Bliss Weddings & Homes

Issue 27 JUNE 2015

weddings & homeS magazine

latest

WEDDING trends

Malta’s first full-blown weddings portal

win

AMAZING DRESSES

Home décor New life for a rustic gem

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BEAUTIFUL NUPTIALS

Real couples tie the knot

contents 6 bliss JUNE 2015

ISSUE 27 · JUNE 2015

Wedding TRENDS page 17

REAL WEDDING page 19

Fashion & beauty 35 Summer bride

Interviews

11 Launching Malta's first comprehensive weddings portal 66 Love at first glance

Weddings & honeymoons 17 19 27 45 63

Wedding trends Of history, dancing and laughter A wedding by the water Love under the cherry blossom Wedding directory

Homes

51 Unearthing a hidden gem 59 Chic bathrooms

our cover

DRESS: Hand beaded designed soft silk tulle dress, Ivory & Co. JEWELLERY: Silver 925 earrings in a rose rhodium plating with rose quartz, Silver 925 bracelet in a rose rhodium plating with zircons, Silver 925 ring in a rose rhodium plating with zircons.

Available at GABA. BOUQUET: Joseph Baldacchino at flowerarts.net Location: The Villa, St Julian’s Photographer: Valentina Lupo (www.facebook.com/ valentinalupophotography) Photo Shoot Coordinator: Sarah Micallef Hair: Gordon and Penelope from TONI&GUY ARTISTIC TEAM, using Label M products Make-up: Diandra Mattei using Illamasqua Model: Cristina at models.com.mt

8 bliss JUNE 2015

Issue 27 Saturday, June 6, 2015 Bliss is a weddings and homes magazine distributed with The Times – making it the largest weddings and homes magazine in Malta.

Editor Sarah Micallef

editor’s letter

A

s the sun shines brightly and a holiday vibe takes over the islands, it’s the perfect time for a party… or a wedding!

Apart from bringing you the latest trends in the world of weddings, in this month’s issue, we also speak to the team behind an exciting new weddings portal to be launched in October. Being co-editor of the project, I’m really looking forward to sharing it with everyone, and urge you to find out more on page 11.

This issue also features weddings set against stunning local backdrops: Valentina (the photographer behind our dreamy bridal shoot) and her husband Colbert’s reception, within the historical Upper Barrakka Gardens, as well as Hungarian couple András and Gabriella’s summery seaside nuptials in Qawra. We also meet life and business partners Walter and Patricia Cassar for a trip down memory lane to their wedding 42 years ago.

Meanwhile, our honeymoon feature wedding TRENDS takes us all the way to the phenomenal page 17 sights of Japan, and on the home front, BRIDAL SHOOT we take a look at a delightful character page 35 home in Dingli and learn about the various real home page 51 stages of its transformation, as well as gain insight into the latest bathroom trends for your home.

Enjoy the issue.

Sarah JOIN US ON

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Bliss

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Publisher

Content House Group, Mallia Buildings, 3, Level 2, Triq in-Negozju, Mriehel QRM3000 Tel: 2132 0713 · Fax: 2132 0714 info@contenthouse.com.mt www.contenthouse.com.mt Distribution:

Design Box Design – Antoinette Micallef ant@box-design.net Printer Progress Press Ltd. Contributors Diandra Mattei; Jo Caruana; Martina Said; Gordon and Penelope Toni & Guy artistic team Photography George Saguna; Ian Abdilla; Valentina Lupo; Alan Carville Advertising Content House Ltd – Tel: 2132 0713 publication sales manager Sabina Attard Advertising sales coordinator Lindsey Ciantar 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 Carolina Herrera 212 VIP Club Ladies EDT 80ml, 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, QRM3000.

Competition closes 30th June 2015. One entry per person. Terms and conditions apply.

Last issue Josephine Sultana won a Nina Ricci Nina LÉxtase EDP 50ml, courtesy of Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Ltd.

Cover Story § JUNE 2015 bliss 11

Launching Malta’s first comprehensive

weddingS portal

Launching on 1st October, Content House’s dynamic new portal OurWedding.com.mt is a one-stop online destination for couples planning a wedding. And, as Jo Caruana finds out, it is the perfect place to find information and inspiration for the day of your dreams.

P h otos by alan carv ille

P

lanning a wedding is great fun, but it can also be stressful. From finding that perfect dress to booking the honeymoon of a lifetime, there is a never-ending list of things that need to get done – and all before saying ‘I do’.

Of course there are many resources out there to help couples plan ‘the’ day.

Friends and family will doubtlessly want to offer their advice, while wedding industry professionals also provide plenty of inspiration. But wouldn’t it be fantastic if there were an always-up-to-date, easyto-use place to help find locally-relevant ideas, inspiration and suppliers?

Well, that’s exactly where

OurWedding.com.mt comes in. As a brand new portal for those planning a wedding in Malta, it will provide a plethora of information to make the journey to a couple’s big day effortless and fun, as well as lively and entertaining articles on everything from wedding guest etiquette to designer tips on planning your new living room. Ò

12 bliss JUNE 2015 § Cover Story

OurWedding.com.mt certainly has a strong team spearheading it, and that’s exactly what makes it so special.

It has been created by Content House, which is the publishing company behind many of Malta’s top magazines, including Bliss Magazine. It combines the talents of key weddings journalists, content administrators and sales professionals to provide a one-stop portal that tells couples everything they need to know about planning a wedding in Malta.

“Weddings are exciting but they also come with lots of moving parts, so can be a bit of a nightmare to plan,” says the co-editor of OurWedding, Sarah Micallef, who is also Content House’s head of content. “What we set out to achieve with this portal is an active one-stop-shop for couples who are planning their big day, as well as for anyone who loves or is interested in weddings, home interiors and travelling. In fact, it is going to be fully interactive; readers will be encouraged to share their own tips and to ask questions for the team to research and answer.

