Yesterday, I had the immense pleasure of witnessing the enchanting wedding of Jeff and Stephanie at the breathtaking Casa Monte Cristo in Lagos, Algarve. It was a day filled with love, joy, and the perfect blend of tradition and modern romance.
The Love Story
We were all captivated by the retelling of Jeff and Stephanie’s love story. It began in the digital realm of a dating app and blossomed into a real-life fairy tale. Their first date at Cafe Atlantique, their adventures in Barcelona, and the heartfelt proposal during a backyard picnic with their beloved dog, Margot, were moments that illustrated the depth of their connection and commitment to each other.
The Setting
Casa Monte Cristo, with its stunning views and serene atmosphere, provided the perfect backdrop for Jeff and Stephanie’s special day. The venue was adorned with elegant floral arrangements, creating a magical ambiance that set the tone for the celebration.
The Entrance
The bridal party made a grand entrance, with Stephanie looking absolutely radiant. Her parents, Kathleen and Robertino, stood proudly by her side. When asked if they gave their blessing for the union, their heartfelt “We do” echoed through the venue, adding a touching moment to the ceremony.
Declaration of Intent and Vows
In front of their family and friends, Jeff and Stephanie declared their intent to marry, committing to love, honour, and support each other through life’s journey. Their vows were deeply personal and heartfelt, promising to grow in love and appreciate each other every day.
Ring Exchange
The exchange of rings symbolised their unending commitment to each other. I reminded everyone that, like the rings, love comes from humble beginnings and is forged through dedication and care. Jeff and Stephanie’s promises were inscribed not just in the rings but in their hearts, serving as a reminder of the feelings they held for each other.
Declaration of Marriage
Finally, I had the joyful responsibility of declaring Jeff and Stephanie as husband and wife. Their first kiss as a married couple was met with cheers and applause, a beautiful moment captured forever in the hearts of all present.
Signing the Register
As the heartwarming ceremony came to an end, Jeff and Stephanie moved forward to formalise their union by signing the Wedding Certificate & Register. Against the scenic backdrop of Casa Monte Cristo, guests were invited to witness this pivotal moment. Serving as witnesses were Doreen Shultz, Jeff’s mother, and Kathleen Pineiro, Stephanie’s mother, symbolising the unity and support of their families. Together, they immortalised the marriage of Jeff and Stephanie in the annals of history. This poignant act emphasised the significance of community and familial bonds in their marital journey, adding an unforgettable chapter to their love story.
The Celebration
As the newlyweds were introduced as husband and wife, the celebration began. The joy and love that filled Casa Monte Cristo were palpable, making it a day that none of us will soon forget.
Conclusion
Jeff and Stephanie’s wedding was a beautiful reminder of the power of love and commitment. It was an honour to be a part of their special day, and I wish them a lifetime of happiness and adventure together. Thank you to everyone who made the journey to Portugal to celebrate with us and witness this magical union.
If you’re envisioning a wedding as heartfelt and memorable as Jeff and Stephanie’s, with a personalised ceremony that truly reflects your love story, don’t hesitate to reach out.
As a Certified Celebrant and Ordained Minister for the Algarve Region, I specialise in crafting unique and meaningful ceremonies tailored to each couple’s preferences and beliefs. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, I’m here to help you create the wedding of your dreams. Contact me today to start planning your personalised ceremony that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Special thanks to James Hardie Photography for providing the images.
Couples Photographer : Smile is the Key Photography
For those following me on Instagram and Facebook, you know I have quite a large collection of shoes and love sharing my shoes of the day!
In the midst of Jeff and Stephanie’s beautiful wedding, one detail stood out: my shoes. I chose a gorgeous pair of navy heels from Ruby Shoo for the occasion, It’s these little touches that make each wedding special, and for me, my navy heels were the ideal finishing touch to a memorable day.😉
