Sun-drenched Marbella wedding in a private finca
Welcome to another of our Sunshine Weddings Spain bridal stories, where we take you behind the scenes of truly memorable celebrations set against the stunning landscapes of southern Spain. Whether it’s a hidden garden ceremony, an elegant terrace reception, or a lively evening of dancing under the stars, each wedding we create captures a distinct personality and a moment in time — all crowned by the Spanish sunshine.
Today’s story features the lovely Jess and Lee, who celebrated their marriage on 28th May 2025 at a breathtaking Marbella wedding finca nestled amid lush gardens and panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Set in the hills just a short drive from Marbella’s vibrant centre, this Mediterranean estate serves as the perfect backdrop for weddings that feel both intimately personal and effortlessly grand.
With over 14,000 m² of beautifully landscaped gardens, winding walkways, cascading water features, and secret nooks filled with fragrant blooms, the venue provides endless possibilities for every part of the wedding day — from shaded welcome drinks to sunset ceremonies and candlelit receptions beneath the stars.
Guests were greeted by sweeping sea views and the sound of nature, setting the tone for a day that blended relaxed elegance with heartfelt celebration. Read on to discover how Jess and Lee’s special day unfolded amidst romance, laughter, and unforgettable moments in the Marbella sunshine…
Bridal Prep – A Calm Morning Above Marbella
Jess began her wedding morning in a nearby luxurious penthouse suite perched high above the Marbella coastline. Surrounded by sweeping views of the Mediterranean, soft morning light poured through the floor-to-ceiling windows as her bridesmaids gathered around, creating a calm yet excited energy. Hair and makeup began early, with stylists moving through brushes, sprays, and laughter, carefully creating each look to feel effortless and luminous in the Andalusian sunshine.
Meanwhile, Lee enjoyed a relaxed start to the day at a beautifully appointed townhouse in Marbella, taking time with his groomsmen to share laughs, pin buttonholes, and soak up the anticipation of the day.
As the morning unfolded, local wedding florist specialist, Deseos, arrived, delivering Jess’ stunning bouquet, a single buttonhole for Jess’ father, and the rest for the groomsmen — carefully coordinated so every detail would be ready for the ceremony. Photographer Talia from Thoroughly Gorgeous arrived shortly after, capturing the quiet moments of excitement: bridesmaids sharing smiles, Jess adjusting her gown, and the soft sunlight highlighting the elegant surroundings of her penthouse suite.
By midday, hair and makeup were complete, and Jess slipped into her gown, the fabric flowing beautifully in the soft Marbella light. A serene first look with her father provided an emotional pause before the day fully accelerated, capturing the special bond between them just before stepping into the excitement of the wedding celebrations.
Across town, Lee prepared for his first look alongside his groomsmen and best man, Llyr. They went over the plans for the day, shared a few jokes, and settled any last nerves before heading to the wedding venue. Once there, groomsmen James and Adrian took their positions at the entrance to welcome guests and help ensure arrivals ran smoothly from the start.
Over at the penthouse Jess stepped down to the classic bridal car waiting for her, and the atmosphere shifted from calm preparation to clear excitement. The celebrations were about to begin…
Welcome – Arrival Amidst Mediterranean Gardens
As the afternoon sun warmed the grounds, guests began to arrive at the private Marbella finca, greeted by the soft ambient sounds of Nano playing live guitar across the manicured lawns. The lush Mediterranean gardens, dotted with vibrant bougainvillea and fragrant tropical blooms, offered glimpses of the coastline beyond — a serene and inviting backdrop, perfect for setting the tone of the day.
Guests were guided along stone pathways and shaded terraces toward the seating area for the ceremony, with the best men assisting to ensure reserved seats for close family. The subtle rustle of leaves and distant sea views created a natural sense of calm as everyone settled into place.
The bridal cars, two sleek Mercedes V-Class vehicles arrived shortly after, bringing Jess and her bridal party from the penthouse. The contrast of modern elegance against the traditional Andalusian architecture of the finca added a touch of sophistication, while the cobbled courtyards and rustic stone walls reminded everyone of the timeless Spanish setting.
The Ceremony – Among Olive Trees and Sun-Kissed Lawns
The open-air ceremony space, framed by mature olive trees and manicured hedges, offered wide views across the Costa del Sol hills and out towards the Mediterranean Sea. Guests were guided to their seats by the best men and settled onto white Chiavari chairs arranged in an intimate layout facing the central aisle and floral arch.
The processional took place in two parts. First, the children and younger members of the bridal party walked down the aisle, followed by the bridesmaids. Jess then made her entrance with her father. She wore a silky halter-neck gown, her blonde hair styled back with two soft strands framing her face, and a veil flowing behind her. Lee waited at the front in a beige suit with tie, white shirt, and waistcoat — a smart, Mediterranean-inspired look that suited the setting. The combination of neat lawns, simple finca architecture, and natural surroundings created a strong backdrop for their vows.
