Organising a wedding is one of the most important decisions in life, and every detail counts. As a hairdresser specialising in hairstyles of destination weddings in Marbella for more than five yearsI have had the opportunity to accompany dozens of brides who choose the Costa del Sol to celebrate their big day outdoors. From the sunrise make-up to the last touch-up before the waltz, I have witnessed how the natural surroundings and the right planning can turn a wedding into an absolutely unforgettable experience.
The outdoor weddings are a booming trend, especially in destinations such as Marbella, Malaga or Rondawhere the Mediterranean climate, the sunset light and the unique landscapes become the protagonists. Here, I present to you a complete guidewith practical tips, trends and a selection of the most popular and popular best venues on the Costa del Sol to give your wedding that magical touch you dream of.
1. Why choose an outdoor wedding?
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An incomparable natural settinggardens, beaches, farmhouses or vineyards offer dreamlike scenery without the need for grandiose decorations.
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More relaxed and authentic atmosphereOutdoor weddings allow you to create less rigid celebrations, more intimate and connected to the environment.
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Spectacular photosThe natural sunset light on the Costa del Sol is one of the greatest gifts for brides and photographers.
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Versatile spacesThe same venue can host ceremony, cocktail and banquet, saving time and transfers.
2. Planning and forecasting: the essential plan B
Although the Mediterranean climate is one of Malaga's main attractions, always have an alternative plan:
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Elegant tentsin case of light rain or wind.
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Air conditioning systemsessential for summer weddings, when the heat can be intense.
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Strategic timetableIn summer, the ideal time for a ceremony is in the evening, avoiding the strong midday sun.
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Pre-site visitsKnowing the terrain helps to foresee needs such as lighting, access and sound.
3. Styles and decorations for outdoor weddings
The key is respect the environment and enhance it with decorative details that enhance it:
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Beach weddingwooden arches, flowing fabrics, white flowers and shells.
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Garden weddingThe event will be a great success: garlands of lights, imperial tables, floral centrepieces with peonies and roses.
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Country or forest weddingThe design is based on the following elements: lanterns, recycled wood, jute rugs, vintage chairs or even straw bales as seats.
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Colour paletteNeutral tones, terracotta, green and white are the most commonly used, although they can always be personalised according to the couple.
4. Current trends in outdoor weddings
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Intimate celebrationsMore and more couples are opting for smaller groups (50-100 guests) in order to prioritise quality over quantity.
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Multi-day weddingsIncluding pre-wedding and post-wedding is a trend, especially in destinations such as Marbella, where guests enjoy the full experience.
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SustainabilityThe event is decorated with recycled materials, local catering and seasonal flowers.
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Personalised experiencesfrom live cocktail stations to express beauty corners for guests (this is where I usually take part with express hair styling touch-ups so that they all shine!)
5. Practical tips for organising your outdoor wedding
Organising an outdoor wedding is not the same as organising it in a closed hall. The freedom and beauty of the environment brings with it some challenges that should be anticipated:
1. Define the style and number of guests.
Before visiting venues, be clear whether you want an intimate wedding (50-100 guests), a medium-sized wedding (150-250) or a large celebration (300+). This will determine not only the right venue, but also the budget for catering, decoration and logistics.
2. Select the date with strategy
On the Costa del Sol, spring and autumn are ideal: pleasant temperatures, less heat than in summer and spectacular sunsets. In the middle of July or August, opt for sunset ceremonies to avoid the heat.
3. Include a smart plan B
The weather is unpredictable. A transparent marquee with pendant lighting can turn an unexpected weather event into an aesthetic highlight. Also, make sure the venue has an alternative indoor space.
4. Lighting and sound
At night, the magic is multiplied with garlands of lights, candles, torches or lanterns. Also consider a good sound system, especially if the ceremony is in an open space such as the beach or a large garden.
5. Guest accommodation
Destination weddings often bring together family and friends travelling from different countries. Choose a venue that offers own or nearby accommodationas well as coordinated transport for transfers. This not only provides comfort, but also allows you to extend the celebration with a pre-wedding or farewell brunch.
6. Supplier coordination
For outdoor weddings, coordination is even more important: catering, florists, DJ, lighting, photographers, hair and make-up must be aligned with the schedules and conditions of the venue.
