ibiza weddings – White Ibiza

All you need is love… and Marnosuite

Once upon a time in East Berlin, a little girl called Maria Simon spent her early childhood learning to play instruments, performing in the theatre, knitting jumpers, and painting her own cinematic interpretations of life and landscape – it’s amazing what a child can do (even if somewhat begrudgingly) in the absence of a television. Little did she know those formative years would shape her future as a photographer on the Mediterranean island of Ibiza.

Today, as the founder of Ibiza wedding photography and editorial brand Marnosuite, Maria instinctively channels the creativity that was instilled in her by her parents while capturing the real-life romance of island nuptials on camera. Using her lens as a paintbrush, her intuition as a guide, and her couples’ unique love stories as inspiration, she crafts a vividly romantic world within each and every photograph she takes. From behind the scenes and the all-important milestones to fleeting moments of spontaneity and the power of raw emotion, Maria’s ability to document every aspect of a wedding is unrivalled.

Ibiza-based wedding photographer Maria Simon is the island’s queen of hearts – a natural at capturing the romance, emotion and magic of special events on camera to be cherished forever.

“Painting played a big role in developing my visual style,” Maria says. “I began to photograph right after finishing school, and it was a heart-made decision to become a photographer.” Initially, she was drawn to the high-gloss world of fashion, inspired by the glamour and nostalgia of old Hollywood movies. Maria spent 10 years shooting editorials and portraits around the world, counting Lady Gaga, Jade Jagger and Craig David among her clients. During this time, a close friend asked Maria to photograph her wedding, piquing her interest in a world that felt more in line with her authentic spirit and ethereal style.

It was around a decade later that weddings would circle back into Maria’s orbit. She’d swapped the grey of Berlin for the technicolour of Ibiza in 2005, having fallen in love with the island on a holiday in 1992, visiting regularly ever since. “I always knew I wanted to live in Ibiza,” she says. “The island has a certain magic that no one can really explain, and it’s the only place I’ve ever found that gives me a sense of peace and calm. Here, I really recognise how simple yet beautiful life can be.” When the opportunity to shoot her first big Ibiza wedding came in 2008, Maria was primed to create magic. “By that time, I had a vision and had developed my personal artistic approach to wedding photography.”

Marnosuite (the brand) was born as a way to differentiate Maria’s wedding photography from her editorial work, however the two worlds inevitably intersect. “I definitely see elements of my fashion work in my wedding photography,” Maria explains. “The biggest difference with weddings is that I create in the moment. For a fashion editorial, I have a storyboard and time between shooting each look. Weddings are so intuitive – I never know what is going to evolve, I can only observe and let things flow. Of course, some couples have a vision for their photos and I can work with a concept, or guide them, if they are up for it. I just love the unpredictable nature of a wedding, the love story behind it, all the feelings and of course, the love!”

Part of the skill of being a successful wedding photographer is knowing how and when to be in the right place, at the right time – something Maria has honed well over the last 16 years. “On the day, I am very calm, relaxed and mostly blending into the event, unless my couples are looking for specific guidance. If I’m working with a very nervous bride, I can help calm her down and give her a lot of space. When I work with bigger weddings – for example when couples get ready in different locations – I’ll have a second photographer with me. I work with a network of talented people who understand the Marnosuite vision, and whose styles and work ethic resonate with my own.”

Love is definitely in the air today and for any newly betrothed couples planning a wedding in Ibiza, finding the right photographer like Marnosuite is equally as important as getting the right dress, rings and venue.

Her gentle yet assured nature means Maria is adept at working with all types of personalities – be it brides, grooms, mother-of-the-bride, groomsmen or children. At the same time, her innate eye for style means she captures settings and scenery like works of art. “One of my favourite things is seeing all the love and effort behind the gorgeous creations by some incredibly talented planners, stylists, florists and lighting pros,” she says. “What inspires me the most are the couples themselves. This is why getting to know them before the wedding is so important. I love the personal connection we create. I want to be more like a friend with a camera, so they feel completely comfortable. There are couples I am still in touch with a decade after the weddings and I really value that.”

Describing her Marnosuite work as classy, elegant, emotive, cinematic, dreamy and feminine, Maria often references fashion books, movies and magazines from the 60s and 70s rather than industry trends for inspiration. “Trends come and go,” she says. “Long term, it’s more important to refine your signature style as a photographer and stay true to it. I’ve always played with textures and filters, while staying true to natural colours. I’m drawn to timeless, nostalgic and documentary style imagery – less staged and perfectly imperfect. Life is so fast-paced these days, which is driving the current trend for ‘content creators’ and the use of AI but I think weddings are a celebration of love. People should be in the moment, not forced to stage content for the sake of it.”

The proof is in the pictures, and Maria’s portfolio shines with authenticity – couples besotted with one another, families coming together, friends dancing beneath the stars, and truly stunning Ibiza settings and landscapes. Flashes of floating gowns; the twinkle of thousands of fairy lights; the golden glint of sunlight through the treetops and the sparkle of the crystalline Mediterranean Sea – fairytales that came to life to be cherished forever in a photo. “It’s such an honour to be part of someone’s dream,” she says. “I am a hopeless romantic and I love that I can express this through my images and blend it with a fashionable and cinematic style. I want people to rest their eyes on an image and really feel the essence and the emotion of the moment.”

Maria’s work with Marnosuite can be seen in esteemed publications such as Harper Bazaar, Vogue, Elle , Marie Claire, Brides and L’Officiel, to name a few, and in keeping with her ultra-personalised approach, she limits the number of weddings she shoots each year to keep each event special. “I’ve captured a lot of dream weddings,” she says when asked to describe her own fantasy wedding scenario. “From a visual perspective, I love rustic, cosy weddings with a lot of fairy lights. I love floating dresses and lots of movement. It’s so much fun when the energy is high, the party starts, and everybody is dancing. My ultimate dream would be a 70s-inspired wedding with all the guests attending in vintage clothes.” And afterwards, of course, they’ll live happily ever after…

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Shiny happy weddings

The iconic W brand is synonymous with clued-up cosmopolitan travellers; its loyal, jetsetting clientele trusts these global hotel wizards to deliver luxury and creativity with an edgy twist in every destination. Since its opening just over a year ago, W Ibiza – set on the frontline of the famous Santa Eulalia promenade on the east coast of Ibiza – has raised the bar in terms of style, sophistication and sassiness. It’s a place where everything is possible, and for those loved-up couples looking to tie the knot in 2021 (and beyond), it boasts all your Ibiza wedding needs under one roof.

