Ali and Ricardo were married in Rio de Janeiro this summer in a festive fusion of both American and Brazilian traditions.  Ricardo, originally from Rio, proposed to Ali , a native of New Mexico at their home in Mozambique and throughout the planning process, both wore engagement rings in the Brazilian fashion. They were married at the São Paulo Anglican Church in Rio and the reception immediately followed directly across the street at the Casa Rosa.

Photos by Leandro Joras

The ceremony was led in Portugese with an English translator as the bridesmaids and groomsmen surrounded the couple – slightly different from the American format of ladies on one side, men on the other.    Uncommon to traditional Brazilian weddings, the groomsmen were chosen prior to the wedding, not during and no, the Groom did not have to wrestle a donkey to prove his worth

Another joining of American and Brazilian traditions, the couple had both a stacked wedding cake as well as a large assortment of casadinhos (a traditional wedding cookie), Brazil nut & jordan almond desert platters. A Caipirinha bar served up the Brazilian cocktail which includes cachaça (a rum-like alcohol), fresh fruit, sugar and guarana to keep the party going all night! The rich and vibrant setting was a nod to the couple’s international flair and warm eclectic spirit.

Photos by Leandro Joras

The thrilled couple danced a mix of samba and American pop well in to the night sending each of their guests home with gold and copper organza bags filled with chocolate delicacies.   Ali and Ricardo honeymooned in Vietnam.