Rustic romanticism

Ibiza’s reputation as one of the most heavenly spots on the planet to say ‘I do’ increases apace. Each summer, more and more loved-up couples seek out the island for its stunning scenery, spectacular sea vistas and authentic bohemian spirit – not to mention one-of-a-kind venues simply crying out to be the location for unforgettable wedding ceremonies. This year, one of the most talked about venues on the island is Aiyanna Ibiza, a newly-opened beach restaurant on Ibiza’s rugged north-east coast. The rustic chic space has quickly earned a reputation as a must-see among those in search of a sensational wedding venue for 2018 and beyond. From the same team as the much-loved and highly exclusive after wedding venue Amante Ibiza, Aiyanna Ibiza offers a more laid-back vibe to its sister’s exclusive clifftop setting, albeit with the same dedicated, expert team at the helm of each of its weddings. With panoramic views of the Mediterranean and a bohemian style characterised by its now famous multi-coloured parasols (created using hand-made Guatemalan flags), it offers a relaxed setting for sealing nuptials, all with that familiar Ibiza essence pumping through its foundations. “Aiyanna is super cool and relaxed,” says the venue’s wedding planner, Natalia G-Mayoral. “It feels at one with nature and it really is very special.”

It’s true – the venue’s location on the shores of Cala Nova are picture perfect – tables and armchairs are gently caressed by a salty sea breeze, crystal chandeliers lightly swing, and wooden decking evokes visions of the surrounding countryside. Stepping over the threshold at Aiyanna Ibiza is like you’ve stumbled across your own private paradise, particularly once sun has set. “Cala Nova is completely empty at night,” explains Natalia. “We start our weddings at around 5pm and by then it’s like you’ve got your own private beach.” The ceremony itself is usually held at a makeshift altar on the premises, shaded by palm trees and undulating umbrellas to ensure seclusion from prying eyes, with the sounds of the sea in the distance. Despite the venue’s easygoing disposition, weddings held here are feats of organisational mastery, thanks to a team who’ve run countless successful events over at Amante in previous summers. Headed by Natalia, the events team take care of all your wedding needs, including venue set-up, food and drink – while for anything else (flowers, photographers and decoration), they can point you in the direction of a long list of the island’s best suppliers, many of whom they’ve had excellent relationships with for years. “The service and quality you get at Aiyanna Ibiza is exactly the same as at Amante Ibiza,” Natalia explains. “The vibe is more laid-back, but the whole Amante team is behind you, providing the same incredible service.”

With Amante Ibiza paring back on the number of weddings it holds each summer (only five will be accepted in 2018), Aiyanna Ibiza offers the ideal alternative. The team will always offer it to prospective clients if Amante Ibiza is already fully booked, or a little out of their budget. “People are always extremely impressed with Aiyanna Ibiza,” says Natalia. “You walk into the venue with them and there’s an immediate ‘wow’ factor, which is really nice to see.” And entirely understandable, once you’ve stood on the alfresco terrace, looked out into the great blue beyond, and contemplated the sheer romanticism of the place. There’s also the mouth-watering menu to consider. In theme with the restaurant’s healthy, Mediterranean cuisine, canapés and starters include Mezze sharing platters, creamy Burrata infused with basil, beef carpaccio with parmesan, and mixed mushroom risotto with a rich truffle oil. Main courses span baked cod, grilled tuna and tenderised Galician beef, while those with a sweet tooth will weep for the chocolate soufflé or passionfruit cheesecake. On the drinks front, whet your whistle at the reception with Perrier-Jouët Champagne, and a selection of expertly made cocktails sure to get the post-ceremony party started.

“We have canapés in the chill-out area where there are sofas for people to relax, then the whole dinner takes place on the lounge terrace, where crystals hang romantically from the ceiling,” explains Natalie. “We also offer sound systems and we can arrange DJs. Music is played outside till midnight, then we party inside until 2am.” This is a rarity for beach venues in Ibiza – sound-proofing and air conditioning mean you can keep the party going much monger. For those keen for the day never to end, the team can also arrange a post-event breakfast at Aiyanna Ibiza the following morning, so your wedding party can convene in the light of day to reminisce about memories made to last a lifetime. Photography by www.edwinverhoef.com