Understanding the needs of Balearic brides and grooms, the dedicated event planning team at W Ibiza would go to the ends of the earth (or in this case, the island!) to ensure each and every wedding is unique. While the creativity, luxury and service you know and love from the W brand is guaranteed to be consistent, putting your own personal spin on the experience means your guests will be wowed at every step of the wedding experience – from the moment they check in to the resort, to pre-wedding pampering and poolside Ibiza vibes, all the way through to the ceremony, catering and celebrations.

Couples who plan to tie the knot at W Ibiza have a team of experts at their disposal. There’s your event planner for all the major milestones and your W Insider, who’ll be on-hand to help co-ordinate any last-minute requests so there’s zero stress on the day. You’ve also got access to your very own W Music Curator, who’ll craft the perfect playlist for every element of the big day – completely tailored to your tastes and incorporating any special requests – and book the perfect DJ to soundtrack the event. And of course, there are the professional mixologists, chefs and waitstaff working tirelessly behind the scenes and front of house to make sure your bespoke event goes without a hitch.

Prior to the wedding itself, the wedding couple have access to the AWAY Spa, where they can pamper themselves with custom designed ‘For him’ and ‘For her’ treatments, which include a three-hour Instant Beauty Boost plus a Lux Mani and Pedi for women, or a two-hour Instant Beauty Boost and Pedi Essential for men. A couples massage is also an option – whether on the morning of the wedding, the day before, or the day after – and the 70-minute Twice As Nice treatment comes with a complimentary glass of Champagne. For an added romantic twist, upgrade to the two-hour Elevate Your Twice As Nice and you’ll receive a Body Glow treatment in addition to your massage, plus exclusive private access to the AWAY Lounge.

The beauty of hosting your wedding somewhere like W Ibiza is that all your guests can sleep onsite. This takes away the job of organising transport or worrying that people might get lost or turn up late – everything is quite literally on their doorstep. Wedding couples are given a unique reservation link (complete with special rates for friends and family) that can be embedded in wedding websites or virtual invites and makes it easy to book and pay directly. And when it comes to rooms, W Ibiza truly excels, with a range of contemporary rooms whose names really do then justice, such as the Fantastic Suite, Marvelous Suite and WOW Suite. The wedding couple are given a complimentary suite upgrade and late checkout, so they can wake up on their first day of wedding bliss in the lap of luxury.

The main event is a sky-high ceremony and reception on the GLOW Rooftop Terrace – a stunning roof terrace venue complete with a striking plunge pool, beneath the beautiful blue Balearic skies and with panoramic views across the Mediterranean Sea. W Ibiza also understands that some couples may prefer a more intimate affair and for smaller weddings, the Extreme WOW Suite Terrace – with the same spectacular views – can be transformed into the mini wedding wonderland of your dreams. Each space can be styled to your custom theme, with beautiful backdrops for photos, romantic floral arrangements, tablescapes and much more.

Once the bride and groom have made their big entrance and said their ‘I dos’, the next stage of a wedding is the one that guests remember long after the honeymoon is over – the very serious business of eating, drinking and being merry. This is where the W Ibiza team really excel. From bubbles on arrival, open bar options and an array of signature cocktails to choose from, your guests will certainly never go thirsty. The mixologists at W Ibiza have outdone themselves with cocktails like the Piña Pagès – an island twist on the classic Colada, including homemade Hierbas Ibicencas and fresh lime juice – and the Margabiza, an icy fusion of Sal de Ibiza, fresh watermelon, lime and refreshing Ibizkus rosé wine – with many other island-inspired concoctions to choose from.

The wedding menus at W Ibiza are made up of a customisable selection of gastronomic gourmet bites, with hot and cold options designed to keep your guests satisfied all night long. Choose from cold creations like cherry tomato gazpacho shots, mini tacos filled with spicy salmon tartare, green papaya salad with chicken and chipotle mayonnaise and smoked chicken Caesar bagels among others – upgrade to premium bites to opt for foie micuit with mango gel on crispy homemade bread, locally caught white fish ceviche with papaya and jalapeño crème or fresh Gillardeau Nr3 oysters with caviar. Creative hot bites include crispy chicken bao, gluten-free mini pizzas and lamb kebabs in mini pittas – or upgrade to mini Wagyu burgers with seasonal truffle, crispy softshell crab with sweet and sour salad, dim sum with lobster and lime mayonnaise, gratinated queen scallops with lime crème and more.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that it’s your wedding, your way at W Ibiza. The team can also help you make a long weekend (or week!) of the occasion, with pre-wedding lunches at Chiringuito Blue or dinners at La Llama, cocktail receptions at GLOW, pool days, pampering sessions in the spa – both in the lead up to the big day, and afterwards to help you wind down from all the excitement. When it comes to sparkle and shine, this resort has got it in droves, and when it comes to planning an Ibiza wedding – the expert event planning team at W Ibiza can outshine even the Ibiza sun.

READ MORE & ENQUIRE WITH W IBIZA

The best seaside wedding venues in Ibiza

It’s fair to say that Ibiza is one of the world’s most popular choices for destination weddings. The wonderful temperate climate – with 300 glorious days of sun a year – plus frequent and affordable flights from most of Europe count hugely in its favour of course, but what really sells this Mediterranean gem when it comes to planning unique and memorable nuptials is its stunning selection of seaside venues.

