A Unique Wedding at a Monastery in Sintra, Portugal with Drag Queens

An Inspiring Wedding

Carter Joyce and Taylor Rains are not just a loving couple; they are also avid travelers. They met online in 2016, and since then, their adventures—from exploring Europe to visiting Christmas markets in Belgium—have brought them closer. Their engagement took place during a trip to Belgium in 2022, atop a Ferris wheel in Brussels, where Carter proposed to Taylor in a beautifully romantic moment.

Choosing the Wedding Venue

With their shared love for travel, it was only natural for them to hold their wedding in a special location. They explored numerous iconic venues worldwide, including Biltmore Estate in North Carolina and villas in Italy. However, they soon realized that a destination wedding was not just about personal charm; it was about creating unforgettable experiences for their friends and family.

"We wanted to share the best of the places we've visited, from eateries to interesting attractions. This helped us decide on an international venue," Taylor shared. They ultimately chose a 16th-century monastery in Sintra, Portugal, as their wedding site.

Finding a Planner

As they began planning, Taylor and Carter sought a wedding planner who could truly understand their style. After extensive research, they discovered Matthew Oliver Weddings and were immediately drawn to the events the company had organized. "We wanted our wedding to genuinely reflect who we are," Carter said. After their first conversation with Georgia Haldenby, a planning staff member, they knew she was the perfect fit.

Challenges During Planning

While the planning was underway, life threw them a curveball when one of their parents faced health issues. When they reached back out to Georgia, they found out she was fully booked for the remainder of the year. However, in a surprising twist, Georgia informed them that another couple had canceled, giving them the chance to realize their dream wedding.

A Stunning Venue in Sintra

Georgia suggested Sintra as an ideal location. This town is renowned for its enchanting castles and the modern Penha Longa Resort. "We were instantly captivated," Taylor recalled. "The Portuguese people are incredibly friendly, and the food here is delicious."

Executing the Wedding Plan

During the planning process, Carter and Taylor made two trips to Portugal to scout the venue and taste the cuisine. They booked Penha Longa Resort for all their wedding events. While the venue and its historical significance were crucial, the layout also offered several other advantages. "We were able to guide guests seamlessly from the welcome party to the ceremony and reception without any dull moments," Taylor explained.

Keeping Aesthetic Simple

Although the venue was already stunning with intricate details, the couple opted for a simpler, more masculine wedding decor. They chose a "Ralph Lauren, 90s, equestrian style" for their ceremony. "We didn’t want to compete with the beauty of the venue," Taylor added. The bouquets for the ceremony were positioned where the couple stood, creating a romantic and elegant atmosphere.

Sharing Tips for Vietnamese Travelers

If you're considering a destination wedding like Carter and Taylor, remember that planning is essential. First, determine your budget and choose a wedding planner experienced in organizing overseas events. Additionally, be mindful of timing and visa requirements when hosting in other countries. For Portugal, Vietnamese citizens need a visa to enter, and processing can take several weeks. Summer is an ideal time for a wedding in Portugal, thanks to the beautiful weather and stunning scenery.

Article inspired and edited from: Condé Nast Traveler