The Destination Weddings Convention (DWC) was inaugurated in 2023 in Ibiza to create a community of wedding planners specializing in destination weddings.
Organized by Olga Arce, an expert in destination wedding planning and mentor to wedding planners, this annual event seeks to enhance the learning experiences of its participants, introduce them to new locations for their potential clients, and allow them to live unique experiences on the islands. These immersive experiences are essential for wedding planners to authentically convey them to their clients, encouraging them to hire their services. The meticulously organized photo shoots provide perfect backdrops for wedding planners to capture stunning images and share them on their social media platforms, while networking with local vendors strengthens their industry contacts.
This year, Ibiza and Formentera became the place for the 2nd Edition of the Destination Weddings Convention, bringing together 11 distinguished wedding planners from various locations: Barcelona, Madrid, Toledo, Murcia, Granada, Cantabria, Ibiza, Mallorca, Andorra, and Belgium. The convention began in March 2024 with a series of online workshops lasting two months. International wedding planning experts, Aynara Reyes from Colombia and Mauricio Peña from Mexico shared their knowledge on creating photo shoots and sales strategies. Claudia Guerra, a Peruvian photographer based in Madrid, taught advanced techniques in wedding photography and personal branding, while Ladis Torija, a music producer and digital business strategy expert from Andorra, offered strategies to enhance digital presence in the wedding sector.
The DWC then had a vibrant in-person gathering from May 15 to 17 in Formentera and from May 17 to 19 in Ibiza, reinforcing its mission to connect destination wedding professionals worldwide. In Formentera, two intensive workdays included a memorable photo shoot at Chezz Gerdi restaurant with floral support from El Atelier de Kentia and styling by Cata Picca. Models dressed by Manuel Pardo and Veronica Laudi from Deva Models posed as wedding planners sought high-impact shots alongside photographers Bea Bermejo, Belén Muñoz, and David Corral. Participants visited iconic locations such as Can Pasqual and Salitre restaurants and engaged in a roundtable discussion on organizing eco-friendly beach weddings led by Leonardo Metastasio, Director of Tourism.
At Finca Ca Na Platera, participants marveled at the olive groves and artisanal oil production process. Olga Arce described the location as ideal for rustic-style weddings. A collective meditation session at sunset emphasized the importance of mindset and heart set for personal and professional growth. The night concluded with a fashion show organized by the Consell de Formentera and Ibiza Fashion Design, featuring local and international designers such as Anabel Bridal and Avarea Bridal.
The experience continued in Ibiza, where participants stayed at the luxurious Hotel OD Talamanca. A lavish Ibizan-themed wedding banquet followed a photo shoot on the terrace overlooking Dalt Vila. The decorations included tableware from The Boss Ibiza and floral arrangements by Eiviss Garden Events, with models styled by Estefanía Masó and Arantxa Casaus. Luxe Lighting provided elegant lighting with white fabric structures and crystal chandeliers.
Workshops enriched the educational experience, including sessions on luxury trends by Gumer del Olmo and local essence collections by Carolina from Ibiza Essence. Additional workshops covered table protocol and napkin placement, led by participating wedding planners, and the importance of personalized ceremonies, highlighted by Raquel from Ibiza Wedding Planet. Olga Arce demonstrated the organization of bridal processions and the critical role of wedding planners in executing them.
The convention concluded with a diploma ceremony recognizing the achievements of the participants, followed by a spectacular party at Pacha and a day of sailing with Wind3p Charter Ibiza, providing a complete Ibizan experience. The Destination Weddings Convention 2024 not only facilitated the exchange of knowledge and experiences among wedding professionals but also underscored the importance of global collaboration. This event marked a milestone in the industry, offering wedding planners a unique platform to learn, inspire, and connect, fostering a community of “Wedding Planners Guerreras” with a purpose: to be fearless in their authenticity.
Event photographers: @ibiza_in_love | @photographeribiza | @belweddingstudio
