the destination: weddings in portugal

Weddings Portugal in

THEDE S TINATIONBLOG

THE DESTINATION:

.COMn01

Susana majored in graphic design and cultural management. Runs Wise_up

Weddings (her wedding invitation brand) and Tinimini (the cutest illustrations ever, with

college friend Clia Fernandes). Editor in chief at Simplesmente Branco and

The Destination.Spotting great potentials and helping them bloom is her true passion. She is a curator of beautiful things: images,

ideas, words. She lives in Lisbon and practices a cautious optimism.

Snia works as freelance in design, communication and social media. She says she is an (un)disciplined curious and that

the verbs that best define her are: go, laugh and discover. She lives in Lisbon with her

husband and daughter. She collects moments on Instagram and

objects on Escolhidos a Dedo.

S U S A N A E S T E V E S P I N T Oeditor in chief

Marta Ramos writes to think better: travel journalism, blogging, copywriting, content editing. Costureira de palavras is her home and Senhoras da nossa idade her window. Born in Cascais, she loves lighthouses, the

wild ocean and foggy days. Since she lives in Coimbra she writes about lighthouses, the

wild ocean and foggy days.

Mariana was born in Lisbon, Portugal. Soon, the family moved to Rome, flew over to Maputo for some adventure, moved back

home and then off to New York for three years. She ended up studying Anthropology

& Italian in the UK. Writing, editing and translating for websites is still her passion.

She currently moved to Mexico with her family, after six years in Spain and three in

Brazil! Follow her day-to-day musings of raising 4 trilingual kids and other adventures

on her blog.

M A R T A R A M O Ssenior editor

Andreia is the benjamin of the group. She is a journalist (by day), a cocktail bartender (by night) and a marathon runner (in the hours

in between). She loves Lisbon, where she was born: the long jogs by the Tagus river, the

snaks in the typical downtown restaurants. But she is not one to stand still for long: she

travels as often as possible. She loves to leave, and she loves coming back!

Carmen is a freelance web and graphic designer, with exquisite taste and the

perfect approach: clean, smart and effective design is her thing. She used to

live in Algarve, the lucky one, and now lives in vora. Shes the mother of cute 3 year old

Afonso, loves to draw, travel and going to the movies.

A N D R E I A M E L Oeditor

We are The Destination

S N I A S A P I N H O community manager

M A R I A N A O R T I G Otranslator

C A R M E N D I A Sdesigner

T H E D E S T I N A T I O N : W E D D I N G S I N P O R T U G A L # 1 3

Five years ago, I was in Verona, Italy. I remember it like it was todayIn the romantic city of Romeo and Juliet, glued to my laptop, I was waiting for the final

e-mail that confirmed Simplesmente Branco was online. Our mission was clear and simple: to be the leading digital platform for the wedding industry in Portugal, with a romantic, delicate and contemporary approach and a hand picked wedding directory

with the best professionals.

This week we celebrate our fifth anniversary with almost 4000 posts, 5 e-magazines and a busy Facebook community. The month of May will always be for us the most festive time of the year.

In July 2014, we launched a new website dedicated to destination weddings in Portugal: The Destination.

We invite you to join us in this adventure and discover what this beautiful country has to offer to make your dream wedding come true.

We are proud of the quality and uniqueness of our wedding industry, and that is why we feel the need to tell you all about it. We are true believers that good (and beautiful) things are meant to be shared and enjoyed, and we are in a kind of party on mode, so celebrate with us and enjoy our gift: The Destination: weddings in Portugal.

For this new edition, we gathered so many gorgeous images that we decided to split them in two volumes, with different idioms: English and BrazilianPortuguese. Be sure to check both of them, even if you are not a fluent reader of an exotic language: we guarantee that you will be overloaded

(in a good way!) with a lot of inspiring eye candy, carefully crafted for this special occasion!

We know you will fall in love with Portugal, and we believe that your dream destination wedding is waiting to happen.

You will be surprised with all that this small and charming Mediterranean country (under 620 miles from north to south!) has to offer: magnificent landscapes, outstanding food and wine, excellent climate, unique wedding venues and creative, dedicated and extremely profes-sional wedding experts. We hope (actually, we are quite sure) that you will be inspired by their work showcased throughout this edition. Everything you will see in these pages is their entire doing, either capturing a real wedding or shooting a styled session!

