Luxury Santorini Elopement
Nestled in the heart of the Aegean Sea, Santorini emerges like a pearl from the cerulean waters, captivating travelers with its iconic whitewashed buildings cascading down dramatic cliff sides. Renowned for its stunning sunsets, crystalline waters, and rich history, this Greek island paradise beckons couples to explore its labyrinthine streets, indulge in delectable cuisine, and immerse themselves in its timeless allure.
Meet the couple who planned an intimate Santorini elopement
When Lee & CJ first reached out, they knew they wanted to tie the knot on the last day of the year, and they were torn between a winter wonderland or a tropical setting. During our initial Zoom call, Santorini came up several times, and after extensive research, they set their hearts on this picturesque Greek island!
After a year of meticulous planning for their destination wedding, the big day had finally arrived. Before dawn, we gathered in a parking lot to embark on a hike down to Skaros Rock for their first look and sunrise photos, with the charming white-washed town below as a backdrop. As the sun rose, it painted the sky with breathtaking colors, showcasing Santorini's dramatic landscape.
Following the sunrise session, we returned to their Airbnb where their family awaited, sharing breakfast and laughter. While Lee & CJ refreshed themselves, we captured candid moments before venturing to our next destination, the iconic town of Oia.
For two hours, we wandered through Oia's labyrinthine streets, soaking in its history and beauty against the serene December backdrop. After capturing portraits and exploring, it was time for the cliffside ceremony, where Lee & CJ exchanged vows surrounded by a few close friends and family members, with Santorini's stunning vistas as their witness.
As the sun began its descent, Lee & CJ prepared to unwind. Back at their Airbnb, a private chef from mainland Greece was busy preparing a traditional Greek feast. In a spontaneous moment, the couple shared a first dance on the rooftop, illuminated only by the twinkling lights of the town below and the glow of guests' phones—a scene straight out of a movie. Afterward, they savored the Greek delicacies and each other's company, basking in the magic of their Santorini celebration.
When to elope in Santorini
Choosing the best time to elope in Santorini depends on your preferences and what kind of experience you're seeking. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons and what they offer:
Spring (April to June):
Mild temperatures and blooming flowers create a picturesque backdrop for your elopement.
Crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer season, offering more privacy.
Ideal for couples who prefer a serene and romantic atmosphere.
Summer (July to September):
Peak wedding season in Santorini, is characterized by hot weather and clear skies.
The island is bustling with tourists, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.
Perfect for couples who enjoy the energy of crowds and want to experience Santorini at its most lively, but be aware, that taking photos without other people in it will be hard. So if you are looking for a quiet setting, this time of year is not for you!
Fall (October to December):
Crowds begin to thin out, and temperatures become more comfortable.
The island takes on a quieter and more romantic vibe, making it ideal for intimate elopements.
Great for couples who prefer a more peaceful setting and cooler temperatures.
Winter (January, February, March)
According to the locals, this is the wettest and coldest time to visit Santorini.
More rain and cold windy days
Most restaurants and stores are closed.
Ultimately, the best time to elope in Santorini depends on your personal preferences. Lee & CJ got married on December 31st and the weather was beautiful and around 78F without wind. We also saw barely any tourists and the town was nice and quiet.
Elopement Resources
Looking for a Santorini Elopement Photographer?
Sit back and relax because here at Running Wild, we help our couples plan their destination elopement from start to finish! We will assist you in finding the perfect location(s), provide vendor and accommodation recommendations, build timelines, and coordinate your elopement. Reach out to get started!
