Bliss Weddings & Homes March 2017

Issue 32 MARCH 2017

YOUR weddings & homeS magazine

GORGEOUS GOWNS

A contemporary townhouse

win

REAL WEDDINGS

Local couples’ wedding stories

participate in our competition

Honeymoon Exploring New Zealand and Australia

latest

BRIDAL trends

contents ISSUE 32 · MARCH 2017

REAL WEDDING page 20

Fashion & beauty 15 BRIDAL TRENDS 41 A SPRINGTIME AFFAIR

Interview

WEDDING TRENDS page 19

66 LOVE AND PATIENCE

Weddings & honeymoons 19 20 29 49 63

WEDDING TRENDS A GLORIOUS GARDEN WEDDING LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT WONDER DOWN UNDER WEDDING DIRECTORY

Homes

52 A CONTEMPORARY ADAPTATION OF

AN OLD MALTESE TOWNHOUSE 59 MAKE A SPLASH

our cover

DRESS: Soft by Rosa Clara at Ivory&Co. JEWELLERY: Piaget bangle and ring, both from Possession collection, available at Diamonds International.

BOUQUET: Debbie Cassar, Floral Artist for Romano Cassar, using mixed coloured roses, wax flowers and other colourful fillers.

Location: Giuseppi’s Bar & Bistro, Salini Resort Photographer: Valentina Lupo (www.facebook.com/ valentinalupophotography) Photo Shoot Coordinator: Sarah Micallef ary Hair: Sacha Roberts Paxanas mpor conte A townhouse Make-up: Jennifer the REAL WEDDINGS Make-Up Artist win Model: Jacqui, Supernova t latesL BRIDA TRENDS Model Management.

ISSUE 32 MARCH 2017

MAGAZINE YOUR WEDDINGS & HOMES

GORGEOUS GOWNS

Local couples’ wedding

participate in our competition

Honeymoon Exploring New Zealand

and Australia

stories

12 bliss MARCH 2017

Issue 32 Saturday, March 25, 2017 Bliss is a weddings and homes magazine distributed with The Times – making it the largest weddings and homes magazine in Malta.

Editor Sarah Micallef Publisher

editor’s letter

S

pring has sprung, and with it comes the shiny new edition of Bliss Weddings & Homes, featuring a fresh new crop of stories and inspiration.

In this issue, we delve into the beautiful nuptials of two local couples – one in Malta and one in Gozo – who each brought a distinct flair to their big day.

Sarah and Franklin’s wedding has all the makings of a blooming garden romance, while Emily and Andrew’s elegant affair was every bit a fitting culmination of their 11-year relationship.

Meanwhile, our usual bridal and wedding trends pages are chock full of the latest must-haves, and our stunning model Jacqui wows in one of our most beautiful selections of gowns to date in our bridal shoot!

Honeymooners Sharon and Andrew look back on their tour of New Zealand and Australia, while young couple Hannah and Karl show us around their expertly renovated townhouse in Fleur-de-Lys. Finally, we take a look at the latest décor trends for your bathroom, and swoon at the love story behind Carmel and Haroldine Portelli’s 1963 wedding.

Enjoy the issue.

Distribution:

Design Box Design – Antoinette Micallef ant@box-design.net Printer Progress Press Ltd.

REAL WEDDING page 20 BRIDAL SHOOT page 41 real home page 52

Sarah JOIN US ON

Win with

Bliss

Content House Group, Mallia Buildings, 3, Level 2, Triq in-Negozju, Mriehel BKR3000 Tel: 2132 0713 info@contenthouse.com.mt www.contenthouse.com.mt

Visit BlissMagazineMalta

Contributors Jo Caruana; Jennifer Dimech; Marie-Claire Grima; Sacha Roberts; Martina Said Photography Alan Carville; Keith Darmanin; Valentina Lupo; George Saguna Advertising Content House Ltd – Tel: 2132 0713 publication sales manager Jessica Catania Advertising sales coordinatorS Lindsey Napier; Marvic Cutajar All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior written authorisation of Content House Ltd. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in the magazine, the publishers cannot be held responsible for any errors it may contain.

Participate in our competition and you may win a 50ml bottle of Olympea Aqua,

by Paco Rabanne, courtesy of Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Ltd. To enter the competition all you have to do is answer the following question:

WHICH ARTICLE OR FEATURE DID YOU MOST ENJOY IN THIS ISSUE, AND WHY?

Send your answers, as well as your telephone number, to media@contenthouse.com.mt or in writing to Bliss Magazine, Content House Group, Mallia Buildings, 3, Level 2, Triq in-Negozju, Mriehel, BKR3000.

Competition closes 30th April 2017. One entry per person. Terms and conditions apply.

Last issue Caroline Grixti won a Nina Luna EDT 50ml + Body Lotion 75ml, courtesy of Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Ltd.

Bridal Trends § MARCH 2017 bliss 15

Bridal

trends

words by SARAH MICALLEF catwalk shots courtesy of Barcelona Bridal Week

Simplicity While some brides want all the bells and whistles on their wedding day, others favour a distinctly simpler, chic silhouette. These elegant gowns show that you need little embellishment to look elegant as you walk down the aisle.

Left to right: Pronovias, Marylise & Rembo Styling, Cristina Tamborero

Sheer Delicate silhouettes in sheer fabrics are sure to be the prettiest way to show some skin without being too racy. And whether it’s lace applique, 3D embellishments or soft floral detailing that adorns the fabric, we love it all!

Left to right: Cymbeline, Naeem Khan, Carla Ruiz

16 bliss MARCH 2017 ยง Bridal Trends

Sleeves Sleeved gowns have gone from the realm of modesty to high-fashion, as more and more bridal designers incorporate sleeves into their collections, and use them as the basis of some truly gorgeous detailing, including ruffles, fine beading and lace appliques.

Left to right: Marco & Maria, Marylise & Rembo Styling, Cristina Tamborero

Wedding Trends § MARCH 2017 bliss 19

Bold colour

Martha Stewart Weddings

×ÔForget neutral and subdued colours this season – bold colour combinations are all the rage. Favourites include mustard yellow, bold orange, rich plum, and deep green blue, and nowhere do they look better than in unique floral arrangements that go beyond the commonplace!

ÓLarge-scale, creative backdrops using drapery, foliage, flowers, balloons and all manner of other props are big news this year. Having one of these installations at your reception will make for some beautiful memories, and it’s sure to be a hit with your guests too.

Rainbow Club

Wedding backdrops

www.cuteweddingideas.com

Wedding trends u www.nouba.com.a

From the latest in wedding décor to hot colour schemes, food, and fashion, here are the top trends of the season.

Ever After Guide

ÓWhile food stations and finger food will no doubt remain a popular option among Maltese weddings, the sit-down dinner has experienced a surge in popularity, giving newlyweds a chance to really spoil their guests with their choice of culinary delicacies.