With The Destination: weddings in Portugal, we will walk you through this charming country and help you pick up the best suppliers and venues for your perfect wedding day.

We are famous for our hospitality and this magazine will be no exception: welcome and be our honored guest. We are The Destination!

Editorial

For such a cosy country, Portugal has an impressive array of settings to offer. You really shouldnt assume that weddings in Portugal are all alike. Sure, you can count on our hospitality, our gentle weather, our delicious food and our talented vendors all over the territory.

Weddings in Portugal do gather all of the advantages above, but theres still lots of room left for you to plan your dream wedding, just the way youve been imagining it.

How about a beach wedding? We have miles and miles of coastline waiting for you: the warm beaches at Algarve and Madeira Islands, the unspoiled beaches at Alentejo, the fancy beaches along Estoril and Cascais area, the surfers beaches at West and the gorgeous traditional beaches up North.

More of an urban kind? Well, Lisbon and Oporto have the best sunset cocktail parties, the best esplanades, the best chefs, the

One country, a thousand settingstrendiest night spots and the ultimate modern venues.

Dreaming of a palace or a mansion wedding? One of Portugal most appreciated treasures is its historic patrimony, well distributed all over the country. And there are quite a few dream places completely adapted to welcome you.

Your heart belongs in the countryside? The Alentejo planes, the Douro vineyards, the orchards in Centro de Portugal, the snow in serra da Estrela or the amazing natural beauty of the Azores and Madeira Islands are just a few of choices available to you.

Browse around, discover every region and you will find the perfect location for your dream wedding.

Fall in love with Portugal!

The Algarve You can't be anything shorter than happy in Algarve, where the sun is always king, the sea is always warm, the food is fresh and delicious and the people welcome you with open arms. A perfect place for beginnings.

Madeira Here, the sun is always shinning. The flowers, alone, are breathtaking, but there's also the warm beaches, the amazing landscapes and the delicious food. A place meant for happiness.

The Azores These islands are among the most beautiful of the world. Nature rules the Azores, and the food makes every day a celebration. You'll find that every step leads towards bedazzlement.

Lisbon Lisbon is an eternal city, blessed with a special light that makes everything clearer. Cosmo-politanbut also very authentic, our capital will secure a spot in your hearts, forever.

Centro de PortugalThe heart of our country is an exciting mixture of tradition and youth. Here you'll find the tallestmountains of our continent, and also the biggestsurfable waves of the world.

Oporto An historic city, beaming with culture and creativity, where the Douro river meets the Atlantic Ocean. Filled with charm and character, Oporto is quite the romantic place to go to.

Douro Valley and the NorthThe cherry on the top - well, actually, the grape, since this is an exquisite wine region. Up North, castles enchant us and the landscapes amaze us, from the top of the hills to the ocean.

AlentejoGold on blue. This is the shortest way to define this large southern region, with the widest sky you'll ever find, golden planes, lovely unspoilt beaches and tables set to eat, drink and sing with the utmost pleasure.

Contents

S A R A + R A F A E L : H O M E I S W H E R E

T H E H E A R T I S

G I R L S J U S T W A N N A H A V E F U N !

S L V I A P O N T E S : A R T I S A N ' S S O U L

R I T A + J O H N : L I S B O N ' S B L U E S

A N D R E I A + D A N I E L : W I N T E R , B Y T H E S E A

H E L E N A + T I A G O : A N E L E G A N T A F F A I R

A D V E R T I S I N G

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T H E D E S T I N A T I O N : W E D D I N G S I N P O R T U G A L # 18

OUR FAVOURITE ADVENTURE

RitaaJoo

T H E D E S T I N A T I O N : W E D D I N G S I N P O R T U G A L # 1 1 1

Are you ready? The images that follow, captured by the sweet and talented Adriana Morais, are wonderfully magical. Joo and Ritas party took place in April, when days are longer, warmer and the light is perfect. The venue was the gorgeous Pousada de Estoi (the Viscount of Estois mansion, built in 1909 and recently restored in accordance with the architec-tural project of Gonalo Byrne), in Faro, Algarve.

