Planning a Santorini wedding is an exciting journey, and one of the first questions couples ask is how long the process actually takes. The answer depends on your venue, the season, and the style of celebration you are planning, but there is a clear roadmap that most UK couples follow.
This guide breaks down a realistic timeline, month by month priorities, and expert tips to help you enjoy every stage of planning your destination wedding in Santorini. If you are new to the brand, you can learn more about Chelsea’s approach on the About page.
Understanding the Santorini Wedding Planning Timeline
Most couples begin planning 12 to 18 months before their date. This gives you the best availability for sought after venues, time to complete any legal steps, and the freedom to secure your preferred suppliers.
However, Santorini weddings can also be planned in 6 to 12 months, and elopements can be organised even faster. The biggest factor is availability, especially for popular venues. You can start exploring ceremony and reception spaces on the Santorini Wedding Venues page
Popular locations include Santorini Gem, Le Ciel, El Viento, Santo Winery, Dana Villas, and Andromeda. Each of these has a dedicated venue page within the directory to help couples compare styles.
If you want more general guidance, the article on how to choose the perfect wedding venue in Santorini for your style is also a useful starting point.
The Ideal Planning Timeline for a Santorini Wedding
Below is a month by month overview of what most couples aim to complete at each stage.
12 to 18 Months Before
• Choose your preferred date or month
• Reserve your venue
• Book photography, videography, florist, celebrant and key suppliers
• Decide between a civil wedding, symbolic wedding or elopement
If you are comparing ceremony types, the FAQ explaining the difference between a legal wedding and a symbolic wedding is extremely helpful.
If you want to see a complete overview of options, explore the dedicated civil wedding packages, symbolic wedding packages, or elopement wedding packages.
9 to 12 Months Before
• Begin styling and design conversations
• Confirm catering, décor and music
• Explore accommodation and transportation for guests
• Schedule pre wedding or next day events
For additional inspiration, you can browse the Best Wedding Venues in Santorini guide or the article Is a destination wedding right for your wedding.
6 to 9 Months Before
• Begin your legal paperwork if you are having a civil ceremony
• Select floral designs and wedding cake styles
• Finalise photography and video plans
All legal requirements are explained clearly on the Santorini Legal Wedding Documents page.
You can also check the FAQ about what wedding cake options are available in Santorini.
4 to 6 Months Before
• Finalise table styling, décor and menus
• Organise transport for yourselves and guests
• Confirm ceremony timing and sunset considerations
The FAQ on the best time of day to get married in Santorini is useful for choosing the perfect ceremony time.
2 to 4 Months Before
• Review vows and ceremony structure
• Confirm seating plans
• Reconfirm deliveries, layout and final styling decisions
You may also want to revisit the article do I need a wedding planner in Santorini and what do they do if you are still polishing details.
1 Month Before
• Double check travel arrangements
• Review final schedules
• Ensure all documentation is complete
The FAQ on how long you need to be in Santorini before and after the wedding will help with arrival plans.
Wedding Week
• Meet your planner and suppliers
• Complete a rehearsal or walk through
• Relax into the island atmosphere and enjoy the build up
For guest preparation or island information, the Useful Info section is a great reference.
Can a Santorini Wedding Be Planned Faster?
Absolutely. With the right support and venue availability, Santorini weddings can be planned in a shorter timeframe.
6 to 9 months
Perfect for symbolic weddings and many civil ceremonies, as long as venues are available and your documents can be completed promptly.
3 to 6 months
Often suitable for elopements or smaller celebrations. Many couples choose packages such as the elopement wedding packages for a streamlined planning experience.
Under 3 months
Short notice weddings are possible, especially symbolic ceremonies. Chelsea has an entire guide for couples wanting a fast turnaround, which you can find in Arrange Your Wedding in a Couple of Weeks, located under your FAQ section.
Tips for a Smooth and Stress Free Santorini Wedding Planning Experience
Here are some expert suggestions that make the process easier:
Plan early for peak season
May, June and September are the most in demand months. You can learn more in the guide to the best time of year to get married in Santorini.
Stay flexible with your date
Even a one day change can open availability for your preferred venues.
Book suppliers with Santorini experience
You can browse recommended professionals like the Santorini wedding photographers, wedding florists and wedding hotels.
Understand the legal vs symbolic options early
There is a clear FAQ explaining should I have a civil wedding or a symbolic wedding.
Consider extra events
Rehearsal dinners, welcome boat trips or post wedding gatherings can be arranged at locations listed in the pre and post wedding venue guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
For additional information, couples can explore the full Santorini Wedding FAQ section, which includes helpful guides such as
• how long the ceremony lasts
• what type of food is served at wedding venues
• how long until you receive photos and videos
• how to receive your Greek marriage certificate
Start Planning Your Santorini Wedding
If you are ready to begin the process, couples can explore the full Santorini Wedding Packages or learn about each service on the Services page.
You can also view the gallery for inspiration or browse recent celebrations in the Santorini Wedding Blog.