Geometrics

ÖGeometric shapes in metallic finishes are a huge trend, and can be implemented in your décor, cake, jewellery and accessories, lending a luxe, Art Deco feel. We particularly love the look of these geometric hanging lanterns.

www.theimageisfound.com

Sit-down dinner

Floral crowns

ÑWondering what the bridal accessory for 2017 will be? We’re hedging our bets on the flower crown.

Comprised of interesting blooms in modern arrangements, flower crowns look stunning in rustic settings in the spring and summer.

20 bliss MARCH 2017 § Real Wedding

h Saarna d in Frankl ion ny locat arr ceremo Mg Chapel, Lourdes ing venue wedd Estate, Ta’ Mena Xaghra

A glorious garden wedding

Sarah Borg Abela and Franklin Farrugia tied the knot on a warm October day last year, but the couple’s attention to detail and splendid choice of theme and décor turned this autumn wedding into a stunning riot of colour evoking the beauty of spring.

Martina Said finds out about the newlyweds’ big day.

P H OT O S B Y Geor g e S a g u n a

Real Wedding § MARCH 2017 bliss 21

F

rom the bride’s hand-painted gown and her bridal party’s delicate head-dresses to the berry-infused gin cocktails and photo booth backdrop, this vibrant October wedding was a celebration of a couple’s love, as well as of nature in all its colourful glory.

Sarah Borg Abela, 28, and Franklin Farrugia, 34, tied the knot on 9th October 2016 in an intimate ceremony in a small chapel in Gozo, followed by a reception nearby with the couple’s closest friends and family. Every aspect of their wedding, from the choice of venue to every detail of décor, including the floral danglers hanging from the marquee and white lanterns, revolved around a garden wedding theme, and they pulled it off exquisitely.

“We were sure we wanted a morning wedding, to make the most of the

wedding venue, Ta’ Mena Estate, which is set amongst vineyards. We also knew we wanted a small church for an intimate ceremony, which is why we chose Lourdes Chapel in Mgarr, Gozo,” says Sarah, a marketing executive, whose relationship with Franklin, a business support manager, kicked off one evening during a work event. “We got chatting and, rather than love at first sight, I’d say it was more a case of love at first debate.”

Franklin surprised Sarah with a proposal at the very same place that the couple enjoyed their first date years earlier. “He calmly produced a ring box with a gorgeous engagement ring in it,” says Sarah, “and I later got to know the full story about how hassled he had been about the choice of ring because of my quirky taste.” Ò

22 bliss MARCH 2017 § Real Wedding

The couple soon set about planning their big day, which they handled themselves with help from their parents and Franklin’s sister. “We had a clear vision of what we wished to achieve and both our parents supported our views.

There were instances when it seemed impossible – a case in point was that the chapel we chose could not accommodate all the guests invited to the reception.

However, we informed the guests through a website that Franklin and I created, that the ceremony was going to be very intimate, and on the day, we took our vows surrounded by our closest,” she explains.

Sarah’s work experience in event planning came in handy when planning her own wedding, and although stress is inevitable, it’s part and parcel of the whole experience. “You have to ride it out and stay true to the initial plans.

Fortunately, I come from a family who have long been in the wedding catering business, so we were familiar with all the nitty gritty. All my uncles were involved in one way or another – one of them wanted to oversee the reception himself, while his younger brother offered to oversee

“

I wanted a dress that reflected my personality, something classy with a fun twist to it. the ceremony. The mass was officiated by another uncle, a priest.”

The couple chose to get married in October to avoid the scorching summer heat, and luckily, were blessed with beautiful warm weather on the day. The wedding centred on a garden-inspired theme, with all floral arrangements supplied by Xerri’s Garden Centre, in part to maximise the venue’s potential and all the natural light that it offered. “In addition, I feel that flowers and greenery add a lot of vibrancy without being too ostentatious,” explains Sarah. “We wanted to achieve an informal and intimate celebration. It was a very relaxed affair, and we took our time to enjoy a few post-ceremony drinks on the chapel parvis, which overlooks the magnificent Mgarr harbour. We didn't feel the need to conform to the usual wedding expectations – in fact, we decided to opt out of the first dance as well as the hackneyed ‘Congratulations’ song for the cake-cutting.” Ò

”

Real Wedding § MARCH 2017 bliss 25

details

The couple’s wedding invites, which featured a modern design and informal wording on cream textured paper, were designed by Sarah’s director who heads a marketing company, while the souvenirs, miniature bottles of pure olive oil, were created with the help of Franklin’s father, who hand-picked and pressed the olives himself.

With the couple being self-proclaimed foodies, catering was an important part of the wedding reception. 160 guests, including one of Franklin’s sisters who

flew over with her family all the way from Australia, were welcomed with a berry-infused gin cocktail complete with edible flowers, and treated to an array of gourmet finger foods during a standing reception, as well as three food stations: a sushi table, a fritto misto live cooking station serving food in newspaper cones, and a beef tagliata station.

“I am a doughnut fan, so I made sure to include these while coffee was served, along with imqaret and other chocolate delights. As for the cake, we opted for a classic three-tier cake, part almond and part carrot cake, decorated with fresh flowers.”

The cherry on the cake of this wonderfully-adorned wedding was the bride’s very own gown, which both honoured the garden theme and echoed her personal taste, as did the groom’s three-piece navy blue suit from Cefai Formal Wear, complete with a floral boutonniere. “I wanted a dress that reflected my personality, something classy with a fun twist to it,” says Sarah.

“I tried on many lovely dresses but nothing really excited me. Inspired by runway looks, I came up with the idea of a figure-hugging boat neck dress with cap sleeves in cream silk, embellished by hand painting on the bodice.” Ò

Floral photo booth

ÓThe photo booth has become a wedding mainstay, but Sarah and Franklin gave it a twist of their own by setting up a backdrop made with fresh flowers to complement their garden wedding theme.

They also provided emoji props, making the entire set-up young and fun.

A personal ceremony

ÓIn keeping with the couple’s wishes for a small wedding, they opted for Lourdes Chapel in Mgarr, which was large enough to accommodate only their nearest and dearest. The intimacy of the venue heightened the emotional aspect of the wedding ceremony.

26 bliss MARCH 2017 § Real Wedding

The dress was the result of a collaboration between a talented Gozitan seamstress and Sarah’s gifted cousin, Maria Xerri, a budding artist in the final year of her architecture studies at University. “Maria accepted this challenge full on. The risk was quite nerve-racking as the dress had to be completely sewn before she could paint on it – one wrong brush stroke and all could have gone to waste. However, I had complete confidence in Maria, and the dress surpassed my expectations.”

The couple bucked tradition and

“

The best part of the day was definitely the ceremony – it was emotional to share such an intimate moment with those closest to us. chose to do away with the first dance – Sarah explains that both of them weren’t comfortable with it. Everybody took to the dancefloor right after the newlyweds cut the cake, and kept dancing late into the evening. “Our wedding was quite traditional overall, but we gave it our own personal twist and made sure we were comfortable with everything so that we could thoroughly enjoy it.”

