Sunshine Weddings Spain giveaway winners tie the knot in Mallorca

Some love stories are written in the stars — and others begin on a soccer field in Arkansas and lead all the way to a dream wedding in Mallorca.

Today’s bridal story is one close to our hearts, as it follows Madison and Joshua, the winners of our Sunshine Weddings Spain giveaway. This lovely couple, whose paths first crossed as student-athletes at the University of Arkansas — Madison on the soccer team, Joshua on the tennis team. Their names were drawn from hundreds of hopeful entries during our wedding giveaway celebration in Mallorca, and they instantly captured our hearts.

Joshua, originally from Johannesburg, South Africa, and Madison, hailing from the U.S., met through mutual friends while studying abroad. Their connection was instant, and over the years, their relationship blossomed into a love story full of shared adventures, big dreams, and plenty of laughter. So when we launched our second-ever wedding giveaway last year, to mark over 20 years of planning weddings in Spain, they decided to take a chance — and it paid off in the most spectacular way.

When Joshua received the call from Sunshine Weddings founder Scott Gibbons, he was in disbelief. Madison was away on her sister’s bachelorette trip at the time, and when he called to share the news, she thought it must be a prank — until the official announcement went live.

Fast forward to this spring, and the couple found themselves at Finca Son Mir — not as guests, but as the stars of their very own Spanish wedding dream.

Set against the enchanting backdrop of Mallorca, the island’s sun-drenched charm added a special magic to their day. Known for its breathtaking coastline, storybook villages, and dramatic mountain views, Mallorca has long captured the hearts of couples seeking an unforgettable destination wedding. But it’s not just the island’s natural beauty that makes it so alluring — it’s the hidden gems like Finca Son Mir that truly elevate the experience.

Nestled in the foothills just outside Palma, this historic estate offers the perfect blend of rustic elegance and timeless romance. Originally established in the 12th century, the finca has been lovingly restored to preserve its traditional stone architecture while embracing modern comforts. Once a thriving agricultural estate, it now welcomes wedding guests from around the world with its serene gardens, expansive courtyards, and sweeping views of the Mallorcan countryside.

Though it feels a world away from the bustle, the venue is only a short drive from the island’s capital — making it both secluded and accessible. A newer addition to the estate provides a spacious, light-filled indoor space that serves as a graceful alternative for summer receptions or unexpected weather.

Join us as we explore the magic of hosting this unforgettable wedding at the captivating finca in Mallorca, reflecting on Madison and Joshua’s stunning celebration that took place here just a few weeks ago.

Bridal Preparations – A Fun-filled Morning at Son Mir

The wedding day began with a quiet sense of excitement as the sun rose over Mallorca. Just as the day began to take shape, hair and makeup artist Valeria arrived to work her magic on Madison and her bridal party, setting up her station as laughter and music filled the bridal suite.

Scott from Sunshine Weddings Spain was on-site from the very beginning, ready to oversee the day from start to finish, ensuring every detail was perfectly in place. Later in the morning photographer Calin, from Epic Film, joined the preparations, capturing beautiful “getting ready” moments that would become timeless memories. Around the same time, florist Joanna arrived to deliver delicate floral arrangements and begin the ceremony setup, with soft pastel colours and airy textures bringing the couple’s romantic vision to life.

As the preparations continued, Joshua set off for the venue, accompanied by his best man, David, and his two ushers, Ryan and Tanner. Meanwhile, the bridal bouquet was delivered to Madison’s room, a lush arrangement that perfectly matched the romantic vibe of the day. Once hair and makeup were complete, it was time for a special moment between the couple.

In a quiet corner of the estate, Madison and Joshua shared a private first look, followed by an intimate exchange of personal vows — a deeply emotional highlight before the festivities officially began. Shortly after, the couple posed for portraits with their bridal party, including both Maids of Honor, bridesmaid Alexia, the best man, ushers, and Joshua’s two brothers.

With final preparations underway, Scott gathered the groomsmen for a quick briefing to ensure everything was ready to go. Meanwhile, a private coach departed from the guests’ hotel in Can Pastilla, bringing loved ones to the finca in comfort.

As Madison returned to the bridal suite for a moment of calm before the ceremony, guests began to arrive and take their seats. The scene was set — the finca glowing under the Mediterranean sun, ready to host a celebration filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Welcome – Spanish Vibes

As guests began to arrive at Finca Son Mir, they were warmly greeted by the groomsmen, who welcomed everyone into the venue and helped set the tone for the celebration ahead. The air was filled with a festive buzz as friends and family reconnected, laughter rising over the soft clink of glasses.

With guests happily sipping, chatting, and taking in the rustic charm of the finca, the stage was perfectly set for the ceremony to begin.

The Ceremony – Outdoor Garden Space

In the tranquil garden setting of Finca Son Mir, guests took their seats beneath the soft, golden glow of the Mallorcan sun. David, one of the groomsmen, assisted in guiding family and friends to their reserved spots, ensuring a smooth and welcoming start to the ceremony.

Joshua and his groomsmen made their entrance together, walking down the aisle to a shared song. As anticipation built, the bridal procession began in two elegant parts. First, Madison’s mother and brother entered arm-in-arm, followed by bridesmaids Marissa and Alexis, moving gracefully to the soft strains of a violin rendition of “Crazier” from Hannah Montana: The Movie.