Put the music on, My favorite adventure, by Ks Choice, follow the lyrics and images and

feel transported to this


There you are

Your beauty consoles me

I've gone far

And I almost didn't find you

And I almost lived without you

There is nothing in this world

I'd rather do

Than live in you

Here we go,

Our favorite adventure

You should know

I was never more complete

And I never thought I'd see

The meaning of my life

Wrapped in you

Next to me

If you ever fear

Someday we might lose this

Come back here

To this moment that will last

And time can go so fast

When everything's exactly

Where it's at

Its very best


Rita, what kind of atmosphere were you aiming for? How did you achieve it?

Our idea was to take advantage of the beautiful outside spaces - even prettier in spring, when everything blooms - and to create a rustic and romantic feel. I did a lot of research, looking for inspiring images, ideas and vendors that would fit in with our vision. Every detail was considered, since it s the small details that mark the difference, making everything more personal and magical.


What was more important?

Without a shadow of a doubt, to gather everyone that was dear to us and make it an unforgetta-ble day. Neither of us felt the need to sign a paper so we could feel we were married, since weve been sharing our lives for quite some time, but we agreed that it would make sense to celebrate our union so we could have the memory of a happy moment with everyone.

And what was the least important?

The wedding presents. We loved all the gifts we received, but what really mattered was sharing our day with all our guests, family and friends.

What did you enjoy creating the most?

Everything! Ive been planning this day for a few years now, even if we hadnt made an official decision yet. I would write guest lists and look for beautiful locations and original ideas, amongst many other researches, and so the foundations were laid. I had already collected quite a few images of wedding decors, wedding favours, cakes, hairstyles, makeup and many other details. Ive always been passionate about wedding dresses and, amongst all the ones I saw, I came up with an idea that would slowly take shape - with a big help from my sisters and my mom - which resulted in a wonderful dress! The songs for each special moment (we both love music) were collected throughout our time as boyfriend and girlfriend, each and every one with its own special meaning. It was hard work, but I loved giving our own special touch to all the wedding details, always with the help of my family and close friends.

Does the wedding you planned reflect your personality, or did you have to make some sacrifices along the way?

We always have to make small sacrifices, so we can adapt our dreams to reality.


Even so, in between all the alterations we had to make and the timing issues (even on the day itself), it was a true reflection of

our personality.


wonderful handmade birds inside a cage), the unexpected rain and the rainbow that came after, the bouquet delivery and so many more!

To me, the happiest moment of all was the path to the altar. The detail I most cherish was the music that served and its soundtrack - Favorite adventure by Ks Choice. I had chosen this track the first time I heard it many years ago, even before I knew I would get married and to whom, because I realised that if I had the same feeling for someone as I had when I listened to this song, getting married would be the right decision. And so it happened, with Joos approval, who already knew of my wish to do it.

These were, to me, the most magical minutes of all the wedding: to look and see so many special, happy people, as my father walked me to the person that made my dream meaningful. It was an indescribable moment that I will cherish forever.

A special detail?

So many! Since everything was planned so carefully, its difficult to choose just one. The choice of the groomsmen and bridesmaids, the stationary and invitations, the wedding rings, the readings, the soap bubbles, the little flags all over the ceiling, the table decor, the flowers, the cake table, the crown, made with wild flowers, the cake topper (two


Any words of wisdom for brides-to-be?

Plan your day in a way that makes the most sense to you (and your fianc, of course). With or without a planner, with more or less suggestions from your family and friends, but always trying to keep calm and making the most of it, not just the big day (that goes by in a flash!) but the path to get there, from the moment you make the decision to marry. Dont try to do it all on your own, unless you have the time and inclination to do it. If, like me, you choose not to hire a professional but have very little free time, put together your own team so you can happily enjoy the preparations. You will probably hear a lot of different opinions, whether you ask for them or not. If you ever reach a point that all you want to do is scream or cover your ears, my advice is to smile and say thank you. Theres no point in arguing when you already have so much on your plate and the majority of people are really just trying to be helpful. When you feel youre entering bridezilla mode, take a deep breath and remind yourself that a wedding should be all about happiness and not stress and worries.


When the big day finally arrives, dont give in to the temptation of wanting everything to be perfect. Relax (as

much as you can!) and enjoy!