To keep a lasting memory of their guests, Sarah and Franklin set up a guest book next to a photo booth, which also embraced the garden theme. “A floral

”

wall was set up as a backdrop to the photo booth, which proved to be quite a success as guests enjoyed posing with emoji props and also got to keep a copy of the photos.”

Despite being an exciting and moving day, Sarah says they were grateful to share it with their loved ones. “The best part of the day was definitely the ceremony – it was quite emotional to share such an intimate moment with those closest to us, and we were also very touched by a speech that my mother gave in our honour of the day.” n

Real Wedding § MARCH 2017 bliss 29

Emily and Andre w cerem St Paul ony locatio ’s Cathedral n , Mdina wedd The Xara ing venue Lodge, Rabat

Love at first sight

Emily Pisani Visanich and Andrew Pisani realised that they were soulmates from when they first met as teens. 11 years later, they made it official with a beautiful celebration that exudes the elegance of times gone by. They share their story with Sarah Micallef.

P hotos by Ke i th Darma n i n , K i tz Kl i k z

30 bliss MARCH 2017 § Real Wedding

E

mily Pisani Visanich, 28, and Andrew Pisani 29, first met at a club when they were just 17 years old, and as Emily recalls, it was a classic case of love at first sight. “I was with a group of friends and Andrew made the first move by coming over to dance with me. When I first laid eyes on him, I remember thinking I wouldn’t let him get away from me!”

Their relationship began from there, and Andrew, being the outspoken one, was the first to say ‘I love you’, with Emily reciprocating soon after. “From then on, we didn’t look back, and my first boyfriend ended up becoming my husband,” she says.

The pair knew they wanted to get married from the early days, and always talked about marriage and children. Since they were both so young however, there were a few things they needed

to tackle before they reached that stage, including university, saving up and looking for a home.

Emily, who now works as a translator with the European Commission, recalls a particularly trying time when she moved to Luxembourg, and the couple endured a long-distance relationship for two years. “It was a painful period which I would never repeat, but thanks to that, we knew how much we wanted to be together,” she says. It was during this time that the couple decided to get going with wedding preparations, which saw Andrew, who is a commercial manager in the offshore shipping industry, move to Luxembourg to be close to Emily as they prepared to exchange vows. Ò

“

My bridal head-piece was made from silver filigree – the result of a long quest to find the right craftsman to create it.

”

Real Wedding § MARCH 2017 bliss 33

Since they had always talked about getting married, the proposal wasn’t a surprise one – in fact, they planned it together. Forgoing the traditional engagement party in favour of a romantic holiday, the pair chose to incorporate the proposal into their trip.

“In March 2014, we boarded a plane to Paris for a holiday which signified the

beginning of the wedding preparations, in which we exchanged rings on top of the Eiffel Tower. I even chose the ring myself, and Andrew chose his. We felt that for such special rings which we were going to treasure all our lives, we needed them to be as we always imagined,” she recalls.

Wedding prep began in earnest after that, along with works on their new home, so the pair decided to split the load to make things easier. “Most of the wedding preparations were under my charge, and Andrew took care of coordinating works in our home,” Emily explains.

Admitting to getting stressed out at times, mainly because the pair weren’t in Malta to oversee everything during the process, Emily combated this by beginning her planning early, leaving ample time in case of mishaps. “I also couldn’t have done everything without the help of our families, who stepped in when we needed assistance. I delegated quite a lot to my mum and matron of honour,” she continues.

The pair had long decided on a morning wedding, mainly for the wonderful, naturally lit photos and partly because of Emily’s obsession with hats: “I think they’re so elegant and feminine!” Ò

details

A culinary work of art

ÓThis five-tier almond and Bacio cake was adorned all over in sugar flowers of all sizes, ranging from tiny flowers to large blooming roses, which the newlyweds describe as “a true work of art”.

Going away in style

ÓWhile Emily and Andrew’s wedding was a largely traditional affair, the couple decided to add a little twist at the end.

“For the going-away, Andrew booked a special car to drive us off into married life: a Maserati Ghibli, which he had the opportunity to drive himself too.”

Real Wedding § MARCH 2017 bliss 35

Meanwhile, the decision to engage a wedding coordinator wasn’t one they had originally planned on, and came later in the process. “We always thought that things develop smoothly on their own during a wedding, but when my matron of honour, who had just gotten married, suggested her coordinator, we made a decision that we definitely didn’t regret.

We got so many tips from her before the wedding, and on the day, she was the one to make sure that we could fully enjoy it with no stress.”

When it came to selecting a theme

“

for their wedding, the pair agreed on classic and timeless elegance, which led to their choice of white flowers for the church, and a choir and string quartet for their ceremony. Emily’s love for vintage style was also reflected in the bridesmaids’ outfits: “they wore tealength dresses in old rose, accessorized with bird cage head-pieces, wrist-length net gloves and T-bar sandals.”

Meanwhile, being a lover of Maltese crafts and produce, Emily wanted to incorporate as much of it as possible into her big day. “My bridal head-piece was made from silver filigree – the result of a long quest to find the right craftsman to create it. It started off with an idea I found online and evolved into a custom piece made from scratch by a filigree maker. It was a great pleasure having something so unique take shape in front of my eyes,” she explains. The pair also had a ring cushion made out of Maltese lace, and crochet doilies given out as souvenirs – both lovingly hand-crafted by the mother of the bride.

He came over to me and whispered, ‘aren’t you going to give me a kiss?!’

”

The wedding date was set for Sunday 22nd May 2016, the only spring Sunday in which their chosen ceremony and reception venue – the Mdina Cathedral and Xara Lodge – were both available.

“We chose the church and venue because we wanted them to be close to each other, so that our guests could attend both ceremony and reception without hassle. Apart from that, we had fallen in love with the décor and brightness of the Xara Lodge from the first time we set foot in it, and loved the fact that it had a spectacular view of Mdina, which had added meaning once we exchanged our vows there,” Emily says.

And after all that planning, the big day finally arrived – with a very early start for the bride! “I had to wake up at around 4am to be able to get ready on time,” she recalls. “I remember driving to the hairdresser in pitch darkness and empty roads.”

During the ceremony, the couple recall feeling like they were in a dream, not quite believing that the day they had waited 11 years for had finally arrived.

