Wedding Villa Estepona | A Dream Wedding in Southern Spain
Have you always dreamt of getting married in southern Spain, in a contemporary and elegant wedding venue? Today’s bridal story features a stunning villa located just a short five-minute drive from the nearest beach and made for the perfect venue for Catriona and Phili’s wedding day. Let’s walk through their special day and take a look at the highlights—from the bridal preparations to the welcome, ceremony, cocktail hour, wedding breakfast, and party…
Bridal Preparations – A flurry of activity
On the morning of the wedding, the bridal suite buzzed with excitement. Hair and makeup artists, Kerstin and Flavia, skillfully worked their magic on the bride and her party, ensuring everyone looked their absolute best. Florist Karen delivered exquisite floral arrangements, adding the final touches with delicate buttonholes and bouquets. The room was filled with chatter, laughter and the occasional tear as loved ones shared this special moment. Bridesmaids helped each other into dresses, while mothers and friends shared advice and support. As the ceremony approached, the excitement grew. With a few final hugs and last-minute adjustments, the radiant bride, dressed in a stunning soft mermaid lace bridal gown, was ready to commence her unforgettable day.
Welcome – A Refreshing Start
As Catriona and Phili’s wedding guests arrived at the Spanish villa, surrounded by rolling hills and farmland, they were greeted with a refreshing lemon sorbet welcome drink while Spanish flamenco guitarist Nano played ambient music, setting a relaxed and vibrant tone for the celebration.
To help guests stay cool under the warm Spanish sun, handheld fans and small parasols were provided. Once everyone had arrived and mingled, the groomsmen guided them to the ceremony area, smoothly transitioning to the wedding formalities.
Meanwhile, the Sunshine Wedding team checked in on Catriona, offering last-minute advice and destination wedding photographer Calin, from Epic Films, captured a special first look moment between Catriona and her father. Then, it was time for the bridal party to make their way to the ceremony area where the guests awaited.
Ceremony – Surrounded by Lush Greenery
In an enchanting outdoor setting, guests gathered in the villa’s gardens for Catriona and Phili’s wedding ceremony. Nano played a beautiful version of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley as the stunning bride made her entrance.
The ceremony, led by Costa del Sol-based Minister Kevin, took place in front of a simple yet elegant white canopy adorned with white drapes and floral decorations of gypsophila and greenery. This setup, complemented by a white ceremony table, provided a picturesque backdrop. The petal-strewn aisle and surrounding lush greenery created a chic atmosphere perfect for memorable photographs.
With 30 guests in attendance, the couple exchanged vows in the warm sunshine, shaded by large white parasols. Photographer Calin captured their first kiss and other touching moments, framed by the stunning mountain views. As the ceremony concluded, “Bamboleo” by the Gipsy Kings played, courtesy of guitarist Nano, marking the upbeat exit of the newlyweds.
Cocktail Hour Bliss – Drinks and canapes
After the ceremony, guests enjoyed drinks and canapés on the villa’s lawn. The warm Spanish evening set the stage for a relaxed drinks reception, featuring unlimited cava, beer, sangria, wine, and soft drinks. Nano played an uplifting flamenco music set which created a lively atmosphere as guests sipped cocktails and savoured delicious canapés, including mini salmon cakes with homemade sweet chilli sauce, pinchos of mozzarella and cherry tomato, Thai chicken skewers with soy dipping sauce, roast beef tostadas with caramelised onion, and shot glasses of cold strawberry gazpacho.
Laughter and chatter filled the air as guests mingled and celebrated the newlyweds. Meanwhile, a bouncy castle kept the little ones entertained, and photographer Calin whisked Catriona and Phili away for more photos in the picturesque villa grounds.
Al Fresco Wedding Breakfast
The wedding breakfast took place outdoors in a garden area, nestled between the trees in the rear garden. Tables were set among lush greenery, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Guests enjoyed a choice of fresh melon salad with Jamon Serrano, baby mixed leaves, and honey mustard vinaigrette, or caramelised goat cheese on toasted brioche with confit of plums for starters. For mains, options included baked salmon fillet served with rosemary and garlic sautéed potatoes and tzatziki, or sirloin steak with sautéed potatoes, roasted Mediterranean vegetables, and Béarnaise sauce. Dessert choices featured Fiestasol berry cheesecake or homemade chocolate mousse, with a special children’s menu for the little ones.
As speeches were delivered and the sun began to set, Calin captured the bridal couple and their guests in stunning golden-hour photos, preserving these precious moments before the celebration kicked into high gear.
Party Outside – On the Terrace by the Pool Area
As the evening unfolded, the wedding breakfast seamlessly transitioned into a lively celebration on the terrace by the pool. Children were entertained by professional babysitter Tina, who organised games, face painting, tattoos, music, dancing, and even magic tricks, creating an engaging atmosphere for the younger members of the wedding party.
Meanwhile, DJ Lady Jade kicked off her four-hour set, which included the couple’s romantic first dance to “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran. Adding to the vibrant ambiance, local saxophonist, Joe West, performed for two hours, blending the couple’s favourite tunes into the mix.
The party continued into the early hours, wrapping up a day filled with love, laughter, and the charming backdrop of a rustic Estepona villa. The following day, the newlyweds gathered with their guests once again for a relaxed post-wedding BBQ at the villa.
