Mijas wedding venue | Southern Spanish hacienda
Have you ever imagined celebrating your wedding in southern Spain, with breathtaking mountain views and a glimpse of the sea?
Join us as we explore the experience of getting married in Mijas at a private estate. We’ll highlight the elegant and memorable moments from Katie and Lewis’s special day that made their wedding truly unforgettable.
The Bridal Morning – A Day of Elegant Preparations
Katie and Lewis started their wedding day together, waking up early before heading off for their individual preparations. Katie joined her bridesmaids, creating an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation as they began hair and makeup with the skilled hair stylist, Maite, and make-up artit, Chaliya. Meanwhile, Lewis and his groomsmen enjoyed some early toasts as they put on their wedding attire.
Cristina, from the Sunshine Wedding Spain team, arrived onsite to ensure everything ran smoothly. She placed small bottles of water and fans on each ceremony seat, set a basket of petals under the bridesmaids’ seats, and oversaw the arrangement of parasols on the front lawn—five for the drinks reception and eleven in the dinner area. Other décor included curtain lights, a seven-strand fairy light display in the courtyard, full garden canopy lighting, and hand fans with personalised stickers.
By mid-afternoon, florist Shona arrived with bouquets for the bridal suite and buttonholes for Lewis and his groomsmen. Talented photographer Racheal from Balance Photography captured the pre-wedding moments, documenting the beautiful preparations and the close-knit group surrounding Katie. As the afternoon progressed, everything was set for the guests to arrive and the celebration to begin.
Welcome – At a Picturesque Venue in the Spanish Mountains
Guests were warmly welcomed on the front lawn, where Groomsmen Nathan and Liam greeted them, many of whom had travelled especially for the occasion. A local violinist, Annya, serenaded the attendees with her beautiful music, setting a relaxed, chill-out vibe and refreshing drinks, including sangria, beer, and water, were offered to keep everyone cool on the warm late June day. Meanwhile, Racheal, the photographer, captured a touching first look moment between Katie and her father, preserving a moving memory of the day.
The Ceremony—Creating Precious Moments
The ceremony took place on the upper lawn, offering a stunning view of the Costa del Sol as a backdrop. The setting featured tropical flowers, fruit trees, and ample open space. The open-air aisle was flanked by six seats on either side, and the ceremony area was marked by a two-post bamboo structure and a small round table.
As the guests settled, a PA system played “When You Say Nothing at All” by Dave Moffat, setting the mood for the procession. The younger participants, Hannah, Joshua, Arabella, and Dolly, led the way, followed by Jodie and Hallie. They were succeeded by Emma, Charlotte, Beth, and Lois. Finally, Katie, stunning in a form-fitting trumpet-style gown with an elaborate lace train, made her entrance accompanied by her father, Craig.
At the front, Lewis, dressed in beige trousers and a white shirt, awaited his bride alongside his Best Man, Luke. The heartfelt ceremony was officiated by Minister Gareth, and the pleasant early summer sunshine provided a warm and inviting atmosphere. As the ceremony drew to a close, bridesmaids handed out rose petals to guests seated near the aisle. This led to a beautiful rose petal shower during Katie and Lewis’s exit, set to the tune of Natalie Cole’s “This Will Be An Everlasting Love.” Minister Gareth then invited everyone to join the newlyweds for a drinks reception back on the front lawn.
Cocktail Hour – A Delightful Start to the Celebration
The reception began with a generous array of refreshments, including water, cava, beer, sangria, and orange juice, alongside a selection of both cold and hot canapés. The menu featured several vegetarian options including garlic and herb bruschetta with fresh basil and baby tomatoes, potato and onion tortilla forks with saffron aioli, hummus with Moroccan spices and breadsticks, mozzarella tartlets with caramelised red onion, as well as Thai fishcakes with a sweet chilli dip, and crunchy chicken skewers with honey mustard dip. As guests enjoyed these delicious bites, violinist Annya continued to play enchanting music, providing the perfect soundtrack to the festive atmosphere. Meanwhile, photographer Racheal took family photos, capturing the day’s fun-filled and happy moments.
Alfresco Dining—A Feast Under the Stars
The cocktail hour smoothly transitioned into a dinner in the rear garden, where guests dined with views of the pool and stunning mountain scenery. The evening began with a heartfelt Cava toast led by the father-of-the-bride, Craig, followed by speeches from the groom, Lewis, and best man, Luke. As the speeches wrapped up, guests enjoyed the first wave of tapas served on shared slates, including mushrooms with garlic, baby chilis, and smoked paprika, beef meatballs in a tomato and white wine sauce, and prawns pil pil in cazuelitas. The second wave featured patatas bravas, chicken breast with Andalusian seasoning, and mini beef or Iberian burgers with foie and caramelised onion. For the main course, two paellas were served: an Andalusian paella with a mix of meat and fish, and a meat paella with mushroom risotto as a vegetarian option.
