Rustic hotel wedding venue Sotogrande | Getting married in Southern Spain
Nestled in the heart of southern Spain’s breathtaking countryside lies a dreamy wedding venue – a rustic hotel with the charm of an 18th-century monastery. Surrounded by picturesque gardens and views, this secluded oasis offers the perfect setting for Claire and John’s romantic celebration.
The Venue – A Rustic Hotel in Sotogrande
The hotel’s 30 exquisitely decorated rooms form a Spanish courtyard, and the picturesque mountain scenery provides fantastic photo opportunities. Recently updated to modern specifications, the venue features various spaces for ceremonies and receptions, including a formal garden, Pavilion area, and a fairy-lit Pool Garden for nighttime festivities. Today, we invite you to walk through the flow of a wedding day at this enchanting venue as we fondly look back on Claire and John’s special day celebrated there last September.
Welcome – Live Music Setting an Elegant Tone
The wedding day began with a refreshing welcome drink on the shaded terrace, accompanied by the enchanting sounds of El Vuelo, a minimalist music group from southern Spain. Attendees sipped on infused water with hints of lemon and orange while enjoying the ambient tunes played by the band, meanwhile final preparations in the bridal suite unfolded, including a touching first look photo which captured the emotional moment between the bride and her father.
With the welcome drinks concluded, the guests were invited to the outdoor ceremony area.
The Ceremony – In an Enclosed Formal Garden
As the day progressed, guests gathered in the enclosed formal garden, featuring a majestic fountain, for the highly anticipated outdoor ceremony.
The ceremonial space boasted meticulous attention to detail. Flanking the area were two pillars, each topped with an urn overflowing with white flowers and dark greenery. A wedding arch, adorned with white flowers and green foliage, provided a tasteful backdrop for Claire, looking radiant in her A-line bridal gown, and John, handsomely dressed in a beige suit, as they exchanged their heartfelt vows.
The ceremony reached its peak as the couple sealed their promises with a kiss and the exit was accompanied by the upbeat melody of “Nuvole Bianche.”
Hand in hand, now officially united as life partners, Claire and John extended a warm invitation to their guests to join them for a celebratory drink.
Reception and Wedding Breakfast surrounded by Rustic Elegance
Following the heartfelt ceremony, the celebration seamlessly transitioned to various spaces, each exuding rustic elegance. The drinks reception unfolded in a shaded terrace area, where guests were treated to a delectable array of canapés. Among the tempting offerings were crab with curry sauce on crostini, an assortment humus selection on crostini, battered prawn with sweet chilli, and a chicken thigh skewer with mango sauce. As the tantalising bites were savoured, there was a moment for cherished family photos, skillfully captured by the talented Talia from Thoroughly Gorgeous.
With the sun casting a warm glow, the festivities smoothly transitioned into the wedding breakfast. The dining area was set-up in the garden with the top table positioned to face the pool, there guests were treated to a choice between confit beef cheeks with celery and apple puree, seasonal organic vegetables, and potato gratin or Sea bass with sweet potato purée and peas for the mains and a delicious dessert of seasonal berry crumble accompanied by crème Anglaise.
As the sun began its descent, casting a soft, golden hue, magical pre-sunset photos were captured. Then, it was time to switch gears and get the party started. Laughter, dancing, and a good time were on the agenda for the rest of the evening.
Nightfall Dancing Under the Stars
The party kicked off outdoors, continuing under the stars until midnight before transitioning into the designated party room.
Claire and John’s first dance, set to the soulful tune of Dermot Kennedy’s “Days Like This,” marked the beginning of the party, with a local DJ taking charge and spinning tunes. The DJ’s expert selections, coupled with Claire and John’s thoughtfully curated playlist, guaranteed that everyone was on their feet, dancing the night away.
As the night unfolded, guests enjoyed late-night snacks, including delicious pizzas, courtesy of Claire and John’s considerate planning. To ensure a safe and convenient departure for those not staying at the hotel, the couple arranged a 55-seater coach. This thoughtful gesture came into play as the party finalised in the early hours, marking the conclusion of a magical day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments under the stars.
On behalf of the entire Sunshine Wedding team, a heartfelt thank you goes out to Claire and John for entrusting us with your special day. Wishing you all the best in this new chapter of your journey. Special thanks also to Talia for sharing these magical images.