From rustic and romantic bohemian beach settings, to modern and glamorous clifftop terraces, ceremonies, receptions and parties can take any style you desire, with the shimmering sea adding that vibrant pop of turquoise in the background of all your wedding snaps. If you’re looking to get married in Ibiza with beach or sea views, our team of on-island experts have selected some of the best wedding venues with spectacular views on the white isle. All you have to do is say ‘I do’ to your favourite one.

7Pines Resort Ibiza, Cala Conta, South West

Having Es Vedra rising majestically from the Mediterranean Sea as the backdrop to your wedding arch is the fantasy way to say ‘I do’ in Ibiza, and 7Pines Resort Ibiza delivers all the requirements for an awe-inspiringly beautiful event. With iconic cliff top views and azure waters surrounding the stunning promontory, plus various locations across the venue to host different stages of your celebrations – ranging from bohemian chic Cone Club to the glass-fronted, infinity-view Upper Cliff Terrace Restaurant – the resort can also accommodate all your guests, so the celebration can happily spill over into a two or three-day affair without any concerns about getting people home afterwards. With a world-class spa within the resort, all pre-wedding preparation and post-party pampering is completely covered, all you need to do is get ready to have the time of your life.

Visit the White Ibiza weddings guide to enquire with 7 Pines Resort Ibiza

Cala Gracioneta Chiringuito, Cala Gracioneta, West

Tucked away in a picturesque and private cove on the far west of the island, Cala Gracioneta Chiringuito is a gorgeous beach venue ideal for a relaxed and bohemian wedding. The Ibiza dream of a secluded white sandy cove, with waves lapping at the shore, and rustic wooden decking surrounded by stunning natural scenery is brought idyllically to life at this seaside restaurant, part of the well-respected and incredibly professional Mambo Group. The in-house wedding team design beautiful bespoke weddings, with a multitude of packages available to suit any size or budget. The versatile location can also be configured to fit your desires, from a barefoot beach ceremony to cocktails overlooking the headland, including drinking and dancing long after the sun has gone down.

Visit the White Ibiza weddings guide to enquire with Cala Gracioneta Chiringuito

Elixir, Cala Codolar, South West

Ibiza’s only exclusive wedding venue, Elixir sits atop one of the most exquisite and romantic viewpoints on west coast of the island. The quiet sandy cove of Cala Codolar sits at the foot of the relaxed venue’s white winding staircase, while the iconic rock of Es Vedra proudly commands the terrace vistas, just picture-perfect ready for those iconic Ibiza sunset wedding shots. Dedicated to the sole purpose of private events and weddings, the entire location has every little detail considered when it comes to your magical celebration, including mouth-watering menus that can be adapted to your style and tastes. Guests cannot fail to be wowed as they approach their beachfront destination, across the cliffs of the south-west of the island, and then be wowed yet again as day turns into night and you wander down to the beach for sunset or dancing the night away under the stars rounds off your unforgettable day.

Visit the Elixir Ibiza website to read more and enquire

ME Ibiza, S’Argamassa, East

Boasting hotels all over the world, and with over 60 years of experience in professionally planning spectacular weddings, the Melia team behind the hotel ME Ibiza deliver fabulous bespoke events with a view. Just steps from the shoreline of S’Argamassa beach – on the edge of Santa Eulalia – couples can choose between a range of locations for their ceremony, cocktails and dinner, from simple poolside elegance to stunning rooftop privacy, all with the sound of waves lapping at the shore, and breath-taking views across to Formentera in the distance. The adjoining Nikki Beach Ibiza makes a superb party addition for livelier affairs, and with a range of rooms and suites to suit all your guests at ME Ibiza, the destination wedding can easily double as a friend and familymoon too.

Visit the White Ibiza weddings guide to find out more about ME Ibiza

Amante Ibiza, Sol d’en Serra, East

One of Ibiza’s most in-demand seaside wedding venues, the secluded and romantic Amante Ibiza perches on the edge of the rustic cliffs found down a dusty camino, just minutes (but worlds away) from the touristic resort of Cala Llonga. Available for exclusive hire for your special day, the venue can accommodate a minimum of 60 adults and a maximum of 130 on its split-level terraces and sandy main floor. A Balinese hut on the sand forms an idyllic altar, whilst tall swaying palm trees serve to provide shade the sunny dining area, where white tablecloths and elegant seating look out over the natural bay of Sol d’en Serra. The Mediterranean menu is simple yet sophisticated, in keeping with the tasteful theming. Cocktails (not to mention plenty of seaside photo opportunities) take place on the wooden decked tiki-bar, before guests wander up the staircase to the restaurant interior where dancing and drinking until the early hours closes your Ibiza wedding.

Visit the White Ibiza weddings guide to find more details about Amante Ibiza

Nikki Beach Ibiza, S’Argamassa, East

With 14 glamorous locations all around the globe producing countless acclaimed events for the last 20 years, events team at Nikki Beach Ibiza in Santa Eulalia are well experienced in realising even the wildest of dream wedding wishes. The stylish seafront Ibiza wedding venue can host up to 800 guests with world-class Mediterranean views plus stylish architecture and design. The all-white décor with tribal influences is perfect for a modern marriage celebration and the exceptional entertainment can be tailored to your taste and style. Next door, ME Ibiza hotel is perfectly placed to accommodate your guests, while every little detail from bespoke menus to unbeatable music can be completely managed in-house, leaving you to just kick back and enjoy your day celebrating friends, family, life and of course, love. Happily ever after starts at Nikki Beach Ibiza.

Visit the White Ibiza weddings guide to enquire with Nikki Beach Ibiza

Atzaró Beach, Cala Nova, North East

Those seeking an authentic bohemian beachfront wedding should head straight for Atzaró Beach at the southern end of the stunning beach at Cala Nova. Beautiful turquoise waters create a stunning backdrop to your celebration, complementing the natural pared back style of the relaxed venue itself. Part of the renowned Atzaró Group, brides can expect their dreams to be realised with all the high standards in quality, service and style that the group is famed for. Offering extensive seafront terracing with dining, seating, lounging and social areas, the restaurant can be adapted for groups of varying sizes, whether you take the space exclusively, or prefer to create a special private zone for you and your guests. However you set up your wedding day, the incredible views and laid-back atmosphere offers an Ibiza wedding experience that’s impossible to beat.