7. The importance of your look
The dress, the shoes and above all the bride's hairstyle should be adapted to the surroundings. For beach weddings, I recommend wind-resistant updos or half updos; in gardens or farmhouses, soft waves with floral accessories work wonders. The secret is a comfortable, long-lasting look that allows you to dance until dawn without worry.
Open-air weddings on the Costa del Sol: the most spectacular venues
The Costa del Sol has some of the most exclusive settings in Spain for outdoor weddings. From rustic fincas to luxury hotels, here are some of the best places to celebrate an outdoor wedding in Spain. most requested spaces by national and international couples:
La Concepción Farm
Marbella, Spain
A place full of history and magic, where 19th century industrial architecture coexists with lush gardens full of palm trees, flowers and tropical vegetation. Celebrations here become a sensory experience surrounded by nature. In this green and luminous environment, natural hairstyles with soft waves or romantic updos with floral details blend perfectly with the landscape.
Finca CortesĆn
Casares, Spain
Considered one of the most luxurious resorts in Europe, this space is synonymous with exclusivity. Amongst traditional courtyards, carefully tended corners and a dreamy golf course, outdoor weddings take on a sophisticated character. Brides who marry here often opt for timeless looks: elegant updos or structured hairstyles that convey class and style in every photograph.
Hotel Anantara Villa Padierna Palace
BenahavĆs, Spain
Inspired by an Italian palace, this hotel is a jewel surrounded by gardens, fountains and classical sculptures. Every corner seems to be designed for a regal event, ideal for outdoor ceremonies that exude elegance. For such an artistic setting, refined hairstyles, such as low buns with a polished finish or romantic updos with sparkling accessories, are a perfect fit.
Marbella, Spain
An iconic beach club with endless views of the Mediterranean. Here, the sound of the waves becomes the backdrop for sunset ceremonies that exude a fresh, glamorous air. In this setting, light, flowing hairstyles - such as half updos with undone waves or beach braids - are ideal for keeping things natural and resisting the sea breeze.
Kempinski Hotel Bahia
Estepona, Spain
A corner of luxury facing the sea where subtropical gardens blend with Andalusian architecture. The romantic essence of this hotel creates the perfect setting for an outdoor wedding with Mediterranean charm. Here, bohemian hairstyles, with loose braids adorned with fresh flowers, or loose updos with volume, become the ideal complement for dreamy brides.
Villa Padierna Palace
Marbella, Spain
This Tuscan-inspired resort conveys art and exclusivity. Its gardens, fountains and statues are reminiscent of a Renaissance setting, ideal for an elegant outdoor wedding. In this refined setting, structured hairstyles, with impeccable finishes and classic accessories, enhance the timeless aesthetic that such an imposing venue demands.
Hotel Vincci Selección Estrella del Mar
Marbella, Spain
A modern hotel with Arabic influences, combining sleek lines with the freshness of the Mediterranean. Its beach club adds a sophisticated yet relaxed air, ideal for ceremonies by the sea. Brides who choose this venue tend to opt for contemporary looks: glamorous waves with a natural feel or modern half updos with sparkling headpieces.
Amalur Estate
Marbella, Spain
With a rustic and traditional charm, this estate is surrounded by gardens and spaces that evoke the essence of Andalusia. It is perfect for intimate and cosy weddings, where the connection with nature is the protagonist. Relaxed hairstyles, such as boho braids, natural waves or updos with floral details, are the perfect reflection of this country atmosphere.
Taberna del Alabardero Beach Club
Marbella, Spain
Located in front of the Mediterranean, this club combines the freshness of the gardens with lounges and terraces with endless views of the sea. Its versatility allows for weddings that go from romantic to festive in the same space. In this setting, functional and light hairstyles, which allow the bride to feel comfortable throughout the celebration, are the best option.
Paloverde Estate
AlhaurĆn de la Torre, Spain
Majestic gardens and a building with elegant character make this venue perfect for outdoor weddings. Its serenity and spaciousness inspire classic and enduring styles: polished updos, low chignons with volume or glamorous hairstyles that stay intact all night long.
Puente Romano Beach Resort
Marbella, Spain
A cosmopolitan resort with a Mediterranean spirit, surrounded by gardens and with direct access to the sea. Its ceremonies tend to have a vibrant and modern feel, where the bride can opt for more modern and casual looks, such as loose waves with a beach effect or minimalist updos with a natural finish.
