When love blossoms across borders and time, it creates a story as enchanting as Steven and Ashley’s. Growing up just an hour apart in New York, their paths first crossed in Portugal. From a serendipitous meeting at a Portuguese party to an unforgettable proposal overlooking Central Park, their journey is a testament to fate and enduring love.
The talented Momento Cativo to capture their cherished moment, the magic they experienced throughout their wedding day, and the heartfelt details. Hereby, the unforgettable memories that made their wedding in Portugal a dream come true...
How did you two meet and how did the proposal happen? Tell us your love story!
We both grew up in New York, but every summer, in August, we used to go to Portugal, as our parents were from neighboring villages in Portugal. That’s where we first met each other: at a Festa in Vilarelho da Raia. These were the only occasions we used to see each other, until one day we randomly ran into each other in New York.
Steven had asked me out on a date in the fall, and we have been together ever since. One day, he tricked me into thinking we were going to some event at New York Athletic Club, but instead we went to the main room. Then, he brought me to a terrace that overlooked Central Park and proposed there.
What inspired you to choose Portugal as the destination for your wedding celebration?
We thought how amazing it would be to get married in the country where we first met.
Why did you decide on Palácio do Freixo as your wedding venue? Was there something specific that drew you to this beautiful palace?
We wanted to find a venue in the north, where our families are from, a place that embodied Portugal and its history. When we went to Palácio do Freixo it felt like we were taken back to another time. Once we saw the courtyard we fell in love with it and booked it later that day.
We wanted to find a venue in the north, where our families are from, a place that embodied Portugal and its history. When we went to Palácio do Freixo it felt like we were taken back to another time. Once we saw the courtyard we fell in love with it and booked it later that day.
Did you have help with planning and organizing the wedding? If so, who supported you along the way?
Yes, we worked with so many wonderful vendors. Cracha was our wedding planner, I don’t know what we would have done without Isabel. They were such a great team bringing our vision to life.
How did you discover Momento Cativo, and what made you decide they were the right photographers for your wedding?
Cracha had recommended Momento Cativo when discussing the look and feel of the wedding. I had actually saved their images on Instagram. Then, it was love at first sight.
Could you describe your experience working with Momento Cativo? What moments did they capture that stood out for you?
Momento Cativo was just amazing. We already knew they were talented when we saw their portfolio, but once we met Ivo, it was like talking to an old friend. We immediately had that trust with him, we discussed how we wanted to be able to feel that day when looking at the images and they did just that. The candids were incredible, small details, and laughs were all captured.
How did the wedding day unfold? Were there any memorable or unexpected moments that you’ll cherish forever?
It was an absolutely beautiful day in Porto, despite it being a bit overcast and foggy in the morning. There were so many special moments throughout the whole weekend, but a few that come to mind are when I read Ashley’s vows before to the ceremony when I first saw my gorgeous wife walking down the aisle of the illustrious Torre dos Clérigos, our boat ride on the Douro River to the reception which granted us a moment of solace and allowed us to reflect on our beautiful ceremony. As well as the cake-cutting ceremony which was capped off by an amazing firework display as we were surrounded by our closest friends and family.
Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?
No, it was honestly such an amazing and fun day. We wish we could do it all over again.
Ashley and Steve's wedding was a heartfelt celebration that perfectly blended their love story with their shared Portuguese heritage.
Their journey serves as a beautiful reminder that love knows no boundaries and that the most magical moments are those rooted in connection and authenticity.
Wedding Vendors:
Photographer: Momento Cativo | Wedding Planner: Crachá - Weddings & Events | Videographer: Colibri Films | Makeup & Hair: Jenny Makeup Land | Stationary: White Design Creative Studio. Venue: Palácio Do Freixo | Boat: Marma Slow | Band: Dynasty Showband | Lights & Sound: Jukebox | Cocktails: Mr&Ms Bartender | Cake designer: Bake Modern Cake | Live music: Miguel Abrunhosa | Production Support: RD Events & Prive Events. Dress: KYHA. Jewelery: Verstolo
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