Spain Archives | Tara Fay Events

The Destinations Defining Weddings in 2026–2027

November 3, 2026September 2, 2026 by Harmony Walton

There’s something undeniably romantic about a destination wedding. Whether it’s the warm sun on your skin, the thrill of saying “I do” in an historic property, or being surrounded by some of the world’s most iconic landscapes, choosing the right location can transform a celebration into something absolutely unforgettable. Of course, making it all happen smoothly takes knowledge and experience, and that’s where a destination wedding planner really proves their worth. Every year, I help couples navigate not just logistics, but the nuances of choosing a place that truly reflects their story and the experience they want to create. From guest travel to local traditions, hidden-gem venues to impeccable cuisine, it’s the insider details that elevate the experience, but it all starts with the location. That’s why at the end of last year, I was delighted to share my top wedding destinations with Carats & Cake. Whether you’re planning a three-day celebration or an intimate elopement, these are the destinations that in my view will define weddings in 2026 and 2027 – and the ones I’m most excited to bring to life!

Ireland

Wild beauty, warm welcomes, and centuries of tradition.

Of course, my home country has to be top of my list! But I honestly believe it’s impossible to visit Ireland and not fall in love. The landscapes alone are enough to steal your breath. Mirror-like lakes, windswept cliffs, rolling green hills that seem to go on forever… But what makes it such a special destination for weddings goes beyond the views. There’s a warmth here that couples and guests feel the moment they arrive. The Irish are natural storytellers and born hosts. We love a wedding, and we’ll make you feel like part of the family before the reception even begins.

For couples flying in from North America, Ireland offers the ease of direct flights and US preclearance in Dublin and Shannon airports, meaning your journey home is blissfully smooth. And in the height of summer, when much of southern Europe can be sweltering, Ireland’s milder weather is a blessing. You’ll find everything from candlelit castle halls to lakeside manor houses and Michelin-starred farm-to-table feasts, plus the option to weave in local touches like a traditional handfasting ceremony or a bagpiper-led procession. In short: Ireland is unforgettable, and it knows how to throw a party.

Porto

Cobbled streets, elegant architecture, and stylish celebrations.

Portugal has seen its star steadily rise over the past few years, and while Lisbon often gets the spotlight, Porto offers something that feels just a little more soulful and intriguing. Perched along the Douro River with its medieval streets, grand bridges, and azulejo-tiled facades, it’s a city with a rhythm all its own: creative, romantic, and steeped in Mediterranean elegance.

Weddings here have a different kind of magic. From intimate celebrations at wine estates to minimalist riverfront venues with a contemporary edge, Porto offers variety without losing its sense of place. I love working here because it still feels slightly under the radar. It’s a European gem with all the ingredients for an extraordinary wedding, but without the sense of déjà vu that comes with some more established destinations. Couples can also weave in a port tasting ritual or a traditional fado performance during dinner as a special nod to local culture that your guests will love.

Florence

Art, fine dining, and Renaissance romance.

Few places match Florence for sheer beauty. The city is a living work of art, where golden light spills across terracotta rooftops and every corner tells a story of centuries past. For couples drawn to culture, history, and timeless elegance, it’s an extraordinary place to be married, not just for the setting but for the experience it creates around it.

The city itself offers exquisite palazzos, secret gardens, and chapel rooftops for those dreaming of a central ceremony, but many of my couples opt for a villa takeover just outside the city. A private estate overlooking olive groves and vineyards gives you space to celebrate across multiple days, perhaps with a welcome picnic in the vines, a rehearsal dinner in a candlelit courtyard, or a wedding feast under the stars. Florence also lends itself beautifully to symbolic rituals with an artisan touch, like a gold-leaf blessing or a Florentine well-wish ceremony. And for guests, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy, from craft workshops to cocktail tours to late-afternoon strolls across the Ponte Vecchio. It’s a destination that combines heart-stopping romance with relaxed, refined luxury.

Paris

Iconic backdrops, timeless style, and a little bit of magic.

As the saying goes, Paris is always a good idea. And never more so than when it comes to weddings. There’s something about La Ville Lumière that sets the tone for celebration in the most elevated way. Every street seems made for photos, every corner cafe a scene from a film. Whether you’re planning a intimate civil ceremony followed by a candlelit rooftop dinner, or a multi-day celebration in a centuries-old château, Paris offers drama and intimacy in equal measure.

Lately I’ve seen more couples leaning into editorial Paris moments. Think: private museum takeovers, couture-inspired portraits, and terrace vows with the Eiffel Tower just peeking into frame. It’s a city that knows how to deliver an unforgettable moment without ever feeling forced. And because I work with the most trusted teams on the ground, it’s possible to create something that feels seamless and immersive, even from abroad. A Paris wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so bring your favourite people to the City of Love, and enjoy the magic!

