Hi future bride! My name is Thelma and I’m the proud owner of Sparks Weddings here in Guatemala. If you are here and reading this is because you are thinking of having your destination wedding here in beautiful Guatemala.
Antigua Guatemala is a breathtaking destination for couples seeking a unique backdrop for their wedding. The city is renowned for its picturesque ruins, imbued with history and charm. Hosting your wedding among these majestic remnants creates an unforgettable atmosphere, combining natural beauty with a sense of timelessness.
Imagine exchanging vows in front of the iconic ruins of the Church of San José el Viejo, where crumbling arches and ivy-clad walls serve as a stunning frame for your special day. The atmospheric surroundings provide a romantic setting that can be enhanced with carefully chosen decor, such as elegant floral arrangements and soft lighting.
For those seeking a more intimate ceremony, the ruins of Convento de las Capuchinas offer a secluded courtyard, perfect for a private celebration. The enchanting ambiance invites an air of serenity, ideal for exchanging heartfelt promises.
Antigua’s historical landmarks not only serve as a breathtaking backdrop but also reflect the rich culture and traditions of Guatemala. Incorporating local elements, such as traditional music or indigenous floral designs, can further personalize your wedding while honoring the locale.
As you plan your destination wedding, Guatemala's ruins promise a stunning and memorable experience, giving your special day an enchanting narrative that you and your guests will cherish for years to come.
So how is the process to book a ruin?
The agenda opens in the first 3 months of the year for the following year. so if you are thinking of getting married in 2026 agenda is already opened; but if you are thinking 2027, unfortunately you have to wait since the agenda has not been opened yet.
Once that agenda opens you need to get an appointment with them and personally attend the meeting in order to sign all paperwork needed.
After this process it takes a month or so to receive confirmation, you make full payment and then sign other paperwork.
When will the agenda open (to book 2027 destination weddings?
It has been opened and we can help you book your ruin.
What ruins are you able to book?
Santa Clara
Capuchinas
San Jerónimo
San José El Viejo
La Recolección
Ermita de la Santa Cruz
Santa Teresa de Jesús
Sor Juana de Maldonado
Please remember each ruin has specific areas to be booked. Usually you book 2 areas, one for the ceremony and another one for cocktail and reception.
Also once you book a ruin make sure you pay extra hours for set up since they only allow 5 hours before for set up (which believe are not enough!). Also make sure to book the right amount of hours for your event (They can be booked for 5 hours).
Restrictions
Please take note that all ruins are under the Municipality supervision and they have certain restrictions in order to have your destination wedding held there.
For example in Santa Clara:
A few notes about this ruina (Ruinas de Santa Clara):
Ending time: 09:00 PM (this is non negotiable)
Volume restrictions are in place, please make sure your DJ knows about this (restrictions are constantly changing)
Decorations and lighting restrictions are in place, please make sure your florist and A/V company know about this (restrictions are constantly changing)
Live bands are not allowed except cocktail non invasive music such as a single singer or duo with non invasive instruments (guitar, violinist, cello, harp).
Security and cleaning staff has to be hired, please make sure you talk with your catering and make sure they can provide you with this.
Ruins are open to public every day so the ruin becomes fully private until 05:00 PM - we have done ceremonies between 03:00 - 05:00 PM and there are a few outsiders but with the security hired all those outsiders are asked to stay out of the areas you are using.
Ruins are manages by the Government - meaning availability is given by them each year in February or March.
Prices
Ruin rental usually costs USD 3,800 to 5,000. That typically covers two areas (one for the ceremony and one for cocktail and reception) for a 5-hour event. Extra hours, extra setup time, security and cleaning staff are charged separately. The government sets the prices and can change them without notice, so we confirm the exact amount when we request your date.
Our ruin booking service costs USD 350: we attend the appointment in person, sign the paperwork and follow up until your date is confirmed. See all wedding costs in our Antigua Guatemala wedding costs guide.
Santa Clara wedding areas and capacities
| Area | Capacity | Usually used for |
|---|---|---|
| Temple (old church) | Up to 150 | Ceremony, under the open sky and stone arches |
| Main garden | 150 with tables | Reception with dance floor, bars and DJ |
| Hallways | 250 standing | Cocktail hour in the colonial corridors |
| Back garden | Smaller groups | Cocktails and photos |
Events run until 9:00 PM at the latest and the ruin is fully private from 5:00 PM. See the full Santa Clara venue page.
Do you have more questions about this process?
Please make sure you CONTACT US.