My dream project would be the opportunity to plan a wedding outside Portugal. I would love to experience working in a new destination, discovering different cultures and traditions, and bringing my approach to wedding planning to an international setting. It would be an exciting opportunity to grow creatively while creating something truly meaningful for the couple…”
Mariana Bravo de Brito, Founder & Wedding Planner at Bravo de Brito Weddings & Events
Mariana Bravo de Brito is the Founder and Wedding Planner at Bravo de Brito Weddings & Events, a wedding planning and events company based in the south of Portugal. Mariana specialises in creating personalised weddings and celebrations, combining thoughtful planning, creative design and seamless coordination to create meaningful experiences that feel connected to each couple and their chosen setting. Here we discuss the spectacular variety of wedding locations, how Mariana’s team is put together, plus dreams for the future…
C&B: “Mariana, southern Portugal is known as a very beautiful and unspoiled part of the world – how long have you been planning weddings and proposals there?”
MBB: “I’ve been professionally planning weddings and proposals for almost two years, turning my passion for meaningful experiences into beautiful celebrations. BuildingBravo de Brito Weddings & Events has been a rewarding journey, and I’m excited to continue growing the brand both in Portugal and internationally…”
I place great importance on continuous learning and professional development. I regularly attend workshops, educational experiences and industry events, both in Portugal and abroad, as I believe that staying connected to new ideas, creative perspectives and evolving industry standards is an essential part of growing as a wedding planner. As a new business, it means a lot to be able to share my journey and work through this feature in City & Beach Lifestyle…”
Mariana Bravo de Brito, Founder & Wedding Planner at Bravo de Brito Weddings & Events
C&B: “Which wedding and proposal locations within your area would you say are the most popular, and why?”
MBB: “Portugal as a whole is becoming increasingly sought-after for weddings and proposals, largely because of its incredible diversity. The Algarve offers beautiful coastlines, dramatic cliffs and warm weather, while the Douro is known for its vineyards and breathtaking landscapes. Lisbon combines history, architecture and a vibrant city atmosphere, and Sintra offers a more romantic setting with its palaces, gardens and historic estates.Each region has its own character, which allows couples to find a setting that truly reflects their style and vision. That variety is what makes Portugal such a special destination for celebrations…”
Beyond the logistics, I am working with deeply personal stories, expectations and emotions, often within a very significant moment in a couple’s life. My role is to create a sense of calm and confidence throughout the process, while remaining attentive to the details that matter most to each couple. Learning how to balance creativity, organisation and emotional awareness has been one of the most valuable parts of my experience as a planner…”
Mariana Bravo de Brito, Founder & Wedding Planner at Bravo de Brito Weddings & Events
C&B: “Amongst all these beautiful locations you mention above, which venues are your personal favourites, and why?”
MBB: “I have several favourites across Portugal. In the Algarve, Morgado do Quintão is one of my favourites for its beautiful countryside setting and relaxed, authentic atmosphere, while Arvad stands out for its stunning vineyard landscape and beautiful river views. In the Alentejo, I particularly appreciate the character and tranquillity of the countryside estates, which offer such beautiful and natural settings for celebrations. Hotel Vermelho in Melides is another favourite of mine because of its unique design, bold personality, and attention to detail. For a more historic setting, I admire Palácio Nacional de Queluz for its elegance and grandeur, while Camélia Gardens has a more intimate and romantic feel, surrounded by beautiful gardens. What I appreciate most is that each venue has a distinct personality and offers a different experience for couples…”
Every celebration has its own aesthetic, priorities and personality, so I carefully curate the creative and production team according to what each event requires. I work with a trusted network of photographers, videographers, florists, caterers, musicians, designers and other specialists whose work I know and trust…”
Mariana Bravo de Brito, Founder & Wedding Planner at Bravo de Brito Weddings & Event
C&B: “Yes, the variety is incredible and it’s great that you’re in a position to let our readers know about these incredible locations. When it comes to your team and the vendors, how do you put this together?”
MBB: “For me, the right vendor is not simply someone talented, but someone who understands the couple’s vision and shares the same level of professionalism, attention to detail and care. Building strong relationships with exceptional creatives is important to me, and I’m fortunate to collaborate with a growing network of talented professionals across Portugal…”
C&B: “The meal served at any wedding can be a major part of the occasion; what menu choices do you suggest for a luxury Portuguese wedding?”
MBB: “I’d recommend a menu that celebrates Portugal’s rich culinary traditions in a refined and contemporary way. Fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, traditional flavours, and seasonal produce can all be beautifully incorporated. Most importantly, I believe the menu should be tailored to the couple and their guests, making it both personal and memorable…”
C&B: “Final question, what would you say is most important to you regarding your responsibilities as a wedding planner?”
MBB: “I’m grateful for the opportunity to create meaningful experiences for my couples and to continue growing within an industry I’m truly passionate about. I’m very excited about what the future holds for BdB Weddings & Events and for everything I hope to create in the years ahead…”
CONTACT: http://www.bravodebritoevents.com
