Yesterday, I had the absolute honour of officiating the beautiful wedding of David and Sofia at the stunning Lady of the Rock. The setting was breathtaking, and the love between the couple was palpable. Here’s a glimpse into their magical day.

Sofia and David’s love story began in high school, They grew from teenagers into adulthood together, facing life’s challenges side by side. A significant moment was their first holiday alone in Egypt, where they discovered the depth of their love amidst the vibrant chaos. As their relationship matured, David’s clumsy attempts to conceal his proposal plans only fuelled Sofia’s suspicions. Despite this, when David finally proposed on the Mediterranean coast, Sofia joyfully said yes.

David found solace in Sofia’s courage and quirky nature, while Sofia cherished David’s chill yet caring vibe. Together, they moved to Australia, leaving behind everything familiar to pursue their dreams hand in hand. Two years ago, they welcomed Loki, their beloved Labrador, into their lives. A touching photo of Loki was even displayed during the ceremony, highlighting the joy this furry family member brought into their lives.

A Warm Welcome

As guests gathered, I warmly welcomed everyone, introducing myself as Kellie Hardie, a Certified Celebrant and Ordained Minister for the Algarve Region of Portugal. To honour David and Sofia’s wishes for an unplugged ceremony, I kindly requested that everyone turn off their phones and fully immerse themselves in the moment. This request was made in both English and Portuguese to accommodate Sofia’s Portuguese family.

Giving Away the Bride

The ceremony began with a touching moment as Sofia’s Uncle Jose-Maria, representing her late father, Luis, gave his blessing to the union. It was a heartfelt nod to the importance of family and the legacy of loved ones who couldn’t be with us.

The Ceremony

With the beautiful Algarve as their backdrop, David and Sofia stood before their loved ones and exchanged heartfelt vows they had written themselves. They spoke of their journey, their shared dreams, and their unwavering love for each other. The exchange of rings, brought forward by their friends Michael and Christian, symbolised the eternal bond they share.

Declaration of Marriage

In a moment filled with joy and emotion, I had the privilege of officially declaring David and Sofia as husband and wife. Their first kiss as a married couple was met with cheers and applause from their family and friends.

Signing the Register

As the newlyweds signed the Wedding Certificate & Register, guests took a moment to relax and soak in the beautiful atmosphere. Jo, David’s mom, and Candida da Silva, Sofia’s godmother, joined us as witnesses to this special moment.

The Terracotta Bridesmaids

David and Sofia’s wedding was graced by the presence of five stunning bridesmaids, all dressed in elegant terracotta. Their vibrant dresses added a beautiful pop of color to the ceremony, perfectly complementing the natural beauty of the Algarve setting.

Meeting these lovely bridesmaids the day before at the rehearsal was an absolute delight. It was a fantastic opportunity to break the ice and get to know each other. By the time the wedding day arrived, it felt like we were old friends. Their warmth and camaraderie were infectious, adding to the joyous atmosphere of the day.

These bridesmaids not only looked stunning but also played an integral role in making the day special for David and Sofia. Their support, smiles, and genuine happiness for the couple were evident throughout the ceremony, making it a truly memorable occasion for everyone involved.

Conclusion of the Day

David and Sofia’s wedding at Lady of the Rock was a beautiful celebration of love and commitment.

The scenic Algarve location, symbolising Sofia’s heritage and David’s embrace of her roots, made the ceremony even more meaningful. The day was filled with joy, laughter, tears and unforgettable moments.

Wedding Planners: Algarve Dream Weddings.

Ceremony Music: DJ Pedro Mangas