Natural Beauty Meets Countryside Romance: Lindsay & Baxter’s Alentejo Elopement
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When Lindsay and Baxter decided to elope, they knew they wanted something meaningful, something off the beaten path a place where their love could take center stage between the smells of the dry grass and the ancient olive trees. Their journey took them all the way from California to the quiet countryside of Arraiolos, in Portugal’s Alentejo region, where their intimate wedding unfolded like a dream at Casas Caiadas – Watermills of the Alentejo Featured on Junebug weddings.
But what truly made this elopement shine (besides their obvious chemistry and those cowboy boots ) was the effortless beauty that defined the day: soft, romantic, and totally in tune with the natural surroundings.
The Magic of Alentejo
If you’ve never heard of Alentejo, let us introduce you to one of Portugal’s most underrated gems. Just a couple of hours from Lisbon, this region is all rolling hills, olive trees, cork forests, and golden light. It’s peaceful, slow-paced, and wildly beautiful the kind of place that invites you to breathe deeper, move slower, and savor every moment.
Arraiolos, the small municipality where Casas Caiadas is located, is known for its handwoven rugs and medieval castle, but on this day, it became the perfect backdrop for a celebration that was both soulful and stylish.
A Beauty Look as Soft as the Setting
Lindsay didn’t want anything fussy or overdone. She wanted to feel like herself just a little more radiant. Enter: two incredibly talented local artists who understood the assignment completely.
Glowy, Effortless Makeup by Miguel Stapleton
Miguel Stapleton created a makeup look that was fresh, natural, and light perfect for an outdoor ceremony under the Alentejo sun.
He kept the skin dewy and breathable, added a soft touch of blush for that healthy glow, and used warm, earthy tones on the eyes. The final touch was a nude lip that let Lindsay’s smile do all the talking. It was a no-fuss, glow-from-within kind of look exactly what you want when you’re eloping in nature.
Soft, Textured Hair by Lilia Costa
For hair, Lilia Costa went with a loose, textured wave that moved beautifully with the breeze. It was simple, romantic, and felt so organic to the setting nothing stiff, nothing too “done.” Just an easy, lived-in style that made Lindsay look (and feel) completely at ease.
And the best part? The entire beauty look held up through golden hour portraits, sweet kisses, and barefoot walks through the countryside.
Why Hair & Makeup Matter Even More for Destination Weddings
When you're getting married in a place like Alentejo where you’re surrounded by nature, exposed to the elements, and soaking up all the emotion you want a beauty look that enhances who you are without fighting the setting. Local professionals like Miguel and Lilia bring that balance effortlessly. They understand the climate, the light, and the pace of a destination wedding, and they know how to make you feel your best without ever feeling like someone else.
Vendors:
Makeup Artist – Miguel Stapleton
Hair Styling – Lilia Costa
Photography – Hugo Coelho
Event Planning, Floral Design, & Rentals – MUZA Weddings
Wedding Venue – Casas Caiadas
Cake – Edelweiss
Wedding Dress – Cecilie Bahnsen
Groom’s Apparel – Taylor Stitch