"There is nothing in this world

I'd rather do

Than live in you

Here we go,

Our favorite adventure"

invitations and graphic design / Joana Rosa Bragana www.joanarosab.comvenue and catering: Pousada do Palcio de Esti www.pousadas.pt

grooms attire: Hugo Bosswedding dress and accessories: dress made by Assuno Santos, shoes from Zara (something new), flower crown by A Florita, earrings that my father offered my mother a long time ago (something old), garter borrowed from a happily married friend (something borrowed), a new piercing and bridal

lingerie (something blue) wedding bands: a tattoo made at studio Art Shape Tatto & Piercing www.facebook.com/artshapetattoopiercing

makeup: Mandhara, with Cidlia Salvador www.facebook.com/porcidaliasalvador.mandharahair: Im In, with Filipa Rodrigues www.facebook.com/imin.salaodebeleza

flowers: A Florita www.facebook.com/aflorita.afloritafavors: A Florita with tags by Molde Design Weddings www.moldedesignweddings.blogspot.pt

photography: Adriana Morais Fotografia www.adrianamoraisfotografia.comvideo: Nuno Relgio www.nunorelogio.com

wedding cake and sweets table: Dito e Feito, with Gina Poeira www.facebook.com/pages/Ditoefeito-Gina-Poeira/379937298738457cake topper: Pinga Amor www.pingaamor.com

baby sitting: Tenda da Kikas www.tendadakikas.blogspot.pt

credits:


Imagine an island, where two lagoons stand side by side, with different colors. One is blue; the other, is green. Imagine an island where the weather is always pleasant and

where one can watch whales patiently swimming with their newborns.

Imagine an island that is covered in luscious hues of green and surrounded by walls of blue hydrangeas, where time goes by ever so slowly.

Now multiply it by nine:

welcome to The Azores.

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS


2015 couldnt have started any better for photographer Hugo Coelho. In February, he headed out to So Miguel, the main island of The Azores to shot Saras and Rafaels sweet, memorable wedding.

The couple is from The Azores but is living in China. These days back home were of celebration, an intense and special celebration, filled with emotions and a desire to erase (or at least ease) how homesick they felt. They set in motion the best of parties: intimate, cosy and filled with love.

Hugo was dazzled by the landscapes time is never enough when you are taking pictures in Paradise! and with the companionship and tangible love of the couple


The way they welcomed and involved him in their story and

lives during those days was so special that the wedding ended up

engraved in Hugos memory:


When you are that welcomed, you feel confident and unconstrained recording each smile, each sliding, shy yet proud tear. Its such an intense emotion were witnessing; we end up feeling special and privileged too. Undoubtedly, this couple will be forever in my memory because of their organic simplicity and the love they shared between each other.


So much love And we leave you with the best suggestion: look at these images while listening to the

song As Ihas dos Aores, by Madredeus.

You will fall in love too


photography: Hugo Coelho hugocoelho.comvenue: Espao Quinta espacoquinta.pai.pt

credits:


fun!GIRLS JUST WANNA HAVENicole and Gustavo are getting married.

To say goodbye to her life as a single lady and start her special day in a equally special way, Nicole invites two of her best

friends to help her with the party preparations, a fun, intimate and feminine gathering.


fun!


When Ana Freitas and Francisco Sousa, from Um dia de Sonho, get together with Ana Jordo, from Pinga Amor, we have a winning trio! The images they sent us, after we invited them to take part in this edition of The Destination: weddings in Portugal, are wonderful, as youre about to see.

When Ana Freitas and Francisco Sousa,

from Um dia de Sonho, get together with Ana Jordo, from Pinga

Amor, we have a winning trio! The images they

sent us, after we invited them to take part in this edition of The

Destination: weddings in Portugal, are wonderful,

as youre about to see.


The inspiration came from the strong colours found on portuguese tiles (azulejos), making the most of the spring

light and the beautiful gardens that surround Casa Grande do Fonto, a mansion belonging to an illustrious family,

dating back to the 17th century, just on the outskirts of Ponte de Lima in the Minho region, managed by the talented Histrias com Alma team.

T H E D E S T I N A T I O N : W E D D I N G S I N P O R T U G A L # 1 1 0 7


The narrative starts at the main house s turret, where the girls are getting ready: makeup, manicure, lots of

chatting and laughter and a happy, contagious energy.

