Rafaela + Ricardo by The Alms Brand

The wedding aesthetic was deeply inspired by the ocean

Tell us a little about yourselves, what you do, what you love…

The bride is a designer, with a keen eye for everything related to aesthetics — from graphic design to interior design and fashion. This sensitivity is reflected in her daily life, always attentive to colours, shapes, and textures. The groom works in the furniture sector and, being immersed in this universe, has also developed a strong appreciation for aesthetics and visual harmony, valuing design and well-balanced spaces.

Together, they share a lifestyle connected to beauty, functionality, and meaning. Their home reflects this, with every element carefully considered.

Among their small rituals is the pleasure of cooking at home, often led by the groom, who enjoys exploring new recipes — with amatriciana being their favourite. They also truly value slow breakfasts at home, prepared with care and intention, turning this meal into a special moment in their day. They love to travel and enrich their perspectives by experiencing new cultures and references.

The ocean holds a central place in their lives, as a source of peace and spiritual connection. For them, the beach represents a deeper connection with the divine — which is why they chose it as the setting for their wedding.

How/where/when did you meet – and what were your first impressions?

They met at school in 2013, when the bride moved to a new school to begin high school — the same school where the groom was already studying. From the very first day, there was an immediate connection, almost like love at first sight. Even at such a young age, there was already something special and different between them.

They started as friends, in a natural and easy way, and it was through this connection that the relationship grew stronger. Two years later, they began dating — and since then, everything seemed to make even more sense. It felt like something bigger than them, almost as if they were meant to find each other.

They have always felt a very natural sense of alignment, as if their stories fit together intuitively.

What styling and visual elements worked best for you? (could be things, the florals, particular hire products or your marquee, etc., something the stylist created or simply just the scenic beauty of your location or the existing design of your venue).

The wedding aesthetic was deeply inspired by the ocean — a central element in their story and in the choice of location. They sought to bring this reference consistently into every detail, from the visual identity to the décor, always with a more refined and timeless approach.

In the invitation design, they explored pointillism to represent ocean waves, using techniques such as blind embossing, gold hot stamping, and offset printing. The blue-toned palette reinforced this maritime atmosphere in an elegant and subtle way.

In the décor, the ocean was present in a delicate and non-literal way. Elements such as shells and organic references were incorporated into the arrangements and table compositions, always avoiding anything overly literal or themed. The intention was to translate a beach setting into a more refined visual language.

Sculptural arrangements played an important role in the visual composition, bringing personality and distinction. Additionally, even though it was a beach wedding, they intentionally aimed for a more elegant and less informal atmosphere, balancing the natural setting with a sophisticated aesthetic.

What did you enjoy most about the planning process, and do you have any tips for couples starting their wedding planning journey?

The planning process was, at the same time, intense and very special. As the bride is a designer, she was deeply involved in creating many elements of the wedding, which made everything feel even more personal. Being able to build this together and translate their story into a visual language was one of the most meaningful parts of the journey.

Although it was demanding, it was also an opportunity to revisit their story and transform memories into something tangible. Each decision carried part of their identity.

Among the most memorable moments were the tastings and the gatherings to invite friends to be part of the bridal party — moments that already felt like part of the celebration.

As advice, they believe it is important to enjoy every step and turn the planning process into a shared experience, involving loved ones and being fully present throughout.

Tell us about your vendors. Were there any standout suppliers you would like to make special mention of?

The vendors played an essential role in bringing the wedding to life, each contributing in a unique way. The décor, created by Gallery, stood out with a rich composition of textures, flowers, and sculptural elements, balancing colours and adding depth to the environment.

The planning, led by Amanda, was fundamental throughout the entire process, bringing a sense of lightness and calm. With her, many things became possible — from organising vendors to making ideas come to life that once felt challenging, allowing them to experience each stage with more presence.

The bride’s dress, created by Rebeca Nepomuceno, stood out for its artisanal craftsmanship and refined construction, perfectly translating the aesthetic vision of the wedding.

The photography, by The Alms, brought a poetic and documentary perspective. Looking back at the images, they are able to feel all the emotions of the day again — every moment was captured in such a sensitive and stunning way.

The film, created by Fundo do Mar, exceeded all expectations. With an almost cinematic approach, the final result moves everyone who watches it and captures the essence of the day in a very powerful way.

Tell us about your main outfits, what was unique, and is there a story?

