Dakota Johnson at Stella Banderas wedding became a sight to remember as the family gathered for Stella Banderas’s marriage to Alex Gruszynski on October 18 at a historic abbey in Spain. With guests including Antonio Banderas, Melanie Griffith, and notable friends, the event celebrated love and unity in a vibrant family affair.
Family and Friends Gather for a Special Celebration
Stella Banderas, daughter of Hollywood stars Melanie Griffith and Antonio Banderas, exchanged vows with Alex Gruszynski at a 12th-century abbey surrounded by approximately 200 guests. Among those in attendance were Dakota Johnson, Stella’s half-sister and accomplished actress, who joined the bridesmaids in the festivities. According to reports, special guests included Malia and Sasha Obama, daughters of former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama, creating a star-studded yet deeply personal gathering in Spain.
Melanie Griffith documented the joyous day by sharing cherished photographs on her Instagram account on November 12, more than three weeks after the wedding. The images captured moments such as Stella’s gaze at her groom, a touching mother-daughter embrace, the bridal party, and the emotional walk down the aisle as Antonio Banderas escorted his daughter. Griffith reflected on these memories, stating,
“Stella and Alex are married!! ❤️,”
and adding,
“This was the most joyful, loving, sweet, magnificent time!! So much love!”
— Melanie Griffith, Mother
A Unique Wedding Gown Inspired by Spanish Heritage
Stella’s choice of attire paid homage to her Spanish roots and sense of romance. She wore a custom Rodarte gown that took nine months to design, featuring white lace and chiffon in an off-the-shoulder, full-length style reminiscent of a fairytale.
“I knew I wanted something a little bit Gothic, very romantic, and inspired by Spanish lace—something that looked as if it belonged in a fairytale,”
Stella said — Stella Banderas, Bride.
Later, Stella changed into a second, more understated silk sheath dress by Jane Booke for the evening festivities, demonstrating style and elegance throughout the celebration.
Emotions Run High for the Banderas Family
The ceremony’s location held extra significance for Antonio Banderas, a proud Andalusian and father of the bride. Overcome with emotion, Antonio recalled,
“I’m Andalusian, I’m an actor, I’m a father—and it was a storm of emotions! I tried to keep my composure, but it was difficult not to shed a few tears looking at Stella.”
— Antonio Banderas, Father
Days after the heartfelt event, Antonio described the gathering as
“The wedding of my daughter Stella has turned into a heartfelt family reunion, emotional, joyful, and full of laughter. Thank you to everyone who made this possible.”
— Antonio Banderas, Father
Family Bonds and the Role of Dakota Johnson
Throughout the celebration, family ties were deeply apparent. Dakota Johnson supported her sister as a bridesmaid, further highlighting the close relationship among the siblings. Stella later reflected to Vogue on the bond she shares with her mother:
“wasn’t the typical mother growing up. We had a very open relationship where no topic was really off limits. This allowed me to build immense trust with her, which in turn gave me the freedom to express myself without fear of judgement.”
— Stella Banderas, Bride
Melanie Griffith added her thoughts on motherhood and the significance of her relationship with Stella, sharing,
“because she is my youngest, I think she has gotten the best version of me as her mama.”
— Melanie Griffith, Mother
A Lasting Impact of a Joyful Gathering
The union of Stella Banderas and Alex Gruszynski resonated as not just a romantic commitment, but as a milestone for a blended family of artists, public figures, and close friends. Dakota Johnson at Stella Banderas wedding symbolized the supportive role family members play during major life moments. This event, celebrated with love, emotion, and style in a historic Spanish setting, highlighted enduring family ties and marked the beginning of a new chapter for Stella and Alex.