“The music and singing were amazing, and we felt extremely lucky to be surrounded by friends and family. Andrew always used to joke that when I get to the altar, I would find him unconscious because of the overload of emotion, but he was only given away by a slight tremble in his voice when we exchanged vows,” Emily recalls affectionately. “The most touching part was definitely walking down the aisle towards my husband-to-be. I always get emotional hearing the Ave Maria, but I never thought that I would have a stream of uncontrolled tears and such huge emotions when the time came. Andrew, contrary to what he used to think would happen, looked calm and all smiles,” she adds. Ò

36 bliss MARCH 2017 § Real Wedding

The bride looked every inch the classic beauty in a custom ivory pure silk and French lace gown with a long, detachable train – a design which she describes as a dream come true. “I wanted my dress to be traditional and timeless, but a bit different at the same time,” she explains, admitting that she had a clear idea of her dream dress in mind, which led her to hit the shops

somewhat half-heartedly, knowing that she wouldn’t find ‘the one’. “After a few failed attempts, which weren’t completely in vain since by then I knew which style looked good on me, I sought the help of a talented seamstress. I brought her pictures of parts of dresses that I loved, and from these bits and pieces, she crafted my exquisite dress.”

The groom meanwhile, looked dapper in his ensemble by Cefai Formal Wear.

At the reception, the newlyweds opened the dancefloor to their 350 guests with a first dance to Nat King Cole’s Unforgettable. “It was inevitable that we would choose an old song,” Emily gushes, “and specifically one from the 50s, since I love the era so much. It wouldn’t have felt as natural to choose a modern song.” The couple had taken a few dancing lessons in preparation for their big moment, and despite a few

“

Despite a few nerves, we ended up dancing like no one was watching.

”

nerves, ended up dancing like no one was watching and having a great time with their friends and family.

Looking back, the pair don’t recall any major mishaps on the day, apart from a brief moment of panic when Emily’s bridal entourage couldn’t get her veil to stay in place before heading to the church. Oh yes, and isn’t there a part in every wedding ceremony where the newlyweds seal their marriage with a kiss? Emily laughs as she recalls how she almost forgot to kiss her new husband after they exchanged vows and rings. “He came over to me and whispered, ‘aren’t you going to give me a kiss?!’ Although the kiss arrived with a slight delay, all’s well that ends well!” n

Beauty § MARCH 2017 bliss 39

Photo by Kris Micallef

A word from Jennifer the Make-Up Artist

What advice would you give brides-to-be in terms of skin preparation in order to ensure that they look great on their big day? And when do you suggest they should start this preparation?

It is important for all of us to take care of our skin everyday... but the stress you go through before the wedding makes it more important to take care of your skin. Skin preparations need to start at least six months ahead of the big day – it is very important to drink lots of water, as water keeps your skin hydrated and this will make it easier to apply the right products.

You don’t want to look dry on your big day, but nice and glowing!

Do you recommend that brides and bridal parties carry out make-up trials before the actual day?

Yes it is very important to do a trial. First and foremost this is beneficial for the bride to build a relationship with the make-up artist and for the latter to be aware of whether the bride and her party have any allergies or particular reactions to certain products. It is also important for you to be comfortable in your own skin on your day and not scared of what or how the look might suit you. A trial will definitely contribute to ensuring that you are confident and relaxed on the day.

What are the current looks of the season for brides? And how do they vary between day and evening weddings?

I don’t really believe that one should follow fashion trends in the world of bridal make-up, for the simple reason that you will be looking at your wedding photos for many years to come,

ABOUT JENNIFER THE MAKE-UP ARTIST

long after current trends disappear. The safest bridal look is a glowing, natural, soft look. Having said that, I do not discourage brides who want to experiment. It is just very important for the bride to be comfortable on the big day.

Morning make-up should be more matte due to exposure to the heat and sun, and it should be subtle, as you have to keep in mind that there will be natural daylight. In the evening you can apply more shine and shimmer, and give an overall heavier application to the eyes.

Do you offer guidance to your clients on the type of make-up they and their bridal party should go for? Can you share any?

Yes I do. This is the main reason why it is important for me to meet clients ahead of their big day and to follow up with makeup trials. I normally stress that your bridal party is comfortable and happy with the look… that each individual wears the look that suits her but that uses the same colour scheme, to achieve a cohesive look for the party.

Do you have any tips you can share to ensure that make-up stays on for longer during the big day?

You will definitely need to touch up your lipstick and maybe powder up a bit during the wedding. You want to look good throughout the wedding and in all the photos! The advice I like to share overall though is: less is more. n Contact Jennifer on M: 7923 2369; E: dimechjennifer@gmail.com; Fb: Jennifer The MakeUp Artist

"I’ve had a passion for art and beauty since I was very young, and my inspiration since those early days was local make-up artist Diane Nikolic.

Today, through hard work and dedication, I can proudly say that I have realised my dream of working in the make-up industry. I believe that everyone is beautiful and I love the fact that through my work, I make my clients feel comfortable in their own skin, with a natural flawless look. My greatest satisfaction is receiving grateful messages and seeing my clients’ happy faces. I specialise in high fashion, celebrity and bridal make-up, and my dream is to become an international make-up artist, working with international designers and campaigns – I have actually started this beautiful journey as I have recently come back from the Milan, Paris and New York fashion weeks. I believe in aspiring high and that nothing is impossible!"

Fashion § MARCH 2017 bliss 41

a

springtime affair

Location: Giuseppi’s Bar & Bistro, Salini Resort Photographer: Valentina Lupo (www.facebook.com/valentinalupophotography) Photo Shoot Coordinator: Sarah Micallef Hair: Sacha Roberts Paxanas Make-up: Jennifer the Make-Up Artist Models: Jacqui, Supernova Model Management.

Luke, Ana and Giulia (flower girls and page boy).

DRESS: Atelier Pronovias at Ivory&Co. JEWELLERY: Diamond earrings, diamond ring and diamond bracelet, exclusively available at Diamonds International.

BOUQUET: Debbie Cassar, Floral Artist for Romano Cassar, using mixed coloured roses, wax flowers and other colourful fillers.

42 bliss MARCH 2017 ยง Fashion

DRESS: This unique scooped neckline strapless wedding dress made of Shavon organza has the simple yet striking features of an overlay skirt with hand-made rosettes accented with pearls, exclusively available at Alamango Bridal Ltd. JEWELLERY: Mikimoto necklace, Mikimoto bracelet, solitaire diamond ring and gold ring with diamonds, available at Diamonds International.

Fashion ยง MARCH 2017 bliss 43

DRESS: Fler is one of the latest couture styles of the moment, comprising fine handembroidered detailing with lace and delicate beading, a deep plunge and open back with beaded straps. Exclusively available at EVA MARIEE. JEWELLERY: Damiani necklace and earrings from Eclisse collection, Damiani ring from Bocciolo collection, Damiani ring from D-Side collection and diamond bracelet, available at Diamonds International.

44 bliss MARCH 2017 ยง Fashion

DRESS: Stunning bridal gown by Justin Alexander Signature in gold, inspired by the glamorous Hollywood era of the 1940s. This beautiful gown is exclusively available at WEDDINGBELLS. JEWELLERY: Diamond earrings and diamond ring, exclusively available at Diamonds International.

