July brought a string of destination weddings across Europe, starting with Suzanne and Steve’s wedding on the beautiful Greek island of Santorini. A couple of weeks before the release of the sequel, this wedding had a subtle Mamma Mia thread running through it. From the look and feel of the location, to the ABBA lyrics in the ceremony, there was definite homage occurring.
From the airport I headed straight to the port of Ammoudi in the village of Oia, on the opposite corner of the island. There I boarded a boat with the couple and their small band of family and friends. Sunset Oia gave us a tour of the caldera that shaped the island, complete with swimming opportunities and very tasty souvlaki. The trip ended with a ringside seat for an amazing sunset.
Santorini Wedding Photography in Greece
The next morning I headed to Villa Fabrica on the edge of the hilltop village of Pyrgos. This was Suzanne and Steve’s base for their time on Santorini. The bride had a circle of friends with her whilst her hair and make-up was prepared. Meanwhile, the groom headed off for lunch with a gaggle of guests. Then he, his son and Suzanne’s two sons returned to get suited and booted. With the World Cup in progress, the guests enjoyed a little football too. More on this later.
Once ready everybody gathered at Venetsanos Winery on a clifftop overlooking the caldera. Wedding co-ordinator Bobbie from Sand+Lace Events had arranged a beautiful setting for this Santorini wedding ceremony and the meal. A friend conducted the ceremony, complete with aforementioned ABBA lyrics. The mother of the bride, sister of the groom and the couple’s children then gave speeches.
Documentary Wedding Photography in Santorini
As the sun began to set everybody took their seats for the fantastic meal courtesy of Spicy Bites Catering. There was a free-for-all with the after dinner speeches, and a surprise serenade by a guitarist (yes, an ABBA song!). Then the dancefloor opened for action, although a noise curfew meant that this was for a limited time. It didn’t matter as by this stage the England vs Columbia World Cup match was nearing its dramatic conclusion.
The English guests were understandably fixed to whatever screen they could get near. These were mostly showing Periscope feeds of TVs back home! The American and non-affiliated were caught up in the suspense too. Obviously it’s not a huge spoiler to say that England eventually won, and there was much rejoicing before the Santorini wedding party moved on.
Destination Wedding Photography in Greece
If you’re looking for Santorini Wedding Photography, or destination wedding photography anywhere in Europe or the world, please get in touch!