We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to Catriona and Phili for allowing us to be part of their special day. It was a joy to work with such a delightful couple, and we wish them all the happiness in their next chapter together. A special thank you to Calin from Epic Films for capturing the magic of the day and sharing these wonderful snapshots with us.
Venue Villa Overview
Nestled on a private road just minutes from Estepona’s charming old town, this stunning villa is conveniently located within easy reach of both Malaga and Gibraltar international airports. Spanning an impressive 5,250 m², the Mediterranean-style estate features a spacious 720 m² villa boasting breathtaking mountain views.
Surrounded by lush Mediterranean gardens, this remarkable venue is perfect for larger families and groups, offering luxurious accommodations across nine bedrooms and eight bathrooms. Guests can enjoy spectacular vistas of the mountains, golf courses, and the sea, all while being a short drive from Puerto Banús and Marbella.
The expansive grounds feature manicured lawns, ideal for hosting ceremonies for up to 200 guests. This serene retreat exemplifies the charm of an Andalusian cortijo, with a traditional fountain gracing the driveway, adding to the villa’s chic elegance. A true hidden gem, this enchanting wedding venue is filled with romantic nooks, making it the perfect place to say “I do.” With a seamless blend of traditional and contemporary decor, it provides everything needed for an unforgettable celebration, accommodating up to 18 guests in its nine luxurious bedrooms.
Accommodation
Each elegant en suite bedroom exudes space, charm, and sophistication, along with private terraces that overlook the beautifully landscaped gardens. The majestic gardens, complete with winding pathways, invite you to unwind in a peaceful atmosphere while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Guests can relax by the large swimming pool, complete with ample sunbeds, or indulge in the fantastic games room that entertains children of all ages.
The picturesque scenery offers incredible photo opportunities, ensuring that every moment of your special day is captured beautifully. Experience the vibrant lifestyle of Marbella and the nearby Puerto Banús, just a short drive along the coast. The charming village of Mijas and the well-known resort of Torremolinos are only 45 minutes away, showcasing the diverse beauty of the Costa del Sol.
If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding, prepare to impress your guests with this breathtaking venue in the heart of Southern Spain. Contact the Sunshine Wedding Spain team today to start planning your dream wedding!
Things to Do with Wedding Guests in Estepona
- Explore the Old Town
Stroll through the charming streets of Estepona’s Old Town, known for its colourful flower pots and traditional Andalusian architecture. Enjoy local shops, cafés, and the vibrant atmosphere. - Visit the Beaches
Spend a day relaxing on Estepona’s beautiful beaches, such as Playa del Cristo or La Rada. Guests can sunbathe, swim, or enjoy water sports. - Wine and Tapas Tour
Organise a wine and tapas tour at local bars and restaurants, sampling authentic Spanish cuisine and regional wines. - Botanical Garden
Discover the Estepona Orchid House, a stunning botanical garden featuring a diverse collection of orchids and tropical plants, perfect for leisurely exploration. - Adventure Activities
For the adventurous, consider activities like hiking in the nearby Sierra Bermeja mountains, or water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding along the coast. - Golf Outing
Estepona is home to several world-class golf courses. Arrange a round of golf for guests looking to enjoy the sport in a picturesque setting. - Horseback Riding
Enjoy a scenic horseback ride through the countryside or along the beach, offering a unique way to explore the beautiful landscape. - Boat Trip
Take a boat trip along the coast or enjoy a sunset cruise. This is a great way to relax and soak in the stunning views of the Mediterranean. - Visit Local Markets
Explore the Estepona Market, held on Wednesdays and Sundays, where guests can find fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs. - Day Trip to Marbella
Take a short drive to Marbella for shopping, dining, and beach time, or explore its beautiful old town and lively promenade. - Cultural Excursions
Visit nearby cultural sites, such as the stunning Ronda or the historic city of Malaga, which are rich in history and beautiful architecture.
These activities will help your guests enjoy the best of Estepona while creating lasting memories around your wedding celebration!
Trivia About Estepona
- Flower Power: Estepona is known as the “Garden of Costa del Sol” due to its beautiful floral displays and colourful streets, particularly in the Old Town.
- Historic Charm: The town was founded in the 2nd century BC and has a rich history influenced by the Phoenicians, Romans, and Moors.
- Fishing Heritage: Estepona started as a small fishing village, and fishing remains a significant part of its culture and economy.
- Sculpture Park: The town features a unique outdoor sculpture park, showcasing various contemporary art pieces throughout the streets.
- Blue Flag Beaches: Estepona boasts several Blue Flag beaches, recognized for their cleanliness and facilities, including Playa de la Rada and Playa del Cristo.
- The Orchid House: Estepona is home to the Orchid House, which has over 1,400 species of orchids and is one of the largest orchid collections in Europe.
- Mural Art: The town is famous for its stunning murals, with more than 30 large-scale artworks adorning buildings, adding to its artistic vibe.
- Spanish Culture: Estepona hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Feria de Estepona, which celebrates local traditions, music, and cuisine.
- Biodiversity: The nearby Sierra Bermeja mountains offer diverse flora and fauna, making it a popular spot for hiking and nature lovers.
- Historical Sites: Visitors can explore historical sites like the 16th-century Castillo de San Luis and the remains of the ancient Roman settlement nearby.