Jack and Hannah wanted a stylish rustic destination wedding in Meganisi; the tiny Greek island of Meganisi that stole their hearts. They choose the island’s breathtaking viewpoint as the place to exchange vows, before cruising the coastline to a Greek bistro venue set in the village square, surrounded by plane trees and hung with fairytale string lights.
We join our couple at the start of their wedding day story with a relaxing morning and the excitement of bride preparations at villas Melina & Christina overlooking a secluded cove in the north of Meganisi by luxury specialist The Thinking Traveller. ‘As we were having a holiday and a wedding, we rented two gorgeous villas on the top of a hill that had views of the sea for miles.‘
The ceremony took place in Spartohori village at the viewpoint known locally as ‘The Stefani’, which means crown in Greek because of its shape. The view is simply spectacular and it has become one of my most favourite ceremony locations in the Lefkada area.
The olive and gold decor mood for their wedding in Meganisi was inspired by Hannah’s love of green foliage as the main decoration, as it felt natural, understated but stylishly rustic. Being in Greece, we used olive mixed with ruscus and the long leafy strands of willow. The bride added hints of gold to the ceremony decor with photo frames filled with little messages.
We really liked the idea of a boat cruise in between the ceremony and reception. It fit perfectly with when our ceremony finished, and the walk down to the port was so pretty through the trees. The whole boat cruise really was a highlight of the day and all guests loved it!
If you are looking for a stylish wedding experience with an authentic Greek island feel, then Mika’s bistro in Meganisi has lots of charm. Set in the village square in Vathy harbour, its modern wooden decor is an excellent backdrop for adding some fantastic, floral touches and was ideal for their 40 guests. My florist team hung hoops of greenery from the roof amidst the rows of string lights. A mix of white roses, lisianthus, alstroemeria and tiny limonium decorated garlands and vases on the table with candles for soft romantic mood in the evening.
‘It was a cute little taverna in the village square with a pergola and string lights that looked really magical, however by the time it had been decorated it was breathtaking. I remember walking around the corner and being blown away by the transformation; it was the perfect mix between formal wedding and still keeping the spirit of a traditional Greek taverna.‘
From Hannah and Jack ‘We had been on holiday to Meganisi a few years before and fell in love with the scenery and laid back way of life. We found Claire from Lefkas Weddings and really could not have had the amazing wedding we had without her. She knew all the little hidden gems and had the best contacts!
If you’re getting married abroad, I can’t recommend enough getting a wedding planner, they have all the best contacts and know what will and won’t work within your budget. They speak the language and take the stress away on the day so you can focus on enjoying your big day without having to sweat the little bits. Maxeen was by far my favourite photographer, as everything looked natural and not overly staged. She was over my original budget but I’m so glad we splurged on her as photos are the only thing you have to remember the day.’
Is a destination wedding in on a pretty Greek island something you have been dreaming about but not sure where to start? Contact me to discuss how we can plan your day together.
- Planning and Design: Claire Salisbury at Lefkas Weddings
- Photography: Maxeen Kim Photography
- Dress: Pronovias
- Bridesmaid Dresses: Maya
- Groom Attire: Reiss and Ted Baker
- Florist: Gourioti Flowers
- Venue: Mikas Bistro
- Private boat charter: The Ionian Star
Meganisi is located in the Ionian Islands, Greece. It has three villages and numerous little beaches and coves for lazy days in the sun and evenings of great Greek food. It is a short 20 minute ferry ride from Lefkada or a quick hop in a speedboat! Lefkas Weddings works together with Rebecca at Exclusive Meganisi office to provide you and your wedding guests with full assistance on the island including villa accommodation, airport transfers and car and boat rentals.
