The Destination: weddings in Portugal

T H E D E S T I N AT I O N :

W eddings in Portugal T H E D E S T I N AT I O N B LO G

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We are The Destination

SUSANA ESTEVES PINTO

M A R TA R A M O S

editor in chief

senior editor

ANDREIA MELO

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 Célia 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.

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.

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!

SÓNIA SAPINHO

MARIANA ORTIGÃO

CARMEN DIAS

Sónia 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.

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.

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 Évora. She’s the mother of cute 3 year old Afonso, loves to draw, travel and going to the movies.

community manager

translator

editor

designer

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Editorial Five years ago, I was in Verona, Italy. I remember it like it was today…

In 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 Brazilian Portuguese. 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 professional 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!

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One country, a thousand settings For such a cosy country, Portugal has an impressive array of settings to offer. You really shouldn’t 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 there’s still lots of room left for you to plan your dream wedding, just the way you’ve 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

trendiest 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!

Douro Valley and the North The 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.

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.

Centro de Portugal The heart of our country is an exciting mixture of tradition and youth. Here you'll find the tallest mountains of our continent, and also the biggest surfable waves of the world.

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

Alentejo Gold 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.

Madeira

The Azores

The Algarve

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.

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.

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.

Contents 8

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R I TA + J O Ã O :

R I TA + J O H N :

O U R FAVO R ITE A DV E NTU R E

LISBON'S BLUES

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SAR A+R AFAE L:

ANDREIA + DANIEL:

HOME IS WHERE

WINTER, BY THE SEA

THE HEART IS

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GIRLS JUST

HELENA + TIAGO:

WA N N A H AV E FU N !

AN E LEG ANT AFFAIR

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S Í LV I A P O N T E S :

ADVERTISING

ARTISAN'S SOUL

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RitaaJo達o

OUR FAVOURITE ADVENTURE

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Are you ready? The images that follow, captured by the sweet and talented Adriana Morais, are wonderfully magical. João and Rita’s 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 Estoi’s mansion, built in 1909 and recently restored in accordance with the architectural project of Gonçalo Byrne), in Faro, Algarve.

Put the music on, “My favorite adventure”,

by K’s Choice, follow the lyrics and images and feel transported to this

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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

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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.

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What was more important?

Without a shadow of a doubt, to gather everyone that was dear to us and make it an unforgettable day. Neither of us felt the need to sign a paper so we could feel we were married, since we’ve 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! I’ve been planning this day for a few years now, even if we hadn’t 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. I’ve 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.

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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.

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A special detail?

So many! Since everything was planned so carefully, it’s 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

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 K’s 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 João’s 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.

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Any words of wisdom for brides-to-be?

Plan your day in a way that makes the most sense to you (and your fiancé, 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. Don’t 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”. There’s 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 you’re entering “bridezilla mode”, take a deep breath and remind yourself that a wedding should be all about happiness and not stress and worries.

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When the big day finally arrives, don’t give in to the temptation of wanting everything to be perfect. Relax (as much as you can!) and enjoy!

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"There is nothing in this world I'd rather do Than live in you Here we go, Our favorite adventure"

credits: invitations and graphic design / Joana Rosa Bragança www.joanarosab.com venue and catering: Pousada do Palácio de Estói www.pousadas.pt groom’s attire: Hugo Boss wedding dress and accessories: dress made by Assunção 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 Cidália Salvador www.facebook.com/porcidaliasalvador.mandhara hair: I’m In, with Filipa Rodrigues www.facebook.com/imin.salaodebeleza flowers: A Florita www.facebook.com/aflorita.aflorita favors: A Florita with tags by Molde Design Weddings www.moldedesignweddings.blogspot.pt photography: Adriana Morais Fotografia www.adrianamoraisfotografia.com video: Nuno Relógio www.nunorelogio.com wedding cake and sweets table: Dito e Feito, with Gina Poeira www.facebook.com/pages/Ditoefeito-Gina-Poeira/379937298738457 cake topper: Pinga Amor www.pingaamor.com baby sitting: Tenda da Kikas www.tendadakikas.blogspot.pt

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HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS 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. Â Now multiply it by nine:

welcome to The Azores.

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2015 couldn’t have started any better for photographer Hugo Coelho. In February, he headed out to São Miguel, the main island of The Azores to shot Sara’s and Rafael’s 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…

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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 Hugo’s memory:

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«When you are that welcomed, you feel confident and unconstrained recording each smile, each sliding, shy yet proud tear. It’s such an intense emotion we’re 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».

