Rustic Spanish finca wedding near Marbella
Every week, we share real bridal stories and exclusive peeks into the most stunning wedding venues across Malaga and Mallorca. This week, we’re heading to Marbella to showcase a rustic, rural wedding at a charming finca—a venue that perfectly captures the heart of southern Spain. With sweeping mountain views on one side and panoramic vistas of the sea on the other, this idyllic estate is a nature-lover’s paradise, offering enchanting gardens, hidden walkways, and serene corners that make it the ultimate backdrop for a magical wedding day.
Today, we take you through the June 2nd wedding of Shauna and Seamus—a beautiful celebration filled with laughter, love, and the golden Andalusian light. Their special day was a beautiful combination of personal touches, rustic charm, and fun-filled moments, brought to life by family, friends, and our dedicated team at Sunshine Weddings Spain, alongside our trusted network of wedding vendors.
Wedding Morning Preparations — Bridal Buzz Amid Rustic Spanish Charm
The wedding day began with Shauna and Seamus waking up separately, each enjoying the calm of their own coastal retreats—Shauna at a cozy Marbella apartment and Seamus at a nearby hotel. In the quiet morning hours, Shauna was joined by her closest friends as hair and makeup artists worked their magic, crafting soft, elegant looks for the bride and her party of four. Laughter, shared memories, and a few emotional moments filled the suite, creating an intimate atmosphere of excitement and anticipation.
Midday marked the arrival of the flowers — a delicate bridal bouquet for Shauna and a buttonhole for her father, while the rest of the floral arrangements were carefully transported to the wedding villa in Marbella, ready to complement the rustic décor of the ceremony and reception. The Sunshine Weddings Spain team were onsite, ensuring every detail was perfectly in place — from parasols providing soft shade across the terraces to the finishing touches that made the day run seamlessly.
Meanwhile, international photographers Oliver and Racheal from Balance captured the morning’s candid moments — the brushing of hair, the final adjustments of the dress, and the easy laughter shared among friends.
At the same time, Seamus, across town, began his day surrounded by his groomsmen, sharing jokes, light-hearted banter, and quiet moments of anticipation. Together, they made their way to the wedding venue, full of camaraderie and excitement, ready to support Seamus and welcome the day’s celebrations ahead.
The moment everyone had been waiting for finally arrived: Lauren’s first look with her father. Set against the gardens and mountain views, it was a simple but moving moment, full of pride and emotion. Captured beautifully by the photographers, it offered a brief pause before the pace of the day picked up and the celebrations began.
Welcome Drinks — A Refreshing Start in the Gardens
Guests arrived in the mid-afternoon and were welcomed by best men Shane and Aaron, who greeted everyone and helped them settle in. A selection of infused waters—plain, lemon, and orange—along with bottled beers and Aperol Spritz was served, offering a refreshing start as guests mingled and enjoyed the views of the gardens and surrounding countryside. A playlist provided by Seamus sounded in the background, creating a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Meanwhile, final preparations were underway in the bridal suite as Shauna and her party got ready for the ceremony. As the welcome drinks came to an end, the bridal party departed in an eight-seater vehicle with Benito, while the Sunshine Weddings Spain team coordinated the smooth transition to the ceremony area. Everything ran like clockwork, setting the tone for the rest of the day’s celebrations.
Ceremony — Exchanging Vows Amidst Rustic Spanish Charm
In the gardens, Shauna and Seamus shared a heartfelt ceremony surrounded by their closest family and friends. Shauna made her entrance to “Rainy Night in Soho” by The Pogues, looking radiant in a beautifully embroidered lace dress that fell elegantly with a soft round train and a long flowing veil. Seamus looked equally sharp in a blue-grey jacket, smart black trousers, a crisp white shirt, and an elegant tie.
The ceremony setup was simple and refined, with four chairs on either side of the aisle, two chairs at the front for special guests, and a small table at the entrance for hats and fans. Wedding celebrant, Debbie, reminded everyone to refrain from taking photos or videos so the professional photographers could capture the moment without distractions, whilst a member of the Sunshine Weddings Spain team handed out petals to the aisle guests, adding a soft, romantic touch.
As the couple exchanged their vows, their words carried through the garden, blending with the gentle sounds of the fountain and music in the background. Every detail—from the layout to the floral touches—came together perfectly, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere. Once officially married, Shauna and Seamus walked back down the aisle to cheers and applause, and guided their guests toward the drinks reception to begin the celebrations.
Cocktail Hour — A Refreshing Celebration Amidst the Gardens
Following the touching ceremony, guests were welcomed into the villa’s sprawling gardens for a relaxed drinks reception. The terraces overlooked rolling hills and sparkling sea vistas, creating the perfect setting for toasts and conversation. Guests were treated to unlimited cava, white and red wines, beers, sangria, and soft drinks, while a carefully curated playlist set the tone for a joyful afternoon. Cold canapés, including jalapeño cheese balls and chicken tenders, were circulated, ensuring everyone could snack while soaking in the serene surroundings.
