Why did you decide to get married where you did?
We initially were planning on having a wedding with guests on Maui, but as we were planning, the cost was looking rather hefty. We both mutually came to the agreement to have an adventure elopement out of the country and out of our comfort zones. While researching places to elope, we came across a photo of a bride and groom at Monserrate Palace and our ceremony spot 'The Moon' and fell in love with the aesthetics. When we started searching for photographers/planners and came across The Lopes Photography and Fernanda Martínez Events, it just felt like the stars aligned for us!
How many guests did you have?
Zero! Absolutely no one was there besides our fabulous wedding photographers/planner! It was so romantic spending the entire day celebrating our love and commitment to one another without any distractions.
Tell us about your outfits.
We wanted to look classic and elegant with vintage Bridgerton vibes. I actually bought a dress while visiting Las Vegas (since there’s not many options on Maui), but shortly after, a Shona Joy ad appeared on my Instagram feed and I had to at least order it and try it on. I’m so thrilled it fit like a glove because it felt like an extension of me! The tie up front reminded me of my favorite one piece kinis I wear surfing; I felt like this dress was made for me (it didn’t break the bank either)!
What was the most important aspect for you, in terms of planning your wedding?
The most important aspect for us in planning our elopement was to not stress about the planning process! We constantly reminded each other that what’s meant to be will be; that no matter what, it will be stunning and perfectly us. We also wanted to live like a king and queen for the day so we made sure of that!
Were there any elements that were important for you to incorporate?
Natasha loves minimalist designs, neutral tones and vintage everything so those elements were extremely important to incorporate in our magical day.
Any tips for couples getting married, particularly during the pandemic?
Honestly, eloping was the best decision we’ve ever made. It was adventurous, romantic and came with minimal stress. Most importantly, we got to enjoy each other's presence and connect spiritually throughout the entire day. If your goal as a bride is “no stress”, I definitely recommend eloping! A crucial aspect to the perfect wedding is hiring a seamless wedding team. Be sure to research and find a planner and photographers that are extremely detail oriented, organized and communicate well.
Are there any vendors that you would like to tell us a little more about?
Being that I’m a jewelry designer, you can imagine that quality jewelry was a must have as a bride! I’m forever obsessed with gold and pearls, so I decided to go big and incorporate some of my original Nani Shells designs with solid 14K Gold and timeless South Sea and Tahitian Pearls to match my cream satin gown. The Unveiled Collection from Nani Shells Hawaii is the most boujie bridal collection I could have ever dreamt of! My vintage inspired wedding ring from Brilliant Earth is made of recycled 10K gold and “beyond conflict free diamonds” (ethical jewelry truly makes my heart happy). It was truly love at first sight!
Photographer : The Lopes Photography @thelopesphotography | Ceremony Location :"The Moon" Portugal | Reception Location : Tívoli Palácio de Seteais @tivoli_palaciodeseteais | Planning + Styling : Fernanda Martínez Events @fernandamartinezevents | Flora : Decorelle @decorelle.eu | HMUA : Mariia Sazonova @mariyasazonov_ | Catering + Beverages : Tívoli Palácio de Seteais @tivoli_palaciodeseteais | Cake : Catarina Isabel Cake Atelier @catarinaisabelcakeatelier | Stationery : Prettie Wedding Design @prettie.weddingdesign | Vow Books : Parwana Paper @parwanapaper | Dress : Shona Joy @shonajoy | Tuxedo : Bryan Michaels Italy | Engagement Ring : Brilliant Earth @brilliantearth | Wedding Rings : John C. Nordt | Shoes :Marc Fisher @marc.fisher (Natasha). + Bruno Marc @brunomarcshoes (John) | Pearl Jewelry : The Unveiled Collection from Nani Shells Hawaii @nanishellshawaii | Gold Necklace : Heirloom from John’s Great Grandmother | Beaded Clutch : Bride's Great Grandmother Goosie’s