A Legacy of Love: The Multi-Generational Wedding at Herdade do Monte Novo
The Soul of the Ribatejo Countryside
There is a specific kind of magic found in the landscapes of the south of river Tagus in Portugal. At Herdade do Monte Novo, the air feels different—it’s a sanctuary of cork oaks and wide-open spaces just a short drive from Lisbon. For Daniela and Nuno, this wasn’t just a wedding; it was a bridge between generations, a timeless family reunion that felt as natural and grounded as the landscape itself.
Technical Insight: For this wedding, I made a conscious choice to minimize flash. By relying on the organic light filtering through the estate’s windows, I was able to capture a more nostalgic, “painterly” feel that honors the history of the house and the depth of the family connections.
Why Get Married at Herdade do Monte Novo?
For couples looking for a rustic escape south of the Tagus, this venue is a standout:
Authentic “Montado” Setting: Surrounded by cork oaks and nature, it offers a rugged, “wild” beauty that is incredibly photogenic.
Family-First Layout: The vast, open estate is perfect for a guest list that spans all ages—safe for kids to explore and comfortable for elders to relax and watch the day unfold.
The Ribatejo Light: The golden hour here is legendary. It hits the rustic textures of the herdade in a way that feels warm and deeply nostalgic.
An Emotional "I Do" Under the Blue Sky
The ceremony was a masterclass in raw emotion. Under the radiant sun of the Ribatejo, Daniela and Nuno exchanged vows while their family—from the youngest toddlers to the grandparents—witnessed the start of their new chapter. The tears were real, the smiles were contagious, and the “Make Me Feel” moments were in every corner.
The exit was a whirlwind of rice and hugs. I focused on capturing the effusion of the moment—the tight squeezes from parents and the sheer joy on the couple’s faces as they walked through a shower of grains.
There’s a profound intimacy in an outdoor ceremony when the clouds roll in. The colors become richer, and the focus tightens on the vows.
The Couple Session: Artistic Nostalgia
After the ceremony, we wandered into the estate’s natural surroundings. By sticking to my “low-flash” philosophy, we captured portraits that feel mystical and quiet. We didn’t need to over-pose; the textures of the old cork trees and the couple’s natural connection did all the work.
Time-Traveling on the Dance Floor
The party was a total shift in energy! With a playlist dominated by 80s and 90s hits, the reception felt like stepping back into a more stylish, fun-filled era. Everyone—regardless of age—hit the dance floor.
The warm, ambient lighting of the Herdade at night, combined with my documentary approach, allowed me to capture the “madness” of the dance floor in a way that feels like a cherished memory rather than a sterile record.
FAQ: Planning Your Herdade do Monte Novo Wedding
Yes! That is the beauty of the Canha/Montijo area. You get the full “countryside estate” experience without the long drive. It’s easily accessible from the capital, making it a perfect middle ground for guests traveling from different parts of the country.
Herdade do Monte Novo is very guest-friendly. The flat, open terrain makes it easy for guests with limited mobility to navigate, and the vast spaces provide plenty of safe room for children to play while remaining part of the celebration.
A “natural light” or “documentary” approach is ideal here. The textures of the Ribatejo (cork, stone, aged wood) look much richer when captured with ambient light. It preserves the mystical atmosphere that heavy flash can sometimes wash away.
If you’re planning a Herdade do Monte Novo Wedding in Pinhal Novo, or elsewhere in Portugal and want photography and videography that feels calm, honest, and deeply human, you’re in the right place.