The gardens provided a mix of comfortable seating and quiet corners, giving guests space to relax, chat, and take in the sweeping views. Winding pathways lined with greenery and subtle floral scents invited exploration, adding to the charm of the setting. Meanwhile, the Sunshine Weddings Spain team ensured Shauna and Seamus had a few private moments together, as the Balance Photography team captured intimate shots of the newlyweds among the garden’s hidden spots and scenic backdrops. Family portraits followed on the lawn, where photographers Racheal and Oliver documented laughter, embraces, and genuine moments of fun and happiness. The atmosphere buzzed with warm conversation as the celebration moved naturally into the next part of the day.
Al Fresco Wedding Breakfast — A Feast of Flavours and Heartfelt Speeches
As the cocktail hour drew to a close, guests were invited to the outdoor dining area nestled among fragrant gardens and rolling terraces. Tables were elegantly set with rustic details, the top table adorned with a garland of baby’s breath and white roses, and round tables featuring gold candelabras, small floral jars, and clusters of candles casting a warm glow as the sun began its descent. Lanterns along the pathways added a magical touch, guiding guests toward a memorable dining experience.
The speeches brought heartfelt emotion to the celebration. Seamus opened with a personal and touching address, followed by the maid of honour Sophie and the best man Dan, each sharing stories, reflections, and moments of laughter that perfectly complemented the day.
Guests were then served a relaxed alfresco BBQ, featuring a variety of options typical for a Spanish countryside wedding: grilled chicken skewers, marinated beef kebabs, a selection of fresh salads, roasted vegetables, and local cheeses, accompanied by freshly baked breads. A choice of wines and chilled beers complemented the meal, while a tea and coffee station with delicate petit fours offered a sweet finish and a chance to savour the moment.
As dessert was enjoyed, Shauna and Seamus were whisked away by their photography team for pre-sunset shots against the soft golden light, with the gardens and distant sea providing a striking backdrop. These moments not only resulted in stunning photographs but also gave guests the chance to linger, chat, and soak in the day, creating memories that would be cherished long after the celebrations ended.
Evening Celebrations — Dancing, Music, and Lasting Memories
As night fell, the festivities shifted to the villa’s pergola and outdoor dance areas, where a white LED dance floor invited guests to continue the celebrations under the stars. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as Monkey Tennis, one of the Costa del Sol’s most popular live bands, took to the stage for two energetic 45-minute sets. Their lively mix of pop, rock, and crowd favourites kept everyone on their feet, singing and dancing along.
After the band’s final song, the music baton was passed to DJ Fuller, who took the celebration seamlessly into the late hours with a four-hour set packed with upbeat tunes and dance anthems. The transitions between live music and DJ sets kept the energy flowing effortlessly, ensuring there was never a quiet moment on the dance floor.
Around the edges of the party space, the villa’s terraces glowed with warm lantern light and strings of fairy lights, creating an inviting, relaxed atmosphere. Guests mingled at the open bar, which served a full range of drinks including cocktails, beers, and spirits, while late-night snacks—such as mini Spanish omelette bites, ham and cheese sliders, and sweet pastries—kept everyone fuelled for more dancing.
Laughter, music, and conversation filled the air, wrapping up the day in true Andalusian style—a celebration that perfectly reflected Shauna and Seamus’ joy, warmth, and love for everyone who joined them.
Late-night snacks, including ham and cheese brioche, Spanish omelette dices, and mini sponge cakes, ensured guests were fuelled for hours of dancing and socialising. Memorable moments punctuated the evening, from the couple’s cake cutting to candid group photos and the first dance under the stars. Photographers Racheal and Oliver captured every detail, ensuring no magical moment was missed. The night unfolded with laughter, music, and heartfelt connections, culminating in a celebration that guests would remember for years to come.
A heartfelt thank you to Shauna and Seamus for allowing us to share their extraordinary day, and to the talented vendors, friends, and family who brought their wedding vision to life. Gracias also to the photographers Racheal and Oliver from Balance Photography for capturing and sharing these amazing moments.
For couples dreaming of a rustic, romantic wedding in the heart of southern Spain, this Marbella villa offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and charm. Contact Sunshine Weddings Spain today to begin planning your own unforgettable celebration beneath the golden Andalusian light.
Venue Overview — A Dreamy Setting for Unforgettable Weddings
This stunning estate offers breathtaking backdrops with sweeping sea views, lush gardens, and versatile spaces, creating the perfect setting for a romantic and elegant wedding. Nestled just minutes from Marbella, the exclusive property spans 14,000 m² and boasts panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea and surrounding mountains. Shaded terraces, tranquil corners, and beautifully landscaped gardens provide an intimate and serene atmosphere, ideal for capturing magical wedding moments.
The estate features a variety of spaces to suit every part of your celebration. A covered lounge can accommodate large gatherings, while pergolas and garden areas create charming settings for ceremonies and receptions. Modern amenities—including audiovisual equipment, a fully equipped kitchen, parking facilities, and a courtesy room—ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for couples and their guests.
Whether you envision a boho-chic celebration, a classic romantic affair, or a vibrant fiesta, this estate provides a versatile canvas to bring your wedding dreams to life. Its combination of natural beauty, elegant spaces, and exceptional services makes it a standout choice for couples seeking a truly memorable and enchanting wedding in southern Spain.
