"WE organised wedding events for 88 different nationalities. That's something else!" said Murat Ozguc, owner of Turkiye Weddings in Cappadocia, a tourism hub in central Turkiye. In Ozguc's view, Cappadocia, located in the Nevsehir province, is poised to become a major destination for loving couples seeking a "unique venue" when tying the knot.
Ozguc takes pride in having organised the first international wedding in Cappadocia many years ago. Since then, he has officiated dozens of other weddings in a boutique style. Visitors to Cappadocia, with more than 90% coming from abroad, typically stay for just one or two nights, seeking to "become one" in this unique setting.
Married couples who wish to renew their wedding vows are also among the clientele. In recent years, couples have increasingly prioritised experiences over traditional weddings, with some opting for destination weddings to immerse themselves in a new and beautiful cultural setting, Ozguc noted. Cappadocia, renowned for its hot air balloon rides over distinctive geological formations called "fairy chimneys", is also known for its cave churches, rock houses, and underground cities.
Ozguc said that couples can stay in exclusive cave hotels, visit archaeological sites with their guests, and explore the local cultural landscape in Cappadocia. "Couples are seeking experiential settings to reflect their unique stories without the hassle, and what better place to do so than Cappadocia, which is also known for its pleasant.