50 minute read
JUST THE WAY YOU ARE
LIZ JOSEF
MSSP ORATORY, BIRKIRKARA
VILLA ARRIGO, NAXXAR
Just the way you are
From a 600-strong guest list and a honeymoon in the USA, Liz and JosefCassar had to transform their wedding plans and expectations to get hitched last July. In the end, it turned out to be an easy decision with the goal of starting a life together. They tell Martina Said all about their special day.
PHOTOS BY TONIO LOMBARDI
Liz and Josef Cassar would have never imagined, back in mid-2019 when they settled on July of the following year for their big day, what it would take for them to finally make it to the altar. Loads of patience, support and understanding, among other things – which, as it turned out, proved to be a golden recipe for a strong start to married life.
The couple, who met through a mutual friend, knew from early on that they had found something special in each other. Liz, 30, jokes that she knew she wanted to marry Jo, as she affectionately calls him, one week into dating him.
“It didn’t take very long for me to realise he was the one. I was surprised when we started dating by how easy he was to get along with and I always felt comfortable and secure around him. I never really second guessed myself and never felt judged either, which was probably a first,” says Liz. “He is such a positive and easy-going person, and very easy to love, so it was a no brainer for me.”
As for her hubby, he had a strong hunch that Liz was the woman he wanted to spend his life with after an impromptu outing along with her niece and nephew. “There was this one day in our first year of dating when we spent a day out with my niece and nephew. He took a photo of the three of us sitting together on a large deckchair and, in his words, ‘I saw the mother in you that day’,” which pretty much sealed the deal.
Not too long after, the couple got engaged with the blessing of their adorable Labrador, Billy, and immediately set about planning their big day for the following summer, July 2020. Like many couples, however, they’ve had to deal with the disappointment, stress and uncertainty of getting married in the year of COVID-19, and after setting their original date for 18th July, were forced to move it to August of the following year when the pandemic persisted well into May.
“I feel like I planned multiple weddings in one year!” says Liz. “When we decided to change the date to 21st August 2021, admittedly I wasn’t too happy about it, but I slowly came to terms with it. Then, for the sake of still celebrating our wedding date, we decided to plan a small civil wedding for 15 people at Villa Arrigo. This was going to be an intimate ceremony and a seated dinner with just our families.”
As restrictions gradually lifted towards the end of June, the couple started discussing the possibility of keeping their original date and downsizing their wedding to 75 people, in the hope that, by then, gatherings would be able to increase to at least 150 people. Then, exactly four weeks before their original wedding date, all restrictions on event gatherings were lifted. In no time, the couple reshuffled their plans and, by and large, went ahead with what they originally had in mind.
“It is the date we had originally set our hearts on and moving the wedding to next year felt as if we were losing out on an entire year, leaving us in a strange sense of limbo,” Liz explains. “We wanted to get married, and I was especially looking forward to starting a family. So once restrictions were lifted, it felt like this would be our year after all. In the end, we got our wedding and I am currently pregnant with twins, so I truly believe everything works out as it should!”
A major change the couple had to make was to their guest list. While their original list amounted to 600 people, Liz and Jo trimmed it by half to ensure that guests were comfortably spread out across the venue. “There were guests who weren’t keen to attend and that was completely understandable, but in the end, as the restrictions had been lifted, we decided to give our best shot at putting together the wedding day we wanted.”
While there were many details of the wedding that Liz had originally been set on, the circumstances gave her a different perspective, and a newfound appreciation for what really mattered. “We ultimately planned our wedding in four weeks, and I felt so lucky to be having a wedding in the first place that I let go of all control. Whatever could be done in the time we had, we made it possible.”
She adds, “I think it taught me a lot in a way. Everyone wants their wedding day to be perfect and for things to be a specific way, but I realised that none of it really mattered. It didn’t matter that my
invites didn’t have the embossed detail I originally wanted – I was lucky to have invites designed and printed within three days, written in one day, and ready to be sent out exactly three weeks before the day. Compromising on things here and there allowed it all to come together.”
The couple, who planned their wedding around a colour palette of sage and blush, each took responsibility for different parts of the wedding and, given their easy-going personalities, were able to agree on just about everything. “We took care of different things and were each the decision maker for those tasks. For instance, I took care of the flowers, church, food, venue, and souvenirs, while Jo took care of the entertainment, photographer and sound, among others.”
For the souvenirs, Liz made what seemed like a neverending batch of sugar cookies. “It was a crazy idea as I was making them two days before the wedding with my mother. But it was fun too – we put on music and spent the day baking and decorating together. She does a fantastic job of cleaning up after too, so that was a bonus,” she laughs.
The easiest choices for their wedding day, Liz admits, were the venue and caterers. Although she had looked into a few options – also to avoid getting married at the same venue as her sister’s wedding two years prior – she simply couldn’t see herself hosting their reception anywhere other than Villa Arrigo, with food and drinks by Osborne Caterers. Along with a selection of finger foods and micro plates served to guests, they also selected three main tables: an American table, a chip cart – the bride’s personal favourite – and a Tuscan table.
“I felt like you can’t go wrong with them and I was right! Throughout the pandemic, I knew and heard of couples who had been treated unfairly by their chosen venue, but
Villa Arrigo were so understanding and cooperative,” says Liz. “They must have been dealing with a thousand other problems but never once ignored an email, were willing to change things around and simply be flexible.”