San Sebastián

Seaside sophistication, gourmet food, and Mediterranean charm.

Tucked into Spain’s northern coastline near the French border, San Sebastián is a dream for couples who love food, culture, and laidback luxury. It has a certain understated glamour – more Riviera than rustic – with Belle Époque architecture, golden beaches, and a famously walkable old town where everything seems to revolve around good conversation and great cuisine.

As a wedding destination, it’s still something of a secret and that’s part of its charm. You could marry in one of its pretty baroque churches, host a pintxo crawl or chef-led tasting in the old town, then end the evening on a private terrace overlooking La Concha Bay. I’ve worked with couples who planned multi-day weddings that spanned both Spain and France, with a farewell brunch in Biarritz or a wine tasting in the Basque hills. There’s also something magical about the climate here. While southern Europe swelters, San Sebastián stays deliciously comfortable through the summer. If you want food to be a central part of your celebration (and I always do!), it doesn’t get better than this.

Scottish Highlands

Untamed landscapes, blessed seclusion, and cinematic moments.

For couples craving privacy, atmosphere, and a real sense of escape, the Scottish Highlands are the answer. There’s a stillness here that feels almost sacred. Ancient mountains, lochs, and winding country roads where the scenery changes with every turn. It’s not the obvious choice, and that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable.

I often recommend the Highlands for elopements or small, personal gatherings. It’s ideal for couples who want to slip away and marry somewhere that feels meaningful and untouched. Perhaps at a private estate with a roaring fire and whisky toast, or in the ruins of a centuries-old chapel with a Highland piper to lead the way. Tartan sashes, local wildflowers, diffused Scottish light… it’s all just incredibly romantic. With the right team, the logistics are seamless, even in the most remote locations. And the result is a wedding that feels a little like a legend in the making.

Cascais

Sun, sea, and storybook romance just outside Lisbon.

If Lisbon is the grand dame of Portugal, Cascais is her effortlessly cool younger sister. Elegant, artistic, and right by the sea, this chic coastal town offers the best of both worlds. It’s just 20 minutes from the capital, offering easy access for international guests, but has a relaxed, resort-like atmosphere that encourages everyone to exhale and enjoy the moment.

Cascais is especially lovely for multi-day weddings, with plenty of space for beachside welcomes and wine-fuelled dinners in ivy-covered courtyards. I love combining it with nearby Sintra, whose palaces and gardens feel straight out of a fairytale, making them perfect for portraits or a standalone ceremony. There’s also huge opportunity to bring in local colour, whether that’s azulejo-inspired stationery, Portuguese folk music, or sunset vows on the beach. It’s a place that makes your guests feel like they’ve truly gone somewhere different, but never far from comfort and convenience.

Wherever in the world you choose to marry, the destination you pick should feel like it enhances the story you’re telling and offers a sense of place your guests will never forget. From Irish castles to Portuguese beaches, bustling Paris to the remote Scottish Highlands, each of these destinations offers something unique for weddings in 2026–2027. If one of them has caught your eye, I’d love to help you explore what’s possible. With the right creative direction, a great local team, and a little insider knowledge, your dream destination wedding could be closer than you think.

Images by Corbin Gurkin, Matteo Crescentini, Greg Finck, Lisa O’Dwyer Photography

Engage!25 Mallorca Gala Dinner: A Supermoon Finale

October 20, 2026September 2, 2026 by Harmony Walton

The final night of Engage!25 Mallorca called for something a little more dramatic. Not just a celebration, but a proper send-off. We wanted to create an evening that felt elevated and memorable, and when we realised during the planning phase that the supermoon would be rising that night, the theme practically chose itself. Our vision came together quickly from there: celestial motifs, luxe layered textures, a rich night-sky palette, and an immersive, intimate space to bring everyone together one last time. We also wanted to add a touch of old-school Hollywood glamour as an homage to another kind of star – those of stage and screen who once holidayed at Four Seasons Formentor.

The Engage!25 Mallorca Gala began with cocktails in the garden, where oversized black and silver baubles echoed the lunar theme and plush velvet lounges invited guests to relax and take in the view. We then moved to the Es Colomer Terrace, a space that provided just the right balance of structure and atmosphere. With a small pool at its centre, it is partially enclosed under a thatched-style roof, which gave us room to play with light and shadow while still leaving the edges open to the evening air.

