The Story Behind Story Owl: meet the founders
Catarina and Manuel created Story Owl because they felt Torres Vedras was missing a vibrant cultural space—something more than just a bookshop or a café. They wanted to give the city an inspiring meeting point, where books would intertwine with conversations, specialty coffees, and events that bring people together.
The idea was born from their desire to create a place capable of attracting both locals and visitors. Catarina has always had a strong connection to communication and literature, and Manuel shares that passion, so together they envisioned a space where people could discover international books that are hard to find in Portugal, support local authors, and at the same time enjoy a craft drink in a welcoming atmosphere.
Thus, Story Owl is the result of a shared vision: to offer unique experiences by blending culture and gastronomy, and to become a soulful literary haven that invites connection, discovery, and creativity.
Catarina Alves de Sousa
Born and raised in Porto, Catarina is proud of her northern roots. With a degree in Communication and Cultural Studies and a master's degree in Journalism, she lives on the threshold between reality and the fiction she loves to imagine. She's one of those people who engage in a thousand and one projects because she believes that ideas shouldn't begin and end on paper. This philosophy has given rise to several projects related to writing and creativity, as well as a published book. At Story Owl, she loves creating and hosting workshops, as well as curating books and building a collection that inspires discovery and connection.
Manuel Nogueira
A programmer from Coimbra, he created his own company to work freelance on truly exciting projects. He's also the partner who embarks, side by side with Catarina, on this adventure that is Story Owl. Beyond his tech career, Manuel is a drummer and comedian, bringing rhythm and humor into everything he does. At Story Owl, he also channels his creativity into designing and leading RPG and storytelling events, where imagination and community come together around the table.