Huerta del Conde
Malaga, Spain
A private enclave surrounded by greenery, perfect for those who dream of a country but elegant wedding. Its natural corners evoke romanticism, ideal for brides who opt for boho hairstyles, half updos with fresh flowers or natural styles that breathe authenticity.
Molino del Duque
Manilva, Spain
A renovated old olive oil mill that preserves the historical essence of Andalusia. With spacious patios and gardens, it is a place full of personality. Here, classic hairstyles with a modern twist, such as low updos with braids, fit perfectly with the character of the space.
Casa de la Era
Marbella, Spain
With an intimate, Mediterranean atmosphere, this estate surrounded by greenery is perfect for warm, family celebrations. Natural hairstyles, with romantic waves or half updos with flowers, stand out in such a simple and authentic setting.
Tikitano by Besaya
Estepona, Spain
A space with Balinese aesthetics facing the sea, where exoticism meets Mediterranean romanticism. It is ideal for modern weddings at sunset. Here, sophisticated but light hairstyles shine, such as glamorous waves or loose updos with sparkling headdresses.
Monastery Estate
San MartĆn del Tesorillo, CĆ”diz (Costa del Sol)
Built on the site of a former monastery, this boutique hotel surrounded by gardens and fountains conveys an air of history and romance. Here, classic and elegant hairstyles, from low chignons to timeless updos, match the solemnity of the architecture.
Miramar Grand Hotel
Malaga, Spain
An emblem of Malaga luxury, with stately rooms and terraces facing the sea. It is a place that evokes grandeur, ideal for high-end weddings. Here, royal-inspired hairstyles - elaborate updos, polished waves or styles with tiaras and headdresses - perfectly complete the look of a bride who dreams of a day worthy of a palace.
La Flor Mill (SerranĆa de Ronda)
A charming spot surrounded by nature, ideal for country and bohemian weddings. Its spacious gardens and the accommodation in glamping allow you to extend the celebration over several days in an intimate and relaxed setting.
Cortijuelo Gardens (MƔlaga)
With more than 5,000 m² of Andalusian gardens and courtyardsThis venue combines tradition and modernity. It has a chapel for religious ceremonies, outdoor cocktail areas and an elegant indoor hall for plan B, with capacity for more than 400 guests.
Cortijo LA Organic (Ronda)
An organic farm in 26 hectares of olive treesdesigned in part by Philippe Starck. Ideal for couples looking for a sustainable and exclusive wedding, with integrated accommodation, private chapel and stunning views of the SerranĆa de Ronda.
Rancho del InglĆ©s (AlhaurĆn de la Torre)
Perfect for those looking for an environment rustic and authenticIt is located in the heart of the village, with native vegetation and traditional Andalusian architecture. It is also close to Malaga and the airport, which makes it very accessible for destination weddings.
El Molino de Casanova (Nerja - Maro-Cerro Gordo Natural Park)
A rural villa surrounded by nature, with green patios and spectacular views of the Mediterranean. It is the perfect setting for intimate, country weddings, with a romantic and relaxed air.
7. The role of the bride at an outdoor wedding: hairstyles that make a difference
This is where my personal experience comes in: after working on dozens of outdoor weddings in MarbellaI can tell you that the hairstyle is one of the most important details for the bride.
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Weather-resistant hairstylesFor outdoor weddings, it is key to choose hairstyles that can withstand humidity, wind and heat.
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Current trendsThe following styles are available: soft waves with a natural finish, relaxed updos with fresh flowers, boho chic braids or elegant ponytails with golden accessories.
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Express touch-ups during the weddingMany international brides ask me for complete accompaniment, from the initial preparation to the touch-up before the ball.
A good hairstyle is not only beautifying, but also provides security and confidence on one of the most important days of your life.
Conclusion
The outdoor weddings on the Costa del Sol are one of the most complete experiences a couple can have: nature, perfect climate, Mediterranean gastronomy and unique scenery.
With good planning, a prepared plan B and the right suppliers, your wedding will not only be spectacular, but will reflect your style and personality.
And remember: the dress and the setting are the stars, but it's the hairstyle that will allow you to enjoy yourself without worrying about wind, humidity or heat. As a professional specialising in destination weddings in MarbellaI am passionate about helping every bride to feel radiant and confident on such a special day.