How to Find a Private Wedding Venue on a Quiet Greek Island

Many couples who come to us say they want something private, on an island that doesn't feel crowded. It is a lovely idea, and it is worth thinking through what "private" means to you, because venues use the word in very different ways. We are the Lemonis family, and we have been organising weddings on Skopelos since 2017.

What does "private" mean for a wedding venue?

For some venues it means a quiet location. For others it means that your wedding is the only event that day, or that you have the place to yourselves for a few hours. These are not the same, and the difference shows on the day. Ask each venue what it means for them, and ask for it in writing.

Why a quiet island?

A quieter island gives you space to breathe. Guests can walk to dinner, the evening feels unhurried, and the setting is part of the celebration. Skopelos is a green island, with pine trees running down to the sea, and it has none of the crowds of the better-known islands.

What should we ask before we choose?

Think about how everyone will get there, because quiet islands usually mean a ferry, and it is worth knowing the crossings before you pick a date. Ask whether the ceremony, the dinner and the party can all happen in one place, or whether guests will need to move between venues. Ask what the weather is like at that time of year, because open-air venues depend on it. And ask what the finish time is and what is included in the price, so that nothing surprises you later.

How does Skopelos fit?

The Castello and Vrachos are run by our family and our own team, and they can only be booked through us. For as long as your celebration lasts, the venue is closed to the public, Vrachos included. The Castello sits on Mylos Square, directly beneath the walls of the Venetian castle, and Vrachos looks out from above the old port, with a wide view of the town and the sea. Each welcomes up to 200 guests, so a celebration can be large and still feel personal. Many couples have their ceremony and welcome drinks at Vrachos around sunset, then move to the Castello for dinner and the party.

If a quiet island appeals to you, tell us roughly when you are thinking of getting married and how many guests you are picturing, and we will take it from there on a video call.