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Stunning Mijas Costa wedding venue

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At Sunshine Weddings Spain, we love bringing you heartfelt bridal stories set against the most romantic venues in Málaga province. This week, we’re spotlighting the unforgettable wedding of Hanne and Mads on the 25th of May, set in the idyllic location of Mijas Costa: a secluded private villa retreat overlooking the Costa del Sol — offering sweeping mountain views, luxurious modern comforts, and rustic Andalusian charm.

Join us as we revisit the highlights of their magical day—a heartfelt celebration filled with love, laughter, and the golden light of an Andalusian spring.

Poolside wedding ceremony setup with sea views in the background.
Poolside wedding ceremony setup with sea views in the background.

Bridal Preparations – Early Morning Bridal Buzz

As the first rays of sunlight filtered through the rolling hills of Mijas Costa, Hanne and Mads woke to the stillness of the villa, surrounded by soft birdsong and the distant shimmer of the Mediterranean. Sharing a quiet morning together in the calm before the celebrations, they embraced a few treasured moments—before parting ways to prepare for the biggest day of their lives.

Soon after, the villa began to stir with excitement. A group of eight bridesmaids and the maids of honour arrived, infusing the space with warmth, laughter, and anticipation. Hair and makeup artist Aurelija and her team were ready, expertly transforming the bridal party in a designated corner of the villa, while music played and the sound of curling irons buzzed softly in the background.

Meanwhile, Mads slipped away with friends for a relaxing breakfast and a round of golf, soaking in some light-hearted moments before stepping into his role as groom. The couple’s personal touches were already being laid into place throughout the estate—fine black pens carefully set aside for the guestbook, personalised name cards sorted by table and seat order, and hand-crafted table names and holders made by the couple themselves.

As the day unfolded, the Sunshine Weddings Spain team arrived to oversee logistics, coordinating the first-look photos and managing each stage of the setup with ease. A designated smoking chill-out area was discreetly arranged behind a cluster of trees near the dinner space, ensuring guest comfort without interrupting the romantic atmosphere.

Under the guidance of the team at Sunshine Weddings Spain, the ceremony area began to take shape. Crisp white Chiavari chairs were set in neat rows before a beautifully decorated arch, and a simple yet elegant ceremony table was placed at the front. The procession space was carefully coordinated, with two speakers set to be rotated post-ceremony for the evening festivities.

Nearby, the reception area took form—featuring a romantic sweetheart table for Hanne and Mads, surrounded by eight round tables for their guests. Tables were dressed in soft linens, adorned with florals, and completed with the couple’s thoughtfully designed stationery. The cake table, provided by Fiestasol, was tucked into a scenic corner, awaiting its moment later in the evening.

Bouquets and a single buttonhole, prepared by Deseos, were delivered to the villa in time for a heartfelt moment: Hanne’s father arriving with the flowers, sharing a tender moment with his daughter before heading on to the venue.

Soon, photographer Calin from Epic Films arrived to capture the getting-ready shots and a touching first-look moment between Hanne and her father, staged within the villa grounds. With final touches complete, and emotions running high, the bridal party gathered, ready to step into the next chapter of the day—an unforgettable celebration of love under the Andalusian sun.

The bride walks through the garden on her father’s arm, arriving at the ceremony.
The bride walks through the garden on her father’s arm, arriving at the ceremony.

Welcome Drinks – A Toast to What’s to Come

As the final touches were completed around the villa’s sun-kissed terraces, guests began arriving through the stone courtyard, greeted by soft music playing in the background. The air carried the scent of nearby olive trees and distant sea breezes, and the panoramic views stretching across the hills made for a breathtaking welcome.

Glasses of chilled cava and sparkling water were served from the shaded outdoor bar, setting a relaxed yet celebratory tone. Guests mingled along the garden pathways and under white parasols, sipping drinks, reconnecting with old friends, and sharing their excitement for what was about to unfold.

In true Scandinavian style, the couple’s chosen toastmaster greeted guests warmly, introducing himself and gently guiding the atmosphere toward the upcoming ceremony. His light-hearted presence created an inviting vibe, setting expectations while allowing the energy to build naturally.

Behind the scenes, the Sunshine Weddings Spain team worked closely with the music coordinator to time the ceremony playlist to perfection. With the bar gently closing and the music softening, guests were ushered toward the ceremony area, Mads and his groomsmen quietly took their places at the front, framed by the elegant ceremony arch and surrounded by carefully placed Chiavari chairs. A hush fell over the garden, anticipation rippling through the air.

The welcome drinks had come to a close—but the real celebration was only just beginning.

The couple exchanges vows under the sun with a Mediterranean backdrop.
The couple exchanges vows under the sun with a Mediterranean backdrop.

The Ceremony – Saying “I Do” in the Hills

With the welcome drinks winding down, guests were invited to take their seats in the ceremony area. The setup was simple and elegant—rows of white Chiavari chairs facing a floral arch, framed by panoramic views of the surrounding hills and coastline.

The groomsmen and bridesmaids took their positions on either side of the outdoor aisle as soft music began to play. Mads stood at the front, composed and ready, accompanied by his best men.

The procession started with maid of honour Kadja, followed by the bridesmaids, each making their way down the aisle in time with the music. Hanne entered last, walking with her father—an emotional moment that drew quiet smiles from the guests.

The ceremony itself was short, meaningful, and well-paced. The toastmaster helped guide the proceedings, ensuring things stayed on track while the photographer captured the key moments—including the walk down the aisle and the first kiss.

With vows exchanged and the couple officially married, the ceremony ended on a high note, leading smoothly into the next part of the day.