We want people to find out absolutely anything they may want to know.”

Apart from covering an extensive range of sectors from wedding planning, venues, catering and flowers to bridal fashion, cars, photographers and entertainment as well as honeymoons and homes, the portal will go beyond the premise of a wedding directory. Thanks to a great team of writers and bloggers, Ourwedding.com.mt will feature frequently updated, varied content which will make planning a wedding fun, as well as relationship advice, travel tips and home décor ideas that couples will find useful whatever the stage of their relationship.

“The content will cover every aspect of planning your big day,” continues Sarah, who has plenty of experience in the realm of weddings as she is also the editor of Bliss. “It will feature a mix of local stories and news, plus interesting international happenings and trends within the world of weddings. And it will go beyond that too, to offer insight about weddings, homes and other lifestyle topics that make for really fun and interesting reading.”

The portal’s design has also been a key concern, and something that co-editor Martina Said believes really sets it apart. “Aside from the interactive content and engaging stories, I believe OurWedding.com.mt is special because of its sophisticated, elegant design and accessible interface,” she says.

“While the focus is on weddings, this portal goes beyond that and aims to be as informative as possible. It will also come in handy in terms of information that couples need to know in

“

It will feature a mix of local stories and news, plus interesting international happenings and trends within the world of weddings.

Martina

”

Sarah relation to church preparations, civil wedding requirements, legalities and the works. All of this can be enjoyed through a visually pleasing site using high-quality imagery and with the user constantly in mind.”

Martina explains that the portal is divided into a series of sections – each with relevant subsections – covering all aspects of the various preparations ahead of a wedding.

“The portal will also include interviews with couples about the real-life experience of preparing for their wedding and about the big day itself, about their honeymoon and about setting up and decorating their home for the first time. These features in particular offer insight and realistic information that many will find useful,” she says.

“Most would agree that time is, unfortunately, not a luxury that most brides and grooms have. Thus, if one could get all Ò

14 bliss JUNE 2015 § Cover Story

Petra

Caroline the information they need from one place, it would help to make life (and planning) that much faster and easier.

We’re also very open to couples’ input and are keen for their feedback on what they would like to see featured on the site.”

Part of OurWedding's strength lies in the fact that it will have a very strong team behind it, including backend and administratively. Lindsey Ciantar, Content House’s head of administration, will be leading the administrative and back-end team, and will be responsible for the logistics behind the portal and keeping the plethora of information up-to-date.

“It’s going to be a fantastic challenge,” she says. “I am pleased to be one of the people bringing this project to the market. Content House has over 10 years’ experience in the field, so we know what appeals to readers and how to ensure there’s something for everyone. And, while this may be our first digital project, there are other major portals in the pipeline.”

Lindsey

Finally, the sales complement will be led by Petra Urso, who is the publication sales manager for a number of Content House’s leading publications, as well as OurWedding’s online sales manager. “Our job is to really understand what the market wants to tap into, so as to highlight their products and services to brides and grooms across Malta. We’re creating something new, and OurWedding really does differ from the many wedding directories that are currently available.”

Agreeing, the portal’s advertising sales executive Caroline Gauci explains that now is the ideal time for advertisers to join OurWedding.com.mt. “The opportunities are endless, especially as the site is non-static, so our readers will keep coming back to read the latest content that’s been added.”

“And, to maximise on that exposure, we are currently offering unique tailor-made packages to advertisers, including clickable banner items that take users directly to the relevant website or social media page, as well as informative directory listings and the possibility for content sharing,” Petra says.

“The portal will go live in October and we have some very special pre-launch rates currently available. Now is definitely the right time to join us,” she adds.

And, with October just around the corner, the team is very much looking forward to revealing the final product. “I think this is an exciting new offering for the weddings sector,” smiles Sarah.

“Having everything you need in one place will help take away some of the stress involved in planning your wedding, leaving you free to enjoy this amazing experience with your fiancé. And what could be better than that?” n

Wedding Trends § JUNE 2015 bliss 17

Celestial blue

ÓÒPastel colours always look exceptional in spring, and this is the year of celestial blue – it is equal parts elegant, soft and feminine.

www.ayozo.com

www.deerpearlflowers.com

ÒGet your guests to pass on their wishes in a fun way rather than on a traditional guest book. Options include individual heart messages, messages in a bottle or even drawing on a special table cloth.

www.uncommongoods.com

Guest book alternatives

Creative drinks

Wedding trends

ÑÔDisplay craft beer, homemade lemonade or cocktails in cute ways using mason jars, fancy straws and herb garnishes, and for an extra fancy touch, throw in bespoke flavourinfused ice cubes.

Want your wedding to stand out? Here are some of our favourite current wedding trends to inspire you.

Doughnut cake

ÒFor a fun alternative to the traditional wedding cake, old favourite cupcakes have made way for a new dessert on the block: doughnuts.

Stack them high in colourful tiers for maximum impact.

Belted bow

ÑSpring 2015 bridal collections feature a number of gowns belted with a beautiful bow. And whether it’s sculptural, soft or fanciful, who doesn’t love a good bow?

www.thechicsite.com

www.watters.com

Ówww.deerpearlflowers.com Òwww.thelovelyfind.com

Real Wedding § JUNE 2015 bliss 19

Of history, dancing and laughter Fun-loving history buffs Valentina Lupo and Colbert Balzan wanted their big day to be a reflection of themselves, and above all, for their guests to have a great time. They tell Sarah Micallef how they pulled it off.

