Maria and Giovanni’s big day was nothing short of extraordinary. When asked to describe their wedding in three words, they succinctly replied: BEST DAY EVER. As it turned out, their special day in Portugal was indeed filled with their favorite things – delectable cuisine, exquisite wine, heartfelt moments, birdsong, and for Maria, a sweet nod to her affection for mice (note the adorable mouse-faced flats).
The overall aesthetic featured a soft color palette of pale blue, pink, and silver, beautifully echoed in the illustrated stationery. Maria’s delicate lace wedding dress was perfectly complemented by a sparkly sash and ‘something blue’ Prada heels, while her bouquet – wrapped in vintage lace and featuring a sentimental photo of her mother and herself as children – added an extra layer of emotional depth. Thanks to Branco Prata for sharing these timeless, romantic photos with us today.
The Ceremony
My niece, along with two trusted companions, took on the responsibility of reading to me, making it a collaborative and enjoyable experience.
The Photography
When we stumbled upon Branco Prata’s blog, we were immediately smitten. The collaborative force behind it – André, an incredibly talented photographer, and Sofia, the mastermind behind stunning paper goods – is a match made in heaven. And then there’s Fabio, the adorable rabbit who brought even more joy to the mix. It’s hard not to feel grateful when you find a partnership as harmonious as this one.
The Venue
The process of selecting a venue was straightforward for us. Our initial visit to Taylor’s left us smitten with the picturesque scenery, delectable cuisine, and exceptional wine selection – it was love at first sight. The combination of these elements sealed the deal, making it an easy choice for our gathering.
Decor & Details
We opted for a whimsical yet romantic approach to decoration, featuring white tablecloths as a crisp backdrop for an array of delicate pink roses placed at each table. To add a touch of rustic charm, we incorporated wooden letter decorations and vintage bird cases on our own table, accompanied by three elegant silver birds gifted by a special ‘French’ friend. As a thoughtful gesture to our guests, we chose unique favors that celebrated the intersection of our two cultures.
Specifically, we offered mini bottles of Oporto wine as a nod to Portuguese heritage, paired with traditional Sardinian shepherd bags known as ‘Bèrtulas’, adding an authentic touch to the celebration.
The Refreshments
Food played a pivotal role in both cultures, and we made sure to impress our guests with an extensive spread. The menu featured a selection of Oporto wines for tasting, accompanied by traditional Portuguese appetizers. The sit-down meal offered a variety of hot dishes, including fish (bacalhau) and meat options, as well as sweet treats. A cheese and cakes buffet was also available, while the pièce de résistance was our wedding cake.
To keep the party going, we provided an open bar and even served a mid-night snack of Francesinhas and caldo verde to keep everyone energized.
Unique / Special Details or Moments
While exchanging vows with the one I love is undoubtedly a highlight of any wedding, another cherished moment for me was witnessing my husband’s thoughtful gesture – the tender kiss he shared with me after we cut the cake together. This intimate moment stood out amidst the celebration, and I savored every second of it. Moreover, being surrounded by our dear friends and family who traveled from near and far to be part of this special day only added to its magic.
Advice For Other Couples
Leave the stress behind and allow yourself to fully immerse in the joy and excitement of your special day. Remember, this is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration with the people you love most – don’t let last-minute worries about budget or external opinions steal away from the magic of it all.