Your Love Story....Tell us where it all began.....
We met in Cambridge Massachusetts in 2016 (around Valentine's Day). Ellie was on a first date that wasn't going well. And Shyaan's friend was secretly trying to set up Shyaan with Ellie's first date. Shyaan had no idea and preferred talking to Ellie. They started dating a few months later.
When and where did you get engaged?
With you both! Praia da Ursa in Sintra Portugal on September 13, 2019. Ellie was very confused why Shyaan was dragging her down a perilous cliff for a couple's photography session. She was very very surprised.
Tell us why you chose Portugal for your wedding?
Shyaan's parents live part-time in Lisbon. It was an accessible location for both our families to come together, since Ellie's family and friends are based out of New York and Shyaan's family and friends are from Pakistan, Singapore, and the U.K.
Describe your wedding in 3 words!
Fun, relaxed, warm
What has been your biggest challenge with planning a destination wedding in Portugal?
The delays because of the covid were exceptionally challenging. The fear our guests will get covid from our wedding. Planning from far away.
What are you most excited about for the big day?
Being able to have all our closest family and friends gathered in one place, considering how challenging covid has been, causing loss and illness. We are very grateful people are travelling to celebrate with us. Shyaan is excited to eat the veal.
Share your Top Tips for planning a destination wedding in Portugal
If you are planning from abroad, hiring a wedding planner is so helpful. Instagram has also helped us find potential vendors.
Share your ultimate desert island play list!! (feel free to add a Spotify playlist)
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4ViI50hq0ZGx0mlQ427RSo?si=85bd0950ff574644
Venue: Casa Dos Penedos, Sintra
Suppliers:
Wedding Planner - Lucyana Sposito - @lsweddingplannerportugal
Venue & Catering - Casa Dos Penedos & Pena Longa - @penhalongacatering
Flowers & Lights - Decorelle - @decorelle.eu
Musician (Ceremony/Cocktail Hour) - RACOR - @raphaelracor
DJ & Sounds - Deluxe Eventos - @animacao_deluxeeventos
Tile Cookies - Sofia Casks & Cookies - @sofia_cakesandcookies
Seating & Bar Signs - @moniquepaperart