A Love Story That Blossomed into Mediterranean Magic
Lucy and Gary’s love story began with an unexpected meeting. Gary was working as an alarm installer for Lucy’s aunt and uncle when they first met at a casual dinner. Though they didn’t click right away, after a few more meetings and Lucy’s spontaneous trip to Spain to visit Gary and his parents, their relationship took off.
“At first we didn’t really like each other,” Lucy admits with a laugh, “but after a few meet ups and me flying over to Spain to spend a random weekend with Gary and his parents, we decided to start dating.”
Their relationship grew stronger as Lucy became part of Gary’s family, including his grown-up children. Gary’s 16-year-old daughter even called Lucy her “wicked step-mum that’s not wicked!” Their family bond became one of their greatest joys, with grandchildren adding even more love to their lives.
The Proposal in Vienna
After 11 years together, Gary finally popped the question in January 2024 during a birthday trip to Vienna. While looking at a jewelry shop window before attending the ballet, Lucy spotted a unique ring that caught her eye.
Though Gary had planned to propose later that year, the perfect ring changed his plans. Outside the shop, he asked Lucy if she would try on the ring and marry him. No bended knee, but still very romantic.
When they announced their engagement, Lucy shares that Gary received many congratulatory messages with a common theme: “About time!”
And so started their journey to create their magical Mediterranean wedding.
Finding Their Dream Mediterranean Wedding Venue at Finca Villa Palma
Having decided on Spain as their wedding location (where their relationship officially began), Lucy and Gary contacted Sunshine Weddings in Marbella. After viewing several venues, they fell in love with Finca Villa Palma, your luxuary wedding venue.
“We fell in love with Finca Villa Palmer for its uniqueness and spectacular surroundings,” Lucy explains. “We loved the split levels, greenness and wonderful views. We envisioned our wedding there right away.”
The venue’s beautiful setting, with its lush trees, colourful flowers, and a stunning river, created the perfect backdrop for their sage green and sand colour palette. They wanted colours that would blend with the natural surroundings, and their choice received many compliments from guests.
Personal Touches That Made Their Day Special
Lucy and Gary included many personal elements to make their wedding unique:
- A flamenco guitarist playing “Every Breath You Take” for Lucy’s walk down the aisle with her dad
- The Gypsy Kings’ “Bamboléo” for their walk back up the aisle as newlyweds
- Their first dance to “El Mondo,” a favorite song from one of their beloved films
- Family dance traditions, including “The House of Bamboo” and Faithless’s “Insomnia” (a tribute to Lucy’s late Nan)
Beautiful Floral Arrangements
To complement the venue’s natural beauty, Lucy and Gary chose white roses with plenty of foliage and gypsophelia (baby’s breath). The florists at Deseos Florist in Marbella created stunning arrangements that enhanced the romantic atmosphere.
From the bridal bouquets to the welcome sign stand, wedding altar pergola, and table hoops with table numbers, the floral elements tied everything together perfectly.
The Perfect Gown
Lucy found her dream dress a year before the wedding while visiting her parents in Lincolnshire. After trying on several options at Love & Lace Bridal in Sleaford, she found the perfect gown that required only minor alterations. The timing was meant to be, as it was the last one in the shop and on sale too!
The Magical Wedding Day
Lucy describes their wedding day as “wonderful from the moment I woke up.” She spent the morning getting ready with close friends, her bridesmaid, and Gary’s daughter Amelia, who did her makeup.
The ceremony at Finca Villa Palma included a Unity candle ceremony to symbolize their families coming together as one. After exchanging vows, Lucy and Gary walked back down the aisle to “Bamboléo” while guests showered them with rose petals.
The celebration continued with flowing drinks, delicious food from Alabardero catering, and dancing late into the night. Lucy mentions one touching moment when her granddaughter Arienna, their flower girl, said, “Nanny wow, you look like a princess.”
5 Tips for Planning Your Own magical Mediterranean Wedding
- Book a local wedding planner: They know the area and have connections with the best local vendors.
- Visit the venue in person: Photos can’t capture the magic of Finca Villa Palma’s split-level design and stunning views.
- Choose colours that complement the natural setting: Lucy and Gary’s sage green and sand palette worked perfectly with the lush surroundings.
- Plan for the heat: Provide fans, parasols, or hair ties for guests to stay comfortable during an outdoor Spanish wedding.
- Include Spanish elements: From flamenco music to Mediterranean cuisine, embrace the local culture to make your wedding truly special.
Why Choose Some of the Best Wedding Venues in Malaga for Your Big Day
Malaga offers stunning backdrops for wedding photos, from mountain views to beautiful beaches and rustic fincas. The weather is often sunny and warm, making it perfect for outdoor celebrations most of the year. The local cuisine is amazing, and your guests can turn your wedding into a mini-vacation.
Finca Villa Palma stands out with its unique multi-level design, gorgeous landscaping, and panoramic views. The venue offers both intimate spaces and open areas for different parts of your celebration.
Recommended Vendors
- Wedding Planning: Sunshine Weddings Spain – https://www.sunshineweddingsspain.com/
- Floral Design: Deseos Florist – http://www.deseosflorist.com
- Catering: Alabardero Catering – www.alabarderocatering.es
- Bridal Gown: Love and Lace – https://www.loveandlacebridal.co.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book Finca Villa Palma for my wedding?
Most couples book 12-18 months in advance, especially for summer dates when this venue is in high demand.
What is the best time of year for a wedding at Finca Villa Palma?
May, June, September, and October offer ideal weather. July and August can be very hot but are still popular months.
Can Finca Villa Palma accommodate large wedding parties?
Yes, the venue can host both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations, with space for up to 200 guests.
Is there accommodation on-site at Finca Villa Palma?
The venue itself doesn’t offer overnight accommodation, but there are many hotels and rental properties nearby for you and your guests.
What backup plans are available in case of rain?
Finca Villa Palma has covered areas that can be used if the weather doesn’t cooperate, so your celebration can continue without interruption.
Ready to Capture Your magical Mediterranean Wedding Moments?
If you’re planning a wedding at the beautiful Finca Villa Palma or anywhere in Malaga, I would love to capture your special day just as I did for Lucy and Gary. My goal is to document all those big moments and small details that tell your unique love story.
To talk about your Finca Villa Palma wedding photography needs, get in touch with me here. Let’s create stunning wedding photographs that will help you relive your magical Mediterranean wedding day for years to come.