On the day, Liz explains that she woke up feeling incredibly excited for what was to come, tinged with a layer of disbelief about the fact that her wedding day had really arrived. “I felt like it was a dream and I couldn’t believe it was happening. I kept expecting something to stop the wedding from going ahead! However, once I got to the church, I felt a mix of calm, happiness and excitement, and nothing mattered from that point onwards.”
The bride rolled up outside the church in a traditional Maltese bus from Malta Bus Coop. Besides adding a fun and colourful element to the ceremony run-up, it also proved to be the perfect carriage for herself, her bridal party of six bridesmaids, a maid of honour, a page boy and a flower girl, as well as her parents to arrive in.
DETAILS
WEDDING MAKES THREE
For the ceremony, Liz and Jo opted for the MSSP Oratory in Birkirkara, where they attend mass on Sunday and feel part of the community, making this modern and intimate church a homely choice for them. “Fr Cilia led our mass, and he never fails to deliver a truly meaningful celebration,” says Liz. “I can’t really describe how it went, other than it was fun, relaxed and there was such a positive atmosphere.”
When it came to choosing her wedding dress, the thenbride-to-be knew and found exactly what she wanted, but there was quite a story behind getting her hands on it. “My sister had travelled to Rome to buy her dress from a particular bridal brand and I had tagged along with her for fittings. I was mesmerized by the beauty of these dresses and thought that one day, I would choose my own dress from there,” she explains.
When the time came to shop around for her dress, she visited the website of the same brand and found the perfect one for her. “I then learnt that Ivory & Co. retail Pronovias dresses in Malta, so I contacted them to see if they would bring it or if I should fly to Rome for it. Sure enough, they were due to receive it in a few months,” says Liz. “About two months later, I received a call to say the dress arrived and I went to try it on that same afternoon. I walked into the changing room, tried it on, it fit (more or less) perfectly, and I
“The wedding cake was super simple in terms of decoration. I wanted the cake topper to be the highlight with a small surprise for Jo, featuring the three of us
together,” says Liz, referring to their beloved dog, Billy.
A BEAMING BRIDE Although flexible about everything else, Liz was adamant about who she wanted for her hair and make-up. “The only thing I wouldn’t compromise on was having Karl Zammit Nash for make-up and Daphne Abela for my hair. I was set on both and was willing to work around them to make it happen!”
bought it. I never even tried on another dress or considered anything else.”
Liz’s stunning blush gown comprised a light and flowy skirt with a low front and back neckline, complete with an elegant front slit. The dress had a matching veil decorated with floral applique, and just as she did with her dress, she bought the first and only one she tried on. “I felt like it complemented the dress perfectly and it was such a beautiful veil.”
The newlyweds shared their first dance to Barry White’s Just the Way You Are, chosen by the groom for its meaningful lyrics, and enjoyed burning up the dancefloor for the rest of the evening, powered on by their band, family and friends.
Pressed to pick a favourite part of the day, Liz says that her expectations were fulfilled beyond what she could have ever imagined, and she would do it all again exactly as they did. “The entire day was beautiful, but I have to say when I was walking down the aisle towards him, I remember feeling like I need to grab onto my dad because my legs had gone all jelly on me. I was so ready to be standing by his side at that point, and he had this massive smile on his face, which was sweet.”
Despite having to ditch their US honeymoon for a short stint in Gozo, Liz and Jo learned that getting married during such an extraordinary time had its own valuable and meaningful lessons. “It’s okay for original plans to go astray, or to alter them as you go. In the end, you get to marry one another and begin a future together. And that is the most beautiful thing that you take away from your wedding day anyway.”
NINNIA NICHOLAS
LAPSI CHURCH, ST JULIAN’S
PRIVATE RESIDENCE
A bohemian fairy tale
After COVID-19 threatened to derail Ninnia Toledo and Nicholas (Niki) Osthus’s wedding plans, the couple had a month to start afresh. The bride tells Sarah Micallef how they pulled off an elegant garden wedding at home, with the help of their nearest and dearest.
PHOTOS BY MARK CASSAR
Every love story needs a good setting, and for jewellery designer Ninnia Toledo and property manager Nicholas (Niki) Osthus, it all began at Tony’s Bar.
“I had just come out of a seven-year relationship and Niki was living in London at the time,” Ninnia recalls of that first encounter. Their paths would cross again some months later by sheer coincidence, when Ninnia’s best friend began dating Niki’s best friend. Asked if it was a case of love at first sight, she smiles, “there was definitely an immediate attraction.”
Four years later, Niki decided to pop the question, but all did not quite go as planned. “It was originally supposed to be on Christmas morning,” Ninnia says, explaining that her family normally exchange gifts before the rest of the family arrives for Christmas lunch.
“That year, my brother was abroad, and a lot of things were happening in the house, so we didn’t exchange gifts until the evening,” she recalls, noting that by that time, the entire family, including aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents, was present. “Everyone knew what was happening so everyone arrived earlier than usual, not leaving him time to find the right moment. He ended up being pressured by my cousins and had to propose in front of about 30 of us,” she laughs.
Wedding planning began soon after, and unlike most brides, Ninnia decided to leave it all in the hands of her mother – accomplished interiors and fashion designer Pippa Toledo. “My mother took care of everything, from start to finish. I wasn’t stressed at all, but she was,” Ninnia recalls.