P h otos by george saguna

Valentina and Colbert ceremony loc St Helen’s Basilica ation , Birkirkara wedding venue Upper Barrakka Gardens, Valletta

20 bliss JUNE 2015 § Real Wedding

I

t’s been just over a decade since Valentina and Colbert met on a blind date, and it was their respective best friends, who were an item at the time, who set them up – though Colbert was far from keen. “My friend phoned me and told me I have to meet this girl, and at first I said ‘no way’, but he eventually convinced me,” he recalls. Valentina was also a little sceptical. “When I asked what his name was and they said Colbert, I thought, ‘what kind of a name is that?’”, she laughs. (It’s French, I learn, and as Colbert enthusiastically declares, “it’s written in the Louvre!”)

The pair have been together ever since, and it was about three years ago that Colbert started asking about wedding plans. “He used to ask me, ‘when are we getting married?’” Valentina laughs, “but I was still studying, and then when I started working, I wanted to save up.”

That all changed when a milestone loomed: Valentina’s 30th birthday. “When I was 28 he asked me, ‘what are we going to do?’, and I said, let’s wait two years. But when he mentioned I’d be 30 by then, I changed my mind!”

The date was set for 28th June 2014, and plans started being made, starting

with the church and venue. Valentina, who is a conservator and restorer, and Colbert, an environmental consultant, were after a place with a rich history. “We love Valletta, and we had a lot of foreign guests so we wanted a historic venue. We didn’t visit any halls. We just looked around in Valletta – first going to Pjazza Regina and the famous Café Premier before deciding on the Upper Barrakka.”

The choice of church meanwhile, was an obvious one. With Colbert being a helper at St Helen’s Basilica and involved in the Birkirkara feast, it was his wish to get married there. As circumstances would have it, it also ended up holding a special meaning for Valentina, who happened to be restoring the titular

“

I always thought I’d cry at church, but surprisingly, I didn’t!

”

statue of St Helen at the time.

Enlisting the help of a wedding planner, the pair shared responsibilities when it came to wedding preparations, which Colbert says came very naturally.

Yet this didn’t mean that stress didn’t sometimes take hold. “Sorting out the venue was quite hectic,” he says, explaining, “we had to plan for everything, and there were a lot of things. There’s no light so you have to order a generator, and we had to organise parking, partitions to separate the kitchen area, and so on.” Ò

Real Wedding § JUNE 2015 bliss 23

This wasn’t helped by the fact that Valentina, being very busy, admittedly left a few things to the last minute. “I bought the guest book the day before the wedding!” she laughs. Comparing herself to the maid of honour, who is the type to plan ahead, she recalls, “the bridesmaids’ shoes were bought a year in advance, and I bought my own shoes about three weeks before the wedding!”

It was soon time for their big day.

Valentina woke up feeling excited and a bit tense. Being an emotional person, she was afraid she would cry and ruin her make-up, laughing, “I always thought I’d cry at church, but surprisingly, I didn’t!”

The same couldn’t be said for her father, though. As he is generally reserved and “very serious”, it surprised them both to see tears in his eyes. “His voice was breaking as he said to Colbert, ‘go and get married’. I never expected that to happen,” Valentina says.

They both consider the ceremony to be among the highlights of the day, with Valentina recalling, “I was worried that there wouldn’t be many people since the mass was at 4pm, but when I arrived I saw so many people.” For Colbert, watching his bride walk down the aisle was emotional.

She wore a simple French lace dress from Camilleri Paris Mode, which Colbert says suited her perfectly. “He was paranoid that I would choose a ball gown!” Valentina teases.

All in all, the pair considers their wedding to be a traditional affair – apart from the bands, that is. “Coming out of the church, we heard music, and wondered what was happening. Then we saw a brass band playing outside the church! My best man had organised it as a surprise,” Colbert explains. The couple had organised another brass band to play at the reception, so they ended up having two bands, which their guests really enjoyed. Ò

details

Comfy bridesmaids

“For the bridesmaids’ dresses, I told them the colour I wanted and left the choice of style up to them. I wanted them to be happy with what they were wearing.

Even the way they did their hair – while it’s my wedding, I wanted them to feel comfortable,” says Valentina.

“

We had cold beers outside in the pjazza, at an old bar called Empress Elena.

”

Elegant cake

The newlyweds chose an elegant white three-tier cake adorned with white flowers, courtesy of their caterers, Island Caterers. The flavours inside were baci, almond and fruit cake.

24 bliss JUNE 2015 § Real Wedding

Before moving on to the reception after mass, the wedding party and guests had a drink in a somewhat unusual location. “We had cold beers outside in the pjazza, at an old bar called Empress Elena – the type in which you’ll mostly find old men and birds in little cages!”

Moving on to the reception, while there was no theme or colour scheme for their wedding, there were a few details the couple were dead-set on. Lighting, for example, was important to Valentina. “I wanted good lighting, especially on the dance floor,” she says. She also wanted a red carpet for the dance floor. Being a photographer herself, Valentina explains the reason behind this, maintaining, “when I take photos of people dancing at weddings, the floor doesn’t usually look very good, so I wanted a nice carpet.”

Colbert jumps in with another detail, adding, “you forgot the most important thing… your beautiful husband!” Laughing, Valentina jibes, “that was part of the package!”

Asked whether, looking back, they’d do anything differently, the couple maintain that their day was just what they wanted, with Colbert, ever the joker, saying, “same bride, same church, same everything!”

“We tried to do things which were meaningful for us.

The fact that I’m involved with the church in Birkirkara and Valentina was working there played important parts as the priests were our friends, and we both love Malta and its history, so the Barrakka brought that element into it. And the atmosphere at the reception was great fun – we spent four hours dancing non-stop!” n

“

I wanted good lighting, especially on the dance floor.

