As a destination bridal makeup artist, I have worked in many locations for beautiful weddings. With the world opening up and wanderlust reaching new heights, bride and grooms are looking for those picture perfect settings that turn their dream day into an unforgettable celebration. From tropical beaches to historic cities, the choices are endless. To help inspire your wedding planning, here are a few of my favourite wedding destinations including a few I dream to work in for 2024 and 2025.
Santorini, Greece
Santorini has long been a top contender for destination weddings, and it’s not losing its charm anytime soon. Known for its iconic whitewashed buildings, crystal waters, and breathtaking sunsets, this Grecian paradise offers a magical backdrop for your nuptials. Whether you’re tying the knot on a cliff overlooking the caldera or hosting an intimate ceremony in one of its many charming chapels, Santorini promises romance and beauty at every turn. This one is top of my list for my next wedding booking!
Best Time to Marry: Late spring or early autumn, when the crowds have thinned but the weather is still warm and sunny.
Amalfi Coast, Italy (And Anywhere In Italy For That Matter)
Few places evoke a sense of luxury and timeless beauty like the Amalfi Coast. The picturesque Italian coastline, with its dramatic cliffs, colourful villages, and stunning sea views, is a dream destination for couples looking to blend elegance with old world charm. Whether you opt for a cliffside villa in Positano or a historic venue in Ravello, your Amalfi Coast wedding will be drenched in romance and style. Italy is one of my most visited locations for weddings as a makeup artist, with some gorgeous venues across the entire country.
Best Time to Marry: Late spring or early autumn to avoid peak summer crowds while enjoying pleasant temperatures.
Queenstown, New Zealand (My Home Location)
For couples looking for a wedding with a side of adventure, Queenstown is the perfect destination. Nestled among New Zealand’s Southern Alps and set against the stunning Lake Wakatipu, this breathtaking town offers both beauty and thrill. Whether you want a mountaintop ceremony with panoramic views or a lakeside celebration, Queenstown’s dramatic landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos. Plus, there’s plenty of post wedding adventure to be had, from helicopter tours to vineyard visits.
Best Time to Marry: Late spring to early autumn (November to March) to capture Queenstown’s vibrant outdoor beauty.
Tulum, Mexico
For couples seeking a laid back yet chic wedding vibe, Tulum is the ultimate destination. Located along Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, this beachside haven offers turquoise waters, soft sand, and a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere. Whether you’re planning an intimate barefoot ceremony or a full scale beach celebration, Tulum’s stylish beachfront venues and tropical allure make it a top choice.
Best Time to Marry: November to April for the best weather and to avoid the summer hurricane season.
Provence, France
For couples dreaming of a fairytale countryside wedding, Provence is a dream come true. Famed for its lavender fields, rolling vineyards, and rustic charm, this southern French region offers a romantic setting straight out of a storybook. Imagine exchanging vows in a centuries old chateau or hosting an alfresco dinner under twinkling lights surrounded by olive trees and grapevines. Provence is the epitome of French elegance and natural beauty. See you in June and July 2025!
Best Time to Marry: June and July for lavender in full bloom, or September and October for golden vineyard views.
Maui, Hawaii
Hawaii continues to be a top wedding destination, and Maui, in particular, has something for everyone. From its pristine beaches and lush rainforests to its top resorts and stunning sunsets, Maui offers a tropical paradise for your special day. Whether you want a beachside ceremony or a lavish resort celebration, Maui combines natural beauty with high end amenities to make your wedding unforgettable.
Best Time to Marry: April to June or September to November for the best weather and fewer tourists.
Destination weddings are more than just an opportunity to exchange vows in a beautiful setting. They offer the chance to combine your wedding with an unforgettable travel experience for you and your guests. Plus, many of these top destinations have excellent wedding planning services, along with your makeup artist who will make your day truly memorable.
Enquire for my availability for 2025 destination weddings. I would absolutely love to be your makeup artist, and to be a part of your very special wedding day.
www.paigeshipstonemakeup.co.nz/contact/