The ceremony itself was personal and relaxed, with a balance of emotion and light-hearted moments. The outdoor setting kept everything feeling open and connected to the landscape, while guests remained fully engaged throughout.
As the ceremony ended, guests applauded and followed the couple along the stone paths toward the drinks reception. The celebration continued on the finca’s shaded lower lawn, where everyone gathered for congratulatory hugs, drinks, and conversation with views stretching towards the Marbella coastline.
Drinks Reception – Sunlit Celebrations on the Lower Lawn
Following their upbeat exit from the ceremony, Jess and Lee led their guests to the lower lawn of the Marbella finca, a gently sloping garden space framed by mature trees, fragrant flowering shrubs, and glimpses of the coastline beyond. Here, each guest was offered a glass of cava, sangria, beer, red and white wine, and soft drinks, the perfect start to a relaxed Spanish afternoon.
Guitarist Nano performed uplifting flamenco melodies as guests mingled across the manicured lawns, setting a warm, vibrant tone for the reception. Cold canapés were served first, followed by hot selections, allowing everyone to nibble, chat, and enjoy the sun-dappled gardens. Jess provided a list for family photo arrangements, with the best man Llyr assisting Talia, the photographer, to guide the party smoothly through portrait sessions.
As the reception progressed, the open bar began, offering guests a chance to toast the newlyweds while taking in the panoramic views of the Marbella hills and shimmering Mediterranean. The finca’s charming stone pathways, shaded terraces, and tropical planting made every corner a picture-perfect spot for photos, conversation, or simply soaking in the atmosphere.
Dinner & Speeches – Al Fresco Dining in the Gardens
As the afternoon shifted toward evening, guests were invited to the dining lawn behind the villa, where round tables with crisp white linens and Chiavari chairs were set beneath the open sky. A central top table provided Jess and Lee with an intimate vantage point, connecting them with the surrounding guests while allowing them a moment together.
A curated playlist took over from Nano’s live set, signaling the start of dinner. Guests were guided to their tables, with glasses of cava and water served to mark the transition from reception to meal. Sunshine Weddings Spain brought a plate of canapés for the couple, carefully tailored to their preferences — chicken, pork, and vegetarian options — ensuring they could enjoy a quiet moment together before the speeches and formalities began.
The speeches commenced with heartfelt words from both families and the best men. Jess’s father spoke first, followed by her mother, Lee himself, and finally the best men, each adding laughter, emotion, and personal touches that reflected the couple’s journey together. Meanwhile, the BBQ dinner service began, guided table by table by the team, offering guests a flavorful, social experience under the fading Andalusian light. Wines, beers, and soft drinks continued to flow freely as the sun dipped toward the horizon, the villa’s terraces and gardens providing a stunning backdrop for the evening.
Dessert followed, with the finca’s terraces and upper areas hosting live music by Demian, creating a relaxed hour for guests to enjoy coffee, conversation, and pre-sunset photos guided by Talia. A photobooth added a playful touch, capturing laughter and candid memories, while group photos were carefully coordinated to make the most of the venue’s natural beauty.
Evening Party – Dancing Under the Marbella Stars
As night fell, the celebrations transitioned to the upper terrace, where Jess and Lee shared their first dance, the villa’s lights reflecting off stone walls and lush gardens. Demian’s sax set continued, followed by DJ James, filling the air with music and keeping guests moving into the night.
The finca’s combination of indoor and outdoor spaces allowed the party to flow naturally — later moving indoors to the lower courtyard as the evening grew cooler. Guests enjoyed late-night snacks, continued dancing, and celebrated in style until the bar and music closed at midnight. By 00:30, the venue had quieted, leaving behind memories of a day that had moved effortlessly from sunlit gardens to starlit terraces.
A Heartfelt Thank You – Jess & Lee
A huge thank you to Jess and Lee for trusting Sunshine Weddings Spain to plan and coordinate such a beautiful and meaningful day. Your wedding was a true reflection of your love, style, and personality — relaxed yet elegant, joyful, and full of heart — and it was an absolute privilege to bring it to life in such a stunning Marbella setting.
We are also incredibly grateful to the talented team of suppliers who made every moment flow seamlessly — from Nano and Demian’s unforgettable live music to the flawless catering, décor, and styling, and to Talia from Thoroughly Gorgeous for capturing every laugh, glance, and quiet moment with such care and artistry.
To the friends and family who celebrated alongside Jess and Lee, thank you for bringing warmth, energy, and love to the day. Every smile, cheer, and hug contributed to a celebration that will be remembered forever.
For couples dreaming of a destination wedding in Marbella, whether it’s a sun-drenched garden celebration, a romantic evening under the stars, or a combination of both, Sunshine Weddings Spain can help make your dream day a reality. With expert planning, seamless coordination, and an eye for detail, we create weddings that are unforgettable — just like Jess and Lee’s.
Reach out to the Sunshine Weddings Spain team today to start planning your own magical Spanish wedding.