The reveal moment was one of my favourites. Guests passed through deep blue velvet curtains into the dinner space. We used a mix of midnight blue, silver, and inky blacks layered with metallic touches to mirror the supermoon above (and, more literally, its reflection in the pool below). Long mirrored tables were set with pearl-edged plates and embellished linens, while a galaxy of clear glass votives flickered at various heights. Shiny black anthuriums rose from sleek vessels, while flocks of gold paper cranes floated above, catching the light as they moved gently in the breeze.

We gave guests the choice between a classic or vegan menu path, and both were beautifully executed. A creamy risotto opened the meal, followed by roasted turbot or a coconut-and-cauliflower vegan alternative that was equally well received. Dessert was a vanilla and coffee snowball with a glossy shell that was a quiet nod to the lunar theme. Other themed details were the delicate glass moon escort cards, and the beautiful menu cards designed by TPD Design House.

After dinner, the dancing began. To open the floor, we had one final flamenco moment as a nod to Mallorca’s cultural richness. Havana Heat then brought all the energy, and DJ Daisy Belle carried it through to the afterparty, with Spanish classics and crowd favourites. There may even have been an impromptu Limbo! It wasn’t about being polished. It never is. It’s about ending on a high, with people you genuinely want to be around, and an evening that takes on a rhythm of its own.

The Engage! Gala is always a high point, but to me, this one felt particularly special. The intimacy of the space, the music, the moon… all of it worked together in a way you can’t always plan for, but know when you feel it. It was a joy to create and a joy to experience. The perfect close to three days of connection and creativity in one of my favourite places on earth.

Slán go Fóill,
Tara

You might also like:

Engage!25 Mallorca: Inside an Immersive Three-Day Retreat
2025 Destination Wedding Location Ideas: Luxury Celebrations in Portugal, Mallorca, and Ireland
The Dos and Don’ts of Planning a Destination Wedding in Europe

Engage!25 Mallorca Dinner & Dessert Party at Can Axartell Winery

October 13, 2026September 2, 2026 by Harmony Walton

Night two of each Engage! event is always a sweet spot (literally and figuratively). After a full day of sessions and conversations, it offers a change of pace, a moment for everyone to slow down, lean in to the new friendships they’re forming, and finish off the night with a delightful array of desserts. So when we were considering ideas for the Engage!25 Mallorca dinner and dessert party, wine felt like the obvious starting point. Mallorca’s landscape, climate, and traditions are so closely tied to viticulture, and we wanted guests to experience that connection in a way that felt immersive and relaxed. And Can Axartell Winery offered a setting that allowed the evening to unfold beautifully.

Carved directly into the cliffs of Pollença, this distinguished estate built on nearly eight hundred years of history feels both ancient and strikingly modern. It is surrounded by olive trees and stone terraces, with sweeping valley views. Guests arrived just as the sun began to lower, and were welcomed with a glass of wine in the loading bay, the very same place where grapes begin their journey each harvest. From there, the experience unfolded as a journey through the winery, guiding guests deeper into the space via cool stone corridors and cavernous rooms. That gradual movement inward naturally shaped the mood for the night.

Dinner took place in the barrel room, and the setting could not have been more evocative. The air itself was scented with oak and wine. Our design drew directly from the winery, allowing the environment to lead. A palette inspired by wine grapes – from deep merlot and rich berry tones through blush, olive, and champagne – washed through the space. Tables were arranged in a fluid curves through the room, layered with lush greenery and florals, and paired with a mix of clean, modern lines and natural textures. The perfect setting for a Spanish feast by Fosh Catering that truly blew us all away!

The layout played a big role in how the evening unfolded. The snaking table arrangements encouraged conversation to flow easily across the space, rather than isolating groups or creating a sense of formality. Guests could see one another, move naturally, and feel part of a shared experience. People lingered, laughed, and stayed present. It was one of those dinners where no one is checking the time.

For dessert, we moved back to the loading bay, enjoying the open air and the night sky along with the tantalising dessert spread. By the time dancing began, any remaining formality had long since disappeared. The steps weren’t important, and the choreography certainly wasn’t perfect, but that was exactly the point.

Looking back, what made the Can Axartell dinner and dessert party work so well was its authenticity. It was an evening that honoured Mallorca’s land and traditions while creating space for connection and celebration. The venue dictated the flow, and the design responded to the setting rather than trying to transform it. The venue, the design, the food, the flow all worked together – which is exactly what we were trying to achieve. As a destination wedding planner, it was a reminder that some of the most stand-out moments happen when we allow a place to lead the way.

