Some love stories take their time unfolding, growing richer with every passing year, and Alan and Marilyn’s journey is a beautiful testament to this. After 33 years of love, laughter, and a lifetime of memories, they finally stood before their loved ones on a breathtaking March afternoon to say, “I do.” And to make the day even more special, it also happened to be Alan’s 70th birthday—talk about a double celebration!
A Ceremony Filled with Laughter & Love
The Algarve coastline set the stage for Alan and Marilyn’s special day, though the sun played a game of hide-and-seek behind the clouds. A strong breeze swept across the Bold Octopus, adding a touch of drama to the already breathtaking setting. Despite the wind, the warmth of love and excitement filled the air as 120 guests from all over gathered, eagerly awaiting the moment Alan and Marilyn would begin this new chapter together. As the ceremony commenced, I welcomed everyone, setting the tone for an intimate and heartfelt occasion.
The couple had chosen an unplugged ceremony, allowing their friends and family to be fully present, soaking in every joyful moment with their hearts rather than their phone screens.
One of the most touching moments of the day was the giving away of the bride. Rather than a traditional handover, Alan and Marilyn’s sons—Dan, Tom, Jamie, and Nathan—offered their blessing for their parents’ union. Their love and support spoke volumes, symbolising the strength and unity of this remarkable family.
Before the ceremony continued, I invited Alan and Marilyn to turn and take in the faces of their loved ones, a rare and special moment when all the people who mattered most to them were gathered in one place. Laughter, smiles, and even a few happy tears filled the air as they took it all in.
A Love Story 33 Years in the Making
Alan and Marilyn’s story began in Belgium in 1991 when mutual friends introduced them. Their connection was instant, leading to a first date over Italian food and a movie. By the following year, Alan had moved in with Marilyn and her two sons, and in the years that followed, they built a beautiful life together, welcoming their sons Jamie and Nathan.
Life wasn’t always easy—balancing family and running a business required patience, teamwork, and resilience. But their unwavering love and shared laughter carried them through. Then, in March 2024, during a safari and golf trip in South Africa, Alan made a heartfelt decision. On his 70th birthday, surrounded by friends, he surprised everyone by dropping to one knee and proposing to Marilyn. The answer was a resounding yes!
The Exchange of Vows
As Alan and Marilyn stood hand in hand, they made promises to each other that had been over three decades in the making. Marilyn, with her great sense of humour, had written her vows years ago. When it came time to read them, she pulled out a piece of paper, blew off the dust, and made us all laugh. It was such a lighthearted and memorable moment that perfectly captured the fun-loving spirit of their relationship. The ceremony was filled with heartfelt moments, from the loving gazes they exchanged to the laughter that filled the air. You can check out the moment in the video below—it truly was a highlight of the day!
A Lighthearted Ring Exchange Moment
Their granddaughters, Lily and Eva, proudly stepped forward as ring bearers, presenting the wedding bands—symbols of love that, like Alan and Marilyn’s relationship, had been carefully crafted over time.
As Alan began to say his words during the ring exchange, he looked at me instead of Marilyn. With a smile, I gently reminded him to turn to his beautiful bride, joking that I was already married. We all burst into laughter, and so did everyone else, making the moment even more special and memorable.
Sealing It with a Kiss
With vows exchanged and rings placed on fingers, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived. “I now pronounce you husband and wife!” The couple shared their first kiss as newlyweds, met with thunderous applause, joyful cheers, and an overwhelming sense of love that filled the air.
A Celebration to Remember
The festivities continued into the evening, with guests raising a glass to toast not only a wedding but also Alan’s milestone birthday. Laughter, music, and joyful celebration carried on under the Algarvian sky, a fitting tribute to a couple who had built a life filled with love, adventure, and unwavering devotion.
Alan and Marilyn’s wedding was more than just a ceremony—it was a celebration of a love story that had stood the test of time. And as they danced beneath the stars, surrounded by those who mattered most, one thing was clear: their greatest adventure was still ahead.
A Big Thank You to the Incredible Wedding Suppliers
A heartfelt thank you to the amazing team who helped bring Alan and Marilyn’s special day to life!
📸 Photographer: From Branquinho Photographer captured every beautiful moment with skill and artistry.
🏡 Venue: The stunning The Bold Octopus in Quinta da Lago provided the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable celebration.
📸 My Photos & The Couples Video: A huge thank you to James from Pulse Entertainment for capturing stunning photos and recording the ceremony for Alan and Marilyn to cherish forever. Here’s a great little highlights video to relive the special moments!
It was a joy to be part of such a wonderful day, surrounded by love, laughter, and incredible people!
Relive the magic of Alan and Marilyn’s unforgettable wedding day through this highlights video! From heartfelt vows to laughter-filled moments, this video beautifully captures the essence of their special day at Bold Octopus. Watch as love and joy filled the air, and witness the beginning of their incredible journey together.
If you’re looking for a personalised, heartfelt, and unforgettable wedding ceremony, I would love to be part of your special day! Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, I’ll work with you to create a ceremony that truly reflects your unique love story and the bond you share. Reach out today to start planning the ceremony of your dreams!