How to plan a destination wedding in Greece as an American Couple

Imagine standing on a sun-drenched terrace overlooking the Aegean Sea, a light summer breeze carrying the scent of olive trees and jasmine, as you say “I do” surrounded by your closest family and friends. For many American couples, a wedding in Greece feels like the ultimate Mediterranean dream. It’s the combination of romantic, adventurous, and unforgettable.

But while the dream is crystal clear, the reality of planning a wedding overseas often feels overwhelming. Different time zones, unfamiliar legal requirements, endless emails to venues, and the fear of booking the wrong suppliers . Itt can quickly start to feel like too much.

That’s exactly where I come in. As a European destination wedding planner with a love and expertise for Greece, I help American couples transform that dream into a stress-free celebration.

Why Greece is the perfect choice for American couples

Greece has long been one of the most sought-after wedding destinations in Europe and with good reason. Here’s why it consistently tops the list:

• Breathtaking islands: Santorini’s famous sunsets, the untouched romance of Paros or versatility of Crete or the authenticity of Milos. Each island offers something unique.
• Perfect climate: A long wedding season (April–October) with reliable sunshine and warm evenings.
• Rich culture & hospitality: Greek traditions, warm locals and incredible food turn your wedding into a full experience, not just a one-day event.
• Honeymoon built-in: With hundreds of islands to explore, your wedding flows effortlessly into a dream honeymoon without additional travel stress.
• Accessibility: Direct flights from major US cities to Athens, in combination with short connections to the islands.

For couples who want both romance and adventure, Greece truly offers endless options.

What are the challenges for American couples?

As beautiful as it sounds, planning a wedding in Greece from the US isn’t without its hurdles. Some of the most common challenges I see couples struggle with include:

1. Legal paperwork
   Marriage in Greece requires specific documents for non-EU citizens, often including apostilles, translations, and notarizations. Knowing exactly which papers are needed (and when) can be confusing.
2. Time zones & communication
   Trying to coordinate with venues and suppliers in Greece often means late-night calls and emails. Miscommunication is common, especially when you don’t speak Greek.
3. Unfamiliar suppliers
   It’s hard to know which florist, photographer, or DJ you can trust when you’ve never met them. Online reviews only go so far.
4. Logistics for guests
   From airport transfers to hotel blocks and group activities, arranging smooth travel for friends and family from overseas can feel like managing an entire corporate event.

These hurdles are exactly why so many American couples dream of Greece but hesitate to move forward.

The solution: a European wedding planner who knows Greece

This is where my role becomes invaluable. As a destination wedding planner specialized in Greece, I take every layer of complexity off your shoulders.

Here’s how I support American couples step by step:

• Venue scouting
  I work with the most stunning venues, from cliffside chapels to private villas and boutique hotels.
• Legal support
  If you choose to get married officially in Greece, I guide you through every legal requirement, making sure your paperwork is flawless and on time. No stress about translations or missed deadlines.
• Supplier network
  Over the years I’ve built a trusted network of florists, photographers, musicians, caterers, and make-up/hair stylists in Greece. You’ll only work with professionals I personally trust.
• Guest experience
  Whether it’s group transfers, a pre-wedding diner or a guided wine tasting tour, I can design an itinerary that turns your wedding into an unforgettable holiday for everyone.

On-the-day coordination
You don’t have to think about timing, styling, or vendor arrival. I handle everything behind the scenes so you can focus on enjoying the moment with friends and family.

Greece is personal for me.

Greece isn’t just another “destination” to me. It’s personal.
Through years of traveling, exploring and connecting with local suppliers (and with a Greek partner by my side), I’ve developed an extended knowledge of its islands, traditions and hidden treasures.

This means that when you choose me as your planner, you’re not only getting someone who understands luxury weddings, but also someone who can translate the essence of Greece into your day. Think authentic touches, trusted local connections and amazing food and drinks from wedding to honeymoon.

What about cost?

A common myth is that a European destination wedding is always more expensive. In reality, many of my American couples are surprised at how affordable luxury can be in Greece compared to the US.

• Venue hire is often more cost-effective than other European countries like Italy or Spain.
• Local gastronomy (fresh Mediterranean food, wines, olive oils) creates high-end experiences at a fraction of US catering prices.
• Smaller guest lists mean higher quality per guest, without ballooning costs.

By working with a planner who understands both European pricing and American expectations, you’ll maximize your budget and avoid expensive mistakes.

What about cost?

A common myth is that a European destination wedding is always more expensive. In reality, many of my American couples are surprised at how affordable luxury can be in Greece compared to the US.

• Venue hire is often more cost-effective than other European countries like Italy or Spain.
• Local gastronomy (fresh Mediterranean food, wines, olive oils) creates high-end experiences at a fraction of US catering prices.
• Smaller guest lists mean higher quality per guest, without ballooning costs.

By working with a planner who understands both European pricing and American expectations, you’ll maximize your budget and avoid expensive mistakes.

Let’s make your dream wedding in Greece a reality.

Planning a wedding abroad can feel like a leap of faith. But with the right planner by your side, it becomes a journey filled with excitement, ease, and unforgettable memories.

If you’re an American couple dreaming of Greece, I’d love to hear your story and show you how we can bring it to life, stress-free and beautifully personal.

👉 Feel feel to send me an email plan a free consultation call to start planning your dream destination wedding in Greece.