Fashion ยง MARCH 2017 bliss 45

LUKE: Rhys suit.

ANA: Illuria dress in ivory and mint, lace pearl band, super mini bag, diamante bow drop bracelet set and butterfly textured lace cha cha shoes.

GIULIA: Lyra dress in mint with roses, flower diamante band, super mini bag, diamante bow drop bracelet set and butterfly textured lace cha cha shoes.

All available at Monsoon Children, Bisazza Street, Sliema.

46 bliss MARCH 2017 ยง Fashion

OUTFIT: One-shoulder silk blouse and flower patterned pleated skirt at Ivory&Co. JEWELLERY: Royal Asscher necklace and earrings, both from the Stars of Africa collection, and Novecentonovantanove bangles and ring, both in 18K gold with diamonds, available at Diamonds International.

Wedding Venues § MARCH 2017 bliss 49

Your wedding at

Valletta Waterfront

Located close to central Valletta, Valletta Waterfront offers the perfect backdrop for your wedding, with flexible indoor and outdoor options. Eighteenth-century warehouses with their iconic coloured doors stretch along the water’s edge against a backdrop of historic fortifications and venues.

Under the Marquee: Located on the Valletta Waterfront quays, the marquee offers protective cover for up to 1,400 persons in a uniquely magical location.

Magazino Hall: Renowned for its

versatility, Magazino proudly displays its historical features from a glorious past.

Built in 1727 to store oil for street lamps, it was later incorporated in the island’s first power station. Once inside, there is an impressive arched ceiling and the golden limestone glistens with the cast of soft lighting. An adjoining outdoor courtyard nestled among the historic bastions can be used as a breakout area or as a standalone venue. Magazino can comfortably accommodate 400 persons.

Old Power House: The original

building came about during the construction of Floriana’s fortifications in the 1700s. This building has taken many

turns in history, before being transformed and operating as Malta’s first electricity production plant. This building offers a fascinating layering of spaces and reflects the multiplicity of activities forming part of Malta’s Grand Harbour over the centuries. The rustic structure with high ceilings displays an interesting contrast between the old and the new.

Under the Stars: The possibilities are

endless – the open-air venue is an artistic blank canvas with the Grand Harbour as a backdrop on one side and the Valletta Waterfront buildings on the other. The location is breath-taking and lends itself to the typical Mediterranean al fresco lifestyle.

The Sagrestia Vault: Located directly on the Valletta Waterfront is a hidden treasure unknown to most – the Sagrestia Vault. Annexed to the 17thcentury vault is a small but beautifully detailed chapel dedicated to the Flight of the Holy Family to Egypt. In combination with the Sagrestia Vault, the Chapel can be utilised as a receiving area. It is truly a little gem on the Valletta Waterfront.

The Promenade: A 275-metre strolling promenade offers the perfect staging with a variety of outlets, also with a private area, for more intimate weddings.

Civil wedding ceremonies can be officiated in Magazino Hall, and also on the quays. Meanwhile religious weddings can be celebrated in the Chapel on the Valletta Waterfront.

One may opt for the caterer of choice in any of the venues. Parking for coaches, minibuses and private cars is readily available. n For further details or to view any of the venues contact Anna Maria Cardona Schranz or Christian Saliba on T: 2567 3114; E: info@vallettacruiseport.com

Honeymoon § MARCH 2017 bliss 51

Wonder

down under Newlyweds Andrew De Giovanni and Sharon Attard De Giovanni share an account of their actionpacked honeymoon in New Zealand and Australia with Marie-Claire Grima.

A

ndrew De Giovanni, 34, and Sharon Attard De Giovanni, 33, got married in December, and seized the opportunity to get some winter sun on their honeymoon.

Australia and New Zealand were high on both of their bucket lists, and with it being summertime at that time of year, it was an easy decision to make. “We flew to Dubai, and then had a very long flight to Sydney,” says Sharon. “We spent about a week there, and then flew to Christchurch in New Zealand, where we spent 10 days exploring the South Island.

“Andrew’s aunt and uncle very kindly hosted us in Sydney and showed us around. It was lovely to spend quality time with family – Andrew is very fond of them, and he hadn’t met some of his cousins in years, so it was fantastic to meet everybody and catch up over lazy summer days and warm and peaceful evenings. We mainly stayed in the New South Wales area, close to the stunning Blue Mountains. We also managed to spend a couple of days at a fantastic hotel, Pier One, in Sydney Harbour. It was a childhood dream come true to wake up

so close to the Sydney Opera House, in the heart of such a vibrant landmark city.

We also managed to venture around and explore Darling Harbour and Taronga Zoo in the time we were there,” she enthuses.

Sharon and Andrew’s next stop, New Zealand, took on more of a road trip-style of adventure. “We rented a car and moved to a different town every few days, from one motel to another. We landed in Christchurch, and stayed there for a few days, in which time we also travelled to some of the nearby towns like Hanmer, with its natural rock pools, and Little River. We drove up to Kaikoura and went whale-watching by plane, which was a surreal, once-in-a-lifetime experience – we were lucky enough to see two sperm whales that day.”

“

After a couple of days in Christchurch, the couple moved on to Lake Tekapo – an international dark sky reserve which is one of the world’s top spots for stargazing, due to the landscape and low levels of light pollution. “Andrew is into photography, and the few days we were there saw him take unbelievable pictures of the starry night sky, and of the clear lake and the Southern Alps. We spent time riding bikes around the lake, and managed a small plane ride over the lake too,” Sharon says.

“In those few days we also made our way to nearby Mount Cook and the Tasman Glacier. This was my favourite part of the trip. When we walked through the Tasman valley and climbed to the top of a mountain to lay eyes on the glacier, I wanted to hold on to that moment forever. Ò

The whole trip was like living in a postcard.

”

52 bliss MARCH 2017 § Honeymoon

“

New Zealand took on more of a road trip-style of adventure.

To make things even more magical, there was a stunning double rainbow at the time.

When we left Lake Tekapo, we went on to Queenstown and stayed right by the lake.

We visited the Skyline gondola and had fun on their luge tracks, zip-lined across the Kuwarau River, and dropped in to Arrowtown, a historic gold-mining village.

“After we left Queenstown, we headed over to Lake Te Anau. There, we jet boated on the Upper Waiau river, where a few scenes from Lord of the Rings were filmed, and went into the glow worm caves. The caves themselves were magnificent, with underground waterfalls and whirlpools, but the highlight was being in a small boat under thousands of shimmering glow worms within the silent grotto. The next day, we hopped on a cruise at Milford Sound and took in the majesty of the

breath-taking fjords, and even managed to drink from its fresh waterfalls, kayak in Harrison’s Cove, and say hi to some of the fjord’s resident fur seals!”

