How to plan a destination wedding in France or Crete
A step-by-step template from idea to "yes, I do" — and everything that comes after. Check off as you go, or use it as a starting point for a conversation with us.
Getting married at a dream destination is one of the most exciting decisions you can make as a couple. A destination wedding in France or Crete gives you the opportunity to combine your big day with an unforgettable experience — for yourselves and for your guests.
But with the joy also comes an extra layer of planning. Unfamiliar vendors, legal requirements, guest travel logistics, and international paperwork mean you need to start early and be well-organized. Here is our month-by-month guide.
12 months before — or earlier
- Choose a destination and concept – Are you dreaming of a French vineyard in Provence, a cliff with sea views in Crete, or perhaps a castle in the Loire Valley? The destination sets the tone for everything.
- Set a realistic budget – Include your own travel and accommodation, on-site vendor costs, and anything you wish to cover for your guests.
- Examine legal requirements – France and Crete have very different rules for weddings. Many couples therefore opt for a symbolic ceremony at the destination and a simple civil wedding at home.
- Hire a wedding planner you can trust – We know the best suppliers in France and Crete, speak the language, and handle unforeseen events so you don't have to worry. Contact us, and we'll take it from there.
- Choose location and set date – Popular dates are often fully booked 1-2 years in advance, especially during peak season. Keep an alternative date in mind.
- Start the search for your wedding dress – It can take up to six months to have the correct size delivered and alterations made by a tailor.
France vs. Crete
France
Romantic vineyards, historic castles, and Provençal charm. Perfect for elegant weddings with culinary experiences. A 30-day residency requirement in the municipality to get married there. The "dossier de mariage" (marriage file) must be submitted 30–40 days prior, with banns published for at least 10 days. Birth certificates must be recently issued and translated by an authorized translator.
Crete
Greek beaches, blue skies and an authentic atmosphere. Ideal for relaxed weddings involving sun and sea. No residency requirements. Requires a Certificate of Non-Impediment and a birth certificate with an apostille and a Greek translation. Applications must be submitted locally at least 8 days in advance - practices vary from town to town.
11–9 months before
- Compile the guest list – For a destination wedding, the number of guests is naturally lower—appreciate everyone who chooses to travel to celebrate with you.
- Send out the save-the-date as early as possible – Guests need plenty of time to plan their trip and take time off work. Remember to include a link to your website!
- Book photographer and/or videographer – Consider a local photographer who knows the light and the best spots, or bring one from home who knows your style.
- Book music – Live band, DJ or string quartet – the best have long waiting lists, so do this early.
8–7 months before
- Gather necessary documents – Birth certificates and any divorce or death certificates, and investigate what translations are required. You should wait to obtain the marriage licence until closer to the wedding.
- Choose outfits for bridesmaids – If you want them to follow a specific theme or color palette.
- Arrange accommodation for the guests – Contact hotels or villas and reserve a block of rooms at a group rate — your guests will appreciate you doing the work for them.
- Choose catering and taste the menu – Take the opportunity to serve local food and wine — it adds authenticity and sets the tone for the wedding.
- Taste and choose your wedding cake – Remember transport, or choose a local baker with experience in wedding commissions.
- Plan your honeymoon – We work with a travel agency we highly recommend, who can help you plan the perfect honeymoon – whether you want to extend your stay at the destination or travel somewhere completely different. Remember to check your passport and any visa requirements well in advance. Check passport and any visa requirements.
6–5 months before
- Create Wishlist – Many couples ask for contributions to their honeymoon rather than physical gifts — practical for all parties.
- Order invitations and printed materials – Invitations, ceremony program, menu cards, and place cards, all in one go. Include practical travel information and a link to the website.
- Book transportation – To and from the ceremony venue, between the reception and the hotel, and possibly private transfers for guests.
- Choose wedding rings at the jeweler – Decide on the model, fit, and engraving, and whether you want a local jeweler or to order from home.
4 months prior
- Go through the ceremony with the officiant – Do you wish to include local traditions or elements from the destination's culture?
- Arrange flowers and decorations – A local florist knows which flowers are in season — providing authenticity and often being more affordable than imported ones.
- Apply for a certificate of no impediment from the Norwegian Tax Administration – The certificate is only valid for 4 months and must be valid on the wedding day itself. Apply now, not earlier, so that it does not expire.
- Arrange with the photographer – Which moments and places are most important. Make active use of your surroundings!
- Create a division of responsibilities – Share it with everyone involved: coordinator, bridesmaids/groomsmen, toastmaster, and others.
3 months prior
- Book a trial appointment with a hairdresser and makeup artist – Check if they can come to you on the wedding day.
- Book the bridal suite – For the wedding night. Many places offer their own wedding packages.
- Check passport and travel documents – For the entire travel party. Passports should be valid for at least six months after the date of return.
- Send out the wedding invitations – With all practical information and a clear response deadline.
- Start typing the numbers – And our own wedding vows.
- Choose a toastmaster – Review the agenda for the evening
2 months before
- Double-check with all suppliers – Please send a written summary of what you have agreed upon.
- Buy thank-you gifts – To the bridesmaids/groomsmen and everyone who has helped with the planning.
- Get the latest accessories – Shoes, underwear, jewellery, and other items that complete the outfit.
- Tell guests about local tips – Restaurants, activities, taxi companies, and other useful information about the destination.
1 month before
- Check RSVP responses – Update the final guest list.
- Provide the venue and catering – The final number of guests.
- Create seating arrangements – Consider mixing nations and families — a destination wedding is a great opportunity for people to get to know each other.
- Do a final check of all outfits – Ensure necessary adjustments are made in good time.
- Break in the new shoes!
- Create playlists – If you don't have a DJ.
- Save the date for the bachelor/bachelorette party – Book a specific weekend while there's still availability.
2 weeks - 1 week left
- Create a detailed wedding day timeline – Send it to everyone involved.
- Hold a dress rehearsal – At the wedding venue.
- Finish the speeches.
- Take time to relax – Do something nice together, just the two of you.
1–3 days before
- Check your clothes one last time – Are they ironed, clean, and ready?
- Decorate the premises – (If this is not done by the staff/coordinator on site.)
- Pack a small emergency bag – With a charging cable, plasters, safety pins, make-up, and other things that can save the day
- Pack your honeymoon suitcase – If you travel directly.
Wedding day
The day you've been planning for over a year is finally here. Trust the planning you've done, trust the coordinator and vendors you've chosen — and let go of control. Relax, hold each other's hands, and enjoy every single moment.
After the wedding
- Return all rented equipment – Within the agreed deadline.
- Send thank you card – To guests — set aside a specific day for this so it's not forgotten.
- Pay all outstanding invoices. – Cancel all payments
- Share photos from the wedding – On your homepage — guests love to relive the atmosphere.
- Enjoy married life!
The rules for legal marriage abroad change and vary locally — the information above is a general overview, not legal advice.
Do you have questions about planning, suppliers, or what you should consider for your specific destination? Feel free to contact us — we are here to help you.