Modern Portugal elopement at colorful Pena Palace
Modern Portugal elopement at colorful Pena Palace
Nicole and John prepared their elopement at a whimsical fairytale castle at the mountains in Sintra Portugal. They wanted a Modern Portugal elopement at colorful Pena Palace. This part of Portugal is famous for the old and hidden palaces and castles at forests. The first look was a Penha Longa Resort, a hidden monastery (now 5 star hotel) with ancient elements lost at the forest. An old chapel with tiles and vegetation around gave organic moment of surprise and excitement. You can have a look here to the first part of the story with the romantic first look elopement at Penha Longa monastery.
For the ceremony, they wanted some simple and natural at another palace, Pena Palace. The rainy afternoon gave them the opportunity to be alone at one of the most touristic palace in west Europe. The Manueline style of columns, the red and yellow color of the wall and towers of this whimsical castle were present during this adventure. To go to the very top of the mountain, Nicole and John still had to trek 20 minutes uphill, and Nicole did this in her wedding dress and heels, no problem!
I really love to photograph elopements because they’re always unexpected about what is going to happen after. The focus is always on the couple and what is going on between them.
Some words from my couple: “Our elopement was a reflection of who we are as a couple. Adventurous, untraditional, and uncomplicated. We had no specific theme. We knew we wanted to elope in a stunning locale but beyond that we were just playing things by ear. Once I bought my dress and picked Pena Palace, I realized it was reminiscent of Cinderella. It was all a happy accident really.
The most special moment was being able to exchange vows in front of the palace’s chapel in almost complete privacy. It was such a privilege to have such an amazing space for such a special moment to ourselves.”
This elopement was featured at Green Wedding Shoes Blog, thank you very much!
wedding dress: Leanne Marshall // wedding dress boutique: Leanne Marshall Bridal // hairpiece: Jennifer Behr // bride’s ring: Doyle and Doyle 1930’s art deco ring // hair stylist: Cati Beauty // makeup artist: Cati Beauty // groom attire: J.Crew and Brooks Brothers // groom’s shoes: Cole Haan // groom’s ring: Blue Nile