”

Real Wedding § JUNE 2015 bliss 27

A wedding by the water

Upon moving to Malta last year, András Matzon and Gabriella Fonó knew they would find the perfect setting for their wedding here. They tell Martina Said about the preparations for their special day and how, although not all things went to plan, they wouldn’t change a single thing.

P h otos by I an A bdilla

Gabriella and András ceremony locati on & wedding ven ue The Boathouse Restaurant, Qawra

28 bliss JUNE 2015 § Real Wedding

“

I always imagined our wedding being held in a beautiful place with the people I love the most, and that’s exactly how it happened.

”

T

hey say some of the best things in life are free, and among the many such things you can get on this beautiful island are stunning seascapes and more days of sunshine than most other countries can boast. Perhaps these are not the only reasons why András Matzon and Gabriella Fonó decided to tie the knot here, but they certainly played a part in their decision, and their small and intimate seaside wedding couldn’t have turned out any better than it did on 27th September last year.

The pair moved from their native Hungary to Malta in January 2014. Although they were already engaged by then, they found that Malta was the ideal setting for their dream wedding, which centred on a small and intimate set-up by the sea. Within

nine months of moving, they planned and hosted their remarkable day, distinguished by its simplicity and attention to detail.

András and Gabriella’s initial meeting goes back a while. “We met for the first time through a mutual friend in the winter of 2009, but only got together a year later when I needed help creating a website for my diploma,” says 31-year-old Gabriella, who is a graphic designer. “It wasn’t long until we felt chemistry, but it took a while until we shared our first kiss.”

Gabriella recalls the romantic moment András, 33 and a web developer by profession, got down on bended knee. “We were in Brussels visiting my sister when András suggested we take a walk together, which made me a bit suspicious. It was

raining that day, and we were walking by a lake. I was busy trying to fix our umbrella when I saw him going down on one knee on the pier. We were both so excited and caught up in the moment that I had to ask him to propose again so that I could understand what he was saying. This time, he didn’t forget to open the ring box, and I said ‘yes'’.”

The two planned everything together – from the invitations and souvenirs to the traditional choice of transportation, décor and table set-ups. “We had some help with the paperwork at the marriage registry office, as it isn’t easy getting these things done in a foreign country,” says András.

“That is where we met Lizienn Borg by accident, who was so helpful that we asked her and the registry if she could conduct our ceremony. We did everything else ourselves and didn’t engage the help of a wedding planner as we were on a tight budget.” Ò

Real Wedding § JUNE 2015 bliss 31

details

Traditional transport

Inventive invites

“We wanted to design an invitation that gives guests an impression of Malta and of us living in Malta. We attached a map of the islands together with the invitation, with our suggestions for places to visit during their stay,” says Gabriella.

The couple were adamant about having their civil ceremony and reception outside and as near to the sea as possible.

The overall theme of the wedding emerged after they chose their preferred venue – The Boathouse Restaurant in Qawra – and since the focus was on the surrounding view, they chose to keep everything else clean and simple. The predominant colours were mint green and white, as seen in the groom’s bowtie, the place cards with guests’ names delicately pegged to a wine glass as well as the souvenirs, which were small jars of Maltese honey with a label describing the meaning of the word. The newlyweds, together with their nearest and dearest, sat at the main table against a backdrop of blue water and bobbing boats.

“One of the hardest parts of the preparations was finding the right photographer. But we knew what we wanted, and were eventually told about Ian Abdilla by a colleague of András. His style of photography is exactly what we were looking for,” says Gabriella. “I always

imagined our wedding being held in a beautiful place with the people I love the most, and that’s exactly how it happened.

On top of that, every guest helped with the preparations in some way or other and everything turned out the way I imagined.”

The couple settled on the date of the wedding after consulting with their 32 guests, all of whom had to travel to Malta. “September is a very nice time here, but of course we were worried about the changing weather. Fortunately, the weather turned out perfect that day,” says András. Ò

“

We were both so excited and caught up in the moment that I had to ask András to propose again so that I could understand what he was saying.

”

The groom, along with a group of guests, arrived at the venue in an old, yet pristine red and blue Maltese bus, complete with a white bow tied to its front. This unique element added a distinctly local touch, in keeping with the couple’s affinity for Maltese things.

32 bliss JUNE 2015 § Real Wedding

The ceremony was intimate, short and sweet, and Gabriella says she was too busy fighting back tears at the start to pay attention to the registrar. “I was extremely nervous that day and my fear was that I wouldn’t be able to focus on the most important things and to live for the moment,” she says. András adds he was only excited for a short while and didn’t really have time to be nervous as he got caught up in last-minute preparations and finishing touches for their big day, with the help of friends. “I don’t think you have time to think about your feelings until the very last moment!”

Gabriella goes on to describe her wedding dress, which she bought with the help of her mother. “It was a beautiful long, white, strapless dress with a sweetheart neckline and delicate beading on the waist. I had a picture of a dress that I liked on my phone, which I kept ever since András proposed, but I was open to trying on different styles. My mother was of great help, looking up different bridal shops and coming with me to each one.

We had a fun day together just the two of us, and later my father joined us to help pick out a pair of shoes.”

The couple’s two-tier wedding cake

“

Even though not everything went to plan, we wouldn’t change a thing. was prepared by a friend, filled with fruits and chocolate, and decorated with real flowers, while all guests were treated to a three-course Italian meal. The party kept going until the early hours of the morning, and was only cut short when the police paid a visit at 3am and asked them to keep the volume down!

“After the police showed up we had to switch off the music, so we decided to go for a swim with our friends,” says András.

