From the very beginning, Lena and Yannick knew their wedding would lead them back to Greece. After a surprise proposal in Zürich during a hike near Lake Zürich, a moment she never saw coming, the decision to plan a destination wedding in Gytheio felt deeply personal, especially in the soft light of Fall. With the sea stretching out beside historic stone houses and rugged cliffs, the setting offered everything they needed. As Lena shares, «Our philosophy for the wedding was very much “less is more.” I am a minimalist at heart, and I felt that the setting itself, the sparkling sea, the historic stone houses, the cliffs, and the beach was so breathtaking that it didn’t need much embellishment. We used floral elements to underline the natural beauty of the location rather than compete with it. We chose local greenery, specifically olive branches, to create a cohesive theme that felt authentic to the Greek landscape.» That vision came to life through the floral design and planning by ManiDeco Wedding Planning & Styling, who created abundant arrangements of white chrysanthemums, roses and delicate blooms woven with olive branches and lush greenery, framing the ceremony space with height and texture. Long reception tables were dressed in crisp white linens and lined with olive garlands, glass candlelight and small bottles of local olive oil placed at each setting, a thoughtful nod to the land that surrounded them. In her hands, a bouquet of creamy white roses and olive leaves echoed the simplicity of the day, tying every detail back to the landscape. Take a step into this beautiful destination wedding in Greece and we promise you won’t regret it!
Captured by Carolina Photography.
«It started in the classic way, through mutual friends, but the connection was immediate. We shared an unforgettable evening that sparked something undeniable between us. However, timing had other plans; shortly after we met, Yannick left for a work and travel year in Australia. Despite the distance, he didn’t let the spark fade. He sent me a handwritten postcard for my birthday, which opened the door to regular communication. What started as monthly updates turned into daily phone calls. It was during one of these calls, while he was thousands of miles away, that he asked if I was seeing anyone else. I was admittedly overwhelmed, we hadn’t seen each other in nearly nine months, but my intuition told me this could be something truly special. When he finally returned in September, I was a bundle of nerves. But the moment he arrived, radiating that signature calmness of his, he simply took me in his arms and kissed me. In that moment, without a single word needed, we knew we were a couple.»
«The proposal took place in Zürich. I was actually there on a business trip, and Yannick decided to tag along with our dog, suggesting we make a nice getaway out of it since he had never visited the city before. We were hiking through a stunning gorge near Lake Zürich when it happened. I was completely blindsided! I had always convinced myself that if he were to propose, it would happen in Greece. Greece is my homeland, my sanctuary, and I had always been vocal about wanting to get married there. Because I was so fixated on a “Greek proposal,” I didn’t see the moment coming in Switzerland at all, which, in hindsight, made the surprise even more perfect.»
«Our philosophy for the wedding was very much “less is more.” I am a minimalist at heart, and I felt that the setting itself, the sparkling sea, the historic stone houses, the cliffs, and the beach was so breathtaking that it didn’t need much embellishment. We used floral elements to underline the natural beauty of the location rather than compete with it. We chose local greenery, specifically olive branches, to create a cohesive theme that felt authentic to the Greek landscape. This “local and natural” approach was the red thread that ran through the entire design. This simplicity extended to my personal styling as well. I opted fora bridal bouquet that was subtle, focusing on greenery and minimal color to match the surroundings. Even my dress, though striking in its sheerness, was chosen for its lightness and simplicity. We wanted the day to feel organic, effortless, and deeply connected to the environment.»
It is incredibly difficult to say my favorite moment as one because I honestly loved everything. The most beautiful part was undoubtedly the intimacy of the group. Because we kept the guest list to about 50 people, we felt like one big family.
Lena , Bride
«Since it was a destination wedding, guests arrived days before and stayed after, turning it into a full “wedding week” rather than just a single day. We really had time to enjoy everyone’s company. We hosted a pre-wedding party at a stunning location, which broke the ice beautifully. Since we were all staying in the same village, everyone already knew each other by the actual wedding day. That sense of unity, that we all belonged together was truly the highlight.»
«The advice I would give to a bride who is now planning her wedding is to absolutely hire a wedding planner if your budget allows, especially for a destination wedding. It keeps your back free during the planning process and, most importantly, allows you to be relaxed and fully present on your big day. Also, find a photographer you genuinely feel comfortable with. That connection is the “be-all and end-all” for beautiful photos; they need to know how to set the scene for you naturally. Our photographer was simply amazing, and having that trust made all the difference. I wouldn’t save money on this, I would rather cut the decoration budget than compromise on capturing memories. After all, besides your own memories, the photos are the only thing that truly remain from that day. You want to look back and be completely happy with how your story was told.»
«Where do I start for my wedding dress? It might be a “love it or hate it” kind of dress, but I absolutely adored it. It is by Milla Nova. I find their designs beautiful. When I tried it on in the store, it fit well, but I knew immediately that I wanted to make it my own. I had it customized to be transparent. I wanted something sexy, not too traditionally “bridal,” and something that felt like me. I love wearing pieces that are a bit extravagant, styles that perhaps not everyone would dare to wear. That was my wish for my wedding dress, and I think we succeeded perfectly.»
Leave a Reply