Traditional church wedding ceremony in Mijas Pueblo
If you’re planning your wedding in Spain, you’ll know that once the key decisions are made, everything else begins to fall into place. From choosing the perfect dress and organising the finer details to finding a venue that feels just right, every element comes together to create a magical day.
Today, we’re delighted to share the wedding story of Christine and Michael, whose beautiful September celebration combined the charm of Mijas Pueblo with a relaxed and elegant reception at one of our favourite hacienda venues in southern Spain.
Their wedding took place on 24th September 2025 and brought together family and friends for a day that balanced tradition, scenery, and a wonderful atmosphere from beginning to end.
Nestled in the countryside of Mijas Costa, the couple chose a traditional Andalusian hacienda surrounded by tropical gardens, fruit trees, and far-reaching views stretching towards the Mediterranean coast. Offering complete privacy and plenty of space for guests to enjoy the celebrations, the estate combines authentic Spanish character with modern comforts. With accommodation onsite, beautiful lawns, and several different areas for dining and partying, it provides the perfect setting for couples looking for a destination wedding in Spain.
Although ceremonies can take place at the hacienda itself, Christine and Michael chose to exchange vows in the heart of nearby Mijas Pueblo, allowing them to enjoy both the romance of a traditional church ceremony and the relaxed atmosphere of an exclusive private estate afterwards.
Read on to discover more…
A Relaxed Start to the Wedding Day
Wedding mornings at the hacienda always have a lovely atmosphere, and Christine and Michael’s day began with exactly that. Family and friends staying onsite enjoyed breakfast together and made the most of the peaceful surroundings before preparations got underway.
The master suite became a hive of activity as hair and makeup transformed the room into a lively and exciting space. Bridesmaids moved between rooms helping with dresses and accessories, while laughter and anticipation filled the villa.
Meanwhile, Michael and his groomsmen enjoyed a more relaxed start to the morning, gathering together before getting ready and helping with a few final touches around the grounds.
As the morning progressed, suppliers arrived at the hacienda and preparations quietly began behind the scenes. Bridal flowers were delivered, reception spaces were dressed, and the Sunshine Weddings Spain team coordinated the many details that would ensure the day flowed seamlessly.
Photographer Racheal from Balance Photography arrived to capture the morning preparations, documenting those special moments before everyone headed to the church.
While the bridal suite buzzed with excitement, the reception areas around the hacienda gradually came together. White Chiavari chairs were arranged for dinner, parasols were positioned across the lawn, and tables were beautifully dressed with white linen. Personal touches prepared by Christine and Michael, including luggage-tag place cards and carefully organised table details, were put into place.
By late morning, the anticipation had begun to build, and it was time for everyone to make their way to one of Andalucía’s most picturesque villages.
A Traditional Church Ceremony in Mijas Pueblo
Few places capture the charm of southern Spain quite like Mijas Pueblo. Perched high above the Costa del Sol, the famous whitewashed village is known for its cobbled streets, flower-filled balconies, and panoramic views stretching towards the Mediterranean. It provides a wonderfully romantic backdrop for a church wedding and offers countless opportunities for memorable photographs.
Guests arrived and slowly gathered outside the church, taking in the atmosphere of the village before being invited inside. The bright white interior, framed by traditional stone columns, timber-beamed ceilings and an impressive gilded altarpiece, created a beautiful setting for the ceremony. Mass booklets had been carefully placed on the pews, while delicate floral arrangements created by Bunches Spain, together with simple aisle decorations, added a subtle touch of elegance to the historic church.
As the church doors closed and anticipation grew, Christine arrived with her bridesmaids. Wearing a timeless fitted ivory gown with a clean, elegant silhouette, she completed her bridal look with a long flowing veil and a classic bouquet of white roses, purple baby’s breath and fresh greenery. Moments later, she made her entrance accompanied by her father, while Laura Sense performed Enchanted by Taylor Swift on the violin. Waiting at the altar, Michael looked equally smart in a tailored dark suit, paired with a crisp white shirt, cream tie and a white rose boutonnière that complemented Christine’s bouquet.
The ceremony itself was filled with meaningful moments and beautiful music. Readings from family members added a personal touch, while Ag Criost an Siol and Canon in D accompanied different parts of the service. During the signing of the register, Laura Sense performed Tale as Old as Time, creating a lovely atmosphere inside the church.
Following the exchange of vows and rings, Christine and Michael walked back down the aisle together as Everlasting Love played, greeted by huge smiles from family and friends.
Outside, the celebrations continued beneath the Andalusian sunshine. Guests formed two lines outside the church and showered the newlyweds with petals, creating a joyful moment captured beautifully by Racheal from Balance Photography. Against the backdrop of the church’s traditional wooden doors and whitewashed façade, the newlyweds looked every bit the picture of classic elegance as they made their way through the celebrations.