Yet, as 2020 has shown, sometimes, even the best laid plans are subject to change, and Ninnia’s wedding, along with so many others this year, was thrown into uncertain territory by COVID-19.
“The reception was originally planned for 21st June 2020 at a villa in Marsascala, with mass at the Loreto Chapel in Gudja,” Ninnia says, admitting that in truth, her initial wish was to get married at Lapsi Church and have a reception at home, but it would only have been possible with a smaller wedding. And, as it turns out, that’s exactly what she ended up with.
After rescheduling and amending their original plans due to COVID-19 limitations, the couple tied the knot a month later, on 25th July 2020, with mass celebrated at Lapsi Church and a reception at home. “It’s actually what I always wanted,” the bride reveals happily.
One of the couple’s main priorities was that their big day would represent Ninnia and Niki’s personalities, and not “a stereotypical wedding we’re all used to”. The result was a bohemian-style garden party styled by Pippa Toledo, which exceeded the bride’s expectations: “I wanted it to be a bohemian fairy tale, and thanks to my mum, that’s exactly what I had.”
DETAILS
UNUSUAL INVITATIONS Doing away with tradition (and with only a month to plan their big day), Ninnia and Niki opted against having souvenirs, and for their invitations, chose a simple photograph of a flower in their garden, where their garden party wedding would eventually be held.
COOKIE CAKE Another unusual element to Ninnia and Niki’s big day was the absence of a wedding cake. Instead, the pair chose… a cookie cake! “I didn't want the traditional almond white iced wedding cake, so we had a fourtier cookie stack made up of dark chocolate, chocolate chip and white chocolate chip cookies, with a cream frosting between each cookie and white icing sprinkled all over, covered in flowers,” the bride describes.
After a frantic month of preparations amidst the changing realities of COVID-19, their big day finally arrived, and Ninnia awoke feeling slightly the worse for wear. “I was exhausted! I had stayed up all night with my cousin watching a movie, so I only slept about four hours, but I was very calm until I left the house,” the laidback bride recalls. And it lasted right up until their personalised ceremony, during which, she recalls, “I even got a giggling fit right before I said, ‘I do’, which lasted for a while!”
The bride said her ‘I dos’ in impeccable style, in a gown designed by none other than her mother. “I always knew what I wanted when it came to my dress,” she recalls, describing it as a mix between bohemian and gypsy. “Having the most talented designer as a mother, she put it all together, including the bridesmaids’ dresses, while I designed all the jewellery and my headband, which I loved,” Ninnia adds.
Despite cutting their guest list in half, the couple were still able to celebrate with 120 of their nearest and dearest, with Niki’s father even making the trip from overseas to join in the celebrations. The catering was left in the capable hands of Osborne Caterers, who “always deliver amazing service and delicious food” Ninnia gushes, adding that everyone in attendance was very well looked after throughout.
Later on, true to form, the couple continued to sway from tradition when it came to their first dance, opting for an unusual choice of song. “We danced to ‘If You Think I’m Sexy’ by Rod Stewart,” they laugh.
Still, the day wasn’t without its emotional moments, Ninnia reveals. “I was lucky enough to have my grandmother, Therese Sullivan, who is a renowned floral designer and is now retired at the age of 89, do all the flower arrangements for my wedding. She was very unwell last year, and to see her setting up the church the day before was really emotional for me,” the bride recalls.
And looking back, despite the setbacks and frantic change of plans, the pair wouldn’t change a thing about their big day, admitting that is was just perfect for them. Sharing a few words of advice to other couples whose wedding plans may have been affected by COVID-19, Ninnia says, “to anyone who might be getting married in this uncertain time, sometimes, things work out for the better. As long as you’re surrounded by the people that mean the most to you, your day is going to be perfect.”
KAY MATTHEW
OUR LADY OF VICTORY CHURCH, VALLETTA
XARA LODGE, RABAT
Two hearts as one
After eight years together, supporting each other’s dreams during their formative years, Kay and Matthew Schembri Vanhear tied the knot in front of their beloved family and friends. Here, they tell Rebecca Anastasi all about their big day, and share the emotions of their traditional yet modern wedding.
PHOTOS BY TÜMER GENÇTÜRK
In 2005, Matthew and Kay certainly didn’t have wedding bells on their minds as they helped out at their local parish church in Santa Luċija. “He was an altar boy and I was part of the church choir back then,” Kay recalls. “Of course, we were present for every mass and community activity, so we had started to recognise each other, and say hi,” Kay continues, adding that her first impression of Matthew was that he was “tall and handsome”. After some time, the pair started to spend time together with a group of friends after Sunday morning mass, and they “bonded immediately”.
The pair were spending even more time together as their O-level exams approached. “We both had a Computer Studies exam which was not my forte, and we had a project to present as part of our assessment. Matthew kindly offered to help me out,” Kay says. That time together cemented their interest, and the teens become an official couple. Their first date – a ride out with their bikes – reflected their adventurous personalities, and left Kay reeling with excitement. “That night, I was so excited that I couldn’t sleep!”
The couple got involved in myriad social activities together, joining a youth group called Spirit Alive Youths (SAY), organising a talent show, and participating in initiatives in their community in Santa Luċija. “The more I got to know him, the more I fell in love with his willingness to help others, his morals, his calm demeanour when dealing with everyday work, and his intelligence,” Kay smiles.