“Even though not everything went to plan, we wouldn’t change a thing – it was a

”

beautiful, remarkable day and everyone, including us, enjoyed themselves, which was the most important thing.” Gabriella is in agreement, adding that her favourite part of the whole day was walking in with her father, and seeing her husband-to-be waiting for her. The couple went on to enjoy an unforgettable round trip to Asia for their honeymoon, where they visited Vietnam, Laos and Thailand. “We travelled for a month and are already planning our next trip. It was an experience of a lifetime!” n

Fashion § JUNE 2015 bliss 35

DRESS: Beautiful designer bridal gown with beaded embellishments on bodice and a scatter of beads on tulle skirt.

The bead work is a welcoming alternative for brides who would like to deviate from traditional lace. Gown available exclusively at WEDDINGBELLS. JEWELLERY: 18 karat white gold ring, set with white zircons, cultivated sea water pearl bracelet set on an 18 karat gold clasp, 18 karat white gold South Sea pearl earrings set with round brilliantcut diamonds, Vascas Jewellers.

BOUQUET: Joseph Baldacchino at flowerarts.net

summer

bride

Location: The Villa, St Julian’s Photographer: Valentina Lupo (www.facebook.com/valentinalupophotography) Photo Shoot Coordinator: Sarah Micallef Hair: Gordon and Penelope from TONI&GUY ARTISTIC TEAM, using Label M products Make-up: Diandra Mattei using Illamasqua ModelS: Cristina at models.com.mt, Chloe Camilleri

36 bliss JUNE 2015 § Fashion

DRESS: This hand-embellished lace dress is intricately-detailed with floral appliquĂŠs with beaded centres, beautiful embroidery and scallop-edge trims. The sheath cut skims over the figure and, alongside the high, rounded neckline, creates a formflattering look. Available at Monsoon, Bisazza Street, Sliema.

JEWELLERY: 18 carat white gold Fancy ring with diamonds, 18 carat white gold earrings with diamonds, 18 carat white gold bracelet with diamonds and 18 carat white gold Fancy necklace with diamonds, all exclusively designed for Diamonds International.

FLOWERS: Joseph Baldacchino at flowerarts.net

Fashion § JUNE 2015 bliss 37

DRESS: This astonishing Sottero and Midgley gown in floral lace appliquĂŠ is adorned with delicate tulle, with a plunging halter neckline and a sparkling Swarovski crystal belt at the waist.

Available exclusively at Alamango Bridal.

JEWELLERY: Mikimoto 18 carat white gold ring with cultured Akoya pearl, Mikimoto 18 carat white gold earrings with cultured pearl and Mikimoto Boutique 18 carat white gold handmade bracelet with 19 A1 Akoya pearls, available at Diamonds International.

38 bliss JUNE 2015 ยง Fashion

DRESS: Elegant Mikado gown with a beaded detail at the waist and a detachable train, Ivory & Co. JEWELLERY: Silver 925 earrings with white zircons, Silver 925 tennis bracelet with white zircons, Silver 925 bracelet with white zircons, Silver 925 ring with white zircons and quartz. Available at GABA.

Fashion § JUNE 2015 bliss 39

DRESS: Hand-beaded French lace dress with a deep front décolleté, Ivory & Co. JEWELLERY: Silver 925 earrings with white zircons, Silver 925 ring with white zircons.

Available at GABA.

40 bliss JUNE 2015 § Fashion

MAID OF HONOUR DRESS: With a fitand-flare silhouette enswathed in soft, floral organza, this dress is fun, flattering and oh-so-feminine.

The rounded neckline and sleeveless cut create a timeless look, while the full-bodied, layered skirt is ideal for the dance floor.

Available at Monsoon, Bisazza Sreet, Sliema.

JEWELLERY: 18 karat white gold earrings with fresh water pearls and white zircons, 18 karat white gold bangle embellished with white zircons, 18 karat white gold necklace with zircons, and 18 karat white gold ring, set with white zircons, Vascas Jewellers.

FLOWER GIRL: Delicate butterfly appliqués and diamanté studs add an extra-special touch to this twirl-tastic tulle dress, comprising 30 minutes of handembellishment using traditional artisanal techniques. Finished with a tie-back bow.

Dress, jewellery and lace flower and pearl sandals available at Monsoon, Bisazza Street, Sliema.

FLOWERS: Joseph Baldacchino at flowerarts.net

42 bliss JUNE 2015 § Security

Our business

providing a safe home environment Your home is your safe haven; it’s where you feel most comfortable and want to go to after a long day at work.

But what happens when this is no longer the case? When home is no longer safe?

Unfortunately, we tend to take the things that are most important to us for granted because we don’t want to believe that anything will happen to them. Contrary to popular belief, protecting your home needn’t cost an arm and a leg. We go through great measures to make our house a home and it only takes seconds for an intruder to destroy it. An intercom system, an intruder alarm system and a CCTV system can make all the difference.

A word of advice: don’t let the world know that you are not home (through social media)! We recommend two main systems to help ward off intruders: an intruder alarm system to start with and, if your budget allows it, a CCTV system.

Having an intruder alarm is already regarded as a hurdle by the burglar. If this is not enough and he/she decides to break in anyway, a CCTV system will provide you with footage of the goingson and better your chances of catching the intruder.

If you are out, your intruder alarm should always be on. It is pointless having a system that we do not switch on and though this might seem obvious, it is very often the case. Make sure all windows and doors are locked. A number of break-ins are happening through bathroom shafts, so it is important to ensure that everywhere is closed before you leave the house.

If you will have people checking on the house when you are away, be sure to tell them to lock behind them.