Visit the White Ibiza weddings guide to find out more about Atzaró Group Weddings

Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay, Talamanca, South East

For a five-star luxury wedding day, Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay has all the seafront style and islnd elegance that any blushing Ibiza bride could dream of. An array of deluxe rooms and suites can acommodate your guests, whilst the various venues and spaces throughout the resort can be used for different elements of your event. With two pools to choose from, your ceremony can be whimsical and waterfront, or set high in the sky on the rooftop terrace to ensure privacy and stunning Formentera views. The relaxed barefoot chic of Chambao fits a bohemian vibe, or perhaps you’d prefer to wow guests with a signature Japanese lunch or dinner at Nobu restaurant itself. When evening arrives, the party begins with a private event space available for your celebration, as the glittering lights of Ibiza marina twinkle in the distance at the end of the promenade. Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay proves there are far more perks to a destination wedding than just the sunny weather.

Visit the White Ibiza weddings guide to find out more about Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay

Aiyanna Ibiza, Cala Nova, North East

For a laid-back and luxe seaside wedding, bursting with vibrancy and life, look no further than Aiyanna Ibiza, found at the centre of Cala Nova, a long, golden sand beach on the north-east coast of Ibiza. Owned and operated by the same team behind iconic Ibiza wedding venue Amante Ibiza, you can rest assured that all the finer details will be catered and cared for with same level of professionalism for which both venues are renowned. Aiyanna Ibiza oozes a relaxed atmosphere, with its brightly decorated umbrellas bringing splashes of colour to your theming, while the unassuming modern rustic vibe is highlighted through natural materials on the decking and seating. Lovebirds can invite between 50 and 140 guests for their exclusive event, and the choice of menus mixes western Mediterranean cuisine with Eastern mezze platters, all focused on honest, and nutritious ingredients.

Visit the White Ibiza weddings guide to read more about Aiyanna Ibiza

Cotton Beach Club, Cala Tarida, South West

Aficionados of fine dining and fabulous views look to Cotton Beach Club for their seaside weddings. The clifftop restaurant overlooking the bay of Cala Tarida offers five-star service and first-class cuisine served on its distinctive white wooden terrace right in front of the sparkling and turquoise Mediterranean Sea. With a stunning rooftop cocktail bar that can also function as a ceremony area, and an interior dance floor for late night partying, this iconic spot has become one of Ibiza’s most popular choices for luxurious romantic weddings. The impeccably professional team of chefs, waiters and managers run a tight ship when it comes to your once-in-a-lifetime event, and your guests will be impressed from the moment they arrive, thanks to the unforgettable views, spectacular service and mouth-watering menus.

Visit the White Ibiza weddings guide to enquire with Cotton Beach Club

Meet Ibiza’s wedding beauty experts

The dawn of a new year traditionally marks the time brides (and grooms) traditionally get planning in earnest for their Ibiza summer weddings and it seems 2020 is no exception. Once you’ve secured the venue, confirmed your guest list, and sent out the invitations, it’s time to get down to the really important details. Obviously finding the perfect dress is a priority, but so is securing a team of Ibiza wedding beauty experts to complement it – not to mention beautifying your bridal party.

The search to find the perfect squad to create the bridal look you’re dreaming of starts here – our carefully curated list of Ibiza wedding experts contains all the names you need to know to make your vision a reality. From stunning hair and picture perfect make-up to luscious lashes, manicures and pedicures; not forgetting detoxifying and relaxing massages, smoothing and brightening facial treatments plus spray tans, aromatherapy and much more, these professionals have the clarity and imagination to manage every last detail, while ensuring even the toughest of bridezillas has a calm and stress free wedding morning – no tears, no tantrums, no troubles.

JAM FACE, bridal make-up and brow expert

Creating a beautiful bridal face is a breeze for renowned Ibiza make-up artist and JAM FACE founder Jo Mackay, who has been beautifying brides in Ibiza for over 10 years. After training and working with MAC Cosmetics in London for many years, she provided her in-demand services for fashion and beauty editorials in glossy mags such as Harpers Bazaar and edgy publications like VICE Magazine, backstage for TV shows such as Britain’s Next Top Model and on A-listers at high profile award ceremonies in addition to many other exciting projects. Based here on the island, Jo brings her valuable combination of editorial and beauty experience to her work with brides, in addition to an insider’s knowledge of the island’s light and conditions – all the skills that are needed to deliver perfection for those all-important wedding photos. Also the island’s premier brow expert and a skilled hair stylist, Jo’s razor-sharp eye allows her to identify exactly what works on each unique face, guaranteeing a picture-perfect and flawlessly finished look for every JAM FACE bride.

Visit the Jam Face website to read more and enquire

Lash By Jayne, advanced eyelash extension expert

A lush set of lashes is top of the list for beauty conscious brides or grooms – especially when it comes to those wedding close-up photos that capture your cherished memories forever. Mascara – yes, even the waterproof kind – is a risky business, with the likelihood of happy tears flowing throughout the day, to say nothing of the summer heat playing havoc with your make-up in the blazing Ibiza sunshine. Enter Jayne Brami, founder of famed Ibiza beauty brand Lash by Jayne, and the island’s premier specialist in high-end, semi-permanent eyelash extensions for women and men alike. With more than a decade of experience, Jayne works closely with her clients to deign the perfect flirty flutter – whether simply to enhance your natural look or take it to the next va-va-voom level. Taking just one to two hours to apply, either at the Lash by Jayne studio near Salinas (a few minutes from the airport) or at your own villa, the luxurious light-weight lashes can last between four to eight weeks, meaning your natural beauty look lasts all the way throughout your honeymoon too.

