château, a cozy garden wedding, or a chic city affair, your Belgian wedding will be filled with love, beauty, and – of course – chocolate.
💌 So, are you ready to make your dream wedding a reality? Let’s capture every moment together – get in touch today!