Normally, first time home owners

are on a budget and a security system often does not feature on their priority list. Items like an intercom system and an intruder alarm, however, should not be regarded as extras. In the long run, they can make all the difference. Knowing who you are letting into your home is important and warding off intruders is even more so. At Firetech we believe that providing a safe home environment is our business and we understand that clients today have access to choice and information – we embrace this, because peace of mind is priceless. n 99, Mill Street, Qormi.

T: 2278 5200; 2148 5478; www.firetech.com.mt

Honeymoon § JUNE 2015 bliss 45

love under the

cherry blossom

From sushi breakfasts at 5am to giggly snowball fights in the mountain hot springs, Japan turned out to be the perfect blend of romance, relaxation and adventure for newlyweds George Attard and Joanne Attard Mallia. By Jo Caruana.

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inding the right place for your honeymoon isn’t always obvious. In fact, as hotel concierge George Attard, 39, and Heritage Malta curator Joanne Attard Mallia, 34, discovered, they had some discussing to do!

“We got married on Halloween 2014, and knew we didn’t want to head straight off on our honeymoon, so we scheduled it for March this year,” explains Joanne.

“In fact, it took us a while to decide on where we wanted to go and we had a list of potential destinations in mind, namely Hawaii, Cuba, South America and Japan.”

George and Joanne have quite different tastes and have also travelled extensively in Europe and North Africa, so they knew they wanted to go further afield. “Plus, we wanted to have that ‘once-in-a-lifetime trip’ before we got too bogged down with responsibilities, and to create some wonderful memories for us to look back on,” she smiles.

That said, it wasn’t an easy decision for the couple to make. “We had completely different holidays in mind!

George wanted somewhere we could relax after all the stress of organising the wedding, working and moving into our current house, while I wanted culture and adventure. I’m an archaeologist, so I wanted to visit archaeological sites and try whatever the country had to offer that was new and different. But my hubby-to-be needed some persuading!”

In the end, the duo settled on Japan

because it ticked boxes for both of them.

“It had been on my bucket list for over 10 years because I am a huge fan of their culture, heritage, music, manga and anime,” continues Joanne. “George was swayed by the fact that the Japanese really love their baseball, and he is a huge sports fan.

“So, the more we researched our options in Japan, the more we realised it was the ideal compromise for us. We discovered that we could enjoy culture and excitement in the cities, and then relax in the countryside by the mountain hot spring. In the end, it was the sheer diversity on offer that sealed the deal, and it helped that it is renowned as one of the world’s safest places, which is a big plus. On the flipside, it is also notorious for its exorbitant prices, and it certainly lived up to that reputation!”

Joanne and George started their adventure by flying to Osaka, but immediately left for Kyoto, which is where they spent their first night.

“Kyoto could well be called the capital of Japanese culture, and it’s absolutely wonderful,” says George. “There is so much to experience, from the magnificent temples to the Gion

district, where we watched a dance by a ‘maiko’ (apprentice Geisha). There were people of all ages dressed in beautiful kimonos, and the food – particularly the ramen sold on the Ramen Street of Kyoto station – was absolutely delicious.”

From there, the couple took a short ferry ride to Miyajima, an island south of Hiroshima. “It was so peaceful and picturesque, with wild deer walking among the visitors, looking for food.”

In Hiroshima itself, George and Joanne only had time to visit the Peace Memorial and the museum dedicated to the atom bomb tragedy, which they describe as ‘heart wrenching’.

The couple’s next stops were Takayama and Hirayu Onsen – two beautiful hot spring spots in the Japanese Alps. Ò

46 bliss JUNE 2015 § Honeymoon

e ri Gatus To d te si vi e nn oa J d an e rg Geo iyajima, which is unique beca ey in M e only one in Japan completel it is thnded by water at high tide. surrou “The sun was shining but the ground was covered with snow,” says Joanne. “So it was perfect for snowball fights and sledding.”

Moving on, Tokyo was a definite highlight of the honeymoon. “As a city it is wonderful, wacky, busy, populated and overwhelming,” smiles Joanna. “Each section of it has its own character, and they all deserve to be explored. For instance, Ginza is the super-expensive shopping area, while Akihabara is the crazy manga and anime-themed district. Then there’s Shibuya, which is famous for its nightlife and two Disney theme parks, and Yokohama where we watched an adrenaline-packed baseball game.

“The food was also magnificent. Of course, sushi featured prominently on the menu and we ate the freshest sushi imaginable at the Tsukiji fish market – for breakfast at 5am! We also loved the city’s museums and gardens, and, best of all,

it was cherry blossom season – so there were blossoms floating everywhere. One moment I will never forget is our walk through Ueno Park; it was so magical with thousands of pink petals floating around us.”

As their tour of the country drew to a close, George and Joanne visited Hakone and Lake Ashi – a very picturesque lake in the mountain area close to Tokyo, that’s surrounded by forests. “We went on a great-fun ropeway journey there and stopped at the top of a volcano to watch the Japanese cook eggs in the sulphurous water. It’s very interesting because the shells turn black, but the eggs themselves still taste the same. The only down point there was that we should have seen the world-famous Mount Fuji, but the fog was so thick that we could barely see 10 metres in front of us, never mind across the lake to the mountain!” Ò

“

We ate the freshest sushi imaginable at the Tsukiji fish market – for breakfast at 5am!

”

48 bliss JUNE 2015 § Honeymoon

“ Finally, the couple reached their final stop: Osaka. “It was probably the most modern of all the cities we visited, and the Ebisu-bashi entertainment districts are larger than life. I particularly loved our trip to Universal Studios, where we explored Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter section. It was absolutely brilliant,” grins George.

