As a destination wedding photographer, I have had the opportunity to travel all across the world to document love stories. In all honesty, I still feel so lucky and pinch myself when I board a plane to another incredible destination. This one in particular took me back to a place that my husband & I visited back in 2019 – a tiny island in Greece called Milos. This one with Chelsea & John was about as special as it gets.
There’s something about Greece that makes your heart skip a beat. The stunning views, the crystal clear waters, and the golden honey sunsets are just a few things that come to mind when I think back to our adventures exploring this beautiful country. When Chelsea and John started wedding planning, they knew they wanted their wedding day to be an incredible multiple-day experience for their friends and family. They landed on an intimate destination wedding in Greece, where the food, views, and incredible adventures could speak for themselves.
Chelsea & John’s Intimate Destination Wedding in Milos, Greece
Adventure and spontaneity have always been a part of Chelsea and John’s relationship. They met the old fashioned way, in a bar, where Chelsea was immediately drawn to his confidence and personality. She walked right up to him to introduce herself, and the rest is history. Six years later, they share a home in Orange County with their kitty, Basil. When it came to their wedding day, they knew they wanted something non-traditional that would reflect both of their fun personalities.
The wedding festivities kicked off with a welcome night at the Verina Cocktail Bar. Chelsea & John were all smiles as they greeted all their loved ones and toasted to the magical week ahead. The sun set on the evening while we took in the views from the historic church in Plaka and sipped on delicious cocktails from Verina. The following day, we woke up bright & early for a day spent sailing the island, diving into the water and exploring all of the hidden coves and beaches. Every time I visit Greece I’m reminded that the Aegean Sea is truly unlike anywhere else.
Getting Ready & Ceremony
On the day of the wedding, Chelsea and John got ready at the En Milo Hotel, a serene and picturesque spot in the village of Pollonia. The morning was nothing but peace and calm, as they got ready separately with their friends in the stunning rooms at En Milo. Once they were all ready, we headed down the street to Agios Nikoloas Church, a charming and historic waterfront chapel where they exchanged vows. We laughed, cried, and listened to Chelsea’s dad conduct the most beautiful ceremony. It was so intimate and heartfelt with the stunning ocean views providing the perfect backdrop.
Portraits & Intimate Wedding Reception
A main reason why Chelsea and John chose to have their intimate destination wedding in Milos, Greece was for the unique beauty of the island. Naturally, we planned to take photos at the most iconic spot on the island, Sarakiniko Beach. The island’s natural beauty provided the perfect backdrop for their wedding portraits, with the rugged coastline and breathtaking rock formations adding a sense of drama and awe to every shot. Chelsea and John’s love for each other was evident in every photo, as they laughed, danced, and held each other close. And while I was capturing the just married bliss, my best friend and second shooter for this one, Rachel Leiner, was capturing the cocktail hour details and candids of their favorite people. I couldn’t have done this one without her being the other half to my dream team!
As the sun began to set, the twinkling lights and the ocean views in the distance set the tone for an unforgettable reception. Friends and family joined Chelsea and John in celebrating their love and commitment, with the best Greek food, laughter, and dance moves (and Chelsea in a horse mask???)
Capturing the essence of Chelsea and John’s intimate destination wedding in Milos, Greece was a privilege and an honor. It was everything I appreciate in a wedding day. They prioritized their experience and did it unapologetically their way, and the result was pure magic! I’ll never forget this magical week and this dream couple, who I can proudly call friends :’)
Shoutout to all of the amazing vendors who came together to make Chelsea and John’s Intimate Destination Wedding in Milos, Greece possible.
Photography: Sydney Noelle Photography
Planner: Think Happy Events
Venue: Agios Nikolas Church, Pollonia, Milos, Greece