The couple’s last stop on the honeymoon was Dunedin, which was Andrew’s favourite. “We stayed in the stables of the historic Larnach Castle and went on a wildlife tour of the Otago Peninsula, getting a close look at penguins, sea lions, fur seals, and albatrosses in their natural environment, along with a string of other wonderful creatures. We hid in a dugout to get a good look at the local penguins without scaring them away, and got a chance to see one penguin chase another, screeching for half an hour to assert

”

dominance over his territory! It wasn’t something you see every day and it was absolutely unforgettable.

“The whole trip was like living in a postcard. At a different time in our lives, we may even have considered relocating there! Every day was a new adventure, filled with something else to discover. We were a little concerned at first that we might be trying to fill our itinerary with too much, but we had so much fun at every single thing we had planned. Aside from that, we still left ourselves flexible to do whatever we felt like on any given day. We had proper quality time together, filled with good fun and a great deal of laughter.

I couldn’t think of a better way for us to celebrate and start off our married life.” n

54 bliss MARCH 2017 § Home

“

We didn’t want to change the house so drastically that it would be unrecognisable from its old self.

”

Home § MARCH 2017 bliss 55

A co n temporary adaptat i o n of a n old

Maltese townhouse

Bursting at the seams with architectural details and distinctly Maltese finishes, this charismatic townhouse has everything going for it. Martina Said meets its owners, Hannah and Karl Vassallo, to discover what went into its remarkable transformation.

P hotos by A la n C arv i lle · P rops by M ar k s & S pe n cer

F

rom across the road, there’s something about this Fleur-DeLys townhouse that sets it apart from similar properties around it. It might have something to do with the grand columns that guard the building, together with a porch and balcony, which instil a sense of stateliness typical of magnificent Maltese houses of its kind.

Another two imposing columns stand at the entrance, their fresh, white paint illuminated by the natural light flooding in from both ends of the house. The stark white walls are offset by the busy patterned floor tiles, most of which are original to the townhouse, adding a splash of colour in almost every room. And as you walk through the corridor, the sense of space brought about by its contemporary design makes it clear that the house was adapted to fit the needs of a young family of four.

Until a year ago, the property was a dilapidated shadow of its former self, despite still being lived in. Its new owners, Hannah and Karl Vassallo, moved in a few months ago, and without hesitation admit that its size and tiered, spacious garden helped tip the scales in favour of buying it, despite the work it needed.

“We both like the symmetry of a townhouse, the proportions of the rooms, the high ceilings and old Maltese tiles,” says Karl, and this house ticked all of those boxes. “It was also in a central location,” adds Hannah, “and the work that needed to be done to it didn’t put us off.”

Estimated to be between 150 and 200 years old, the property was originally two separate houses, and around 70

years ago, its previous owners decided to turn it into a single larger one. “Until around 10 years ago, it was still being lived in, although it was completely neglected and didn’t appear habitable to us,” says Hannah. “There was mould everywhere, the ceilings needed to be changed, the garden was overgrown and the boundary wall separating our house from our neighbour’s had fallen. There was dirt and water coming in from everywhere, and even a tree growing out of the well! Structurally, however, the architect said it was relatively sound.”

Architect and project manager Karl Borg, who overlooked the renovation project to completion, guided the couple’s vision to reality, although they were pretty sure about what they wanted from the get-go – lots of natural light, white walls and, most importantly, a large kitchen in a black and white colour scheme with a black quartz kitchen top, which they got from Lawrence Fenech. “We didn’t want to change the house so drastically that it would be unrecognisable from its old self,” they explain. “We kept the layouts of most of the rooms as they made sense as they were, the biggest modification being that done to the kitchen. Ò

Home § MARCH 2017 bliss 57

“

We love the contrast between old and new, white walls and colourful tiles, and some sleek bits of furniture paired with old acquisitions.

”

need us, while leaving them to enjoy their freedom.”

A number of the property’s original internal features were also retained, such as the marble stairs, banisters, internal doors, front door and antiporta, as well as the old tiles in all the rooms, except for the bathrooms and kitchen. “The tiles were all in good condition – all we needed to do was polish them and, quite remarkably, no two rooms in the whole house We also opened up a corridor, which have the same tiles,” says Karl. Hannah adds, was previously interrupted with lots “in the large living/dining room, we also have of doors. It’s proved very useful for the the more common Maltese speckled tiles children to run up and down, and also which, although are not as eye-catching as created a clear view of the house from the patterned ones, are still a feature of this one end to the other.” house which I’m quite fond of.”

On the ground floor are the The couple says that, despite the combined living/dining room, the alterations, they managed to respect the kitchen accompanied by a casual dining character of the house. “We didn’t want to find room for everyday use in an open plan an old house, gut it and alter it drastically. The format, an adjacent living room, a bathroom and access to the reason we wanted this kind of townhouse to begin with is because garden. Meanwhile, on the first floor are the children’s bedroom it fits our lives. We also love the contrast between old and new, and bathroom, the master bedroom and an additional bedroom. white walls and colourful tiles, and some sleek bits of furniture In terms of structural works, besides the changes done to paired with old acquisitions.” the kitchen space, one of the biggest tasks was replacing the In fact, they admit that their choice of décor doesn’t conform ceilings. “The ceiling of the kitchen had to be changed as it holds to a particular style as such – the couple collected various items up another two floors. While the rest of the ceilings downstairs throughout the year-long renovation process, bought new ones only needed to be treated and fixed, those on the upper floors and added a number of sentimental items from their previous needed to be replaced, and doing so without breaking any of the home to the mix, such as a number of elegantly upholstered original tiles was no small task. In the end, we also decided to armchairs. “We have a large wooden chest which belonged to leave the ceilings exposed, which we weren’t sure of at first, but my grandparents and an old vase which has been handed down ended up becoming a feature of the house that gets quite a few through the generations in my family,” says Karl. “We also have compliments,” they add. some old jars which belonged to Hannah’s great grandfather, who A number of windows got turned into large glass doors, was a pharmacist. Although they’re all objects of sentimental namely in the kitchen and living room downstairs, offering multiple value, they also made sense as decorative items in the house.” access points to the garden. “Having a clear view of the garden With two children, Daniel and Charlie, and a dog, Marshall, from these rooms means we can keep an eye on the children when Hannah says that designing the house to be practical and fit the they’re playing outside, and be close enough to them should they family’s needs was instinctive. Ò

58 bliss MARCH 2017 § Home

“We’re actually all about function,” she says. “We never intended to come into this house, bring in our grand designs and make the children adapt. In any way we could, we did up the house with the children in mind. The living room was set up as a play area for all their toys from day one, keeping all their things in one room. We also wanted a bath in one of the bathrooms for the children to enjoy, so we adapted the one upstairs and installed a bath inside the shower. We had seen it done in a hotel abroad and

found it was perfect for us.”