The colour palette is contrasty: rich and vibrant: cobalt blue, red, yellow and gold accents that add to the richness

and contemporariness. The decor concept mixes, in a finely balanced way, classic pieces and furniture with modern and contemporary details, connecting tradition

to new tendencies in interior design. The modern/classic dialogue extends to the flower arrangements, using local and in-season flowers, simple and classic in their shape, but vibrant and unexpected in their colours and combinations: little carnations, olive tree leaves, freesias, english irises, wax flowers and alstroemerias, and carries onto the choice of tableware, with a modern pattern, combined with brass chandeliers and colourful glassware.


The invitations and graphic details finish off the feminine influence that they wanted to incorporate in this production: charm and elegance in the right proportions, simultaneously classic and modern.


styling, florals and graphic design: Pinga Amor www.pingaamor.com venue: Casa Grande do Fonto, em Ponte de Lima www.historiascomalma.com

cake: Sabores da Gula www.facebook.com/saboresdagula.cakes makeup and hair: Jenny Makeup Land www.jennymakeupland.com

photography: Um dia de Sonho www.umdiadesonho.com

credits:


ARTISANS SOUL

Silvia Pontes


Everything in this studio is custom made and has its own pace. The materials are handpicked, amongst the most beautiful linens, Japanese silks, satin ribbons, immaculate papers, lead types and golden foil. Everything flows, perfectly synced: head, hands, heart, because love is the main ingredient in this equation.Today, we introduce you to sweet Slvia Pontes, artisan, and her beautiful custom bookbinding studio.Slvias attitude is both delicate and gracious, much

T


like the work she executes. With imagination and a crafty handwork, she creates lovely artworks, made to hold the most beautiful love stories: cases for safekeeping of images, thank you cards, photo albums. In Guimares, Portugals birthplace back in 1143, she found her happily ever after. She welcomed us in her sunny atelier and gave us a tour (or should we call it an enchanted visit?) of her work place.


First, the introductions: who is Slvia Pontes?

Im the heart of this small project, where we avoid mass production and offer exclusive and exquisite artwork. We work very close to our clients, who value craftsmanship and handmade pieces, custom made like back in the day.

Where does it come from, that love for the craftsman-ship of the old ways?

Since I can remember, I have always enjoyed experiment-ing with handwork, using several types of materials: paper modeling, dress making for my dolls (that I learnt from my grandmother), working clay or knitting. I was curious about all these forms of artwork. After exploring several techniques, I choose to devote myself to bookbinding, box making and engraving on paper.

And how did you become a reference in the wedding market?

I found a path created a concept and adapted my knowledge and techniques to the new trends and needs surrounding weddings and all things related.

Those who work for love, work better... Or so it is said.

Undoubtedly. If I didnt do it for (and with) love, my results would not be the same. You can feel that love each time you finish an artwork and you can read it in the eyes of those who relied on you to give a small contribution for such an important day in their lives.


And how do you contribute to these love stories?

By offering them the very best of me and my best work.

What services do you provide?

In my studio, I create photo albums and guest books (made to treasure special moments). We also offer other tailor-made services, upon order.

Where do you excel?

Our service is both dedicated and personal. Those who visit us, take with them a piece of us when they go. Each work is envisioned and handmade from scratch, with fine material, handpicked in order to tend to the unique and special wishes of our couples. The difference is in the details that we make as unique as possible.


What inspires you to do so?

Whatever fulfills me. Some things are just born with us. Me, I enjoy lifes most beautiful treasures, so often the smallest and the simplest. Not only do I enjoy them, I collect them. Whether these are images, small cases and boxes, paper scraps, even feelings. Contemplating nature is another way I find inspiration. Ideas just seem to arise. I also get very excited when I start working new materials, textures, colors. I find them all so alluring. Very often, all it takes is to unwrap new materials and scattering them on a table. Then, magic just happens.


agic, yes! But there is also discipline, were sure. How do you go from inspiration to method?

You have to stop, from time to time. Whenever work slows

down, I enjoy every moment: a walk in the park, travelling to

a new destination, going out to see a show or just hanging out

with friends. The mind feels relaxed and the path suddenly

reveals itself, naturally.

M


Bride and groom get involved in the process?

Some couples bring their own ideas, others follow my suggestions. In sync and working as a

team is our method to achieve a gorgeous result.

