There is a side of Portugal that feels untouched by time—endless rolling hills, golden light, and a silence that is pure luxury. This is the Alentejo. And in the heart of this region lies Herdade Malhadinha Nova, a Relais & Châteaux estate that redefines the concept of a rural destination wedding.
For Hans and Irene, this private vineyard offered the perfect escape. Far from the busy coast, they hosted a three-day celebration that embraced the "slow living" philosophy, captured by us with a focus on genuine connection and editorial beauty.
The Venue: Why Choose Herdade Malhadinha Nova?
For couples seeking an intimate yet high-end experience, Malhadinha Nova is a hidden gem. It blends the rustic charm of a working farm with the world-class service of a luxury hotel.
Exclusive Privacy: With accommodations for up to 60 guests in stylish villas and suites, the estate becomes your private village for the weekend.
Farm-to-Table Dining: The culinary experience here is exceptional. Using organic produce from the estate, the chefs created a custom menu that celebrated the flavors of Alentejo, perfect for the "foodie" couple.
The Landscape: Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, the scenery provides a soft, painterly backdrop for wedding portraits, especially during the famous Alentejo golden hour.
A 3-Day Celebration: From Welcome Party to Brunch
A destination wedding is about spending quality time with your favorite people. Hans and Irene designed a weekend that flowed effortlessly:
The Welcome: A relaxed evening of local wine and dancing under the stars, allowing guests to settle in and mingle.
The Wedding Day: A ceremony filled with emotion, set against the vast horizon of the plains. Videographer Joao Rosa Visuals and I worked side-by-side to capture the joy, the tears, and the unscripted moments of love.
The Poolside Brunch: The perfect finale, a lazy morning by the pool, sharing stories of the night before.
Editorial Photography in the Alentejo Light
As a luxury wedding photographer in Europe, I am constantly chasing light. The light in Alentejo is unique—warm, dusty, and incredibly flattering. For the portraits, we took a walk through the vineyards and the stables. My goal was to capture the couple’s connection in a way that felt natural and grounded in the landscape. Even without Avieta by my side (who was recovering from surgery), I was supported by my talented colleague Rui Vaz Franco, ensuring every angle was covered with our signature editorial eye.
Planning Your Destination Wedding in Portugal?
Whether you dream of a vineyard in Alentejo or a palace in Sintra, Portugal offers a diverse range of luxury venues. I specialize in capturing legacy celebrations for couples who value art, food, and experience. Let’s discuss how we can tell your story under the Portuguese sun.
Location: Herdade Malhadinha Nova
Photography: Youri Claessens & Rui Vaz Franco
Videographer: Joao Rosa Visuals
MUA: The Set by Niki
Weddingplanner: Rixt
- the bride
Celebrations, dream destinations, and unique explorations of each couple's connection with images that preserve legacy and memory.
I’d love to hear more about your upcoming adventure. Let's create something beautiful together.
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