If you’re planning your wedding at Quinta do Pé da Serra in 2026 or at another venue in Portugal and you’re looking for a natural approach focused on people rather than just aesthetics, get in touch. I’d love to hear your story.
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There are weddings that stay in your memory because of the setting. Others because of the people. Margarida and João’s wedding stayed with me for both reasons.
The wedding at Quinta do Pé da Serra took place at the end of 2020, during a period still marked by the uncertainty of the pandemic. Planning a wedding at that time required flexibility, courage and a certain faith that everything would work out. They had postponed their original date during the lockdown, but eventually decided they did not want to wait any longer.
And I’m glad they didn’t.
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Margarida and João’s Wedding at Quinta do Pé da Serra
They contacted me shortly after the first wave. The new date would still be that same year — something that, at the time, felt almost bold.
Before the big day, we met in Belém for a photo session. It was an easygoing way to get to know each other better, without pressure. For me, these sessions help a lot: they build trust and make everything flow naturally on the wedding day.
When the day arrived, the rain made an appearance. The first autumn showers brought a different, more intimate atmosphere. I’ll admit, I didn’t mind. There’s something special about the soft light of cloudy days — it works beautifully for a documentary approach, where the focus is on people and emotions.
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Wedding at Quinta do Pé da Serra
The civil ceremony took place at Quinta do Pé da Serra. This venue, dating back to the late 18th century, still belongs to the same family — a detail that gives it continuity and identity.
I particularly enjoy photographing in places with history. In a wedding at Quinta do Pé da Serra, that character can be felt in the architecture, the materials and the way the spaces have been adapted over time. All of this is complemented by an open view over the sea which, on clear days, is impossible to ignore.
On this day, however, the fog decided to stay. Most of the wedding happened indoors, which ended up creating a closer, more welcoming atmosphere. In a way, it made sense with the moment the world was living through.
By late afternoon, there was an unexpected break in the weather. Just enough for guests to step outside, take a deep breath, and mingle more freely. And for us to enjoy that perfect end-of-day light — the kind that’s subtle but full of intention.
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Why have a wedding at Quinta do Pé da Serra?
A wedding at Quinta do Pé da Serra means choosing a venue with identity, history and a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.
Dating back to the late 18th century and still owned by the same family, the estate maintains an authentic character without losing the comfort needed to host a contemporary wedding. That continuity can be felt in the architectural details, the materials, and the way the spaces have been preserved over time.
One of its greatest strengths is its privileged location, with open views over the Ericeira sea. On clear days, the horizon becomes part of the wedding backdrop — whether during the ceremony, cocktail hour, or late afternoon portraits.
The versatility of the venue is another strong point. The estate allows you to host the civil ceremony, reception, and party all in the same place, with spacious outdoor areas and welcoming indoor rooms. This is particularly important for autumn or winter weddings, where a plan B isn’t just an alternative but a natural extension of the atmosphere.
For those looking to marry in a venue with history, sea views, and a reserved atmosphere, Quinta do Pé da Serra balances tradition and simplicity — two elements that work very well with a documentary photography approach.
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A look back at the pandemic
I’m writing this article now with enough distance to look at 2020 from a different perspective. At the time, there was still no vaccine and there was real concern about gatherings.
Even so, this wedding had many guests. Perhaps because it was after the summer, during a phase with fewer cases. Everyone took tests before the event and on the day itself, which brought some peace of mind.
What struck me most wasn’t the logistics or the restrictions. It was realizing how much people needed that moment. More than a party, there was a need for closeness. To look into each other’s eyes. To hug — even cautiously. To be together.
Interestingly, the fact that the wedding took place mostly indoors contributed to that sense of warmth and human connection. It was, without a doubt, one of the most intense weddings I experienced during that period.
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If you enjoyed this story about the wedding at Quinta do Pé da Serra, I would be delighted to read your comment. You can also subscribe to the newsletter to receive the latest blog posts and news about photography sessions (one email per month).
If you enjoyed my photographic style, you might be interested in learning more about documentary wedding photography — unpretentious and authentic, without poses or forced moments. I’ll leave here an opinion article I wrote: “The three styles of wedding photography to take into consideration when choosing your wedding photographer.”
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Suppliers
Reception venue: Quinta do Pé da Serra
Wedding Sketcher: The Wedding Sketchers
Bride’s dress: Pronovias
