Portuguese wedding traditions to immerse in the culture!

Immerse in the rich Portuguese culture and traditions for a unique destination wedding!

Dreaming of a destination wedding that is the idyllic combo of romance, breathtaking landscapes, and a deep sense of cultural immersion? Portugal is hands-down the perfect choice. 

Portugal is known for not only offering golden beaches, historic towns, and mouth-watering cuisine but also a rich array of traditions that reflect the uniqueness of our country. By bringing some of its traditions to their destination wedding in Portugal, couples from all over the world can add a cultural twist to their celebration and make it even more special and unique. 

Ricardo Meira
Ricardo Meira

Incorporate the "saudade" theme 

saudade
/saʊˈdɑːdə/
noun
The Portuguese concept of "Saudade" is rather unique, as there is no literal translation to other languages. However, it stands for the deep emotional state of nostalgic longing, so it is a poetic and romantic theme for a wedding. 
If you want to include the concept in your destination wedding in Portugal, you can incorporate it in your vows, speeches, or invitations to highlight the depth of love and commitment that binds both of you. Highly related to "Saudade" is fado - the most famous Portuguese musical genre -, known for encapsulating the spirit of saudades and being simultaneously romantic and melancholic. Have you ever thought of having a live fado performance during your reception?
Moisés Soares
Moisés Soares

Feast like royalty 

Food is definitely at the heart of the Portuguese culture, and a wedding in Portugal is no exception... On the contrary!

Here, we have pretty delicious options you can treat your guests with and offer them memories they can savor forever. You can think of Bacalhau à Abrás (a codfish dish), leitão assado (roast suckling pig), Ameijoas à Bulhão Pato (clams with lemon sauce) as a starter and the cherry on top of the cake, the one and only: pastéis de nata (custard tarts). These creamy pastries are a must-have at your wedding dessert table, offering your guests a true taste of Portugal. 

But, depending on the region where you are getting married, you will definitely find some regional and traditional specialties that we are sure you and your guests will become pure fans of. 

Manteigaria
Manteigaria

Get married in magical vineyards or historic palaces

Nestled in the rolling hills and valleys of Portugal, vineyards are also in the Portuguese DNA, offering an enchanting and rustic atmosphere for a truly unique wedding. Surrounded by lush vines and sweeping views, these venues provide an idyllic setting for a romantic outdoor ceremony and celebration, whereas meeting our traditions. 

To complement the whole ambiance, many vineyards offer their very own wine, making your wedding an unforgettable sensory experience. 

Quinta de Santo Antonio, Country House & Villas
Quinta de Santo Antonio, Country House & Villas

On the other hand, Portugal is also house to many historic towns, castles, and palaces. Getting married in such places is also part of our culture and tradition, especially for couples seeking a regal and elegante wedding venue to tie the know. 

These venues showcase the country's rich architectural heritage and offer an air of sophistication. You ready to live your own fairytale? 

Pousada Palácio de Estoi - Small Luxury Hotel
Pousada Palácio de Estoi - Small Luxury Hotel

Capture the essence of Portugal in your decor

Portugal is wealthy when it comes to traditions and culture, and we have some elements that scream our pure essence. 

To immerse your guests in the Portuguese beauty you can incorporate elements of the local aesthetic into your wedding decor, such as azulejo-patterned table settings, bouquets featuring native blooms like lavender and rosemary, or even a color scheme inspired by the golden hues of Lisbon’s rooftops and the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean. 

Ricardo Meira
Ricardo Meira

Honk on the way 

Most Portuguese traditional wedding ceremonies are held in churches, which means the reception - called Copo d'Água - is thrown in a different venue. 

And, the journey from the church to the reception location is also a celebration for us, Portuguese people. Usually, the bride and the groom are the last ones to leave the church. Once they step outside, they find their beloved guests who are ready to give them a shower of rice, rose petals, confetti, or soap bubbles. As the party continues, the guests follow their car, honking all the way to the wedding reception. 

Moisés Soares
Moisés Soares

Contacte com as empresas mencionadas neste artigo

Pousada Palácio de Estoi - Small Luxury Hotel Palácios casamentos e Locais históricos
Ricardo Meira Fotógrafos e vídeo

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