Its time for a few confessions! What do you enjoy the most?

I like when couples leave some details up to me. And I love interesting challenges. In our

everyday routine, there is always some repetitive work, the core of our main collections. But

every now and then we have a few special, out of the box and unexpected requests. Facing

them is facing a challenge both gratifying and motivating.

And since we are talking about challenges Do you have any advice for those about to say I do?

Enjoy every moment of preparation up to your big day. Chose professionals that give you

exactly what you want, that will make you feel forever proud. Dont allow small setbacks to get

you down. Live every minute to its fullest.


Before we say our goodbyes, will you complete the following sentences?

Perfection is

full devotion: working hard, with care and affection.

Love is

standing by someones side. Stand in front of each battle, ready to reach common goals.

Happiness is

to be lived to the fullest. And sometimes found in unexpected moments.

Companionship is

commitment. Its a complete harmony between two people who love each other.

Atelier Slvia Pontes www.silviapontes.com | photography by Jos Caldeira www.facebook.com/josecaldeiraphotographer

credits:

Rita JohnLISBON'S BLUES

At the top of one of Lisbons famous seven hills and in the heart of the Alfama neighbourhood, stands the

majestic So Vicente de Fora Monastery, built during the 17th century.

With this beautiful scenery as a backdrop, overlooking the Tagus river, and a wonderful tile-covered patio

under our feet, at a majestic chapel with woodcarvings finished with fine gold, Rita (from Portugal) and

John (from Norway) decided to celebrate their love overseas.

It all took place on a Feira da Ladra Saturday, the most famous flea market in Lisbon, which takes place

right next door to the monastery.

Amongst family and friends of the groom, half of all the guests were foreign, and their first visit to Portugal

Couldnt have been more auspicious and happy.


The wedding day preparations started at a hotel in the city centre, with gorgeous views over Lisbon: Rita was very calm and took the opportunity to enjoy some Fundo cherries, the city where she was born. Meanwhile, Johns nerves were pilling up, from all the waiting until that yes moment, practicing his beautiful speech, which he would say in portuguese!


Next to the vast stairway at the church, passers-by were gathering, as well as tourists and market vendors, waiting to see and photograph the bride and groom and their guests. To add to the confusion, the N28 tram, slowly going up the hill, filled the air with its noisy screeches.


After the ceremony, the party continued at a venue close to the church, the So Vicente Palace, a true gem in historic Lisbon, hidden amongst narrow, steep cobbled streets. Inside, a beautiful garden, stunning rooms and an elegant and classy library. Even though it is a palace, the building feels extremely cosy and welcoming. As such the decor was kept to a minimum.


For the floral decor of the tables, simple, lightly coloured flowers were used, placed in tea-pots, serving dishes, tea-cups and small assorted vintage bowls, bought and collected throughout the many visits to Feira da Ladra, in the leading months to the wedding day.

The stationary, which is the common denominator of this wonderful love story, is bold and varied: the

inspiration was, of course, the portuguese tiles and the wonderful blue shade that makes them unique. The designer duo had a blast, walking through the city and visiting the palace itself, photographing drawings and patterns that were used in the invitations, readings book, menu, place and table markers, and the labels for the wedding favours.


The party was full of joy and energy, and the fun had by the guests that came from all over the world was

proof that music is indeed a universal language!


photography, styling and graphic design: ADORO www.adoro.com.pt

venue: Palcio de S. Vicentecatering: Penha Longa Hotel & Golf Resort

www.penhalonga.com

credits:


WINTER, BY THE SEA

Andreia&Daniel


The laws of supply and demand can generate such happy flukes. The duo from Look Imaginary, Orsy Lazar and Jos Bernardino, wanted to capture the beautiful winter light that shines by the coast and to do so, they launched a

challenge in their Facebook page:

Anyone out there planning a winter wedding, PLEASE?Meanwhile, elsewhere; Andreia and Daniel, together for 8 years, decided on a short engagment. Unlike most couples, they skiped the long months of planning and got organized in under just one. It was only when reviewing their checklist, they notice a big setback: they were missing the photographer!


The cerimony was on the works for December and the theme, a Winter Wedding, naturally, was already decided. At a friends suggestions, Andreia

and Daniel took a peek at Look Imaginarys Facebook page and, before them, it laid the magic question... The answer was easy: us, of course!