After spending time greeting guests, everyone made their way to a nearby bar, where they enjoyed drinks and took in the atmosphere of Mijas Pueblo. Meanwhile, Christine and Michael stayed behind with their bridal party and photographer to explore the village’s picturesque streets. From flower-filled corners to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the coast, Mijas Pueblo provided endless opportunities for beautiful photographs before the celebrations moved on to the hacienda.
An Upbeat Drinks Reception on the Front Lawn
Back at the hacienda, preparations were complete and the lower lawn overlooking the countryside was ready to welcome guests.
Christine and Michael arrived first, allowing them to enjoy a few quiet moments together and take photographs around the estate before everyone else arrived.
Soon afterwards, coaches and transfers brought guests to the hacienda, where they were greeted with views across the gardens and surrounding landscape.
The drinks reception took place on the front lawn, accompanied by a live performance from Laura Sense Duo on violin and guitar. The relaxed music provided the perfect soundtrack as guests mingled beneath the September sunshine.
Cava, sangria, beers, soft drinks and water were served throughout the afternoon, while canapés circulated among guests. It was exactly the kind of atmosphere destination weddings in Spain are known for—informal, sociable and full of smiles.
As the music continued and conversations flowed, the atmosphere naturally shifted towards the next stage of the celebrations.
Alfresco Wedding Breakfast by the Pool
The wedding breakfast took place on the pool lawn, one of the most scenic areas of the hacienda.
Tables dressed in crisp white linen created an elegant setting beneath the Andalusian sky. The couple had chosen a U-shaped top table surrounded by round guest tables, creating a layout that felt both intimate and sociable.
After a gentle call to dinner, guests made their way from the front lawn and settled into their seats. Shortly afterwards, Peter took on the role of master of ceremonies and introduced the bridal party and newlyweds.
Their entrance brought plenty of energy to the evening, with “Levels” by Avicii followed by Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September” creating an upbeat vibe and set the tone for the celebrations ahead.
Before dinner began, Christine’s father delivered the first speech, raising a toast to the happy couple.
Starters were served by the hacienda’s experienced catering team, followed later by the main course. Throughout the meal, carefully selected music from Christine and Michael’s playlist played softly in the background, creating a relaxed atmosphere while allowing guests to enjoy conversation around the tables.
As the sun slowly lowered across the surrounding hills, Christine and Michael slipped away briefly with Racheal for some golden-hour photographs. The hacienda’s gardens, terraces and countryside views provided the perfect setting for these quieter moments together.
Back at the tables, desserts were served and the evening continued with more speeches. Michael addressed his guests, thanking everyone for travelling to celebrate with them, before Connor added plenty of laughter and stories that had everyone smiling.
As dinner drew to a close, the atmosphere shifted once again, and guests prepared for the evening celebrations ahead.
Cava Tower and Courtyard Celebrations
Before heading downstairs, guests gathered around an elegant cava tower, creating another memorable moment and plenty of opportunities for photographs.
As twilight settled over the hacienda, everyone moved into the lower courtyard. Surrounded by traditional Andalusian architecture and softly lit for the evening, the space transformed into the perfect setting for the party.
The Significant Others took to the stage and immediately brought fantastic energy to the celebrations. Their live performance encouraged guests onto the dance floor, and before long, Christine and Michael shared their first dance surrounded by family and friends.
The courtyard came alive as guests danced, laughed and enjoyed drinks from the open bar. Comfortable seating areas and cocktail tables gave everyone the opportunity to relax between songs while still soaking up the atmosphere.
Later in the evening, during one of the band’s breaks, Christine and Michael cut their wedding cake, supplied by Cakery Boo. Although saved to enjoy with guests the following day, it provided another lovely moment during the celebrations.
The Significant Others returned for another lively set before eventually handing over to DJ Maxee, who kept the energy high well into the night. Accompanied by saxophone performances, the dance floor remained full as guests embraced every minute of the celebration.
As midnight approached, mini burgers and sandwiches were served, giving everyone the perfect late-night snack before dancing continued into the early hours.
With music, laughter and celebrations continuing long after sunset, the lower courtyard once again proved why it is one of the most versatile and atmospheric spaces within the hacienda.
Thank You
A huge thank you to Christine and Michael for trusting Sunshine Weddings Spain to help bring your wedding day to life.
Thank you also to all of the fantastic suppliers whose hard work helped everything run so smoothly. A special thank you goes to Racheal from Balance Photography for capturing every stage of the day so beautifully, preserving memories that Christine and Michael will treasure for many years to come.
If you’re dreaming of your own wedding in Spain and would love to combine the charm of a traditional church ceremony with the privacy and elegance of an exclusive hacienda, the team here at Sunshine Weddings Spain would be delighted to help you start planning your special day.
