Breaking the Routine: A Dreamy and Surprising Day at Quinta das Rosas Wedding
Documentary Wedding Photography & Video
The day began in one of the most stunning bridal suites I’ve had the pleasure of shooting. At Quinta das Rosas, the architecture and nature are inseparable—lush greenery creeps right up the walls, creating a “secret garden” feel even indoors.
Since the groom was camera-shy and opted out of preparation photos, my full focus was on the bride. I utilized the room’s strategic mirrors and natural light to capture the delicate moments of hair and makeup. It was a serene, dreamy start to a day that would eventually turn into a rollercoaster.
Photographer’s Insight: When you haven’t met a couple before the wedding day, you have to read the room quickly. I focused on the textures—the colorful bouquet against the green walls—to build a visual story that felt as organic as the venue itself.
Why Choose Quinta das Rosas for Your Wedding?
Located near the charming village of Merceana, this venue is perfect for couples who want a blend of rustic authenticity and surprising elegance:
The “Green” Aesthetic: The estate is famous for its ivy-covered walls and lush gardens, providing a natural, “living” backdrop for every photo.
Village Charm: Its proximity to the iconic church in Merceana allows for a traditional village wedding feel followed by a private estate reception.
Versatile Party Spaces: As we saw with the “Crazy Day” team, the venue can handle high-energy, unconventional entertainment that transforms the atmosphere instantly.
Relief at the Altar: The Merceana Ceremony
The ceremony took place in the small but iconic church in the Galician village of Merceana. This was the first time I actually saw the bride and groom together. There is a specific kind of magic in capturing that first look at the altar—the visible relief and joy on their faces as they finally held hands was a testament to their connection.
Loosening Up: The Couple Session
Back at the estate, after a lively cocktail hour, we stole away for a session with just the two of them. For a couple that was initially shy, they did incredibly well. It was about creating a space where they could finally breathe and enjoy being “just married” before the madness of the party began.
The "Crazy Day" Finale
If you’ve never seen a first dance orchestrated by the “Crazy Day” team, you’re in for a treat. I won’t spoil the surprise here—you’ll have to scroll to the top of the gallery to see the images—but it was something totally out of the ordinary. It transformed the traditional first dance into a theatrical, high-energy moment that set the tone for the rest of the night.
FAQ: Planning Your Quinta das Rosas Wedding
Absolutely. As seen with this couple, a professional photographer can adapt on the fly. I focus on candid, “Make Me Feel” moments rather than stiff posing. My goal is to make you comfortable in the moment so your genuine connection shines through, even if we’ve just met!
The church is a local icon and very close to the Quinta. It’s a short, scenic drive that gives your guests a taste of the traditional Galician village atmosphere before they head to the private, lush grounds of the estate for the reception.
It has to be the greenery. The way the plants interact with the architecture provides a unique “earthy” texture to your photos. Whether you are getting ready in the rooms or having your couple session in the gardens, the venue provides a naturally beautiful backdrop that requires very little extra decor.
If you’re planning a Quinta das Rosas Wedding in Merceana, or elsewhere in Portugal and want photography and videography that feels calm, honest, and deeply human, you’re in the right place.