Newlyweds and guests gather poolside for a group photo with a stunning coastal backdrop.
Newlyweds and guests gather poolside for a group photo with a stunning coastal backdrop.

Post-Ceremony – Drinks Reception

As the ceremony came to a close, “Higher Love” by Kygo and Whitney Houston began to play while Hanne and Mads made their exit as newlyweds. Guests followed them through the garden path toward the front of the estate, where a sleek black Mercedes S-Class awaited. The couple were whisked away for a short photo session at a nearby viewpoint, taking in the mountains and some quiet moments together.

Back at the villa, guests were welcomed into the drinks reception area, where a member from the Sunshine Weddings Spain team guided them toward the shaded terrace. A full bar was ready and serving a variety of drinks, including sangria, cava, white wine, lemonade, soft drinks, and water—all provided by Fiestasol.

Soon after, cold canapés began circulating among the guests, followed by hot options shortly after—offering a relaxed and social start to the afternoon celebration.

Once the couple returned from their photo session, the toastmaster gathered everyone’s attention and officially introduced Hanne and Mads into the reception. Smiles, cheers, and applause followed as they entered the dining area.

The top table was placed in front of a soft curtain backdrop, giving the couple a full view of the room, with guest tables arranged close by to keep the atmosphere intimate. As everyone settled in, the couple took a few more group photos, coordinated with a list Mads had prepared in advance.

With the playlist starting up in the background, the toastmaster gave the first call for dinner—signalling the start of the evening’s next chapter.

Guests cheer as the newlyweds arrive at the wedding breakfast reception.
Guests cheer as the newlyweds arrive at the wedding breakfast reception.

Dining & Speeches

Before dinner was served, Hanne and Mads took a quiet moment together away from the crowd. Sunshine Weddings Spain brought them a private plate of canapés, allowing them to relax, take it all in, and enjoy a few minutes alone before rejoining the party.

Back in the dining area, guests were poured their drinks as the final call for dinner went out. The toastmaster gathered everyone’s attention once again, introducing the couple’s entrance with a fun and upbeat dinner song. Guests swung their napkins in celebration as Hanne and Mads made their way to the top table—setting the tone for a lively and fun-filled meal ahead.

Before taking their seats, Mads gave a short welcome and handed over to the toastmaster, who introduced Hanne as the first speaker. Her speech, filled with warmth and emotion, was followed by Mads sharing his own thoughts and thanks. Both speeches were heartfelt and well-timed, marking the official start of the evening’s celebrations.

Starters were then served and the second round of speeches began—this time from the bride’s parents, speaking together from their table, followed by words from the groom’s mother and stepfather, and finally, the father of the groom. Each speech was sincere, personal, and well-paced, keeping guests engaged throughout.

Mains followed shortly after, giving everyone a chance to enjoy their meal and reflect on the kind words shared. The third wave of speeches included a joint message from the bridesmaids, along with several friends and siblings of the groom. These speeches brought a great mix of humour and sentiment, rounding off the toasts beautifully.

As dessert approached, the cake was quietly brought out and set up nearby. Around this time, the couple also stepped away briefly with their photographer, Calin, for a few sunset portraits—capturing that golden Andalusian light just before dusk.

With dessert served and glasses refilled, the toastmaster returned to announce the official cake cutting. Hanne and Mads stood together, with two spoons, a plate, and a knife ready for the moment. It was simple, sweet, and a perfect transition into the evening’s final celebrations.

The couple embraces in golden hour light, surrounded by warm, romantic hues.
The couple embraces in golden hour light, surrounded by warm, romantic hues.

Evening Celebration – Dancing Into the Night

As the final course was cleared and guests settled in with drinks, the toastmaster gave a few final words—closing the formal part of the evening with gratitude, a touch of humour, and well wishes for the couple’s future.

Moments later, the DJ invited everyone to gather around the dance floor for the couple’s first dance. With “Beautiful Things” playing, Hanne and Mads shared their first dance as newlyweds, surrounded by friends and family. It was a quiet, emotional highlight before the energy picked up.

From there, DJ Alberto Solinis took over, kicking off four hours of non-stop music. The dance floor filled quickly as the open bar opened, serving drinks throughout the evening and keeping the celebration going strong.

At midnight, late-night snacks were brought out—including slices of the wedding cake—for anyone needing a second wind before the final stretch of dancing.

As the clock struck 2:00 AM, the bar closed and the last song faded out. Guests left with full hearts and unforgettable memories of a day that blended laughter, love, and the beauty of the Spanish hills.

The couple shares a fun moment cutting their traditional wedding cake.
The couple shares a fun moment cutting their traditional wedding cake.

A Heartfelt Thank You

We’d like to extend our warmest thanks to Hanne and Mads for trusting the team at Sunshine Weddings Spain to help bring their wedding day to life. It was an honour to be part of such a meaningful celebration in such a breathtaking setting.

A special thank you goes to Calin from Epic Film for capturing the day so beautifully—every moment, every glance, every detail. Your work tells the story perfectly.

And of course, a huge thank you to all of our trusted providers for their hard work, professionalism, and dedication from start to finish. This day wouldn’t have been possible without your expertise and attention to detail.

Looking to plan your own destination wedding in Spain? Whether you’re dreaming of a hilltop villa, beachfront venue, or rustic finca, Sunshine Weddings Spain is here to help make it happen—every step of the way.

Get in touch with our team today to start planning your unforgettable day in the sun.

The newlyweds share an elegant pose during their first dance.
The newlyweds share an elegant pose during their first dance.