Asked to pick their favourite room in the house, they unanimously agree that the kitchen takes the cake. “We’re so happy with the size of it, and that we don’t get in each other’s way,” they say, although Hannah is also quite fond of the reclaimed armchairs, which create cosy corners around the house, perfect for short breaks. “Not that we get to use them a lot, but sometimes they remind us to stop and relax for a few minutes, and, if we’re lucky, put our feet up with a book.” n

Make a

Home § MARCH 2017 bliss 61

splash

From function and routine to relaxation and pure bliss, your bathroom is a dynamic space in your home. Here, Jo Caruana rounds up the latest trends to ensure it’s right on point.

Old School Glamour

www.homedepot.com

ÔShimmer and sparkle may have seemed kitsch a few years back, but they’ve since found their place in our homes – when effectively curated, of course. So instead of in-your-face metals, opt for glossy finishes that will give your bathroom added ‘wow’ factor instead. One worry with the metallic trend is that it can make a space appear sterile, but you can avoid this by making shine a feature and using it sparingly – perhaps on one wall, a shower cabinet, or in your fittings and fixtures. Complete the look with highgloss tiles and plenty of glass to add to the illusion of space. Ò

www.amerrymishapblog.com

Natural High

www.idyl lhome.co .uk

ÔThe recent wave of popular period dramas like Downton Abbey and The Crown have inspired bathroom trends that many would have previously dismissed as outdated. Think vintage fittings, chandeliers, ornate brass fittings and sculpted sanitary ware – our new favourite bathrooms are as far removed from minimalism as you can get. As for the pièce de resistance, well, that would have to be a free-standing, roll-top bath – ideally in stark white or a pastel-coloured finish. Our advice is to complement all this with much-needed modern convenience, including a power shower, ecoflushing and taps with ceramic flushing. Now, would ma’am prefer champagne or a pot of tea at bath time?

The Gloss Effect

ÓÒWood has become a popular material for use across our homes – and the bathroom is no different. In fact, many suppliers now offer special wall and floor ranges in wood and wood-effect that are designed especially for use around water. This nature-inspired look brings the outdoors in thanks to the use of natural materials including wood and stone. Incorporate it into carved basins or baths, stone tiles, textured wall coverings, wood panelling and cabinets, and cotton fabrics. The resulting feel will be fresh, inviting and almost spa-like.

www.archiexpo.com

62 bliss MARCH 2017 § Home

High Impact

ÔIf you want to avoid your bathroom turning into a space that’s predictably bland and beige, you may want to go in the completely opposite direction by injecting colour and drama. If you don’t want to rush overboard, start with white sanitary ware and build your look around it; you could opt for bright geometrics, patterned wallpaper, bold black-and-whites, or a vibrant feature wall. Alternatively, if the prospect of going all-out seems too daunting, rein your ideas in and restrict them to your accessories – bright fabrics, blinds, product bottles and knick-knacks can go a long way towards making a bathroom feel fresh and renewed, and filling it with personality.

www.timstiles.co.uk

Patterned Tiles

ÓFinally, one trend that continues to be a big hit in Malta is the use of patterned tiles in the bathroom. From typical Maltese tiles to ones with a more European or Moroccan feel, patterned tiles effortlessly add focus and complete a space. Do bear in mind that, while these tiles look gorgeous, they can prove quite overpowering, so you may prefer to use them on a feature wall or a sectioned ‘zone’ of your floor, rather than all over. Complete the look by selecting one accent colour from the tiles, and using it in your towels, finishes and accessories. n www.tilejunket.com.au

The Shower Has It

ÒWhether your bathroom is bitsy or massive, your shower may well end up being one of its most used features. With that in mind, why not make it the centrepiece? One of the very latest bathroom trends puts the shower firmly in focus, whether you opt for a walk-in, a cubicle or a wet room. Start with a good shower tray and excellent power shower, and then form the space around that – choosing sinks, cabinets, tiles and finishes that complement. If your budget allows, a frameless screen is the ultimate luxury for shower-lovers, by adding wet room-style openness without the dreaded spray.

www.sitoutils.com

64 bliss MARCH 2017 § Wedding Directory

wedding directory

D

db Hotels + Resorts

Ô We invite you to meet us and appreciate our wide selection of venues with fantastic views for your special occasion. Our hotels have the perfect facilities to organise your reception indoors, by the pool or on the roof terrace enjoying panoramic views.

For further information contact us on T: 2350 3750/1; E: events@dbhotelsresorts.com; www.dbhotelsresorts.com

C caMILLERIPARISMODE

a

Alamango Bridal

ÓAs one of the oldest and most trusted bridal establishments representing some of the top names in the industry including Maggie Sottero, Meri Lee, Mon Cheri and Sophia Tolli, Alamango is the obvious choice for your special day. With a wide selection of wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, flower girl dresses and bridal accessories, you will be spoilt for choice. Our policy ensures that we only stock one unique wedding dress for each bride, to guarantee a truly special day.

Alamango Bridal; 95, Manoel De Vilhena Street, Gzira. T: 2131 4331; E: bridal@alamango.com.mt; www.alamango.com.mt

a

Alamango Textiles

ÑAlamango Textiles will provide you with the best quality and latest fabrics on the market. Our wide range of luxurious fabrics has elevated us into one of the most sought-after stores by dressmakers and fashion designers alike. All our plain fabrics are made to match perfectly with accessories such as guipure, lace and lining. No matter the occasion, our in-house team will create and make your perfect dress a reality. We also offer unique pieces of material for the mother of the bride. Alamango Bridal; 95, Manoel De Vilhena Street, Gzira.

T: 2131 4331; E: textiles@alamango.com.mt; www.alamango.com.mt

ÔWhen it comes to selecting items for your gift list, the vast selection of tableware and decorative objects, along with our dedicated service, makes the choice an easy one. Every couple enjoys a tailor-made experience, with each gift list individually displayed at either our Sliema or Rabat shops, as well as being placed on our website. Our credit terms are the icing on the cake.

Visit our shop in Rabat or contact us on weddings@camilleriparismode.com for more information.

C

candylicious

ÒMake your wedding a sweet one with a sweet bar or candy cart that will not only make your guests feel like kids again, but will also brighten up the venue.

Candylicious has gained a reputation for offering a lavish and unique sweet display for your wedding, birthday party and events. We can create a beautiful display in a particular theme or colour range, and you can take your pick from a rainbow of yummy sweets. Our displays are all designed with you in mind and to suit your budget – something different, unique and unexpected for your guests that will make their lasting impression a sweet one.

6, St Francis Street, San Gwann. T: 2702 9117.

E

EVA MARIEE

ØExperience what you have never experienced before. We welcome all the brides-to-be into our salon and provide them with an excellent and professional service.

Let us help you find your perfect dress and make your wedding day the best day ever. Our salon offers a large selection of wedding gowns and bridesmaid dresses by exclusive designers from all over the world in shapes and sizes to suit all figures and body types. 307, Triq il-Kbira San Guzepp, St Venera.