Find out more about Lash by Jayne

Louise Maxwell, professional hair and make-up artist

Award-winning hairstylist and make-up artist Louise Maxwell brings creativity, consciousness and calm to any Ibiza wedding day thanks to a truly unflappable presence and years of experience beautifying brides, models and rock stars. Even the most stressed out mother-of-the-bride will find themselves put perfectly at ease by Louise and her team as they set about creating flawless and natural-looking finishes all round on the day itself. Pre-day preparation is key to a smooth delivery, so each bespoke look is designed, based on hair type, skin tone and bone structure, together with matching mood boards, current trends and the all important dress, while also paying close attention to the distinct Ibiza climate (and future hubby’s preferences of course). Most importantly, Louise advocates for conscious and ethical skincare, haircare and make-up brands where possible, so for the planet-aware bride-to-be, there’s no need to compromise on your wedding day.

Visit the Louise Maxwell website to get in touch with Louise Maxwell

Glam Ibiza, bridal beauty, skincare, spray tans and more

For full service pre-wedding pamper planning, look no further than Glam Ibiza. The island’s number one glam squad – headed up by beauty expert Laura Boland – will have you primped, preened and prepared for your celebration from the moment you touch down and keep you glowing through the honeymoon. From customised Dermalogica facials and skin-smoothing micro-dermabrasion treatments, to streak-free spray tans, eyelash extensions, and OPI manicures and pedicures performed with military like precision, the brand create bespoke wedding packages for wedding parties, that may include rejuvenating head-to-toe massages with detoxifying anti-cellulite scrub to get your skin buffed and beautiful, late night appointments for twilight relaxing facials or group bookings with a team of therapists for hen and stag relaxation days. With a video consultation to get deep into your desires, plus a face-to-face visit upon arrival, bridesmaids, groomsmen and the entire wedding party can be catered to, with treatments available at Glam Ibiza HQ at Aloe Valley on the Santa Eulalia road or in the comfort of your villa, hotel room or apartment. And after the blow-out of the big day? A restorative massage package will soon soothe those sore heads and swollen feet ready for the next party.

Visit the Glam Ibiza website to read more

Diva Borrelli, inner beauty make-up artist

American-born make-up artist and hair stylist, Diva Borrelli works between Ibiza and Los Angeles with her satisfied clients sending her to jet-set wedding destinations around the globe, from Ibiza (obviously) and Mallorca to the Amalfi coast, San Sebastian, California and beyond. Describing herself as an ‘inner beauty make-up artist, Diva is passionate (in fact, obsessed with) about beautiful, healthy skin and clean beauty regimes that work to enhance a bride’s inner beauty and encourage gorgeous glowing skin, and works with practices that she believes ‘make the soul shine’, including aromatherapy, crystals and more. Her background in fashion editorials (think Vogue and Marie Claire, no less) plus a wealth of experience and knowledge with different nationalities and ethnicities makes her a veritable specialist when it comes to matching your exact and unique skin tone, while her list of celebrity clients testifies to her ability to fulfil even the most particular of fancies. Using organic, cruelty-free and chemical-free products, Diva’s sustainable and green make-up kit will be part of your trial too, so you can prepare and treat your skin ahead of the big day. Then when it comes to flawless perfection ready for the photographer’s close-up, there’s only one diva on the day, and that’s you.

Visit the Diva Borrelli website to read more

Medspa Ibiza, Skincare and aesthetics clinic

It’s no secret that true beauty comes from within, but it also doesn’t hurt to call in the professionals when planning for those all important days – like your wedding – to be sure of a flawless face. Beauty conscious brides-to-be in Ibiza look to MedSpa Ibiza for a holistic and innovative approach to wedding preparation. Specialising in technologically advanced and non-invasive treatments, a scheduled program of therapies, facials, acupuncture or detoxification massages can get your whole body ready in the build-up to the celebratory event. For those looking to enhance their natural look with some aesthetic treatments such as fillers and Botox, MedSpa Ibiza can also work with you for results that look natural rather than fake. Great for group hen party occasions, their unbeatable VitaminDrip service can be administered directly at your villa on the morning of the big day, to leave your entire party feeling revitalised and energised for the day-long party ahead. And of course, it’s perfect for dealing with that post-wedding hangover the morning after.

Visit the White Ibiza spas guide to find out more about Medspa Ibiza

Smack Ibiza, wedding hair and make-up stylists

Ibiza’s original hair and make-up agency Smack Ibiza was founded by professional make-up artists Corina Smith and Sara Muhammad back in 2009. Coming from creative backgrounds working in the London fashion industry, the last ten years has seen their Ibiza business flourish as they bring their high-quality editorial and personal service to the island, establishing Smack Ibiza as the go-to-brand brand for Ibiza beauty, including bridal services for hundreds of Ibiza weddings. Pioneering the use of airbrush foundation and silicon-based waterproof products on the island, Corina and Sara developed their own style of make-up application suitable for the climate of Ibiza, and so are perfectly placed to ensure long lasting results and flawless skin for the entire length of your special day. Manicures, pedicures, eyelash and eyebrow tinting plus Beaubronz spray tanning can all be added to your bridal beauty package. Whether you’re a boho bride, a timeless classic, or an edgy, fashion-inspired type, the Smack Ibiza attitude is that your big day is all about you, so the team work closely with each bride to ensure total satisfaction with their looks on the day.

Visit the Smack Ibiza website to find out more

Thu Nguyen, wedding make-up artist

For all-day-long perfection, and even a change of look from day-to-night, professional hair and make-up artist Thu Nguyen has all your bridal beauty needs covered. Since training at the well-known Beauty & Fame Academy in Munich, she has specialised in creating looks for weddings and hen parties here in Ibiza, loving the challenges of the warm climate, and using the latest techniques to suit the light and photography of the bridal occasion. After the detailed planning and trial stages, where the unique look is created and tested, Thu is on hand for as long as you need on the day itself, providing touch-ups for those all-important photographs (or after some emotional tears smudges your eye shadow) and even an evening option, should you or and guests like to change their looks for the reception or party part of the night. Forget diamonds – Thu Nguyen is a girl’s best friend!

