Some love stories are so sweet they deserve to be celebrated in a place as wonderful as the connection they honor. For Joi and Brett, that place was Vila Vita Parc Resort Portugal, where the emerald waves of the Atlantic meet lush tropical gardens and where the couple’s adventurous spirits found a home away from home.

On their first trip to Portugal in 2019, the pair fell head over heels—not just for the culture, food, and welcoming people of the Algarve but for each other all over again. So when it came time to say “I do,” they knew no other destination would be such a perfect fit.

Love Meets Luxury at Vila Vita Parc Resort Portugal

Set along the southern coast of Portugal, Vila Vita Parc Resort Portugal isn’t just a venue, it’s a world of its own. Nestled atop sun-kissed cliffs with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, this luxury resort is a sanctuary of natural beauty and refined elegance. Its subtropical gardens burst with vibrant greens, winding pathways, and the unmistakable aroma of sea salt in the air. Couples can exchange vows in clifftop gardens, descend a romantic staircase to a secluded beach, or host an unforgettable reception on a terrace with views that stretch endlessly across the sea.

 It’s no wonder Joi and Brett chose this magical spot. For couples seeking a destination wedding that blends adventure with sophistication, Vila Vita Parc offers a little bit of everything: Michelin-star dining, impeccable service, and an atmosphere that feels both grand and intimate all at once.

A Clifftop Ceremony Overlooking the Algarve

Joi and Brett’s day unfolded effortlessly with the help of Helena Custodio, the planner at Vila Vita Parc Resort Portugal. Their day was a genuine reflection of their personalities. The ceremony on Vila Vita’s tropical gardens on a clifftop overlooking the glimmering Atlantic Ocean while the gentle breeze, faint sound of waves crashing below, and golden Portuguese sun casting a warm glow on their loved ones.

Their décor was timeless and uncluttered, just as Joi and Brett had envisioned. They let the natural beauty of the Algarve shine, complementing it with white florals—roses, hydrangeas, orchids—and lush greenery. Candlelight flickered across their celebration adding a touch of romance to an already dreamy setting.

Joi walked down the aisle in an ethereal Watters gown, the Kristiane design, with its cascading ruffles, rosettes, and structured corset bodice. Paired with her pearl-studded veil, statement floral earrings, and radiant smile, she was the picture of grace and elegance. Brett matched her timeless style in a crisp white tuxedo jacket from Black Tux, his boutonniere a single white orchid—a nod to their understated yet stunning decor.

Joi and Brett’s ceremony was deeply personal, officiated by Joi’s best friend and maid of honor. There were tears, laughter, and, above all, love.

From Moroccan Vibes to Oceanfront Elegance

After the ceremony, guests were whisked away to a Moroccan-inspired terrace for cocktail hour complete with terracotta tiles, vividly patterned tapestries, and intricate mosaic tables. Here, the celebration kicked into high gear with a fresh oyster station, a saxophonist filling the space with smooth tunes, and sweet and savory cocktails that mirrored the energy of the moment.

As the sun dipped lower into the horizon, the party moved to an all-white oceanfront terrace for the reception. Under the soft glow of string lights and candles, guests dined on Michelin-starred cuisine, sipped Portuguese wines, and danced beneath the stars.

Joi and Brett’s first dance was a romantic moment to remember. And when it came time for their sunset portraits, they kicked off their shoes and ran along the beach, laughing and soaking up the light of the golden hour.

Capturing the Day’s Candid Moments & Beautiful memories

Joi and Brett’s wedding photography, captured by the talented Matt + Lena Photography, was as heartfelt and natural as their celebration. Based in the Algarve and known for their documentary-style approach, Matt and Lena specialize in capturing meaningful moments with minimal interference.

The photographers say that some of their favorite moments were the ceremony with Joi’s best friend as the celebrant, the many moments of laughter and happy tears, the amazing dance floor moves, and the sunset photos, of course. They did such a stellar job capturing the couple that you can feel the connection between them in every frame.

Why couples fall in love with the Algarve

The Algarve, Portugal's southern region, is famous for its Atlantic beaches and golf resorts. Once quiet fishing villages, its central coast between Lagos and Faro is now filled with villas, hotels, bars, and restaurants overlooking sandy coves.

For adventurous, travel-loving couples like Joi and Brett, the Algarve offers the perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and laid-back luxury. Its sun-drenched coastline, dotted with dramatic cliffs and hidden coves, creates an idyllic backdrop for romance. But beyond the scenery, it’s the soul of the Algarve that truly captivates. From the warmth of the local people to the vibrant flavors of Portuguese cuisine, every moment feels infused with a sense of culture and authenticity. 

For Joi and Brett, it was the little things that made their Algarve wedding unforgettable: the sound of seagulls mingling with their vows, the way the ocean breeze carried laughter across the terrace, and the simple joy of sharing fresh pastel de nata with friends and family. 

“It felt like we were transported into a dream,” Joi reflected. “Every detail, every moment, was exactly what we’d hoped for—and more.” 

 As the night came to a close, guests gathered for one final toast under a canopy of stars. With glasses of port in hand and the waves providing a rhythmic serenade, it was a moment of gratitude and love, a perfect capstone to a day filled with unforgettable moments.

Vendor Team

Photographer: Matt + Lena Photography |  @mattandlena 
Venue: Vila Vita Parc Resort | @vilavitaparcresort 
Wedding Planner: Helena Custodio | @vilavitaparcresort 
Wedding Dress Designer: Watters | @watters
Bridal Shoes: Nina Bridal | @ninashoesbridal 
Bridal Accessories: Earrings by Shashi NYC | @shashinyc 
Groom’s Suit: Black Tux | @theblacktux 
Groom’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin | @christianlouboutin 
Bridesmaids dresses: Revolve | @revolve 
Groomsmen Suits: Calvin Klein | @calvinklein 
Makeup: Alexandra Silva @alexandrasilvamua 
Hair: Vila Vita Parc Salon 
Flowers: Vila Vita Parc Resort | @vilavitaparcresort 
Cake: Vila Vita Parc Resort | @vilavitaparcresort 
Ceremony & Reception Music: Nicole Silver | @nicolesilver__ 
Saxophone: Gill Abrante | @gilabrantesax

See more of Matt and Lena’s work on their profile and website, and see all of our Real Weddings from around the world on our blog.