Planning a Moroccan Wedding: Top City, Key Steps, and Budget Tips

Thinking of tying the knot in Morocco? Let me tell you, a Moroccan wedding in Marrakech is the perfect choice! With its stunning palaces, rich traditions, and vibrant atmosphere, your wedding will be nothing short of magical. Here’s a quick guide to help you plan the big day—from the best city to host it, to key steps, and how to budget smartly.

Why Marrakech is the Best for a Moroccan Wedding

Marrakech is hands down the best city for a Moroccan wedding. The city is steeped in history, with gorgeous riads, palaces, and gardens that make for a perfect backdrop. Plus, the weather is usually great, so you can plan your wedding almost any time of year. And let’s not forget the food—delicious Moroccan cuisine that your guests will rave about!

Venue Pick: Palace Shayanne

If you’re looking for a stunning venue, check out Palace Shayanne by J&J Ltd. It’s got 22 bedrooms and can host up to 44 guests, making it ideal for an intimate yet grand celebration. The place is decked out with traditional Moroccan decor, so it already has that authentic vibe you’re looking for. Trust me, your photos will be Instagram gold.

Getting Around Marrakech

Transportation can be a bit tricky in a new city, so I’d recommend renting a car if you’re up for driving. But if you prefer to sit back and enjoy, you can rent a 17-seater van with a driver for the day. It’s around £180, and you won’t have to worry about navigating the busy streets.

Steps to a Moroccan Wedding

A Moroccan wedding is more than just a one-day event—it’s an experience! Here’s a quick rundown:

Pre-Wedding Prep

It all starts with the engagement, where the groom’s family presents gifts to the bride’s family. Then, there’s the Henna Night—a super fun, intimate gathering where the bride gets beautiful henna designs on her hands and feet while everyone sings, dances, and celebrates.

The Big Day

The day kicks off with the signing of the marriage contract (nikaah), followed by family blessings. In the afternoon, the bride gets dressed in an elaborate caftan with the help of a neggafa (a bridal dresser). Then, the evening is where the real party begins. The bride is carried into the venue on an amariya (a decorated platform), and the groom leads his own procession. There’s a grand entrance, a feast, traditional music, dancing, and even outfit changes throughout the night!

Post-Wedding

The next day, if you’re up for it, there’s the walima, a more intimate gathering hosted by the groom’s family. It’s a lovely way to extend the celebrations.

Budget Breakdown

Here’s a quick snapshot of what to expect cost-wise:

• Palace Shayanne: £2,600/day
• Transportation: £180 for a 17-seater van with a driver
• Outfits: Caftans from £20 to £80/day, Takshita from £100+
• Entertainment: From £290/day for a traditional band
• Tables: £240/table on the wedding day
• Negafah: £200+
• Catering: Minimum £1,800 for 80 guests

Why Go for a Moroccan Wedding?

If you want a wedding that’s not just beautiful but also rich in culture and tradition, a Moroccan wedding is the way to go. Marrakech offers everything you need for a memorable celebration—gorgeous venues, fantastic food, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s the perfect mix of tradition and luxury.

Need Help? Reach Out!

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to help with everything—from choosing the venue to sorting out all the logistics. Just drop us a line at Inquiries@villasinmarrakech.co.uk, and we’ll make sure your big day is exactly how you dreamed it!