Indeed, the love and companionship felt by the couple lay solid foundations for the future. “Matthew and I always confided in each other and we sought each other in the good times
and bad. We love each other’s company and, even though we are somewhat different, we do find a compromise,” Kay explains.
After eight years together, the couple decided to step up their level of commitment and started house hunting. It took two years for them to find what they were looking for: a 300-year-old house that needed restoration which, once done, would make the perfect home. “Upon signing the contract for the house, we knew we were ready to tie the knot and, I guess, it was at that point that my hopes were raised in anticipation for a proposal!”
Kay didn’t have to wait long. A year later, the couple were on holiday with two friends, Riann and Franco, in Scotland. The friends were on their way to Isle of Skye and drove past “a magnificent ancient castle in the middle of the Loch”. They decided to stop, and headed to the visitors’ centre for lunch, before deciding to go on a tour of the castle.
“After a few minutes, Matthew grabbed my hand and told me ‘let’s go and take a selfie’. He then turned, facing me, and put my two hands in his. But I hadn’t realised what was about to happen, so I tried to convince him to pose. At one point, I turned and saw Riann holding the Go-Pro and Franco holding the Nikon camera, both prepared for a photoshoot. Matthew started talking again, knelt down on one knee and opened a box, saying ‘Will you marry me?” I burst out crying with tears of joy and I couldn’t even answer!” Kay recalls.
She said yes, and once back in Malta, the couple started preparing for the big day, which involved juggling between work commitments and house renovations. They decided to tie the knot on 9th November 2019 and agreed to be actively involved in logistics for the big day. Their priority, Kay says, was to organise “an enjoyable evening for all the guests, spiced up with special moments of us”. They also had specific ideas for some of the wedding details, one of which was the creation of a logo they would use on their invites, and as a backdrop at the venue.
The couple also wanted the cake table to be the centrepiece at the venue, Xara Lodge hall, and “as the date was getting closer, we wanted to add some elegant lighting which could fill the hall ceiling and shine attention onto the cake table,” Kay explains. The couple came across The Events Company (TEC) through social media and, after sharing their ideas with the team, were sent images to help them visualise the options, one of which consisted of a white cake table centrepiece, lighting up the tent in warm red – one of the wedding theme colours. TEC also suggested fairy lights over the couple’s logo, which would hang as a stage backdrop set up for the pre-wedding photoshoot.
“TEC understood our tastes immediately and took into consideration our ideas and wishes from the start, providing us with personalised attention. When Matthew and I arrived at Xara Lodge, we were amazed with the decor and very satisfied, since they managed to add more glamour to our special evening,” Kay says.
The bride’s decisiveness was also key to her choosing her wedding dress in record time! Years before, in 2015, she had saved an image of a bridal dress by design house Pronovias, and that provided the template for the bride-tobe’s wedding gown choice. Keen to get started as quickly as possible, Kay booked an appointment at Ivory & Co, where she was presented with several dresses to try on. None of them seemed to work, but, fortunately, her aunt spotted an exquisite gown on the rack.
“This was the fourth dress which I had tried on, and when I looked at myself in the mirror, I started feeling butterflies. It made me feel comfortable and confident, and I will never forget the moment when I opened the doors to the changing room. My mother and aunt looked stunned for a while and didn’t say a word. And, then, they broke into tears. I started crying too and I turned to the sales assistant and said: ‘I think this is THE dress!!’” Embroidered with rhinestones and boasting a mermaid skirt in Chantilly lace, the gown was complemented with a four-metre veil.
Family also played an integral role on the day itself, which was celebrated with 375 guests. Kay’s bridal team
consisted of seven bridesmaids – which included her sister as maid of honour – and one flower girl, Matthew’s cousin, who was only seven years old. The groom had one best man – his best friend, Jurgen – as well as three ushers and one witness, his brother, Julian.
The bridal car – a silver Rolls Royce from Meli’s Car Garage coordinated through Dalton’s Chauffeur Services – picked the party up on time. But a thick traffic jam threatened to upend the schedule for the day. “The main roads in the south of Malta had closed! Dalton’s immediately contacted my mother to devise another plan so that I wouldn’t leave Matthew waiting at the church! They were so efficient that, although the streets were packed, everything ran
smoothly and we all made it on time for the wedding mass,” Kay smiles.
And while there is no one moment which stands out as a ‘favourite’ from that day, Kay recalls the feeling of arriving at the church in Valletta – where tourists and passers-by applauded on seeing her about to walk in for the ceremony. “That definitely added to the excitement,” she recalls. “And as I held onto my father’s arm and walked into the church, I felt complete. I was proud that Matthew and I had made it to this day together, and I felt grateful to have so many family and friends supporting us through this journey. I couldn’t ask for anything more!"
From the moment the couple said their ‘I do’s, Kay and Matthew’s wedding was filled with magical memories, including a very special surprise organised by the bride’s sister. “Just before our first dance, Angele stepped up on stage and sang this beautiful song which reflected the story of our relationship! She had written the lyrics to the song
herself. I was fascinated by how much my sister understood our relationship. I had always known I could confide in her and she had always filled me with words of encouragement, but the words to the song she wrote will forever remain imprinted in our love story,” Kay smiles.
Looking back, Kay explains that all the preparations that went into the wedding reaped their rewards. “Everyone knew the day’s programme by heart. There were some unexpected delays and some things did get forgotten, but our family and wedding team handled everything smoothly so we could enjoy the evening – which we did,” she says. For, everything does not have to be perfect, Kay adds. “All the work done by the couple, as well as their friends and family – as in our case – is a sign of something much more precious: the love and dedication felt by those closest to you.”
