All You Need to Know About Getting Married in Spain
Spain has become one of the top spots for destination weddings. And honestly, it makes sense. With endless sunshine, dramatic coastlines, rustic fincas, and food that turns every meal into a celebration, this country was basically made for weddings.
Whether you’re planning a Mallorca finca ceremony, a chic Barcelona elopement, or a countryside celebration in Andalusia, here’s everything you need to know about getting married in Spain - plus some easy ways to weave in local traditions so your international guests get a true taste of Spanish culture.
Spanish Wedding Tradition #1:
Late Afternoon & Evening Ceremonies
In Spain, mornings are for coffee and siestas are sacred. Weddings? They start late. Really late. Many Spanish couples won’t say their vows until 6 or 7pm, which is perfect for destination weddings too. You avoid the midday heat, you get that golden hour glow, and you can stretch your celebration into the night (Spaniards are pros at partying until sunrise).
Pro tip for couples: Let your international guests know about this custom in advance. Americans and Northern Europeans especially may be surprised to find dinner starting around 9pm!
Spanish Wedding Tradition #2:
Abanicos & Parasols
One of the most iconic sights at a Spanish summer wedding? Guests fanning themselves with colorful abanicos (Spanish hand fans). It’s both practical and stylish - they keep guests refreshed and look amazing in photos.
To make it fun, you can:
Place an abanico on each ceremony seat (they double as favors).
Offer chic white parasols for the bridal party or guests during the ceremony.
Personalize fans with your initials or wedding date for a keepsake everyone will actually use.
Spanish Wedding Tradition #3:
Food Is the Heart of It All
Spanish weddings are all about food, and lots of it. Traditionally, meals last for hours with multiple courses, local wines, and plenty of toasts.
How to bring this spirit into your international wedding:
Welcome drinks with sangría or cava.
Tapas-style cocktail hour (patatas bravas, tortilla, croquetas — guaranteed crowd-pleasers).
A paella chef cooking live in front of guests (bonus: Instagram gold).
Swap a traditional cake for churros con chocolate as a midnight snack.
Spanish Wedding Tradition #4:
Music & Dancing Until Sunrise
It wouldn’t be a Spanish wedding without music. Live guitarists, flamenco-inspired performances, or even a saxophonist at cocktail hour bring that extra local energy.
And remember: in Spain, the dance floor doesn’t close early. Many weddings go until sunrise, with DJs mixing reggaeton, Latin pop, and international hits.
Tip: Add a “midnight refuel” like mini bocadillos (Spanish sandwiches) or churros to keep the party going strong.
Spanish Wedding Tradition #5:
Symbolic Rituals With Meaning
Some Spanish couples still include traditions like the arras (exchange of 13 coins symbolizing prosperity) or having padrinos (godparents) play a special role. Even if you don’t adopt them fully, weaving in one symbolic act - like a cava toast, or gifting guests local olive oil - can add depth and cultural connection.
Spanish Wedding Tradition #6:
The Magic of Marrying Among Olive Trees
One of the best-kept secrets about getting married in Spain is how magical the fincas are.
These historic country estates, surrounded by olive groves, almond trees, and rolling hills, make the most stunning ceremony backdrops. Since most international couples can’t have a traditional church wedding here, many choose to celebrate right on the finca grounds instead. With a celebrant, you can shape the ceremony exactly as you want it: personal, heartfelt, and perfectly framed by Spain’s natural beauty.
Why Supporting Local Matters
Destination weddings can sometimes feel like “parachuting in.” Adding local touches, whether it’s hiring Spanish musicians, choosing regional wines, or sourcing flowers from a local florist, makes your day more authentic and ensures the communities we celebrate in benefit too.
And your guests? They’ll feel like they got a taste of Spain, not just a wedding abroad.
Final Thoughts: Making Spain Yours
Getting married in Spain is about more than just the scenery. It’s about embracing the local rhythm. That means late starts, warm nights, endless meals, fans fluttering, cava flowing, and dance floors that don’t quit.
By blending your own traditions with Spanish customs, you’ll create a wedding that’s not only unforgettable for your guests but also honors the country you’ve chosen as the backdrop to your “Sí, quiero.”