As the evening transitioned into the golden hour, photographer Racheal captured stunning pre-sunset photos of the newlyweds, including a memorable shot from the hacienda’s bell tower as the sun set behind the mountains. The meal then concluded with a delightful trio of desserts, featuring cheesecake, arab tart topped with toasted almonds, and a tangy Spanish lemon tart. Guests also enjoyed a fun champagne tower adorned with olive leaves around the base, adding a festive touch to the celebrations.
Dancing the Night Away—A Celebration Under the Stars
The festivities moved to the lower courtyard, where DJ Steve Altman and an open bar set the perfect stage for an exhilarating night. The couple’s first dance to Celine Dion’s “I’m Alive” launched the lively celebration, quickly filling the courtyard with energetic dancing and a photo booth added to the fun, capturing lighthearted and memorable moments.
To keep everyone energised, late-night snacks were served, including bacon butty sandwiches, a selection of sandwiches, mini hamburgers, hotdogs, and a variety of pizzas (options like margherita, ham & pineapple, or pepperoni). The festivities continued well into the night, ending at 2 am when taxis arrived to safely transport guests to their nearby accommodations.
With its authentic Spanish charm, Mijas provided the perfect backdrop for this extraordinary day, where Katie and Lewis celebrated a truly unforgettable occasion surrounded by their loved ones.
A huge thanks to the bridal couple for allowing us to be part of their special day and wish them all the best as they embark on this new chapter together. A special thanks also to Racheal from Balance Photography for capturing these stunning images that will serve as lasting memories of an unforgettable wedding day.
Mijas Wedding Hacienda Venue Overview
For those seeking a rustic wedding venue nestled in the Spanish countryside, this breathtaking ten-bedroom hacienda offers an idyllic setting. Located in the scenic foothills of Mijas Costa in Andalusia, this luxurious cortijo stands out as a premier location for a villa wedding. The hacienda exudes a relaxed and comfortable ambiance, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful and tranquil ceremony.
The venue boasts panoramic views of the beautiful Spanish landscape and the sparkling Mediterranean coast, providing a stunning backdrop for your special day. Guests can enjoy these 360º views while sipping champagne or sangria during the cocktail hour, accompanied by the enchanting melodies of a Spanish guitarist playing traditional flamenco music. The grounds are lush with tropical flowers, expansive lawns, and some of the most breathtaking vistas the Costa del Sol has to offer, featuring rugged mountain ranges against the backdrop of the azure sky.
On your wedding day, imagine walking through this stunning Andalusian farmhouse, joining your guests for a magnificent feast in the garden. Here, you can savour a variety of Spanish culinary delights under the stars, with a candle-lit dinner setting the perfect romantic atmosphere. The hacienda offers ten luxurious rooms to accommodate close family and friends, including a spacious master suite with a large terrace overlooking the tropical grounds, the countryside, and nearby golf courses. Each of the nine additional suites is uniquely designed, featuring private terraces with views of the Mijas mountains.
The hacienda’s facilities are top-notch, including in-house catering services with extensive experience in wedding events. They offer comprehensive packages that include waitstaff, equipment, linens, and glassware, ensuring a smoothly organised celebration. Despite being only 20 minutes from one of Spain’s busiest international airports, the venue maintains an authentic Spanish charm, combining rustic elegance with modern amenities.
For couples dreaming of a villa wedding in Spain, the Sunshine Wedding Spain team can turn that dream into a reality, offering expert guidance and support to create an unforgettable experience.
Advantages of a Private Villa Wedding Over a Hotel
Choosing a private villa for your wedding day offers a unique set of benefits that go beyond what a hotel can provide. One of the primary advantages is the complete freedom it gives couples over the schedule and details of their special day. Unlike hotels, which often have strict schedules and policies, a private villa allows you to plan every aspect of your wedding according to your own preferences and timeline. This means you can enjoy a more relaxed, personalised experience without being rushed by hotel constraints.
Another significant benefit is the opportunity for deeper connections and lasting memories. A private villa or finca provides an intimate setting where couples and their families can spend several days together, rather than just a few hours in a reception hall. This extended time allows for more meaningful interactions, whether it’s a family breakfast, a relaxed afternoon by the pool, or a pre-wedding dinner. The result is a series of shared experiences that contribute to a richer, more memorable celebration, creating bonds that will last long after the wedding day.
This tranquil retreat, exemplifying an Andalusian Hacienda, offers an unparalleled atmosphere of warmth and comfort. Surrounded by the serene beauty of nature, the villa provides an intimate and romantic setting that is perfect for a wedding. The natural surroundings and thoughtfully designed spaces offer a backdrop full of charm and character, with unique details around every corner that add to the overall experience. Whether it’s the lush gardens, the rustic architecture, or the breathtaking views, every element contributes to a truly unforgettable celebration.
Your Wedding Day – Your Way
At Sunshine Weddings Spain, we are dedicated to ensuring that every detail of your wedding day is exactly as you envision it. Our team will work closely with you to customise every aspect, from the floral arrangements to the menu selections, and everything in between. We understand that your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and we are committed to helping you create a celebration that is uniquely yours, free from the limitations often imposed by traditional venues like hotels. Whether you dream of an intimate ceremony at sunset or a lively reception under the stars, a private villa provides the flexibility and freedom to make your vision a reality.
