Some weddings feel like a love letter to life itself — and Claudia and Fabio’s wedding was exactly that. Set in the heart of Portugal, their day unfolded as a joyous, colorful, and heartfelt celebration steeped in tradition and full of personality.
The day began in true Portuguese style, with Fabio arriving at the ceremony in a charming vintage Mini 1275 GT, adorned with fresh flowers on the bonnet. Captured through the frame of a passing car, this moment summed up the vibe of the entire day — stylish, fun, and uniquely them. Onlookers outside the local café watched with smiles as he passed by, a reminder of how weddings in Portugal often spill beautifully into everyday life.
Their intimate ceremony took place at the Chapel of Nossa Senhora do Livramento, a modest yet meaningful setting that reflected the couple’s faith and family roots. After vows were exchanged, the celebrations moved to the lush, palm-lined Casa do Lago, a stunning lakeside venue in Albergaria-a-Velha.
True to Portuguese tradition, the wedding day flowed from lunch into dinner, bringing guests together for hours of connection, laughter, and unforgettable memories. But it wasn’t just about the food — this wedding was brimming with moments.
One of the most jaw-dropping scenes of the day came during their entrance as husband and wife. As Claudia and Fabio stepped into the garden, they were greeted by a fountain of colour bursting into the sky — vibrant plumes of red, orange, yellow, green, and blue framing them in a cinematic kiss. It was the kind of moment that stops time, and one I’ll never forget capturing.
The energy continued throughout the afternoon with games, dancing, and spontaneous laughter echoing through the venue. This wasn’t a day for stiff traditions or posed portraits — it was alive, fluid, and real.
As the sun dipped behind the trees, guests gathered by the water’s edge for the grand finale: the cutting of the cake on a floating platform surrounded by sparklers and fireworks. Illuminated by the light show and framed by tall palms reflecting in the still water, Claudia and Fabio shared their first slice of cake under the stars, glowing with joy.
As a photographer, my goal is always to tell a story that’s true to the couple — not forced, not staged, but authentic and emotionally charged. With Claudia and Fabio, everything just clicked. Their wedding wasn’t just beautiful — it was alive with spirit, laughter, and layers of meaning. I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of their day and to help preserve the memories they created with their closest people.
