Hot takes on planning a wedding – From a wedding photographer in Mallorca

Planning a wedding in Mallorca? As a local wedding photographer who’s seen nearly 100 weddings unfold – from cliffside elopements to luxury finca parties – I’ve got some hot takes that might surprise you. Well, some hotter than others…

Forget the Pinterest boards and Instagram perfection. Here’s what actually matters when it comes to planning a wedding that feels like you.

1. You don’t need a wedding planner

Controversial, I know. But if you're having a smaller wedding or you’re a bit of an organiser yourself, you might not need a full-service planner. Many venues in Mallorca offer on-the-day coordination or recommended vendors. If you book professionals who are used to working on the island – especially photographers, florists, caterers, and musicians – you’ll already have a dream team who can guide you.

That said, if you're planning a big multi-day event or live abroad with no time to manage the details, a planner is worth every euro. If you want more insights I will share examples with you of real life couples who managed everything themselves. I’ll share both the success stories and the less so.

A micro wedding in an Air bnb on the Mallorca countryside, all self planned by the bride and groom.

2. You don’t need a luxury venue to have a stunning wedding

Mallorca is overflowing with beauty. From secret coves to mountain-view fincas. Some of the most heartfelt, visually stunning weddings I’ve photographed were at simple countryside houses, family backyards, or even public lookout points followed by dinner at a small restaurant. A warning here though, it’s not so easy to find public lookout points where you’re actually allowed to be without a minor hike…

But, the magic isn’t in the price tag – it’s in the light, the energy, and your story.

Alaiar is a countryside gem with the nicest staff. Perfect for around 40-50 guests.

3. Feeling overwhelmed? Elope!

If wedding planning has you spiraling, here’s your permission slip: elope. Mallorca is one of the most elopement-friendly places in Europe. Think sunrise ceremonies in the mountains, sunset vows by the sea, or a quiet exchange of rings under an olive tree.

It’s intimate, meaningful, and zero stress. And yes, you can still invite your family to a dinner party later when you’re back home.

Sunrise elopement with celebrant Prit Patel. Oh, and Spain in general is great for LGBTQ-couples.

4. Focus on the feeling, not the Instagram aesthetics

The best weddings I’ve photographed didn’t follow trends. They felt real. People laughed with their whole body. Tears flowed during speeches. Kids ran barefoot. The moments you’ll actually treasure aren’t the posed ones.

A wedding that feels good will always look good too, because emotion is photogenic. At least according to me.

Black tie and paella because why not?

5. Choose a photographer you vibe with – not based on follower count

This might not be a hot take, but non the less an important one. You’re going to spend more time with your photographer on your wedding day than almost anyone else. Make sure it’s someone who makes you feel safe, seen, and celebrated. It’s not about who’s trending – it’s about connection.

Ask to see full galleries. Book a video call with no strings attached. Go with your gut.

Just me, vibing with guests at Norrvikens trädgårdar.

6. Sunset ceremonies are your best friend

Not a hot take, but just important to think about for a Mallorca ceremony.
Light matters. In Mallorca, the light right before sunset is chef’s kiss, as the kids say.
If possible, plan your ceremony later in the day – especially in summer. You’ll thank yourself when the photos glow. If one of you plans to wear a suit, bring several shirts, even though you go for a later ceremony, that shirt is probably going to be drenched sooner or later.

8. Local vendors know the island better than Pinterest does

Trust the people who work here. We (local florists, I’m rubbish with flowers!) know where to get wildflowers, how to dodge beach crowds, what time the mountain road floods with cyclists, and how to avoid last-minute permit drama, eg, with drone permits.
A good local team makes a big difference.

And a few summarizing words from me to you:

Planning a wedding in Mallorca doesn’t have to be overwhelming. But let go of the Instagram-perfection. Make room for the day to unfold! It’s not supposed to be perfect, it’s supposed to create those core memories that will be some of the best ones of your life. Perfect or not.

It just has to be you. Whether you're dreaming of a high-end finca or a barefoot beach ceremony, trust your instincts, choose good people, and remember: the best photos come from real emotions – not checklists.

Lastly, are you thinking of getting married in Mallorca? I’d love to photograph your day – whether it’s a wild party, an intimate elopement, or something entirely your own. And I film too, awesome right? That means you’d only need a small discrete team that won’t disrupt the flow of the day.

Let’s create magic together ✨