Linita & Ross

When I first received an email from Linita who lives in London asking me to shoot her wedding in Madeira, my first feeling was excitement, and then the next was, does she know I live in Cape Town? Fortunately it didn’t matter that we lived on 2 different continents because its just an Emirates flight or 2 away 🙂

Destination weddings are always such a privilege to do. Thanks Linita and Ross for having me capture your wedding. You guys certainly had a very memorable day. Linita looked beautiful and the ceremony at the church in Santana was spectacular. There were definitely a few highlights for me on the day.

I loved seeing Ross’s face when he was surprised with a traditional basket sled ride to the church. I was not sure if it was the speed he was nervous about or getting to the church on time.

The church was surrounded by the people of the village, with the welcome that they received it looked like a royal wedding.The churches in Madeira are so special and the church in Santana was magnificent.

Linita’s long veil suited the church perfectly. Linita and Ross had decided they wanted a documentary styled wedding. Not many posed photos but their main aspect was capturing the feel of the day. So after a few photos at Santa Catarina Gardens we went to the VidaMar Hotel in Funchal. The hotel is right on the waters edge, and guests had an amazing time admiring the views, chatting and enjoying their drinks and canapes.

This was a party group and the reception was just that. Madeira weddings do not finish early. Sunsets only after 9pm, then a delicious 7 course meal is served. They had traditional Madeiran dancers to entertain the guests,and the dance floor never stopped from there right untill 3am when the whole retinue jumped into the pool, clothes and all.

Most the guests flew in from London to celebrate with Linita and Ross and I am sure it was a day they will all cherish. I hope these photos keep the feelings and memories alive.

Venue: Vidamar Hotel, Funchal

Church: Santana Mother church

Dress: Suzanne Neville Bridal

Shoes: Christian Louboutin

Videographer : A Dream Story