It’s very special when old friends ask you to shoot their wedding. And it’s even more special when they’re getting married in such a beautiful place in the world! Marian & Mike chose the Rio Douro region of Portugal for their wedding. Just a short journey from the vibrant city of Porto (highly recommended if you’re thinking of visiting), the wedding location offered knockout views and a calm atmosphere. And Port of course!
Marian’s family kindly hosted the wedding ceremony at their 300 year old smallholding, which is being lovingly restored by the family. Marian entered through the large wooden gates and walked down the aisle to join Mike under wonderful floral arch in the garden. The ceremony was conducted by friend Gareth and featured readings from Maid of Honour Veronika and a song from Best Man Drew. With spectacular views behind them, it was the perfect place to say ‘I do’ before being throughly pelted by confetti and rice as they walked out!
I could have stayed at the farm all afternoon taking photos with Marian & Mike, but it was soon time to hop into the VW camper from Me on Wheels and head for the party at Eurostars Rio Douro Hotel. Nestled into the bank of the river, this rather Bond-villan-esque hotel was the perfect modern setting for the reception. The room was beautifully decorated by the team at Design com Texto, who had also arranged the bouquets, buttonholes and flowers too. As we ate, drank and listened to the speeches between courses (this being a Portguese wedding there was lots of food!), the sun started to set over the river and Marian & Mike headed out to cut the cake by the pool.
In the evening, we all enjoyed letting our hair down and throwing some shapes on the dance floor. The party continued until I heard a cry of ‘they’re in the pool!’. Secretly wishing this to happen all day, I was there with my camera straight away! After some quick showers, everyone was back on the dance floor with tunes from DJ Mario Kitty keeping us all going until the small hours.
Thank you for inviting me along to capture your wedding Marian & Mike. Here’s your day…