Visit Thu Nguyen´s website to enquire

Two is the magic number

It’s generally agreed that the best things in life come in pairs, so much so that there are countless examples to prove it. Cheese and wine, for instance. Sand and sea, husband and wife, and continuing with that particularly pertinent theme – weddings and sunsets. Nothing adds a slice of the extraordinary to your big day quite like the sun blazing through a kaleidoscope of gold, and nothing provides a better backdrop to the sweet sound of besotted nuptials quite like a sorbet-hued sky. Worth remembering then, that Cotton Beach Club excels in delivering memorable weddings, with sensational sunsets as the tried and tested sidekick.

Situated on a clifftop overlooking Cala Tarida, a vast stretch of golden sand on Ibiza’s west coast, Cotton Beach Club has prime front row seats to nature’s greatest spectacle. Each evening here, the sun dips into the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, transforming the surrounding landscape into a molten scene of splendour, in which unexpected colours collide and the smoky silhouette of the horizon dips and dances in the glittering light. Unsurprisingly, the venue has become famous for its breath-taking vistas, and yet, when it comes to hosting once-in-a-lifetime weddings, there’s so much more to it than that.

At Cotton Beach Club, Ibiza weddings are a seamless affair, taking place on the restaurant’s stunning all-white terrace – a chic, cosmopolitan setting for any couple’s big day. Add to that expert service from a team who are well versed in pre-empting the needs of every guest, spectacular bespoke decor, and menus created by an über-talented chef who takes inspiration from around the world and it’s small wonder that Cotton Beach Club has earned a reputation for excellence.

In addition, consulting with the venue’s event planners can help with planning many aspects of your day – here, they’re happy to share their little black book of trusted contacts to ensure you get the very best. To hire Cotton Beach Club exclusively requires a minimum of 60 guests and a maximum of 160. It’s possible to reserve the venue for fewer people but this requires a minimum spend, depending on the month. Guests are advised to arrive at 7pm, just in time for a ceremony that begins at 7.30pm, avoiding the extreme heat of the day and making the most of that delicious dusky haze. The happy couple say ‘I do’ framed by hanging, hand-picked blooms, and with the Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop – it’s a scene that could leap straight from the page of the most romantic tales.

As the sky begins to flit between a rainbow of pastel colours, guests are escorted to the Cotton Beach Club lounge area where a range of delectable canapés are served. Menus changed based on seasonality and plates are accompanied by a range of drinks previously chosen by bride and groom – think delicious homemade sangria or the finest cava and champagne, so no need to worry – there are plenty of bubbles available for everyone over the next 90 minutes.

At 9pm, it’s time for the formal dinner service, where guests are invited to enjoy a world-class meal as the speeches and formalities take centre stage. There are several set menus to choose from, but at Cotton Beach Club the onus is on flexibility and client’s needs, so it’s no problem at all to mix and match for a range of mouth-watering options. Cotton Beach Club also has a wine menu featuring the world’s most delicious drops, saving the newlyweds another of those tricky decisions.

Once dinner is over, the party really begins and at Cotton Beach Club, that means an open bar service alongside live music or a DJ. The basic open bar menu includes spirits, mixers, wine and beer, while the premium bar menu offers the option to add two types of cocktails and champagne. Regardless of choice, it’s all fuel for the nonstop dancing guaranteed to ensue, which come midnight, moves inside.

Here, guests can throw their sharpest moves until 1.30am, or for the party-goers with proven stamina, there’s the option to extend it to 2.30am, before waving goodbye to guests and saying hello to a new life as husband and wife. Cotton Beach Club ensures that every newly unified couple has the best start to married life. From the food and the views to the feel-good vibes, and a sunset guaranteed to induce goosebumps, it’s probably time to rewrite the rulebook: good things may well come in pairs, but that number certainly doesn’t have to stop there.

Visit the Ibiza weddings guide to read more and enquire with Cotton Beach Club

Raise the roof

In Ibiza, we love any excuse for a celebration. Birthday parties, midsummer parties, opening parties, closing parties and anything and everything in between. Find us an event and we’ll build the festivities around it. And it goes without saying that the most monumental of all celebrations is a wedding. Not only because it symbolises the sacred union between two loved-up, adoring souls, but also because it brings together friends and family from all over the world, united in witnessing a ceremony that cements their bond of love forever.

Aguas de Ibiza Grand Luxe Hotel specialises in providing the backdrop for such events, ensuring the location is as memorable as the party itself. Located on Ibiza’s rugged east coast, on the doorstep of the charming seaside town of Santa Eulalia, Aguas de Ibiza Grand Luxe Hotel is a five-star, eco resort designed to cater for every wedding whim. From the stunning sea views to the chicly designed interiors; the expert planning advice to the world-class cuisine, everything here combines in a breathtakingly beautiful space to create simple Ibiza wedding perfection. Suitable for grand, opulent affairs or intimate, relaxed soirées, the venue is malleable according to taste, which makes it the ideal option for every wedding scenario.

In fact, such is the dedication of the team at Aguas de Ibiza Grand Luxe Hotel to deliver flawless weddings that over winter, the hotel was refurbished specifically with events in mind. The result is a spectacular new rooftop space that sings with romance – an unrivalled spot for looking into the eyes of your partner and saying ‘I do’. Ceremonies can be held here – the altar can be set up on the alfresco terrace with the Mediterranean Sea as the sparkling background, or it can simply be used for the celebrations like a cocktails and canapés party before dinner or an area for hosting an after dinner dance. What better way to spend the first evening as husband and wife than dancing in the glow of the moonlight?

Sleekly designed and beautifully furnished, the new Aguas de Ibiza Grand Luxe Hotel rooftop has both indoor and outdoor space. Set within the main building that boasts floor to ceiling glass windows and unbeatable panoramic views of the sea and coastline below, the banquet hall is where guests can enjoy a first class, post ceremony meal with an unparalleled backdrop for speeches. Tables can be arranged and decorated according to your specification, and of course, attention to detail is key – the venue’s wedding planners are more than happy to accommodate any personal requests surrounding music, lighting and decor.

