On the week that there was a nationwide blackout in Portugal (and Spain), I decided to pay attention only to the sounds around me. I live next to a park, surrounded by trees, so the sound of passing cars and the city's noises blend softly with the chirping of the local birds. As I waited the whole day without electricity, communications (and, in my case, even running water), surrounded by this ever present blend, the idea of talking to you about elopements came to mind.
The Origin
Many people don’t know what an elopement is. Its origin dates back to the Anglo-Saxon era in the 18th and 19th centuries and the English Marriage Act of 1753, which required parental consent for marriages involving minors under 21. Many young couples, without such approval (for social, religious, or economic reasons, such as class differences), had no option but to flee to the Scottish border to marry in secret.
Today, of course, the concept of an elopement no longer implies secrecy. Still, intimacy and the spirit of adventure are essential.
The Modern Elopement
Nowadays, elopements are intimate weddings — usually without guests — held in unconventional locations such as mountains, beaches, or special destinations. The focus is the couple, the shared experience, and the moment lived. It’s about making the experience itself, the adventure, the journey as intimate as possible.
Who is an Elopement For?
You’ve dreamt of getting married but are hesitant about a traditional wedding with 100+ guests, large budgets, and the idea alone of a whole day like that can be exhausting. Elopements are perfect for couples who prefer more intimate setups that allow them to live the moment as a duo, call it a type of celebration for introverted couples. Then, there’s also couples with complex family dynamics; or couples who value uniquely setup, more intimate, and authentic experiences - a sense of outlandish. And, last but not least, those with an adventurous spirit.
Elopement and Portugal
An elopement in Portugal could look like this: stay at amazing places like Oporto Lemon Farm, Peso Village, Pedras Salgadas Spa & Nature Park, or Secret do Gerês — for a more intimate option. (Check the page of The Hotel Seekers to discover other hidden gems like these).
Wake up surrounded by nature, with a calm getting-ready moment, just with the photography/video team and the hair and makeup team. After a good breakfast — you drink your café and everything begins.
The ceremony takes place in a dream-like setting: on a mountain, between the granite rocks — with the couple at the center of it all.
Afterwards, enjoy a very relaxed brunch or lunch in the area, taking in the view and the tranquility of being in a more remote location; or even a picnic in the middle of a beautiful forest.
At the end of the day, return to the accommodation for the first dance at sunset, by the pool, with a view of the mountains.
As night falls, read the letters with family vows by the fireplace and enjoy the first dinner as a couple. By the end of the evening, it’s stargazing time — and make the most of the rest of your stay at the location, which doubles as the honeymoon.
An unique experience, one to remember forever — a full and unforgettable day where the investment in a traditional venue is replaced by incredible locations and intimate moments for two.
The Photography and Video Team for Elopements
I’m biased, of course, but I believe a great photography and video team is essential for any type of wedding. They eternalize: the vows, the tears that fell, the hugs, the smiles, the love.
In an elopement, this documentation is even more special: It allows you to share, pristinely, the story of your wedding day with family and friends, and also to re-live such an intimate and unique day.
Moreover, photographers and videographers who specialize in elopements are people who love to travel, discover hidden places and beautiful landscapes; who have experienced sunrises and sunsets in mountains and remote locations. And, because of that, we can help you organize your dream elopement by sharing these special places we've discovered.
We share with you our best-kept secrets: the best spots, experiences, and adventures. Because, more than just documenting your day, we want to help make it an unforgettable adventure.