The bride’s dress was created in collaboration with the designer, inspired by vintage references and the idea of a seashell, expressed through the ribbed texture and the subtle sheen of the fabric. The structured corset and balloon skirt enhanced the silhouette, and the dress — composed of three pieces — was entirely handmade.

The veil, made from a light off-white fabric, brought contrast and softness to the look, maintaining the elegant aesthetic of the beach setting.

A particularly meaningful detail was the ring worn on the bride’s right index finger — a piece borrowed from her paternal grandmother. It was originally given to her grandmother by her grandfather upon the birth of the bride’s father, who is no longer present. Wearing it on this day carried a deep emotional meaning, symbolising his presence and connecting generations.

The groom wore a classic dark blue suit, with a monochromatic striped pattern, adding sophistication while maintaining a timeless look.

Tell us about your wedding and engagement rings.

They chose wedding bands from Vivara, carefully selected to reflect their style. They opted for a slightly thicker, more substantial design with an anatomical fit, combining comfort and presence.

The engagement ring, from H.Stern, follows a classic and timeless aesthetic, aligned with the overall style of the wedding.

In addition, a special detail was the use of a family ring in the bride’s look — a piece inherited from her paternal grandmother, bringing emotional depth and connecting generations on the wedding day.

What were one or two elements that were most important to you both that you were happy to spend a little more on? (food, photography, florals, the venue, your outfits?).

The wedding venue was, without a doubt, one of the most significant investments — and absolutely worth it. They chose Hotel Miradouro, even though it was a higher investment, and the result exceeded all expectations.

The setting was truly unique. Located right by the ocean, with panoramic views of Ilhabela, it offered a breathtaking landscape that would be difficult to find anywhere else.

Was there a favourite moment (or two) that you will treasure always?

The ceremony, as a whole, was the most memorable moment of the day. The day before, there had been heavy rain, and on the wedding day the sky remained cloudy until just minutes before the ceremony — when it suddenly cleared, revealing sunshine and even a beautiful sunset.

A particularly emotional moment was when each groomsman entered carrying a flower, placing it in a vase at the altar in tribute to the bride’s father. The bride had envisioned this moment and asked the planner to inform them just before the ceremony, keeping it a surprise.

The moment the bride met her mother on the stairs, as well as the exchange of vows, were also deeply emotional highlights.

What does being married mean to you, and are there any special rituals you have that you would like to share?

The wedding represented the celebration of a story built over many years. They have been together since 2013 and got married in 2025, after more than a decade of sharing life.

It also symbolised the union of their families and the creation of a meaningful moment for everyone involved in their journey.

For them, it was something built together, where every detail was thoughtfully designed to reflect who they are.

Above all, the wedding represents their connection with God and a love they choose to nurture every day — now sealed forever.

LOCATION Miradouro de São Sebastião, SP, Brazil, @miradourohotel BRIDE Rafaela, @rafaeladibella GROOM Ricardo, @cacabla PHOTOGRAPHER The Alms Brand, @thealmsbrand VIDEOGRAPHER Fundo do Amar, @fundoamar PLANNER Amora Assessoria Matrimonial, @amoraassessoria FLORIST Gallery, @gallery.estudio CELEBRANT A friend of the couple ENTERTAINMENT DJ – The Boogie DJs, @theboogiedjs; Ceremony & Cocktail Music – Samuel Morales, @samuelsmorales HIRE Gallery, @gallery.estudio CATERING Manoa, @manoabuffet BAR Dita Birita Eventos, @ditabirita CAKES Soul Sweet, @soulsweet DESSERT Soul Sweet, @soulsweet; Yolanda Doces, @yolanda_doces STATIONERY & SIGNAGE Bride’s Studio – Sarte Ateliê, @sartedesign_ ENGAGEMENT RING HBanana SRama, @hstern WEDDING BANDS Vivara, @vivara OTHER SIGNIFICANT JEWELLERY Montecarlo, @montecarlo; Bride’s Ring – Family Heirloom – Rolex, @rolex BRIDE’S DRESS Rebeca Nepomuceno, @rebecanepomuceno BRIDE’S SHOES Paula Torres, @paulatorresbrand HAIR & MAKEUP Nathalie Linide Chamma, @nathalielinide GROOM’S SUIT Merino, @merinoalfaiataria GROOM’S SHOES Louie, @louiesaopaulo