If you’re planning a destination wedding in Spain, embracing local culture can make your celebration truly unforgettable. Whether you dream of a full Andalusian wedding or just want to sprinkle in authentic Spanish touches, these traditions bring warmth, meaning, and personality to your special day.

As a Málaga wedding planner specialising in Costa del Sol weddings for couples from the UK and abroad, I’ve seen how these customs create magical, memorable moments that guests talk about for years. By adding Spanish wedding traditions to your celebration, you give your guests an immersive, heartfelt experience that feels authentic, romantic, and distinctly Spanish.

Here are a few traditions you’ll often find at weddings across Spain…

The Arras Coins Ceremony

One of Spain’s most symbolic wedding traditions, the arras ritual involves the groom presenting the bride with thirteen coins, representing prosperity and their shared commitment to providing for each other. This ritual has been practised for centuries, with origins in both Visigoth and Roman culture, and today it remains a meaningful way to highlight unity and partnership.

Many modern couples choose personalised or heirloom coins, making the moment even more meaningful. The arras can be presented in an ornate box or silver dish, and the exchange often takes place after the vows. This is a beautiful way to include a touch of Spanish heritage in your wedding ceremony in Málaga or anywhere along the Costa del Sol.

Flamenco Music & Dance

Few things say “Spain” like the passion of flamenco. From soulful guitarists to dramatic dancers, flamenco adds a unique cultural flair to your celebration. Whether it’s a guitarist serenading guests during cocktail hour, a dramatic entrance with dancers at the reception, or a surprise performance late into the evening, flamenco infuses energy and artistry into your wedding.

In Andalusia, flamenco is not just music, it’s storytelling through rhythm, song, and movement. By including flamenco, you not only entertain your guests, you also give them a taste of one of Spain’s richest cultural traditions.

Tapas-Style Wedding Receptions

Spanish weddings are all about food, family, and connection. A tapas wedding menu encourages guests to mingle and enjoy a variety of flavours, from jamón ibérico and Manchego cheese to fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables. Instead of a formal sit-down dinner, tapas create a dynamic, interactive dining experience.

This style of reception is perfect for outdoor weddings in Málaga, especially in rustic fincas, olive groves, or vineyards bathed in golden Andalusian light. Your planner can design food stations, grazing tables, or passed appetisers to reflect your preferences while celebrating Spain’s culinary heritage.

The Padrinos (Godparents)

In traditional Spanish weddings, the padrinos (godparents) play a key role, often the bride’s father and groom’s mother. They walk the couple down the aisle and act as witnesses, symbolising family blessing and support. Their presence is not only a sign of honour but also a reminder that marriage is supported by family and community.

Today, this can be adapted to include close friends or relatives who hold a special place in your lives. Many modern couples use this tradition to highlight relationships that mean the most to them, blending tradition with modern sentiment.

Late-Night Spanish Celebrations

A Costa del Sol wedding wouldn’t be complete without dancing under the stars. Spanish weddings are famous for lasting into the early hours, with live bands or DJs keeping the dance floor full. Couples often plan their ceremonies later in the day, allowing the evening to stretch well into the night.

For a true local touch, surprise your guests with churros con chocolate as a late-night snack, it’s a sweet way to keep the energy high and send everyone home happy.

Other Traditions to Consider, Beyond the most well-known customs, there are many smaller Spanish wedding traditions you might wish to incorporate:

Orange blossoms in the bride’s bouquet, symbolising purity and happiness.
Spanish lace mantillas worn by brides or bridesmaids.
Paella feasts for welcome dinners or post-wedding brunches.
Cava toasts instead of champagne, celebrating Spain’s sparkling wine heritage.

Bringing Your Spanish Wedding Vision to Life

Whether you incorporate one or several of these traditions, the magic lies in making them your own. A bilingual wedding planner in Málaga Learn more about our wedding planning services in Spain can guide you in weaving authentic Spanish elements into your day while tailoring every detail to your personal style. Adding Spanish traditions not only makes your destination wedding in Spain unique,it gives your guests an immersive, heartfelt experience they’ll never forget

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