Aline & Dušan | Serbian-Brazilian Wedding | Heathrow Country Club

posted in: Weddings

September 29, 2021

Aline & Dušan met during one of the scariest times our country has seen in quite sometime – a global pandemic. Through all the uncertainty of COVID, they knew one thing was for certain…their corona romance! I suppose being stuck in quarantine together was one way to get to know someone haha.

Aline is caring and smart and works at a Veterinary clinic helping animals, and Dušan has quite the eye for detail, building custom homes in Central Florida. They are an impressive duo with tons of talent! Together with their pup, Tory, they live in a home built by Dušan himself (which is beautiful by the way!).

We knew this wedding would be unique for us as we have never done a traditional Serbian wedding before, but I have to say it was so much fun learning about their traditions. The ceremony starts with an exchange of rings. The priest then puts crowns on both the bride and groom and ties their right hands together as a symbol of strength in their marriage. The Bride, Groom and Godparents hold lit candle sticks in their left hands. There is a lot of prayer, singing and chanting, and then the priest leads the couple and godparents around the altar 3 times. After the ceremony, the guests and bridal party exit church and wait for the couple to come out. When the couple walks across the church’s doorstep, the best man tosses coins and candy in the air. This ritual is believed to promise a sweet life and financial prosperity.

They had three flag bearers, wearing sashes and holding the Serbian, Brazilian and American flags – all of which symbolize the countries in which they were born, raised and/or live in. These flags were present the entire day, even on the dance floor! It was such a fun experience to see them incorporate their countries this way! Their family members passed around a Buklia – a nicely decorated bottle – to drink out of. We did a lot of research for this wedding to make sure we were ready for it and it was so much fun to see it all come together. I will say that Aline, Dusan and their families sure know how to celebrate! The dance floor was never empty, which is our kind of party!

I loved the mix of blush in the details and the baby blue bridesmaids dresses. With puppy bow ties, beautiful flowers, Badgley Mischka heels, custom wax seals and cuff links, three cakes and full dessert bar, champagne wall and lots of confetti, no detail went unnoticed! They even had one of our engagement photos on their invitations! I was so excited when I saw that! But not as excited as I was when Dušan went right in for the nuzzle without me even saying it!!! *proud photographer moment*

We took advantage of the beautiful staircase in the back of Heathrow Legacy Club and Aline’s pretty, studded veil during their portrait time….I couldn’t resist! Even the rain held out for us…which is always a blessing during hurricane season. Their first dance involved sparklers and smoke (and impressive dance moves :P). Aline’s dress had detachable sleeves which made for a whole new look between the ceremony and reception.

Overall, it was a beautiful day (as you can see) and exactly what these two deserved. It was so good, they are doing it all over again in Brazil next year! We are so honored you chose us to photograph and film your wedding and we cannot wait to see your marriage flourish! Have a great time in Hawaii, Mr. & Mrs. Mastikosa!!! Congratulations!!! <3

Here’s a photo and video sneak peek of their day!