A Vibrant Destination Portugal Vineyard Wedding

Aviana and Frank's wedding took me to Portugal's vineyard country, which was brilliant. Frank has European roots and they both have that American adventurous spirit, so Portugal made perfect sense for them. I arrived feeling a bit worse for wear after birthday celebrations the night before, but the Atlantic breeze worked wonders sorting that out.

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The evening before the wedding was this relaxed barbecue at Quinta de Sant'ana. Rugs spread across the grass, wine flowing freely, everyone laughing under the open sky. Aviana and Frank walked through the vineyard together, completely in their own world, while the night finished with speeches and a birthday cake for Aviana's nephew. Set everyone up nicely for the wedding day ahead.

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I woke up to clear skies, which boded well for what was coming. Walking through the vineyard that morning brought back memories from previous shoots here, the pink flora everywhere and those doves that always seem to appear in my photos at this venue. Inside, Aviana was getting ready with her bridesmaids while Frank spent time with his daughter and their new ginger kitten. They'd fallen for her during the trip and were planning to take her home to America, which as someone who's had cats for years, I could completely understand.

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The first look happened in a quiet spot away from the building heat. Frank's face when he saw Aviana in her Made With Love Bridal gown was everything you'd hope to capture as a photographer, with the vineyard colours creating this gorgeous backdrop behind them.

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The ceremony was set on the lawn with vineyards rolling out beyond. They exchanged vows under the chuppah, honouring Aviana's heritage, and the sound of breaking glass kicked off the celebration with everyone moving to the courtyard reception under those clear skies.

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The courtyard reception gives me some of my favourite moments at any wedding. Something about that post ceremony atmosphere, everyone riding that wave of happiness and sharing stories, really brings the day to life. The local speciality Tibornia went down well, and watching guests' faces trying it for the first time made for great shots. But Aviana and Frank's choreographed dance absolutely stole the show, with everyone watching in complete awe.

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As evening came, the barn hosted dinner and speeches. Aviana and Frank's entrance was quite something, stopping midway for a kiss against that beautiful setting. Speeches hit hard emotionally, with Aviana's father going first, then Frank, followed by Aviana's sister, and Frank's daughter wrapping things up. There were barely any dry eyes anywhere, while Frank and Aviana sat beneath this elaborate floral arrangement throughout, taking in all the heartfelt words.

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Dusk settled and festoon lights came on across the courtyard, bringing everyone back to the dance floor for the father daughter dances. Aviana with her dad went first, then Frank with his daughter, each one marking another beautiful moment of the night.

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Inside the wine cellar, the DJ cranked everything up several notches. Aviana got hoisted into the air amid cheers, napkins swirling above her head, while guests belted out songs and lasers lit up the space. Shot glasses clinked constantly throughout. Aviana and Frank's Portugal wedding was absolutely delivered.

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I think you’re going to love Aviana & Frank’s Portugal Vineyard wedding!  If you do then please check out Nour & Tariq’s Douro Valley wedding or maybe Hannah & Noam’s destination wedding in France.

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