The photography style was exactly what they were looking for: a natural and organic record, with a timeless quality to it, beautiful now, consistent for many years to come, and magical enough to make them relive this special day whenever they felt nostalgic. They reached out to Orsi and Z, had a long talk (which is inevitable when youre seating down with such loosen up and funny couple) and it was set: they booked an e-session in Guinchos beach, near Cascais, for the end of November.

Right in the middle of winter, they elluded the rain and enjoyed the golden light that floods the last hours of the day. To warm up and awake the senses, they had a sider and a beer in Bar do Guincho, far from imagining they would wind up in the water, along with their oh so cute dog Mini!


Before we knew, we were already barefoot, pants rolled up the ankles and in the water. The dog was running away from us, Orsi was wearing rain boots and Z was lying in the wet sand so he could get the best shots. We started the session a little bit timid and overthinking the poses. But, in a heartbeat, things shifted and it turned into a casual and fun afternoon with friends, recording each moment under the most beautful of lights.

photography: Look Imaginary www.lookimaginary.com venue: Praia do Guincho, Cascais

credits:

AN ELEGANT AFFAIR

HELENA & TIAGO

A 15th century castle, in the birth city of Portugal: this is the setting of Helena and Tiago s classy party, at the heart of Guimares, on the first day of Spring.

Timeless elegance are the words that define the images that follow, starting with the stunning dress Helena wore and the opulent and chic floral decor.


What kind of atmosphere were you aiming for? How did you achieve it? Clearly, a romantic and historically rich atmosphere. The choice of the Pao dos Duques Castle was perfect, so that the day would be even more magical and special.


What was more important? Our main goal was for our guests to enjoy the day, feel welcomed and comfortable, exactly like us.


And what was the least important? On such a special day, nothing is less important. The whole is the sum of its parts, and for that, each and every detail is relevant and accounts for the difference.


What did you enjoy creating the most?We planned a unique day and the path we travelled to arrive there was a long and joyful one. We wanted to offer the best for our guests, family and friends.

Each vendor we chose contributed to make this party absolutely magical and unforgettable.

Does the wedding you planned reflect your personality, or did you have to make some sacrifices along the way?Fortunately for us, there was only one thing we had to give up on: fireworks. Since Pao dos Duques is part of the National Heritage and surrounded by gardens and trees, we werent allowed any kind of pyrotechnical displays.


A special detail?The flower selection, matched perfectly with the rest of the decor, and the venue itself: beautiful and exquisite!


Invites and graphic details: Two paper dollsvenue: cerimony at Igreja de S. Francisco, reception at Pao dos Duques de Bragana www.pduques.culturanorte.pt, Guimares

catering: Parque da Penha grooms attire: suit and shoes Ermenegildo Zegna, bow tie Lanvin, cufflinks Mont Blanc

wedding dress: Navona, by Galia Lahav Haute Couture www.galialahav.com, shoes Christian Louboutinmakeup: Luclia Lara www.facebook.com/LuciliaLaraMakeUp

hair: Matriz Cabeleireiros & Estticaflower decoration and favors: Coppa Flores e Organizao de Eventos www.coppaflores.com

photography: Um Dia de Sonho www.umdiadesonho.com DJ: Paulo Pinto (Quarteto Lilian Raquel, saxofone, violino elctrico e daburka) e DJ Motinha

credits::

The perfect vendors are those who will make your dream weddings come true, based on their own

expertise and good taste, but also on a wonderful quality you can never overestimate: the ability to listen,

to understand and to respect your wishes.

Youll find them right here, in our little black book of selected vendors.

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THE DESTINATION: WEDDINGS IN PORTUGAL A WWW.THEDESTINATIONBLOG.COM E-ZINE

1ST EDITION

EDITOR: Susana Esteves Pinto / The Destination

www.thedestinationblog.com

CONTENT: Susana Esteves Pinto + Marta Ramos

TRANSLATION: Andreia Melo + Mariana Ortigo + Andr Castanheira

COVER: Um dia de sonho / www.umdiadesonho.com

ART DIRECTION AND GRAPHIC DESIGN: Carmen Dias / www.carmendias.com

CONTACT: Susana Esteves Pinto / www.thedestinationblog.com

[email protected]

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