Oh, what a whirlwind of a wedding! Imagine this: a Ukrainian-Portuguese couple tying the knot in the breathtaking Quinta de Sao Thiago in Sintra, a stunning 16th-century gem that’s basically a fairytale castle. Seriously, it’s UNESCO heritage.

It was one of those perfect Sunday afternoons at the end of May, the kind where even the sun is showing off. With views of the Atlantic Ocean from the pool, you’d swear the place was designed specifically for Instagram envy. I mean, who wouldn’t want to say, “Oh, this? Just my wedding venue with a killer sunset backdrop”?

The vibe of the day was super chill—everyone was just soaking it in, from the couple to the guests, who looked like they were enjoying a lovely day at the beach rather than a formal wedding. This relaxed energy made for some truly spontaneous and fun photos. I could almost hear the laughter echoing off the ancient stone walls!

But here’s the kicker: as I was snapping away, I couldn’t help but think, “If only I had a few more hours!” The property is bursting with cool spots that were practically begging for a photoshoot. I mean, I wanted to dive into that picturesque pool, take a twirl in the gardens, and perhaps set up an impromptu fashion shoot against those historic arches. Alas, time waits for no photographer!

Despite that, the shots turned out amazing—so much personality and joy. It was a day full of love, laughter, and a few happy tears. I left feeling like I’d captured a slice of magic, even if I didn’t get to explore every nook and cranny of that stunning venue. Here’s hoping for a reunion party so I can get a do-over and snap away at all those hidden gems!

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