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So much love… And we leave you with the best suggestion: look at these images while listening to the song As Ihas dos Açores, by Madredeus.

You will fall in love too…

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credits: photography: Hugo Coelho hugocoelho.com venue: Espaรงo Quinta espacoquinta.pai.pt

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fun!

GIRLS JUST WANNA HAVE

“Nicole 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.”

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When Ana Freitas and Francisco Sousa, from Um dia de Sonho, get together with Ana Jordão, 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 you’re about to see.

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When Ana Freitas and Francisco Sousa, from Um dia de Sonho, get together with Ana Jordão, 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 you’re about to see.

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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 Font茫o, 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 Hist贸rias com Alma team.

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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.

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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.

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credits: styling, florals and graphic design: Pinga Amor www.pingaamor.com venue: Casa Grande do Font達o, 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

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Silvia Pontes ARTISAN’S SOUL

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T

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 Sílvia Pontes, artisan, and her beautiful custom bookbinding studio.

Sílvia’s attitude is both delicate and gracious, much

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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 Guimarães, Portugal’s 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.

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First, the introductions: who is Sílvia Pontes?

I’m 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 craftsmanship of the old ways?

Since I can remember, I have always enjoyed experimenting 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 didn’t 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.

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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.

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What inspires you to do so?

Whatever fulfills me. Some things are just born with us. Me, I enjoy life’s 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.

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M

agic, yes! But there is also discipline, we’re 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.

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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.

It’s 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. Don’t allow small setbacks to get you down. Live every minute to its fullest.

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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 someone’s 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. It’s a complete harmony between two people who love each other.

credits: Atelier Sílvia Pontes www.silviapontes.com | photography by José Caldeira www.facebook.com/josecaldeiraphotographer

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Rita John LISBON'S BLUES

At the top of one of Lisbon’s famous seven hills and in the heart of the Alfama neighbourhood, stands the majestic São 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 Couldn’t have been more auspicious and happy.

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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 Fundão cherries, the city where she was born. Meanwhile, John’s nerves were pilling up, from all the waiting until that “yes” moment, practicing his beautiful speech, which he would say in portuguese!

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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 Nยบ28 tram, slowly going up the hill, filled the air with its noisy screeches.

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After the ceremony, the party continued at a venue close to the church, the S達o 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.

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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.

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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!

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credits: photography, styling and graphic design: ADORO www.adoro.com.pt venue: Palรกcio de S. Vicente catering: Penha Longa Hotel & Golf Resort www.penhalonga.com

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Andreia &Daniel

WINTER, BY THE SEA

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The laws of supply and demand can generate such happy flukes. The duo from Look Imaginary, Orsy Lazar and José 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!

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The cerimony was on the works for December and the theme, a Winter Wedding, naturally, was already decided. At a friend’s suggestions, Andreia and Daniel took a peek at Look Imaginary’s Facebook page and, before them, it laid the magic question... The answer was easy: ”us, of course!”

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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 Zé, had a long talk (which is inevitable when you’re seating down with such loosen up and funny couple) and it was set: they booked an e-session in Guincho’s 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!

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”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 Zé 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”.

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

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HELENA & TIAGO AN ELEGANT AFFAIR 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 Guimarães, 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.

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What kind of atmosphere were you aiming for? How did you achieve it?

Clearly, a romantic and historically rich atmosphere. The choice of the Paรงo dos Duques Castle was perfect, so that the day would be even more magical and special.

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What was more important?

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

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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.

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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 Paço dos Duques is part of the National Heritage and surrounded by gardens and trees, we weren’t allowed any kind of pyrotechnical displays.

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A special detail?

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

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credits:: Invites and graphic details: Two paper dolls venue: cerimony at Igreja de S. Francisco, reception at Paço dos Duques de Bragança www.pduques.culturanorte.pt, Guimarães catering: Parque da Penha groom’s 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 Louboutin makeup: Lucília Lara www.facebook.com/LuciliaLaraMakeUp hair: Matriz Cabeleireiros & Estética flower decoration and favors: Coppa Flores e Organização de Eventos www.coppaflores.com photography: Um Dia de Sonho www.umdiadesonho.com DJ: Paulo Pinto (Quarteto Lilian Raquel, saxofone, violino eléctrico e daburka) e DJ Motinha

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You’ll find them right here, in our little black book of selected vendors.

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In this issue

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 Ortigão + André 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 spinto@thedestinationblog.com

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