Magali and Jeff’s courtship began when they met at their local church. “On our first date we walked along the canals in Little Venice,” says Magali. Four years later, just before Valentine’s Day 2008, Jeff surprised Magali with a trip to Vienna. “I suspected he might propose but decided not to think too much about it, or I’d have felt nervous and not enjoyed the moment,” reveals Magali. “Jeff proposed one evening in front of the Museum of Fine Arts – it was beautiful.”

Photography by Marianne Taylor Photography.

“It was hard to decide whether to marry in London or Brazil, where I’m from, but as many of the friends we have in common are in the UK we decided to hold our September wedding here,” says Magali. After a religious ceremony at St Mark’s Church, Maida Vale, the couple and 150 guests celebrated at Burgh House, Hampstead. “Hampstead is a very special place to us – it’s where we go to relax,” says Magali.

Magali bought her Mikaella dress from London bridal boutique Morgan-Davies. “I wanted something simple, natural and fresh,” she says. “I loved every dress I tried, but as soon as I put this one on, I felt it was me.”

Shoes from Dune, pearl earrings (“a gift from my mother”) and fresh roses for her hair completed Magali’s look.

Magali carried a classic pale rose bouquet by Melissa Riva Flowers.

Jeff’s suit was from Moss Bros and he changed into Converse All Stars for the reception.

Instead of picking bridesmaids and a best man, the couple followed the Brazilian tradition of having three or four couples on either side of the bride and groom. “The idea is that they will be there to support us throughout our married life,” explains Magali. All the women travelled from different countries so Magali asked them to choose their dress and sent a ‘mood bag’ with a fabric swatch, pearl jewellery and drawings to guide their choice.

The couple filled their day with their favourite things. The tables were decorated with petals, pearls and English roses in crystal sundae dishes and vintage teacups. Graphic designer Magali designed all the stationery, including the invitations, the order of service, the menus and thank-you cards.

Their wedding car was a classic Mini from Great Escape. “We wouldn’t have had it any other way – Jeff and I love classic Minis,” says Magali.

Instead of a guestbook, guests were invited to type a message on a vintage typewriter and take Polaroid pictures of themselves.

The favours were mini bubblegum machines for the little girls, fans for the women and model aeroplane kits, for boys of all ages.

The pretty ribbon-wrapped cake was by Sugarplum Cakes.