Outside, meanwhile, provides all the jaw-dropping ‘wow’ moments you need for a truly memorable Ibiza wedding. A decking area that’s surrounded by a 180-degree swimming pool is topped with comfy cabanas and stylish chairs – ideal for mingling and taking a breather, while the decking itself is perfect for dancing and revelling in all the joy that the day at Aguas de Ibiza Grand Luxe represents. There’s an open bar too, which serves as a fabulous focal point for the evening’s antics to swirl around, while the wedding party keep topped up with bubbles, beers and whatever spirits take their fancy.

Available by day or night, the rooftop at Aguas de Ibiza Grand Luxe Hotel also serves as the ideal location for an array of pre and post wedding events. It’s not unusual now for a wedding party to take place across several days – especially if people have travelled long distances to share in the magic of your special day. So often these days, the Ibiza wedding ceremony itself is bookended by relaxed dinner and drinks receptions that pave the way for the actual wedding, and recuperative brunch or lunch gatherings where people share stories and sore heads the following day.

What’s essential during Ibiza wedding is that the venue corresponds with the sentiment of the day, and Aguas de Ibiza Grand Luxe Hotel ticks all the right boxes. A place that sticks in people’s minds long after the sun has set, here, you can be happy knowing your guests are taken care of and enjoying the space while you flit around doling out smiles, air kisses and thank yous. Because let’s face it, celebrations like this only come around once in a lifetime – it deserves to be the very best it possibly can.

Visit the White Ibiza weddings guide to read more about Aguas de Ibiza Grand Luxe

Weddings in Ibiza – Stephan & Peter

Fashionable German couple Stephan and Peter were not short of destinations to choose from when it came to selecting their wedding location. Stephan’s job as a flight attendant has seen him travel the world and back again; the pair actually met on a long-haul flight to San Francisco back in 2015, when Stephan was working and Peter was his passenger. But despite the numerous options on offer, Ibiza was always destined to be their first choice. The island had already been Peter’s second home for decades, and in the years since they’d been together, it had become Stephan’s too – a magical, beautiful, peaceful and spiritual paradise that captured both hearts equally.

The couple had their first date six weeks after that fateful mid-air meeting, back in Düsseldorf when both had returned to their native Germany. Sixteen months later they were engaged and the wedding planning commenced. They decided on a September wedding – one of the most beautiful times of year in the Mediterranean; the region radiates with a unique light when the sun drops lower in the sky. And when it came to choosing a venue – since the owners of stylish beach restaurant La Escollera on the iconic Es Cavallet beach had become like family to Stephan and Peter, holding the ceremony and celebration there made perfect sense.

Being such regular visitors to Ibiza, Stephan and Peter decided to do most of the wedding planning themselves. They worked with La Escollera’s in-house event planner Andrea Barneveld to find the perfect stylistic touches to complete the day. Their theme was olive branches, which were neatly worked into buttonholes, woven around shells as table settings and wound into matching olive wreath crowns for the grooms as a final touch. White flowers dressed the ceremony walkway and complemented the leaves around the rustic wedding arch for a natural and organic feel, all of which were captured perfectly by talented local wedding photographer Gypsy Westwood.

Continuing in the matching theme, both grooms wore Ermenegildo Zegna head-to-toe, slim tailored suits in a light sandy taupe and paired with a snappy shoe. Each wore an Ibiza-shaped gold pendant chain, studded with a single diamond, along with gold cufflinks. They shared the precious wedding preparations together, sipping rosé champagne as they helped each other dress for their romantic moment. Upon arrival at La Escollera, guests were served a welcome drink, before being seated at the beachside ceremony area, where the couple’s photo-friendly poodle was already posing in prime position. And when the magic moment finally arrived, Stephan and Peter walked together down the aisle hand-in-hand, a perfectly matched pair.

The expert team behind the La Escollera kitchen whipped up a wedding feast that showcased local Ibicenco delicacies, such as melon roses with Jamon Iberico as one of the starters and their famous show-stopper, salt-baked aea bass as one of the mains. A light lemon sorbet refreshed the palate between courses, and a local farmer’s grilled tenderloin steak served in port wine with mashed potatoes and apple satisfied the meat lovers in attendance. The sun stayed out all afternoon and laughter and smiles were the order of the day on the beachside terrace. Stephan and Peter’s cake had a unique twist, as the two figures on the top were modelled out of icing by island cake artist extraordinaire Mitch the Cake Lady, the very image of the couple themselves complete with beards.

French singer Mouniette brought a jazzy vibe to the sunny afternoon, and after speeches, the party moved away from the beach onto the dance floor. Popular Barcelona DJ Hans brought his lively energetic mix to the evening, and before long the guests were all up and dancing. As night time arrived at Es Cavallet the revellers were in full celebration and the happy couple were the belles of the ball. Following on from their magical day, Stephan and Peter jetted off to the island of Mauritius for two beautiful and breathtaking honeymoon weeks. They didn’t stay away from Ibiza for long however; the duo swiftly returned to their second home at the end of December 2018, ready to start the new year on their favourite island.

Visit the White Ibiza weddings guide to enquire with Gypsy Westwood Photography

Creative collaboration

When first embarking on his career in photography, Jeremy Christopher recalls his aspirations as wanting his work to be featured on the cover of Vogue. As a London College of Fashion graduate, it was no surprise his interests led towards editorial imagery, however over time and with experience, Jeremy found himself moving away from fashion and beauty based work and into the field of travel and lifestyle photography, before ultimately becoming immersed in the world of weddings. Fast forward to today and Jeremy’s Ibiza wedding photography is indeed Vogue-worthy, with one of his most recent weddings looking as if it had leapt off the pages of the world’s most famous style bible.

Real life British couple Stephanie and Keenan had first encountered Jeremy Christopher Photography through a mutual friend – he’d shot the couple’s wedding and as they were newly engaged, their interest was piqued. “We were blown away after seeing some of Jeremy’s shots,” says Stephanie. “We knew he was the one for our Ibiza wedding.” Self-confessed fashion lovers, the couple had some very specific ideas for their own wedding images, and approached Jeremy with a brief that included highly stylised images featuring hip hop, pop and R&B artists such as Rihanna and Beyonce. “We joked about channelling our inner Vogue,” laughs Stephanie. “What we really wanted was a juxtaposition of editorial and relaxed shots.”