DETAILS
A WEDDING LOGO Matthew and Kay were intent on putting their personal stamp on their big day – even in the form of a logo. “From the start, Matthew and I worked on designing our own logo which we envisaged to use on our invitations, as a stage backdrop, in our pre-wedding photoshoot, as well as on our souvenirs and gifts to the bridal team, and we were inspired by Maltese doors and wrought iron works,” Kay explains. Matthew worked on the design – though there were a few iterations before the final version was settled.
HOME-MADE CAROB SYRUP Kay and Matthew wanted to add a personal touch to the souvenirs presented at the wedding. “We decided to give out home-made carob syrup made by Matthew’s mum and aunt. Their love for home-made food sparked the idea – which involved a long process of cutting the carob pods, boiling them, preparing the mix and letting the syrup settle – and we thought it was a good idea for the beginning of winter season.”
GHOSTS OF THE PAST
LOCATION: Social Care Standards Authority PHOTOGRAPHER: Kris Micallef PHOTO SHOOT COORDINATOR: Sarah Micallef HAIR & MAKEUP: Francesca & Lorraine, Alfie's Hair & Beauty MODEL: Marysia, Island Talent Agency
Dress: Designed by internationally renowned brand Millanova, this dress has a magical, fairy princess feel to it. The skirt has a long train, but is very light in weight, allowing any bride to manoeuvre easily on her wedding day. The details on the bodice are sparkly but ever so delicate. Exclusively available at WEDDINGBELLS. Jewellery available at ZSAZSA.
Dress: This gown encompasses a combination of the traditional with a touch of modern femininity, elegance and chic. Exclusively available at ArtBridal boutique
Dress: Delicate lace covers this beautiful dress by Leendias. The bodice is corseted and the back features a fine lace-up fastening, a strong new trend for next season. Exclusively available at WEDDINGBELLS. Jewellery available at ZSAZSA.
Headpiece: A beautiful headpiece, the Ivory Flower tiara is sophisticated and romantic. It is softly embellished with handcrafted clay florals in soft ivory and leaf motifs, accented with pearls. Each flower petal is individually handcrafted to create this delicate design. It is handcrafted from tarnish resistant jewellery wire and attached to a fine metal headband, with combs attached at the ends for extra security. Designed to wear with a romantic updo or half-up hairstyles, it suits a variety of wedding dresses. Exclusively at SC Bridal Designs.
Dress: Every detail of this dress is infused with love to create unforgettable moments. Exclusively available at ArtBridal boutique
Headpiece: A beautiful headpiece, the Ivory Flower tiara is sophisticated and romantic. It is softly embellished with handcrafted clay florals in soft ivory and leaf motifs, accented with pearls. Each flower petal is individually handcrafted to create this delicate design. It is handcrafted from tarnish resistant jewellery wire and attached to a fine metal headband, with combs attached at the ends for extra security. Designed to wear with a romantic updo or half-up hairstyles, it suits a variety of wedding dresses. Exclusively at SC Bridal Designs.
Dress: Stunning gown with detachable train designed by Ida Torez. Beautifully embellished with delicate crystals and beads, this gown is guaranteed to turn heads. Exclusively available at WEDDINGBELLS. Jewellery available at ZSAZSA.
Dress: An elegant silhouette and impeccable details, with fine embroideries that showcase an effortless glamorous modern edge. Exclusively available at ArtBridal boutique.
WELLNESS & YOUR WEDDING THE TWO GO TOGETHER BEAUTIFULLY AT THE ATHENAEUM SPA
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, and scheduling some ‘you’ time could be the best decision you take in the run-up to your big day. Where better than at the newly reimagined Athenaeum Spa at the five-star Corinthia Palace in Attard?
BY JO CARUANA & LAURA BONNICI PHOTOS BY JACK HARDY
Iknow you know ‘the feeling’. Yes, that one: when your to-do list runs wild, there aren’t enough hours in the day, and you’re not quite sure whether you’re coming or going. Well here’s the good news. That feeling is completely normal when you’re planning a wedding. You’re crafting one of the most important days of your life! It’s no wonder you’re running around like a headless chicken trying to make everything perfect.
But the fact that you’re feeling overwhelmed is normal doesn’t make it ideal. Thankfully there is an antidote –
time for yourself to think, reflect, rejuvenate, and relax at Malta’s newest and most luxurious spa.
The reimagined Athenaeum, which is located within Corinthia Palace in Attard, is the ultimate wellness space. Here, every aspect of your wellness journey has been curated – from the striking design of the spa itself to the fantastic facilities and luxurious ESPA treatments. Nothing has been left to chance, and you will be brilliantly taken care of from the moment you enter to the second you walk back out into the world ready to face the next step in your wedding journey.
A PLACE TO CELEBRATE YOUR UPCOMING WEDDING
Finding the perfect place to mark those special moments in the run-up to your wedding in Malta isn’t always easy. But Athenaeum – and the wider Corinthia Palace – makes light work of this.
