There are weddings, and then there are weddings. The kind that linger in your heart long after the day ends, reminding you why you fell in love with capturing love stories in the first place. Nabeela and Christian’s breathtaking destination wedding in Sintra was one of those moments. Held at the iconic Casa dos Penedos, their day was not only a feast for the eyes but also for the soul — a perfect blend of elegance, emotion, and genuine connection that made every moment extraordinary.
A journey that began with vows on a beach
My journey with Nabeela and Christian began long before their wedding day. We first met during their engagement photoshoot, where they exchanged vows on a private Portuguese beach. The sun was setting, Sintra’s iconic fog was rolling in, and their love was palpable. It was one of those moments where time seemed to stand still. From the moment I met them during their engagement photoshoot, I knew they were special. As me and Nabeela bonded over our shared love for Taylor Swift (yes, we’re both huge Swifties!), I could see myself being friends with Nabeela beyond the wedding day. It’s such a joy to work with couples who feel like kind spirits — it makes creating art together even more rewarding.
Their decision to take this step before the big day set the tone for everything that followed. From that emotional afternoon, I knew their wedding was going to be something extraordinary — and it was.
A calm and private start to the day
The day began at the elegant Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel & Spa, where Nabeela prepared for the celebration alongside her mother and sister, while Christian got ready with his father and groomsmen. The atmosphere was serene, intimate, and filled with quiet anticipation. These private moments, away from the hustle and bustle, allowed them to fully savour the beginning of her special day.
After getting ready, Nabeela shared a series of emotional first-look moments that made the day even more meaningful. Her bridesmaids were the first to see her in her stunning Jenny Yoo gown, and their reactions were priceless.
Then came a deeply moving first look with her father, a moment so filled with tears and love that it left everyone in the room (myself included) holding back emotion. Finally, Nabeela met Christian for their first look, a moment of pure joy and tenderness that reflected the deep bond they share. Christian looked dashing in his Brooks Brothers suit, and together, they were the epitome of timeless elegance.
A destination wedding in Sintra to remember
The ceremony and reception took place at the iconic Casa dos Penedos, a venue that perfectly embodies the charm and romance of Sintra. With lush landscapes and misty vistas as the backdrop, every detail came together to create a dreamlike atmosphere.
The talented team at Escape Eventos brought the couple’s vision to life, from the romantic floral arrangements to the elegant décor, they made sure the venue was a reflection of Nabeela and Christian’s love story.
A celebration to remember
From the heartfelt speeches that had everyone (myself included) in tears to the lively beats spun by D’Johnz, every moment was unforgettable. Make My Day captured it all on video, ensuring this love story will live on forever. And the delicious catering by Penha Longa was the cherry on top of an already perfect day.
The magic of connection
What made this wedding truly unforgettable wasn’t just the beautiful setting or the impeccable planning; it was the bond we shared. Nabeela and Christian trusted me completely, giving us time throughout the day to create images that weren’t just photos—they were art.
As a candid wedding photographer, I thrive on these connections. When a couple lets their guard down, magic happens. Nabeela’s sweetness, Christian’s quiet strength, and their shared joy made every shot a masterpiece. It’s such a joy to work with couples who trust you, it makes creating art together even more rewarding.
One detail I’ll never forget is one of the answers on the form I ask my couples to fill out before their wedding day. When Nabeela and Christian shared that they wanted a photo with me, I was deeply touched. In all my years of photographing weddings, no one had ever asked for that. It was a beautiful reminder of the trust and connection we had built. From the quiet moments to the vibrant celebrations, every image tells a story of their love and joy.
Bittersweet goodbyes
Delivering their wedding gallery was bittersweet. While I was thrilled to provide them with the images that captured their day, it was hard to say goodbye to such an amazing couple. Nabeela and Christian, your love story and the journey we shared will always hold a special place in my heart.
The vendors who made the magic happen
Every detail of this destination wedding in Sintra was crafted by an incredible team of vendors:
Getting Ready Location: Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel & Spa
Wedding Planner & Decor: Escape Eventos
Photography: Rita Plácido Photography
Video: Make My Day
Florals: Escape Eventos
Wedding Dress: Jenny Yoo
Groom’s Attire: Brooks Brothers
Venue: Casa dos Penedos
Catering: Penha Longa
DJ: D’Johnz
Why Sintra is the perfect destination for weddings
Sintra’s timeless beauty, lush landscapes, and historic venues make it an unbeatable location for couples dreaming of a romantic destination wedding. Whether it’s the misty charm of the hills or the grandeur of venues like Casa dos Penedos, Sintra offers an unmatched atmosphere for saying “I do.” Sintra is the ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic, picturesque, and accessible location for their wedding. Nestled just a short drive from Lisbon and its international airport, Sintra offers the perfect balance between convenience and tranquility. Its proximity to the bustling city means guests can easily travel in, while its serene atmosphere provides an escape into nature and history.
For those looking to extend the celebration, Sintra is also close to the charming coastal town of Cascais, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere. The area is home to a range of luxurious accommodations, such as Grande Real Villa Itália Hotel & Spa, ensuring both couples and guests can relax in style. With its unique combination of natural beauty, rich heritage, and modern amenities, Sintra truly offers everything needed for an unforgettable destination wedding.
If you’re planning your own destination wedding in Sintra, Cascais, or elsewhere, let’s create something unforgettable.
Reach out here to start your journey!
