Are you an adventurous couple looking to add something new and exciting to your wedding planning but unsure as to what is possible?

Feel like a big wedding in a traditional format is simply not really relevant to you?

It’s easy to fall into the rabbit hole of Pinterest weddings which are often high end and could cost more than you’ve budgeted for.

But help is at hand – as an experienced Celebrant who has created ceremonies for couples in Switzerland Austria and Bavaria in some of the most amazing and beautiful locations, let me tell you about three fabulous options you could consider for your special day!

Fairytale Castles

Europe is absolutely steeped in history and historical buildings many of which have been refurbished and are now wedding venues as well as hotels. I wanted to share my own experiences with you and hope you’re inspired too!!

Some of these have their own chapels too which means that you can have a non denominational or faith based ceremony depending upon your choice, in a gorgeous location.

Schloß Berlepsch, Hessen, Germany

Schloß Berlepsch in Hessen is one of these hidden gems. It’s not far from a thriving town but so tucked away in the hillside you really do feel like you’re the only people there! It has foundations that go back to the 12th century and is stunningly perched on a steep but accessible hillside.

Hospitality and service are always wonderful and of course you can begin the honeymoon in the castle itself.

Burg Rheinstein, Rhine, Germany

Burg Rheinstein overlooks the river Rhine and the wine terraces on its opposite side. Clinging to the cliff edge, it dates back to the 12th century but has in the past few years been purchased privately and transformed into a museum, restaurant and wedding venue.

Couples can stay in the wedding and honeymoon suites and get ready together or separately as they wish.

There is a beautiful terrace that’s covered so everyone is comfortable as the sun shines brightly in the summer, reflected by the river below.

Afterwards enjoy a fabulous meal together at the restaurant on site or venture further afield! Beautiful vineyards and wine tastings beckon. Fabulous river cruises sail regularly to the quaint market towns on route. Spa and wellness

Lake Eibsee, Grainau, Bavaria

Lake Eibsee is a stunning glacial lake at the foot of Germany’s highest mountain which rises almost vertically to 2962metres, opposite the lake itself. With 10 km hiking trail around the lake shore and small secluded fringe lakes, you really have so much choice for a small intimate ceremony or an elopement.

There is a true sense of being in nature here with lots of forest areas and hiking trails – plus the option to explore the mountains , glacier and even step off the German side of the mountain into Austria 🇦🇹!!

The smaller lakes around the fringes offer a more private setting depending on the time of year you choose. Spring and autumn are stunning and less populated than summer when the lake itself is busy with bathers and lots of activities on the water. As a Celebrant who has conducted ceremonies here many times in every season please get in touch to chat over the best time of year for you.

Lake Frillensee, Eibsee.

This smaller emerald green lake is situated right in the lee of the mountain itself. There is simply nothing more astonishing than these views when taken by your wedding photographer and you can truly appreciate where you are.

Again the time of day is not critical but the time of year might be! I’ve held weddings here in the winter when the lake froze and my couple who travelled from Brisbane Australia experienced seeing snow for the first time in their lives! How absolutely gorgeous that was too!

This is a magical and special area. We keep things simple so that we don’t disturb the eco system there – set up for a ceremony is often a flat rock upon which I place the ceremony certificate which you can sign as a keepsake of the ceremony. It’s also where I might bring a small table to place your beer or wine blending ritual items – often this is covered with a vintage embroidered linen tablecloth which I used at my own wedding in 2014. Sharing the love as it were!

I am excited to hear about and help you with your elopement plans! So do get in touch with me – and let’s start the magic!! email ivvey@hotmail.com or WhatsApp +447800543426