Since their return to Malta, Joanne and George have often thought about their wonderful honeymoon. “I would go back tomorrow if I could,” Joanne enthuses, while George has his sights set on returning for one of their special anniversaries. “We may have spent 26 jam-packed days there, but we only

We discovered that we could enjoy culture and excitement in the cities, and then relax in the countryside by the mountain hot spring.

”

actually got to see one-half of the main island; there’s so much more to experience. In fact, we definitely need to see Mount Fuji when we return, as well as one of the world-famous matsuri festivals, with their floats and processions.

“In hindsight, Japan really was the ideal destination for our honeymoon and we would definitely recommend it to other couples. It has a little bit of everything for everyone: beaches, mountains, cities, sports, and the food is to-die-for. We had romantic moments

lounging in the natural hot springs under the night sky, and other fast-paced days bursting with excitement and adventure.

It was the ultimate compromise, and absolutely perfect,” Joanne adds. n

Home § JUNE 2015 bliss 51

Unearthing

a hidden gem

While it may be hard to imagine, this pretty house of character in the agricultural village of Dingli was little more than a collection of crude rooms, interspersed within the fields, just a little over a decade ago. Adrian and Elizabeth, who call the place home along with their baby daughter Emma, share its story with Sarah Micallef.

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alking in from the main door, the first thing you’re met with when entering Adrian and Elizabeth’s characterful home is a spacious courtyard. The house frames the courtyard in an L-shape – downstairs houses the kitchen/dining, living area, a washroom and bathroom, music room and garage, while upstairs comprises three bedrooms, one with an ensuite, two terraces – one towards the back of the house and one overlooking the courtyard, and a main bathroom.

Before being converted by the previous owner, a local artist, the house went through many changes over the years, but there came a point when it all belonged to the same family. “The current kitchen and living areas are where they used to feed animals and keep chickens, and the front rooms were shops – one of which was a mechanic,” they explain.

An outdoor staircase in the courtyard leads to the rooms

p h ot o s by a l a n c a rv i ll e

upstairs, which were completely separate. “The family always kept one of the rooms upstairs in immaculate condition because they had an aunt who was a nun, so when she used to come and visit, they would put her in the best room, which had a separate entrance. The other two bedrooms never existed – those were built new as part of the conversion,” Liz adds.

Having seen pictures of it before, the couple maintains that it was completely unrecognisable. “In fact, when the previous owner had initially gone to the bank to get a loan, they didn’t want to give it to her because of the state of it! But she had a vision, and with the help of a renowned Maltese architect, she embarked on a sevenyear restoration project, and managed,” they maintain.

Upon buying the house in 2010, Adrian and Liz made their own amendments. Originally intended as a front room or hall with a remissa door, they modified the hall to make place for a garage. Ò

“

The privacy gives it the feeling of a farmhouse, in the middle of nowhere, but once you get out you’re in the middle of a village, with all amenities close by.

”

52 bliss JUNE 2015 § Home

“We widened the entrance and had an electric garage door installed,” they explain. Meanwhile, another project that was tackled in the hectic two weeks before moving in was the floor in the living room, which was made of old franka stone which had darkened over the years.

“We still used Maltese stone, but added insulation to protect it from rising damp,” Liz says.

Much of the furniture within the house when they moved in was repurposed or restored – some of which they kept and adapted. “The kitchen counter used to be a monk’s bench from the Blue Sisters of St Julian’s – they used to iron the monks’ robes on it. It was open on one side, and the artist’s father, who was a carpenter, added deep, square drawers typical of old grocery shops, as well as a marble top,” Liz explains.

Mixing in the old with the new, Adrian and Liz shaped the décor to suit their

tastes and needs. “We kept two old sewing machines which we use as bedside tables in one of the spare rooms, and kept the old wardrobe too. But we also tried to mix old with new.” In fact, they describe the décor as a mix between modern and traditional, with an emphasis on functionality. Adding to this, Liz maintains that they used bright colours to make it homey. “I like modern

things but I don’t like the clinical feeling that some modern places have. For me, a house of character isn’t about that – the chairs in the dining room for example are multi-coloured. We have colourful crockery, cushions, and even the fridge is full of colour.”

In the kitchen, stone troughs previously used to feed animals have been repurposed as open shelving, housing crockery and other utensils in the dining area – a feature which gives a particularly interesting effect. “I’m not the kind of person that likes the typical vetrini where you keep things you don’t often use. For me, this is a perfect excuse to always use what you have. By using them regularly – and this is where Adrian’s large family helps, because you use things all the time – you constantly wash them and they don’t get dusty,” Liz smiles. Ò

“

The kitchen counter used to be a monk’s bench from the Blue Sisters of St Julian’s – they used to iron the monks’ robes on it.

”

Home § JUNE 2015 bliss 55

“

The current kitchen and living areas are where they used to feed animals and keep chickens, and the front rooms were shops – one of which was a mechanic.

Since moving in, the pair have continued with the house’s conversion, embarking on one major project per year.

First, they replaced wood with doubleglazed PVC apertures and insulated the walls upstairs. “Downstairs is insulated of its own nature, but the modern bit wasn’t,” Adrian explains. “Downstairs, we had an ideal temperature in summer and in winter, but this wasn’t the case upstairs,

”

so we insulated the inside to match the temperature.”

As for the apertures, Liz maintains that they were careful to replicate the original style, so as to keep the character.

“The old wooden apertures have a particular style, and we kept it with the PVC. The previous apertures were fixed on the outer side of the wall, and there was no water protection from the rain, so we moved them inwards, creating a profile around the apertures where the previous aperture frame was fitted. It now looks like a feature we created purposely,” she says.