For Jeremy Christopher Photography, the job was an Ibiza wedding dream come true. “Stephanie came to me with a lot of research and references; a lot of staged group shots which she wanted to capture in a really interesting way. She had a strong vision, and it wasn’t what I do normally, but it had an edge to it. I think we totally pulled it off.” Bringing his fashion background to the fore and fusing it with his skill for capturing the pure emotion of a wedding, Jeremy rose to the challenge and set about planning a shot list and agenda that would ensure all the bride and groom’s required imagery was acquired at the right time, in addition to capturing the spontaneous magic moments that happened throughout the day.

“The key was getting to know the venue,” Jeremy says of his picture perfect backdrop, private villa Can Caterina. “I visited a few days before to investigate and understand where the light would be falling at different times. There were a lot of clean lines, white walls with great shadows, a lot of glass for reflections and some beautiful terraces that were great places to shoot. It was modern, and slightly Scandinavian in inspiration but combined with that Ibiza chic style.” For Stephanie, knowing Jeremy Christopher Photography had her photo wish list planned out to the minute and location was a relief. “Jeremy’s site recce filled us with every bit of confidence, knowing he had the same vision as us and that the day would run smoothly,” she says.

SKIP TO JEREMY CHRISTOPHER PHOTOGRAPHY CONTACT DETAILS

The resulting images do indeed look like stills from a pop video or a celebrity magazine cover shoot; one part Quentin Tarantino, one part Mario Testino and the rest, pure Ibiza wedding magic courtesy of Jeremy Christopher Photography. The bride’s form-fitting appliqued dress and Flamenco-inspired slicked back chignon are the perfect stark contrast to her bridesmaids’ striking all-black gowns – each dress is different, adding further to the aesthetic appeal. It’s as if Stephanie is the star; her bridesmaids, the perfectly choreographed back-up dancers – and when Keenan enters the shot, the juxtaposition of male energy in such a dominant female frame takes the photos to the next level.

To those who are not in the immediate circle of the couple, one instantly identifies Stephanie and Keenan as protagonists in a story – the viewer feels a sense of familiarity: ‘Do I know these people from somewhere?’ In this day and age of Instagram and influencers, not to mention society’s eternal fascination with celebrity, Jeremy Christopher Photography puts real life couples in the spotlight. “We feel Jeremy went above and beyond our brief,” says Stephanie. “We love how much he captured the magic. We wanted our wedding to be fun and full of love, surrounded by friends and family, which we feel he has really shown in his images. It is incredible how each photo takes us right back to the journey of our wedding day.”

For Jeremy – who is one of the nicest, most down-to-earth, friendly wedding photographers in Ibiza – the satisfaction of exceeding his clients’ expectations in addition to achieving the desired results on each image has him reflecting on many other possibilities for the future. “When a couple has a clear idea of what they want – whether it’s a fairytale setting, something that looks like the set of a circus, whatever it is in their wildest dreams – we can have a really open discussion about using my experience to turn it into a reality. It’s a group effort; you might need wedding planners or stylists to make it happen, or a venue that lends itself to shooting in your style. Every ingredient is important.”

While Vogue style weddings such as Stephanie and Keenan’s bring out Jeremy’s artistic flair, he’s also quick to point out that he understands editorial style photographs are not for everyone. His portfolio ranges from rustic, laidback affairs to sleek contemporary events – as natural or as stylised as each couple pleases. “What I’ve learnt is that every wedding is incredibly different and unique,” he says. “It’s an emotional journey and it’s my job to adapt to the client’s needs and desires. I can work to a very specific brief and collaborate with the couple on the exact finished images, or we can be more relaxed and candidly capture the moments as the day goes on. I’m always aware it’s your day, and I’m just a little part of it.” A little humble perhaps; Jeremy Christopher Photography ensures your Ibiza wedding memories last forever.

Visit the White Ibiza weddings guide to enquire with Jeremy Christopher Photography

Eat, cake, love

Sitting down to chat with Eileen and Hedley-Paul is like cuddling a huge teddy bear or snuggling into the sofa on a winter’s night or finding that there is still chocolate left in the cupboard when you thought it was bare. Basically, it’s like being enveloped in pure love. Eileen is an extraordinary cake artist, specialising in weddings with her company IbizaCakes while Hedley-Paul (who answers to ‘HP’) is one of Ibiza’s most respected wedding celebrants and founder of Blessings On Ibiza. But when they are together, it’s like they are teenagers falling in love for the first time.

True love always comes at the right time and even though they originally met in England, it was Ibiza that tied the duo together. Both had owned houses here while married to other people and Hedley-Paul remembers walking past Eileen’s restaurant in Santa Eulalia years before they even met. Firm believers in kismet, the pair were introduced by Eileen’s brother and the rest, as they say, was history. “The minute I laid eyes on Eileen I knew,” he says. “It was a magic moment.” Blessings on Ibiza indeed…

Eileen had been making wedding cakes as a hobby for most of her life but always brushed aside friends who told her to go professional. “It had always been a hobby,” says Eileen. “After I made the cake for my daughter’s wedding, Paul told me to go for it. We found our apartment in Ibiza just as the wedding industry was taking off.” That as the beginning of IbizaCakes and Eileen quickly became dubbed by the press as ‘Ibiza’s queen of cakes at the top of the Ibiza wedding scene.

Hedley-Paul was essential to the burgeoning operation. “I washed up and carried cakes,” he says with a cheeky grin. But with all the love bouncing off these two, it was clear Hedley-Paul would also end up becoming a member of the Ibiza wedding elite. After witnessing many weddings, he found himself offering critiques on the performance of the celebrants. “A wedding ceremony is monumentally important”, he says. “I saw some celebrants reading from a tablet! It’s shabby. A wedding is a formal declaration of love for each other, you should give your absolute best for the couple.” Friends urged him to give it a go and Blessings On Ibiza was born.