Imagine this: you’re standing on a sun-drenched terrace in Seville, the scent of orange blossoms in the air. A flamenco guitarist strums softly in the background while your guests sip sangria, watching the Spanish sun dip behind an ancient cathedral. The night ahead? A blur of dancing, laughter, and the kind of celebration that only Spain can deliver.
Spanish weddings aren’t just ceremonies—they’re full-blown fiestas that last until dawn (and sometimes beyond). Whether you’re dreaming of a destination wedding in Barcelona, Madrid, or Ibiza, let’s dive into the incredible traditions, customs, and venues that make Spanish weddings truly unforgettable.
1. The Serenade: Romance Straight Out of a Movie
Before texting and TikTok proposals, Spanish grooms had a much more romantic way of wooing their brides—they’d serenade them under their balconies. Picture this: your partner, standing beneath your window with a guitar (or at least a speaker), pouring their heart out through song.
This tradition, still alive in Seville and Toledo, is the ultimate gesture of devotion. Not a singer? No problem. A well-curated Spotify playlist under the stars still counts.
2. Arras: The 13 Coins of Love & Luck
During the ceremony, the groom presents the bride with 13 gold coins, known as arras, symbolizing his promise to care for their future together. The number 13? It’s for good luck and represents Jesus and the 12 apostles.
Today, some couples personalize this tradition by engraving their coins with special dates or exchanging symbolic gifts instead.
3. No Bridesmaids, No Groomsmen—Just Two Families Coming Together
Unlike American weddings, where a squad of bridesmaids and groomsmen line up at the altar, Spanish weddings keep it simple. Instead, the bride’s father and the groom’s mother act as the padrinos (godparents of the marriage), escorting them down the aisle.
This custom emphasizes the merging of two families, making the moment even more meaningful.
4. The Ultimate Wedding Feast: Come Hungry, Leave Happier
Spanish weddings are a gastronomic experience. Forget the traditional three-course meal—here, expect plenty of tapas, jamón ibérico, seafood paella, and never-ending wine. Some weddings even include a churros-and-chocolate station for a midnight snack.
If you’re celebrating in Valencia, birthplace of paella, you must have the real deal—cooked over an open fire, as tradition demands.
5. Flamenco & Fireworks: The Party Never Ends
In Spain, weddings don’t wrap up after a polite first dance. No, here’s where the real fun begins! Expect:
💃 Flamenco performances (bonus points if guests join in!)
🎇 Fireworks lighting up the night sky
🎶 Live music keeping everyone dancing until sunrise
Thinking about a wedding in Madrid or Barcelona? Hiring a live flamenco band will instantly transport your guests into the heart of Spanish culture.
6. The Cake? Don’t Expect It Before Midnight
Forget cutting the cake early—Spanish weddings do things differently. The tarta nupcial (wedding cake) often makes its grand entrance after midnight, long after the party has started.
Oh, and instead of a single-tier cake, many couples opt for multi-layered almond cakes, profiteroles, or a traditional tarta de Santiago (a delicious almond-based cake with a cross of St. James on top).
7. Wedding Gifts? Bring Cash, Not Toasters
In Spain, guests don’t bring household gifts. Instead, they give money—usually in an envelope—so the couple can start their new life together.
So if you’re invited to a Spanish wedding, forget about registry gifts. Cash is king!
8. The Next-Day Resaca Brunch
After partying all night, the next morning calls for one thing: churros and strong coffee. Many Spanish weddings continue into the next day with a resaca brunch (hangover brunch), featuring fresh orange juice, tortilla española, and endless espressos.
It’s the perfect way to say goodbye to your guests… before they take a much-needed siesta.
Planning Your Spanish Destination Wedding? Here’s What You Need to Know
💡 When’s the Best Time for a Wedding in Spain?
✔ Spring (April–June) – Perfect weather, fewer tourists.
✔ Fall (September–October) – Mild temperatures, stunning scenery.
✔ Summer (July–August) – Beautiful but HOT (perfect for Ibiza weddings).
💡 Best Spanish Wedding Venues
🏰 Castle Wedding: Castillo de Viñuelas, Madrid – A fairytale venue with royal charm.
🍷 Vineyard Wedding: Hacienda Zorita, Salamanca – For wine lovers.
🌊 Seaside Wedding: La Baronia, Barcelona – A breathtaking spot for sunset vows.
💡 Quick Tips for a Stress-Free Wedding in Spain
✔ Legalities: If you’re not Spanish, you may need to do the paperwork in your home country.
✔ Budget: Destination weddings in Spain range from €10,000 to €50,000, depending on the venue and guest list.
✔ Entertainment: Consider hiring a flamenco guitarist or Spanish band to make your night unforgettable.
FAQs About Spanish Weddings
1. How much does a wedding in Spain cost?
A wedding in Spain can range from €10,000 for a small ceremony to €50,000+ for a luxury venue. The biggest expenses? Venue, catering, and entertainment.
2. Can foreigners get legally married in Spain?
Yes, but legal requirements vary. Many couples choose to have a symbolic ceremony in Spain and handle the legal paperwork at home.
3. What do guests wear to a Spanish wedding?
Women often wear bold, colorful dresses, and it’s common to see guests wearing fascinators or floral headpieces.
4. What’s the best city in Spain for a wedding?
✔ Seville – Romantic, historic, and full of charm.
✔ Barcelona – Coastal, cosmopolitan, and vibrant.
✔ Ibiza – Bohemian vibes with stunning sunsets.
Capture Your Spanish Wedding Story with a Photographer Who Knows the Magic
If you’re planning a Spanish destination wedding, you’ll want someone to capture the romance, the laughter, and yes, even the flamenco-induced foot blisters.
📸 Explore my wedding photography portfolio here.
💍 Check out my photo packages here.
📩 Ready to make magic together? Let’s chat.
Spain is waiting. Let’s make your wedding a story worth telling. 💃🎶✨