Slán go Fóill,
Tara

You might also like:

Engage!25 Mallorca: Inside an Immersive Three-Day Retreat
2025 Destination Wedding Location Ideas: Luxury Celebrations in Portugal, Mallorca, and Ireland
Planning a Wedding in Europe: Why a Local Planner Makes All the Difference

Engage!25 Mallorca Welcome Party: An Island Market Reimagined

September 29, 2026September 2, 2026 by Harmony Walton

As an experienced Creative Director for Engage!, I know how important the welcome party is in setting the tone for the whole event. It’s the ultimate icebreaker, encouraging attendees to step out of their comfort zones and start building new connections, while also highlighting the local culture and cuisine in a creative, immersive way. For Engage!25 Mallorca, I wanted to set a vibrant, joyful tone. This first evening wasn’t about spectacle, but about easing everyone into the rhythm of the island and into one another’s company, so that the following days felt like a gathering of friends. And, after months of planning and anticipation, it was also the moment when the retreat truly began to feel real for me and my team!

To create a welcome that felt Mallorcan while remaining unmistakably Engage! in spirit, we turned to the market for inspiration. Markets are such a fundamental part of life on the island and they offered colourful inspiration for an opening night designed around movement and connection. Rather than asking guests to sit and observe, the experience invited them to wander, taste, linger, and talk, much like you would in a local plaza.

With this in mind, we transformed the gardens at Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor into a reimagined island market scene, elevated yet relaxed, and layered with texture and warmth. Bright florals by Ars Festum in saturated hues were arranged in terracotta pots and clear Perspex boxes, stacked to form sculptural installations. Handcrafted textiles and natural materials grounded the design, while fringed garlands in orange, green, yellow, and red added movement overhead as the breeze passed through the stretch tent. Lounge areas were scattered throughout the space, encouraging guests to pause and settle into conversation, cocktail or cava in hand.

One of the most important aspects of the evening was how it flowed. There was no single focal point demanding attention. Instead, it unfolded organically as people moved from one area to another. Food stations celebrated different regions of Spain, each offering their own flavours and traditions, and encouraging guests to taste and discover. The act of wandering became part of the experience, sparking spontaneous conversations and natural introductions.

Then came the evening’s most memorable moment, a live flamenco performance. Watching the dancers move, skirts swirling and feet striking the ground with precision and passion, was electric. I love the way that music and dance are a universal language that at the same time a unique way of experiencing different cultures. It’s something we often see with the traditional Irish dancing so often woven into celebrations back home, and truly adds something special to a destination wedding or other event.

I think what made the welcome party so special wasn’t any single element, but the way everything came together. The design, the food, the music, the setting – all worked in harmony. For many, it was a first introduction to the island; for others, a familiar place seen through a new lens. Either way, it set a clear intention for the days ahead, that this would be a retreat defined by connection, creativity, and shared moments.

Slán go Fóill,
Tara

You might also like:

Engage!25 Mallorca: Inside an Immersive Three-Day Retreat
2025 Destination Wedding Location Ideas: Luxury Celebrations in Portugal, Mallorca, and Ireland
How to Host a Destination Wedding Welcome Dinner in Ireland

Engage!25 Mallorca: Inside an Immersive Three-Day Retreat

March 10, 2026March 3, 2026 by Harmony Walton

There’s a particular stillness to Mallorca in the early morning, just before the heat settles in. Light filters softly through the pines, and the air is scented with salt and resin. On the opening day of Engage!25 Mallorca, as I took a moment to breathe it all in before guests arrived, it truly felt like one of those moments where life comes full circle. That may surprise some of you, since I’m best known as an Irish wedding planner, but Spain has been part of my story for as long as I can remember. I spent formative years here as a child, and my very first overseas holiday with my parents was to this very island. That early experience sparked a lifelong love of travel, discovery, and the joy of gathering people in beautiful places. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to return to Mallorca many times through my work, but welcoming Engage! here for the first time felt especially meaningful. Doing it as creative director was both an honour and a responsibility I held very close, and I’m so grateful to Engage! founders Rebecca and Kathryn, whose trust makes it possible to bring an idea of this scale to life.

The Vision

From the very beginning, our vision for Engage!25 Mallorca was to create an immersive retreat that felt abundant and connected; a shared journey for our attendees rather than just a series of events. Mallorca itself guided that direction naturally. The pace there is softer. The colours are warmer. There’s an openness to the landscape that encourages people to slow down and stay present, and we wanted to capture that.

Working closely with the brilliant team at TPD, we drew inspiration from Mallorca’s iconic Ikat patterns (roba de llengües), brought here centuries ago through historic trade routes and now woven into everyday life. Their flowing, organic forms became an underlying visual language throughout the event. The signature “E” icon echoed them, as well as the island’s winding coastal roads and dramatic cliffs, particularly those that lead to the Formentor peninsula itself. We used a palette of blues, greens, and refined earthy neutrals, along with natural materials and textures. Mallorca was part of the story from beginning to end.

Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor offered the perfect canvas. Set within a vast private estate edged by pine forests, cliffs, and sea, it invites a sense of calm while still carrying a rich cultural and creative history. Writers, artists, and global tastemakers have long been drawn here, and that legacy of thoughtful escape felt aligned with what we hoped to achieve.

From Concept to Creation

Destination events carry unique challenges, but when paired with collaboration, trust, and creativity, they become the foundation for something extraordinary. This was not only the first Engage! held in Spain, but one of the first major international gatherings at Four Seasons Formentor since its reopening. Every decision mattered, not just creatively, but in how it would make guests feel. This was grounded in my belief that a successful event should feel effortless, even when the planning behind it is anything but. There were countless moments behind the scenes to ensure we got it just right, but they were always based on a shared purpose, and the ability to trust in people who listen, adapt, and care as deeply as you do. Whether it was our creative partners, suppliers, the Engage! and Four Seasons teams, or my own, everyone brought their best.

Highlights of Engage!25 Mallorca

Engage!25 Mallorca unfolded over three beautifully paced days, moving naturally between learning, conversation, and celebration. Monday began with arrivals and registration in the light-filled Cercle Bar, which flowed into a gifting experience rooted in Mallorcan craftsmanship. Later, after opening sessions and group discussions, the welcome party brought everyone together again for a joyful fiesta inspired by a traditional Mallorcan market. Dressed in flowing linens and caftans, guests wandered between food stations enjoying live music, flamenco dancers, cava, and cocktails. It was a relaxed, celebratory beginning that immediately captured the island’s warmth and spirit.

More sessions on day two brought us to a leisurely lunch overlooking the Bay of Formentor, with a Balearic menu and gorgeous views. The afternoon carried that relaxed rhythm forward, allowing space to pause, connect, and enjoy the setting before we travelled inland for dinner at Can Axartell Winery. This was a true highlight, an intimate journey through history, landscape, and wine-making. From sunset drinks in the loading bay to a candlelit dinner in the barrel room, it was an immersive evening in a spectacular location. Conversation flowed easily, glasses were never empty, and the night ended, as it should at Engage! – with desserts and plenty of dancing.

After a final morning of sessions on our last day, guests enjoyed lunch at the hotel’s private vineyard finca. The afternoon was dedicated to small group experiences across the island, each one designed to foster deeper connection. I loved being able to share some of my favourite island activities with attendees. Then, as night fell, everyone gathered once more on the Es Colomer Terrace for the Gala Dinner under the glow of the Supermoon. This celestial-themed evening unfolded in shimmering blues, metallics, and candlelight, closing the retreat with energy, elegance, and a few dance moves that won’t soon be forgotten!

Community, Collaboration & Connection

At its heart, Engage! has always been about people, and Engage!25 Mallorca reaffirmed just how powerful intentional connection can be. Alongside the main sessions and workshops, the Engage! x Freeda Network circles created space for smaller, more intimate conversations. These moments, combined with shared meals, excursions, and unplanned chats in between, reminded us that while inspiration sparks ideas, it’s relationships that sustain them. Watching friendships and collaborations form over the course of the retreat was one of the most rewarding parts of my experience as Creative Director.

With Gratitude

I am deeply grateful to Rebecca and Kathryn for inviting me to help shape this chapter of Engage! and for trusting the vision from the very beginning. Aida Fernandez deserves special thanks for not running away when I first suggested Mallorca as a retreat destination within the hotel’s first year of opening. From there, the Four Seasons team, Simona Calò, Carola Gobbi, and Carmelo Assenza, have been unfailingly supportive partners. Ars Festum, with Nadja and Temu at the helm, listened with endless patience to every tweak. Tony, Mar and Callum from the LoMusic team, along with Kevin and Mariadelina from Fosh Catering, Núria Coll Cifre from Can Axartell, continually said yes and brought energy and creativity at every turn. And, as usual, the genius of the TPD team shone through daily. Alex Le Roux and all the ALR team now fear answering the phone in case I ask for yet another detail, and Courtney and Jacob from Jacob Co Creative endured countless video calls as we virtually walked through every space together.

Most of all, thank you to the guests who showed up with openness, generosity, and curiosity, and to my own team who lived and breathed this experience alongside me. What will stay with me long after Mallorca is the sense of shared purpose and the feeling that, together, we created something I’m truly proud of on this island that has given me so much over the years.

Slán go Fóill,
Tara

Photography: Lauren Fair, Mike Cassimatis, Nikki Daskalakis, Mark Yeattes