The spa has been designed as the ideal place for friends – such as your bridal party – and family to enjoy time together. Those eager to plan an intimate hens’ (or grooms’) event, for instance, will relish the facilities and versatility promised by Athenaeum. Here you could start your day in the Vitality Suite, with its sauna, steam room, vitality pool and heated marble beds – the perfect base for all of you to enjoy throughout the day. Each guest can then make the most of the other facilities at their leisure, such as the Serenity Lounge, jacuzzi or spacious indoor pool. Of course, a full list of high-end treatments by ESPA is available, including the ESPA Mindful Massage, the ESPA Inner Calm Massage, and the ESPA Scalp Massage.
And why not make it a wider celebration at some of the other iconic destinations within this celebrated hotel? Start your day with brunch at Villa Corinthia, and then make the good times last longer with a bubbly Afternoon Tea, a Far Eastern dinner at Rickshaw, or even a five-star overnight stay. After all, there is so much to celebrate!
A PLACE TO PREPARE TO LOOK YOUR BEST
Looking and feeling your best is likely to be a priority on your big day – so you will want to have the best people around you. Athenaeum Spa and Corinthia Palace’s specialised teams will be able to guide you on so many aspects – from your skin and nails to your hair.
Start your time with a cocktail in the chic Nail Lounge, choosing the style and colour to suit your wedding palette. Then, consider booking an ESPA Optimal Skin Facial or ESPA Personalised Facial in one of the spa’s seven beautifully designed treatment rooms or couple suite. Follow this with a hair treatment at the Corinthia Palace’s Dean Gera Salon, and you’ll certainly be all set to look your best!
A PLACE TO FEEL READY
Finally, as your wedding day really draws closer, you may want to take some time exclusively for you. This is the ideal opportunity to book a treatment as a relaxing treat just days before the wedding.
After all, the unparalleled atmosphere of Athenaeum makes it the ultimate escape. Here you can switch off your phone and dedicate a few precious hours to really soaking up the magnitude of the moment – perhaps while lying on the heated relaxation beds or in the Vitality Pool. Bliss! Then, take some time to unwind further by the indoor pool, giving your to-do list a final check, before taking the leap into one of the most exciting moments of your life!
To reserve your personalised experience at the reimagined Athenaeum Spa, visit www.athenaeumspa.com or call 2144 0301.
THE ATHENAEUM INTRODUCES ESPA TO MALTA
ESPA is a pioneering brand in skincare and wellbeing therapy, and it was founded on the need for holistic, effective and natural products to treat skin, mind and body. Athenaeum Spa is the only place in Malta to feature the brand’s treatments and stock its products.
MED-AESTHETIC BEAUTY AND HOLISTIC WELLBEING EXPERIENCE
World-class aesthetic doctor Dr Raina Rodrigues (née Zarb Adami) has merged her London Harley Street clinic, Aesthetic Virtue, with Athenaeum Spa, to offer you the optimal, natural and beautiful results and excellent service for which Aesthetic Virtue has become internationally renowned.
As part of your holistic spa experience, now you can indulge in a leading range of facial rejuvenation treatments delivered by specialised experts, from skin care such as chemical peels and micro needling to injectables such as botulinum toxin and dermal fillers. Other signature Aesthetic Virtue treatments such as a variety of painless permanent laser hair reduction options are also available exclusively in Malta at the Athenaeum Spa.
“I am hugely excited to be able to offer the bespoke Aesthetic Virtue service from within Athenaeum Spa,” shares Dr Raina Rodrigues. “Aesthetic Virtue is a luxury chain of boutique medical aesthetic clinics with high-quality service and medical standards – so the Athenaeum Spa is a natural match. Both establishments are operated with the highest standards of luxury, customer service and attention to exquisite detail. The range of wellbeing and aesthetic treatments offered by Athenaeum are a continuum from the medical procedures Aesthetic Virtue delivers. It is a perfect partnership – that can help you prepare for yours.”
As you get ready for your nuptials, Athenaeum Spa can offer both you and your party a chance to escape the stresses of wedding planning, while also checking off your to-do list the aesthetic treatments that will help you look and feel your best as you get married.
“The artistic side of aesthetic medicine is so rewarding. I love working with a patient and exploring his or her goals in terms of improving appearance and that feeling of wellbeing, be it through enhancement of facial features or rejuvenation,” explains Dr Raina Rodrigues. “The journey to preparing for your wedding should start with us in the months before, so that we can plan your treatments and deliver a tailor-made service that will improve skin health and enhance facial features to be their best on your big day.”
Aesthetic Virtue is open now at Athenaeum Spa. To book your consultation or treatment email info@aesthetic-virtue.co.uk.
MANY DRESSES, ACTUALLY
After postponing their 2019 wedding, Rebecca and Chris Mallia Bugeja were all set on celebrating their nuptials in style this year, with the bride already having bought a gown which would take her to their ‘I do’s. But, when the pandemic hit, a new game-plan was needed. And this required an armoury of wedding dresses. Rebecca Anastasi learns more.
