Where to get married in 2025?

Imagine saying ‘I do’ with the sun dipping below a pristine horizon, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the people you love. But what if the magic of your wedding day extended beyond the ceremony, offering a vacation-like experience that’s unforgettable for everyone involved? Welcome to the future of weddings in 2024, where top destinations aren’t just about breathtaking venues—they’re about creating an entire experience for you and your guests. Whether it’s an intimate ceremony in a secluded beach paradise or a lavish celebration in a historic castle, every bride, groom and the gang deserve some adrenaline-pumping adventures and serene cultural excursions, ensuring that your guests leave with memories that last a lifetime. 

Istanbul

While Istanbul has been topping the charts of the most popular travel destinations, it’s becoming an equally hot spot for saying ‘I do’, shares Himanshu Patel, Founder of Epic Stories, while also shedding light on why this mesmerising city continues to captivate the hearts of couples. “The allure of a European experience without the complexities of visa requirements, with its strategic location, serving as a convenient midpoint between India and the USA, further solidifies its appeal.” 

He adds, “Istanbul’s charm lies in its distinctive blend of East and West, offering an array of unforgettable experiences, from the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia and the opulence of Topkapi Palace to the bustling energy of the Grand Bazaar and the tranquillity of Bosphorus cruises. And then there are the hidden gems—the vibrant streets of Balat, with their colourful houses, or the peaceful escape found on the island of Büyükada.” 

Speaking of couples who love to prioritise the culinary experiences at their wedding, Himanshu shares, “The local cuisine is a feast for the senses, with savoury dishes like kebabs, mezes, and pilafs, alongside sweet treats such as baklava and Turkish delight.” 

Incorporating these flavours into a wedding celebration is an art form in itself. Plan a diverse menu that highlights traditional dishes, setting up a meze table where guests can sample various appetisers, and showcase a selection of local desserts. “A Turkish-style wedding feast, complete with fresh salads and flavorful breads, can provide an authentic and memorable dining experience,” he says. From the soulful strains of traditional music to the intricate steps of folk dances, Istanbul’s cultural offerings hold the reputation of adding a layer of depth and meaning to any celebration! 

France 

The French countryside is a perfect choice for exchanging vows amidst picturesque landscapes of rolling hills, charming villages, and expansive vineyards, share Jayant Chhabra and Shruti Khanna, Founder and Co-Founder of Cupcake Productions. The vibrant lavender fields add splashes of colour and a delightful fragrance, enhancing the romantic atmosphere. After celebrating the union, guests can even immerse themselves in the region’s heritage by exploring nearby castles and historical sites. Imagine wandering through the halls of a centuries-old château or taking a guided tour of an ancient village that seems frozen in time. Sounds fun, right?
Jayant and Shruti add, “The local cuisine is an undeniable highlight of a French countryside wedding. From freshly baked pastries that melt in your mouth to artisanal cheeses with flavours that tell a story of tradition, and, of course, locally sourced wines that add a perfect touch of elegance—these culinary delights are a treat for the senses.” Couples can also curate a wine-tasting session featuring selections from nearby vineyards, a tipsy addition that brings an authentic local flavour to the celebration.  

“A recent wedding that truly captured the magic of the French countryside was the union of Oksana Prysyazhnyuk and Siddhartha Sinha. This New York-based couple celebrated their love across multiple continents, starting with a romantic proposal at the Burj Al Arab in Dubai, followed by a celebration in the Maldives, and a lavish Indian wedding at Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, India. Their journey culminated in France, where they hosted a traditional white wedding at the historic Château de Challain-la-Potherie. The event featured a grand Ukrainian-themed dinner, a spectacular fireworks display, vineyard tours, and even a hot air balloon ride during the farewell brunch, “ share Jayant and Shruti while speaking about real-life testimonials. 

Abu Dhabi

Getting married amidst a dessert would be the last thing on our minds, right? Guess the times have flipped, as shared by Jad Frem, Cluster Director of Sales and Marketing, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. A beautiful amalgamation of luxury, culture, and breathtaking landscapes has made Abu Dhabi a premier wedding destination. From stunning architecture to world-renowned landmarks, the city provides a vibrant atmosphere for a wedding celebration. The rising dunes, some up to 250m, make for an awe-inspiring backdrop for any wedding.  

“The local culture and heritage play an evident role in enhancing the wedding experience, while the dessert backdrop reflects the rich traditions of the region, with every detail contributing to the ambiance. 

Tuscany

Dreaming of wedding photos that resemble a Renaissance painting? Look no further than Tuscany, where rolling hills, lush vineyards, and historic villas create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable celebration. We sat down with Shrey Bhagat, Founder and Creative Director of Raabta by Shrey Bhagat, to uncover what makes Tuscany the ultimate destination for a regal wedding. 

Imagine exchanging vows in a centuries-old villa or a secluded garden, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Tuscany. Tuscany invites your guests to explore its renowned vineyards with private wine tastings and tours of historic estates, offering a true taste of the region’s winemaking heritage. “The rolling countryside is ideal for hot air balloon rides, offering breathtaking views of the iconic Tuscan landscape,” Shrey shares. “And historic towns like Florence, Siena, and Lucca invite guests to immerse themselves in Renaissance art, architecture, and culture.” 

When it comes to the culinary experience, Tuscany’s world-class cuisine is sure to leave a lasting impression. Fresh, seasonal ingredients are the cornerstone of Tuscan cooking, with dishes often featuring locally sourced truffles, olive oil, and pecorino cheese. These flavours can be beautifully woven into your wedding celebration through a bespoke farm-to-table menu, featuring traditional Tuscan courses paired with regional wines like Chianti or Brunello. “For a unique touch, couples can also host a pre-wedding event such as a pizza party or gelato bar, allowing guests to savour the authentic tastes of Tuscany in a relaxed, festive atmosphere,” Shrey suggests. 

Whether you’re captivated by the idea of historic venues, extravagant culinary offerings, or simply the stunning landscapes, Tuscany is where your dream wedding comes to life. 

Maldives

Ever imagined yourself hosting an intimate wedding ceremony or a secluded picnic on a private sandbank, surrounded by nothing but the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and the pristine white sands? The Maldives is emerging as a top choice for couples who not just want to go there for their honeymoon but host an entire wedding there.  

Sitting down with Mr. Ali, the Chief Operating Officer of Pulse Hotels and Resorts, it’s clear why  Maldives is constantly among the chart topping names in the hottest wedding destination list.  Imagine the sound of traditional ‘boduberu’ drums setting the mood at your ceremony, followed by a romantic sunset cruise that paints the sky in hues of gold and pink.  

The Maldives offers a stunning array of activities to keep wedding guests entertained, from island-hopping and snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs to luxurious yacht cruises and dining in underwater restaurants. For relaxation, guests can indulge in world-class spa treatments or wellness retreats, while adrenaline seekers can enjoy water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. Cultural tours to local villages provide insight into Maldivian traditions, while private sandbank picnics and sunset cruises offer unforgettable scenic experiences.