Embarking on an odyssey to Chios, the Rock Paper Scissors Event Team, led by wedding planners Helena and Paraskevi, found themselves immersed in a journey of discovery and inspiration. As founding members of the Greek Destination Planners Association (GDPA), their adventure unfolded under the guidance of the Chios Tourism Organization and the local wedding planners. This immersive familiarization trip promised to unveil the island’s hidden treasures, igniting the imagination and fueling the creativity for upcoming weddings on the island of Chios.
Day One: Embracing the Allure of Chios
With eager anticipation, Helena and Paraskevi, alongside their colleagues, stepped onto the enchanting island of Chios, greeted by a warm embrace from the Chios Tourism Organization. The itinerary promised a tapestry of experiences, each woven with the threads of Chios’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Their journey commenced with a visit to the Mastiha Museum, where they delved into the island’s centuries-old tradition of mastiha cultivation. From the harvesting process to its culinary and medicinal applications, the museum unveiled the essence of Chios’s identity, inspiring our wedding planners with its rich history and cultural significance.
Next on the agenda was a tour of the Kampos mansions and villas, where Helena and Paraskevi found themselves transported to a bygone era of opulence and aristocracy. As they strolled through the manicured gardens and marveled at the intricate architecture, visions of elegant weddings danced in their minds, each detail meticulously crafted to reflect the island’s timeless charm.
The exploration continued with a journey to Avgonyma village, perched majestically atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Steeped in tradition and rustic charm, Avgonyma captivated our wedding planners with its cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses. All wedding planners savored the island’s delectable flavors and got to feel the warm “filoxenia” from the locals. Amidst the idyllic setting, they envisioned intimate celebrations, where love would bloom amidst the tranquil beauty of Chios.
The day culminated in a visit to the breathtaking Agios Isidoros Church and the Oz Bay wedding venue conveniently next to the church. Surrounded by azure waters and rugged cliffs, Oz Bay provides an enchanting setting for exchanging vows. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the landscape, the wedding planners tried a few more cocktails from the wedding van and explored all the opportunities of the venue while envisioning the magic of a Chios wedding.
Day ended with an amazing dinner at Lagada. Nestled along the rugged coastline of Chios Island, Lagada enchants visitors with its mesmerizing beauty and tranquil ambiance. Azure waters gently caress the rocky shores, while towering cliffs stand sentinel against the backdrop of endless blue skies. The picturesque bay, framed by verdant hillsides, exudes an air of serenity and seclusion, inviting travellers to immerse themselves in its pristine allure. Destination wedding planners had a truly authentically curated dinner with local produce and envisioned our couples having unforgettable moments in this setting, where love and tranquillity intertwine amidst the timeless charm of Chios Island.
Day Two: Delving Deeper into Chios's Essence
The dawn of a new day brought with it the promise of further exploration and discovery. Helena and Paraskevi eagerly embraced the opportunity to immerse themselves in Chios’s cultural heritage, starting with an immersive Mastiha experience amidst the island’s verdant fields. Surrounded by the fragrant aroma of mastiha, they gained insight into this precious commodity, envisioning innovative ways to incorporate it into their future wedding designs.
Continuing their Mastiha journey, the group ventured to the Mastiha Museum once more, delving deeper into the history and craftsmanship behind this cherished ingredient. From ancient rituals to modern innovations, the museum offered a comprehensive understanding of mastiha’s significance, sparking creativity and igniting the imagination of our wedding planners.
After indulging in Chios’s cultural heritage, Helena and Paraskevi found respite on the sun-kissed shores of Agia Dynami beach. With its crystal-clear waters and golden sands, Agia Dynami provided a serene backdrop for reflection and relaxation. Against the backdrop of the Aegean Sea, they bonded with their colleagues, sharing insights and forging connections united by their passion for creating unforgettable wedding experiences.
The journey culminated in the medieval village of Mesta, where time seemed to stand still amidst labyrinthine alleys and fortified walls. Immersed in the ambiance of a bygone era, Helena and Paraskevi explored Mesta’s storied past, discovering hidden treasures around every corner. Amidst the rustic charm, they envisioned the allure of a Mesta wedding, where history and romance intertwine, creating moments of pure magic.
A Celebration of Possibilities
As the familiarization trip drew to a close, Helena and Paraskevi joined their colleagues for a press conference, eager to share their insights and experiences with the world. From the culinary delights of Mastiha-infused cuisine to the historic allure of Chios’s landmarks, each moment had sparked inspiration and imagination.
In collaboration with the Chios Tourism Organization, the Rock Paper Scissors Event Team had uncovered the island’s potential as a premier wedding destination. From intimate ceremonies overlooking the Aegean Sea to grand celebrations amidst medieval villages, Chios offered a tapestry of possibilities for couples seeking a truly unforgettable wedding experience.
As they bid farewell to Chios, Helena and Paraskevi carried with them memories of a journey filled with discovery, inspiration, and the promise of creating magical moments for future clients. In the embrace of Chios’s timeless charm, they found renewed passion and creativity, eager to bring the island’s beauty to life in their upcoming wedding designs.
Photos of first day are by Yiorgos Kakitsis and from the second day by Manes Pangalos, both local wedding photographers.