PHOTOS BY SHANE P WATTS
2020 will forever be remembered as the year of the big day by a year. “We felt that the run-up to the wedding disruption. Across the globe, weddings have been was going to be super stressful – what with planning for the upended and futures have fallen into disarray as COVID-19 day and submitting my dissertation at the same time – so we has swept across countries, stilling societies, splitting families decided to push our wedding to 2020.” and scuppering short-term arrangements. But, for Rebecca Postponing a wedding is not an easy thing to do. and Chris Mallia Bugeja, it would take much more than a Rebecca explains that the decision took a heavy toll – “it pandemic to stop them from getting hitched. was very taxing both mentally and emotionally”, she says –
The couple had first met virtually, over MSN Messenger so when the COVID-19 pandemic made its presence felt on 12 years ago, when a mutual friend introduced them. “Our the island, with restrictions halting and cancelling weddings friend actually added me to her and Chris’ chat because across the country, the couple took the brave decision to she was no longer interested in him and wanted to politely carry on, regardless. distract him,” Rebecca laughs, adding that she was only “We had actually pushed it again, to 2021, but we were 15 at the time, while Chris had turned 16. Time cemented unhappy with the new date and time. We realised that life is their relationship and, after buying a property together in too short to bother with the stress. Weddings should be fun, 2016, the pair decided to plan and it’s better to enjoy the here their wedding, as early as three years before their target date – “Weddings should be and now, and make the best out of the situation rather than 22nd June 2019. “In 2016, we just chose a fun, and it’s better to continuously postponing. We just wanted to get married and date and started to plan, after enjoy the here and now, start our life together, during this realising that the June 2019 slots were fast being booked. A few and make the best out of new normal,” Rebecca says. Scaling plans down was months later, Chris officially proposed to me in our new home – which was still a dusty the situation rather than continuously postponing.” the only option, and the couple started gearing up to hold the ceremony at the Marriage mess. It was very intimate and Registry office in Valletta, sweet,” Rebecca smiles. Soon followed by lunch at The afterwards, the bride-to-be Harbour Club and an Indian purchased her wedding dress. dinner buffet at Rebecca’s “I bought it in 2017. I had seen mum’s house. Only 15 guests it and had fallen in love with were invited, and the new it,” she says. And even though format needed a new look, with the couple had planned the the bride opting to purchase wedding so far ahead, Rebecca two long white dresses and two knew it would stand the test of evening dresses – one in nude time. “It was a classic dress, so and one in silver, featuring I wasn’t worried about it going sequins – which would feel out of style” she recalls. more practical and in style with
In the meantime, life the couple’s “new normal” continued to challenge and wedding. delight, as Rebecca decided “Well, technically I bought to start an online Master’s around eight dresses and then degree with the University narrowed it down to four, of Nottingham. But when returning the others,” Rebecca the couple realised that her laughs, explaining that three of graduation would happen only the final outfits came from one a few weeks after their 2019 of the UK’s leading high street wedding, they decided to push chains specialising in occasion
wear – which were offering a 70 per cent sale – while the fourth dress, one of the white gowns, was actually purchased from ASOS.
“On the day I decided to wear the evening ones, but all four were ready and hemmed, just waiting for me to decide. I wanted something classy, and something which wouldn’t make me cringe when looking back at my wedding photos,” she explains, adding that the tones of nude and silver were selected since she felt that these would always remain in fashion. “The cuts and styles of both dresses are also simple and elegant so, I daresay, I’ll never look back and regret my choices.”
Indeed, despite their humbler origins – particularly when compared to the expensive traditional wedding gown – Rebecca’s evening dresses still made her feel special. “I was so happy I couldn’t stop smiling and laughing, and this also showed in our photos,” she recalls, adding that the silver gown was her favourite, since it made her “feel like a princess.”
“It had a very short train which made it feel very bridal, and it had less sequins than the nude one, making it suitable for the morning ceremony. The train also had to be picked up while I walked.” But the nude dress also fit the occasion, being “better suited for our intimate photoshoot since the colour really popped amongst the trees and seascape background,” she remembers.
Following her experience, and with brides frequently spending thousands of euro on a gown they only wear for one day, would Rebecca suggest experimenting with something less traditional, and opting for eveningwear instead?
“Definitely! I would definitely recommend it to any other bride. I was surprised by how elegant and bridal they felt on the day, and how nice they finally ended up looking in our photos. Sometimes we associate weddings with the traditional white wedding gown. However, I don’t always
think this should be the case,” she asserts. She also makes a case in favour of sustainability, one of her core values. “Today, I even get to wear my evening gowns for family weddings, and so I’m making the most of the money I spent. I try to be as sustainable as possible in my decisions since I am very environmentally aware.”
Looking back, Rebecca is convinced that her and Chris’ wedding – taking place during the so-called “new normal” – had plenty of qualities which proved that COVID-era weddings can one-up traditional affairs.
“There were lots of advantages. We got to actually sit down and enjoy good conversations with all 15 of our guests twice in one day – for both lunch and dinner,” she explains saying this precious time spent with family and friends replaced the usual stress of trying to fit in all their ‘thank you’s.
And despite losing their initial deposits, the couple ended up spending very little on their wedding. “We still had a fabulous and luxurious day. We also had so much food ordered that everyone left with a small bag for lunch! We had about four containers of Indian curry in our freezer to avoid food waste,” she says.
Indeed, Rebecca and Chris’ wedding fell in line with their environmental conscientiousness. “We are both environmentally aware, so not throwing food away was definitely a plus – that was actually something which worried us when we thought we were going to have the big wedding reception!”
A few months on, the couple – now settling into marriage – are able to look back on the day and feel satisfied that,
A WORD FROM THE GROOM
“Since Rebecca and I lived together, I had already seen all the dresses she had ordered, and we narrowed it down to four together, as she wanted my opinion on the dresses before the big day. When I saw her on our wedding day, I thought to myself that not only am I going to marry my best friend, but I’m also going to marry a very beautiful woman.”
not only did their celebrations go well, but that they were able to spend quality time with the people they loved. “The wedding ended up being a whole day affair so we made the most of our day – more so than we would have done if we had actually had the big wedding,” Rebecca smiles. As a reminder of that day, the bride still has four stunning gowns in her wardrobe, just waiting to be worn again.