E: info@evamariee.com; www.evamariee.com

H

Heritage Malta

ÔHeritage Malta offers unique, historical venues for memorable functions and events. So go the extra mile to impress with your occasion or event. Heritage Malta is the proud custodian of some of the country’s most impressive palaces and historical sites, some of which are truly unique, elegant and offer breath-taking settings and views. They are ideal for functions such as weddings, seminars, exhibitions, concertos, product launches or other activities. www.heritagemalta.org/venues

Wedding Directory § MARCH 2017 bliss 65

T

THE VILLA

ÔImagine having your civil ceremony set up on our beautiful terrace with breath-taking views of the glistening Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop. Imagine your guests sipping on a welcome cocktail as the picturesque Balluta Church gleams in the setting sun.

Imagine having your first dance in the magical surroundings of the fairy-lit garden terraces.

All this and more could be your wedding day at the Villa. For further details T: 2311 2273; E: info@thevillamalta.com

K

KG Events

ÓWedding and Event Planners and Coordinators in Malta do not come any more meticulous in organisation, care and creativity than KG Events. In today’s stressful life, organising a wedding can be demanding and can lead to oversights during the actual day. The synchronisation of all sectors involved plays a crucial part in the success of memorable events and we ensure that it is reflected on your big day. Our commitment is evident in the successful weddings and events that we have lovingly organised.

M: 7761 8905; E: info@kgeventsmalta.com; www.kgeventsmalta.com

W

Wedding Flowers by Thomas Xerri

ÓAt Wedding Flowers by Thomas Xerri, we recognise the huge part flowers play in making your big day extra special. We take our role very seriously in creating and supplying simply beautiful wedding flowers to suit your tastes and budget.

We are delighted to have been of service to hundreds of couples over the past 10 years or so. Our growing reputation speaks for itself – creativity, reliability and your confidence in quality from start to finish. Dawwara Street, Victoria, Gozo.

T: 2155 3637/7731 0789; E: info@xerrisgardencentre.com

A healthy diet ahead of your wedding Every bride wants to look great on her big day – and a healthy and balanced diet is key. This type of diet allows your body to burn enough calories without losing too much weight.

If you follow a balanced diet, consisting of small and regular portions of healthy food, you will automatically be helping your metabolism. Start with a good breakfast, followed by a small portion of food at lunchtime and a good meal in the evening. In between these meals it is recommended that you nibble healthy snacks such as fruit, yogurt, some nuts or a low-calorie item.

Each meal, on the other hand, should feature vegetables and fruit, a small amount of bread, small amounts of brown pasta with sauces that are low in fat, and lean meats such as chicken, as well as fish. Red meats and sweets may be eaten but in small quantities.

In order to look and feel great, the bride-to-be should also exercise regularly – at least half an hour of brisk walking or relatively intensive exercise every day. This brings about slow but steady loss of weight.

The secret of a good diet and stable weight is balance – in the choice of food, the amount of food consumed and the way in which portions are spread throughout the day. n Geoffrey Axiak M.Sc. Nursing (Manchester), B.Sc. Nursing, P.G. Dip. Nutrition & Dietetics, Dip. Public Management, Cert.

Clinical Nutrition (Leeds) Geoffrey Axiak, M: 9982 2288; E: axiakg@yahoo.com; http://gaxiak.yolasite.com

66 bliss MARCH 2017 § Vintage Wedding

love and patience Just a few months away from their 54th wedding anniversary this July, Haroldine and Carmel Portelli tell Marie-Claire Grima all about that special day, and the colourful journey together that followed.

H

aroldine and Carmel Portelli both grew up in Gzira, so they knew each other by sight long before they started dating. “He was in the Youth Catholic Action group with a lot of his friends, including my brother Richard,” Haroldine recalls. “Back then, we used to think the Azzjoni Kattolika boys would all turn out to be priests!” However, Cupid’s arrow struck when Carmel saw Haroldine in 1959, fresh from a stint with the Blue Sisters in Rome, arranging flowers in church for the Christmas celebration. “I asked her brother whether she was back for good, and told him to put in a good word for me,” Carmel smiles. The rest, as they say, is history.

The pair dated for about three years before an engagement was set, and they celebrated their betrothal in Kirkop, with a friend of theirs from Gzira, Fr Joseph Theuma, who had been transferred there as a parish priest. “We ordered a few sweets from Busy Bee and had quite a party, considering we were only three people,” Haroldine laughs. A skilful seamstress, she wanted to make her wedding dress herself, but her friend Imelda Galea Musú insisted on sewing it for her because it would be bad luck – so she had to settle for helping with the beading.

“The parish priest actually came to my parents’ house before the wedding to check that the neckline wasn’t too low-cut!” she laughs. Instead, she made the dresses for her bridesmaids and flower girls; the bridesmaids tease her to this day for making them wear ostrich-feather head-pieces, which they claimed made them look like they were wearing pancakes as hats. While Haroldine’s

“

The parish priest actually came to my parents’ house before the wedding to check that the neckline wasn’t too low-cut!

”

taste in fashion was bold for the time, her routine on the morning of the wedding was touchingly modest. “I got up, had a shower, put on my wedding dress and my hair in a bun and went off to get married. I wasn’t even wearing a speck of make-up!”

Carmel and Haroldine married on 28th July 1963, at the Gzira parish church. The ceremony was conducted by the parish priest, Fr Paul Galea – in just over a year, Malta would be an independent country, and the celebrant they had originally requested, Fr Joseph Bernard, had to be in London helping Archbishop Michael Gonzi during the Independence Conference. The reception was held at the Regina Hotel in Sliema, which was one of a handful of wedding venues back in the day, and the young couple set off on a 10-day honeymoon in Marsalforn, Gozo. However, on the second day, Carmel’s mother and sister turned up in Marsalforn to check how the newlyweds were doing.

“Just in case they thought we’d forgotten them,” Carmel chuckles. Five children – four boys and one girl – followed in quick succession, and the family grew as Carmel’s public service career, from Director of the Public Lotto Department continued to rise eventually to Permanent Secretary and Chief Electoral Commissioner.

The couple renewed their vows four years ago, for their 50th anniversary. After Carmel’s successful career, the couple now lead a peaceful life in Sliema, with frequent visits from their children and their nine grandchildren. He, an avid Chelsea fan, loves sports and has a column in Il-Lehen, while she likes knitting, combini and cooking.

They were recently on holiday in Rome when they were approached by a young woman who was in the middle of her hen’s party, asking passers-by to sign her shirt with words of marital wisdom. When she asked them how long they had been married – going on 54 years – she was awestruck, and demanded to know what their secret was. “It’s no secret,” says Haroldine. “It takes a lot of love, and a lot of patience.

When a couple has a disagreement, words said in anger can lead to a lot of regret after the storm clears. That’s the only secret – knowing when to hold your tongue.” n