Actress Dakota Johnson stood by her half-sister, Stella Banderas, as a bridesmaid during a picturesque Spanish wedding on October 18, an event celebrated by family and notable guests in a historic abbey. Dakota Johnson wedding bridesmaid moments appeared prominently in the joyful celebration as Stella wed Alex Gruszynski, with parents Melanie Griffith and Antonio Banderas playing key roles in the heartfelt occasion.
Stella Banderas and Alex Gruszynski Marry in Historic Spanish Setting
Stella Banderas, daughter of Hollywood stars Melanie Griffith and Antonio Banderas, married Alex Gruszynski in a romantic ceremony held at a 12th-century abbey in Spain. The event gathered around 200 guests, including well-known figures like Malia Obama and Sasha Obama, the daughters of former U.S. President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, according to Hello! magazine. The setting was particularly meaningful for Antonio Banderas, who has deep roots in Andalusia.
Family Moments and Star-Studded Attendance
Melanie Griffith marked the occasion by sharing a collection of cherished photographs from the day, which included touching family moments and Dakota Johnson appearing radiant among the bridesmaids. Other images showed Stella being led down the aisle by her father, Antonio Banderas, highlighting the emotional atmosphere of the ceremony. Antonio later reflected on his overwhelming feelings as he escorted Stella, expressing both fatherly pride and joy.
Stella and Alex are married!! ❤️,
Griffith, Actress and mother of the bride
This was the most joyful, loving, sweet, magnificent time!! So much love!
Griffith, Actress and mother of the bride
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, Actor and father of the bride
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 Banderas, Bride
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, Actor and father of the bride
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
because she is my youngest, I think she has gotten the best version of me as her mama.
Griffith, Actress and mother of the bride
Stella’s Bridal Style and Unforgettable Details
For her wedding, Stella chose a custom Rodarte gown that took nine months to design. The dress, featuring full-length white lace and chiffon with off-the-shoulder detailing, captured the romantic, slightly gothic spirit she envisioned. After the ceremony, she opted for a second bridal look—a sophisticated silk sheath by designer Jane Booke—which added another layer of elegance to the festivities.
Reflection and Importance to the Banderas–Griffith Family
The celebration did not just unite Stella and Alex but also represented a meaningful family reunion for Melanie Griffith, Antonio Banderas, and their daughters. As the youngest in her family, Stella’s wedding became a moment of deep reflection and affection. Melanie Griffith emphasized the unique relationship she shares with Stella, while Antonio was moved by the emotions of giving his daughter away in such a significant way. The presence of Dakota Johnson and famous guests underscored the event’s high-profile nature.
This wedding was more than a glamorous affair; it brought together people and memories, reinforcing familial bonds in a spectacular Spanish setting. The special bond among the Banderas–Griffith family members, highlighted by Dakota Johnson’s supportive role as a bridesmaid, set a heartfelt tone for the event. The images and moments shared will continue to resonate with all involved, echoing the love and joy felt throughout the celebration.