And while Rebecca’s first traditional wedding dress is still hanging in the wardrobe, so far unworn, she says that this might be used when they celebrate with an official mass next year, along with all the couple’s original invitees.
LOVE SET AGAINST THE BACKDROP OF HISTORY
The Mediterranean Conference Centre (MCC), built by the Knights of Malta in the 16th century, has long been associated with winter gala events. And, now, their newly-opened Grand Harbour Terrace draws weddings outdoors, inviting couples to celebrate their vows in a setting which boasts some of the capital’s most spectacular views. Rebecca Anastasi finds out more.
The Mediterranean Conference Centre is situated on the cusp of the capital, its thick, cool walls standing guard, as they have for centuries. Built as a Holy Infirmary – a Sacra Infermeria – by the Order of the Knights of St John, who ruled Malta for over two centuries, the site, today, is a reminder of the island’s complex history, being used as a conference centre which is focused on fostering events intent on looking ahead.
To this end, it has been the home of artistic repertoires and festivals while also catering to individuals looking to celebrate their wedding nuptials in a unique setting – one which encapsulates Malta’s history. Traditionally, however, most of these events have stuck to the MCC’s indoor halls, with their cavernous space able to accommodate any request, no matter the size. But, this summer, the Grand Harbour Terrace – a roof promenade boasting a staggering 1,063 square metres, the length of the entire street – was added to the Centre’s long list of assets.
“We’re lucky to have such an imposing building in this location,” smiles Rosette Micallef, Director of Sales and Marketing. “And, the Grand Harbour Terrace, as the name implies, really adds something spectacular to the equation,
with its magnificent views overlooking Valletta’s famous natural port.” Indeed, this roof promenade offers stunning vistas over the honeycombed walls of the capital, down to the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean – a medley of rich tones which light up and deepen as the day closes.
Opening the roof terrace has been a dream for the management of MCC many years in the making, Ms Micallef explains. “This has been on the agenda for a long time, but, since we wanted to use it as a multi-purpose location – offering an Augmented Reality Museum (the first of its kind in Malta) as well as an events venue – there were technological challenges we first had to overcome.” Despite this, the difficulties were ironed out and, after much research and investment, the site opened its doors to the general public last August, during what Ms Micallef succinctly calls “challenging times”.
However, with so many restrictions in place for indoor events, these are probably the best times to open an outdoor venue, I point out. She admits that the roof terrace has made things easier for couples seeking to get married despite the pandemic. “We’ve only been open for two months, but thanks to the space we have, we can easily accommodate the health measures in force. For instance, we’ve had events with 230 guests – seated at round tables, allowing for a distance of between two and three metres between each table, so everyone can be seated very comfortably without having to worry about social distancing,” she says.
This peace of mind has become invaluable to couples seeking to get on with their lives, even when COVID-19 threatens to upend all plans. “We try to be positive in every situation,” Ms Micallef smiles. “While it’s true that stand up receptions can be more fun – since you can move around, socialise and chat to a lot of people – it’s nice to dress up to the nines and head to a seated, or a gala, dinner. And the set-up for a dinner reception can be truly spectacular.”
Moreover, she insists, couples could actually save money on a seated affair. “Sit-down weddings have a reputation of being a little more expensive, but generally, a couple ends up saving on the drinks, since most guests will end up drinking wine, rather than spirits,” she explains. Three exclusive caterers, Corinthia Caterers, James Caterers and Xara Catering, offer a gamut of options – from a three-course dinner all the way up to a nine-course meal – adding to the spate of choices available.
Yet, with winter edging closer, many couples may have an eye as to what to do when the weather turns. Ms Micallef admits that the best time to use the Grand Harbour Terrace is between May and October, even though, she says, November can also be a particularly lovely time. “However, I would be careful about using the terrace during the winter since the location is exposed and is also susceptible to wind gusts, so it can be risky.”
Understanding this limitation, the MCC guarantees the booking of a back-up space – the 1,705 square metre Sacra Infermeria Hall downstairs – on confirming the Grand Harbour Terrace. “I think this really takes us a cut above the rest, since every booking always comes with a second backup venue, so couples don’t have to worry about the weather as they will always have the option of moving indoors. This really takes the stress out of wedding planning,” Ms Micallef asserts.
This indoor hall, as well as the much-used La Valette Hall – also available as an indoor option – boasts the breadth needed to allow couples to celebrate with a substantial number of guests, while still adhering to the current protocols. But, looking beyond COVID-19, each space, Ms Micallef asserts, is able to provide wedding organisers with the flexibility for multiple types of set-ups, catering to any desire.
However, in Ms Micallef’s view, couples seeking to truly add something special to their big day should take advantage of the breath-taking beauty on display outside, on the Grand Harbour Terrace. “I love sunsets: the colours and the lighting at the golden hour are truly magical. So, I would really advise those looking to celebrate their marriage to book a time of day where they can see the colours change, and the sunset from the roof promenade. They will never forget the view and they will have beautiful wedding photographs to treasure for years to come.”
For bookings, contact the Mediterranean Conference Centre via their online portal, mcc.com.mt/wedding.