Then, in a deeply emotional moment, Madison appeared with her father, taking slow, meaningful steps to “You Are in Love (Taylor’s Version)” — timed perfectly to the lyric, “Cause you can hear it in the silence…” As the song played, the guests rose, and the atmosphere shifted — charged with emotion and quiet awe.

The couple was joined at the altar by their full bridal party, who remained standing with them throughout the ceremony, surrounding Madison and Joshua with warmth and support. The ceremony, officiated by Mallorca celebrant Toni Pons, struck a heartfelt and personal tone — a non-religious celebration of love that was both deeply intimate and full of meaning.

During the signing of the marriage certificate, young Alexis scattered petals, adding a sweet and whimsical touch to the moment. And as the ceremony came to a close, the newlyweds made their happy exit down the aisle, leading their guests into the next chapter of the day.

Everyone followed the couple toward the drinks reception, the air buzzing with love, laughter, and the beginning of celebration.

Drinks Reception – Mallorcan-Style Courtyard

Following the emotional ceremony, guests were welcomed into the finca’s charming courtyard, where the celebration continued with a relaxed and sun-drenched drinks reception. As everyone arrived, they were offered a refreshing glass of Cava, along with wine, beer, and soft drinks — the perfect way to toast the newlyweds and ease into the evening.

A custom-curated playlist provided the perfect soundtrack, floating through the warm afternoon air as guests mingled and took in the rustic beauty of the venue. Soon after, attentive staff began circulating with an enticing selection of canapés — starting with cold bites and followed by warm, flavourful options that celebrated local ingredients and Mediterranean flair.

While guests sipped and socialised, the newlyweds were whisked away by photographer Calin to explore the grounds and capture portraits across the golden, picturesque backdrop of the estate. Once their portraits were complete, Calin turned his lens toward family photos, with Alexis helping to organize the group and ensure everything ran smoothly.

As the laughter and clinking glasses carried on, a gentle call was made inviting guests to take their seats for dinner — a natural transition into the next beautiful chapter of Madison and Joshua’s wedding celebration.

Dinner – Upper Lawn in Front of the Main House

As the sun dipped lower over the Mallorcan landscape, guests were invited to the upper lawn in front of the main house — a scenic, open-air space that perfectly blended rustic charm with understated elegance. Glasses of Cava, local wines, beer, and soft drinks were served once again, keeping spirits high as everyone settled into the next chapter of the celebration.

Before dinner officially began, the couple took a quiet moment together — a brief pause to reflect, away from the excitement. They later joined Scott from Sunshine Weddings Spain for a brief interview, sharing their thoughts on the unique journey that had brought them to this very moment. As winners of the Sunshine Weddings giveaway, this celebration held extra meaning, and the interview offered a touching glimpse into how deeply they were savouring the experience — grateful, in awe, and completely immersed in the joy of the day. It was a personal and heartfelt moment that added a deeper emotional layer to the festivities.

Shortly after, David took the microphone to introduce Madison and Joshua to their guests, welcoming them into the dinner space to cheers and applause. The entrance set the stage for a relaxed, joyful meal, and guests were soon treated to a mouthwatering BBQ menu — a feast of grilled dishes rich in flavour and perfect for the warm summer evening.

As the meal unfolded, the couple slipped away for a few golden-hour portraits with Calin, capturing stunning pre-sunset shots across the finca’s glowing stone walls and manicured grounds.

Upon their return, the tone shifted to heartfelt as glasses of Cava were topped up in preparation for the evening’s speeches. Alexis was first to speak, offering a warm, emotional toast. She was followed by David, whose words blended humour and sincerity. Next came a touching tribute from Madison’s father, and finally, Joshua spoke as the groom, thanking everyone and sharing his love for his bride.

As the last round of applause faded, dessert was served — a sweet finish to an unforgettable meal.

Party Time – Outdoor and Indoor Spaces

As the dinner drew to a close, Scott invited guests to gather on the lawn for a truly memorable moment. Forming a large circle under the Mallorcan sky, everyone watched as the couple took to the centre for a touching sequence of dances: a heartwarming mother-son dance, a tender father-daughter moment, and finally, Madison and Joshua’s romantic first dance as newlyweds.

With emotions running high and spirits soaring, the celebration rolled effortlessly into party mode.

As the evening progressed, the festivities flowed seamlessly between the finca’s outdoor charm and indoor spaces. For those heading back early, a private 38-seater coach was arranged to return guests to the accomodation on the island — part of the carefully coordinated experience from start to finish.

Madison and Joshua’s wedding was more than just a celebration — it was the culmination of a dream made real. As winners of Sunshine Weddings Spain’s exclusive giveaway, the couple received complimentary wedding planning and coordination, a free venue rental at the breathtaking Finca Son Mir, and a night’s stay in the bridal suite. Their guests enjoyed beautifully arranged welcome drinks, a styled ceremony space courtesy of Joanna Walton Flowers, and a heartfelt symbolic blessing by English-speaking celebrant Toni Pons.

Fosh Catering delivered a gourmet experience from start to finish, with a 60-minute reception of unlimited drinks and canapés followed by a decadent three-course BBQ meal and a generous three-hour drinks service. Every magical moment was captured by Calin from Epic Film, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime.

To Madison and Joshua — thank you for sharing your love story with us. May your journey together be just as magical as your wedding day. And to all the incredible suppliers and participants who made this dream day possible, our deepest thanks.

Here’s to many more love stories, dream weddings, and unforgettable moments in Mallorca and beyond.