The most recent project was the living room. “Over the years, we felt that we weren’t using the room. We were either always in the kitchen or upstairs in our bedroom, and we needed a family room where you can have a study area, children can play, people can watch TV – where everything can happen at the

same time,” Liz explains. The problem was that it was difficult to work out the orientation, since it is a high room with a relatively low floor area, which is why they decided to enlist the help of local architecture studio Archi+.

“We now have a mezzanine level that works as a study area, with storage space underneath. Originally we thought of creating a U-shaped sofa for when we have guests over, but went for a single sofa which still works, because the steps are also designed to sit on.

We’re really happy because we really use the room now. It created a good atmosphere,” the pair assert.

Asked what it is about the house that they consider to be particularly special, the couple agree that the privacy is a big plus. “You’re never overlooked when you’re outside – on two sides it’s our own house, on the other side there’s a house which can never go up higher than the courtyard wall, and the remaining side is the street. The privacy gives it the feeling of a farmhouse, in the middle of nowhere, but once you get out you’re in the middle of a village, with all amenities close by,” Liz says. Ò

56 bliss JUNE 2015 § Home

As if by magic, a knock on the door interrupts us. Adrian walks back in bearing a heaving box of fresh fruit and vegetables, personally delivered by the village grocer. “Another special thing about Dingli is that the people are fantastic,” he beams.

Other special features include the large courtyard and the brightness inside. “Compared to other houses

of character, it’s very well lit – our windows upstairs are four-metre arched windows,” they explain. Meanwhile, the light in the kitchen is somewhat of a bone of contention for Adrian, who loves to cook and wishes it were a little brighter.

Despite this, the pair agree on two favourite areas of the house – the courtyard in the summer and the cosy

living room in the winter. And while Adrian is still sceptical about the light in the kitchen, plans for the next big project are currently underway, which will include converting a room on the roof into a second kitchen. “It has fantastic views of the area, right up to the sea,” he says, and is set to be the missing piece of the puzzle – the bright kitchen of his dreams. n

Chic bathrooms

Home § JUNE 2015 bliss 59

From high-tech faucets to statement floors, there is no shortage of styles and options for achieving the ultimate bathroom. Martina Said discusses the latest trends in the world of chic bathroom décor.

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Freestanding bathtubs

www.yorktaps.ca

he bathroom is no longer considered to be a purely utilitarian space – while it obviously serves the various purposes it is intended to serve, it is also considered to be the room where one can retreat after a long day and enjoy some uninterrupted ‘me time’. The ambience created in a bathroom lends itself to the feeling of relaxation, and can be achieved with the right style and décor choices.

Looking to the latest design trends is a good place to start if you’re in the process of setting up your bathroom, or renovating it. This year’s top trends are making the most of space, clean lines and design features that highlight a certain aspect of the room, like a feature wall. Here are some of the top bathroom trends to take note of for 2015.

Koi bathtub by Maison Valentina

Bathtubs are either loved or hated, but either way you cannot deny the aesthetic value they offer in a bathroom. And today, the trend is gravitating towards a free-standing bathtub in a striking design which helps set the tone for the rest of the bathroom. When choosing a free-standing tub, consider how the design of the tub will shape the look and feel of the space – a curved bath can bring softness to a rigid bathroom, while an angular tub can add value to a structured bathroom.

Feature floor tiles

Give your bathroom a striking look with an interesting set of floor tiles. They present an excellent design opportunity for bathrooms that do not have clear walls for a feature wall, and allow you to take design to another level beyond what you’d usually expect. In the case of smaller bathrooms, feature floor tiles add style without overwhelming the space, while such a feature in larger bathrooms creates an elegant and sophisticated effect. Ò

www.gesalu.com

60 bliss JUNE 2015 § Home

Glamorous mirrors www.de-lune.com

Vanity areas are being given a glamorous touch with feminine mirrors in classic shapes. Designers are experimenting with round, oval and hexagonal mirrors as an alternative to rectangular and square ones in rich colours and styles. Opt for something quirky, playful and perhaps with an unusual colour or mounting, and in a style that you wouldn’t automatically go for (you could always change a mirror’s location if you grow tired of it). For maximum impact, hang it against mosaic tiles or patterned wallpaper, instantly creating a statement section in your bathroom.

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oc w. ww

Designers are experimenting with round, oval and hexagonal mirrors as an alternative to rectangular and square ones.

ca -ho me .co.u k

”

Bigger and better showers

www.tovtov.com

The popularity of the vintage and upcycling trend is leading towards a more sustainable style across all aspects of the home, including the bathroom.

Old and used materials and objects are being recycled, reclaimed and adapted to fit into various aspects of the bathroom, such as old wooden crates for towel storage, wooden panelling for feature walls and wicker baskets for beauty products.

This trend follows a global trend in sustainable building at large, and if executed properly, could truly take your home from average to top notch. n

www.iwantpretty.blogspot.mx

Sustainable style

Consider whether you really need or want to have a bathtub installed in your bathroom, because if not, you could free up a significant amount of space for a spacious shower, which is also a big trend this year. People are looking to achieve an open feeling in their bathroom, especially when it comes to shower space, using walk-in showers (also known as door-less showers) which do away with doors and cubicles, allowing you to move freely without boundaries.

Wedding Directory § JUNE 2015 bliss 63

wedding directory

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Classic Jewellers c

ÔClassic Jewellers hear wedding bells!

Preview our exquisite collection of over 1,000 wedding rings that is the epitome of class and elegance. 18 carat white and rose gold rings with satin finish and 11 diamonds for ladies and 18 carat white and rose gold rings with satin finish for gents, for only €965 and €685, respectively. Each ring is especially made for each individual, with customisable width, colour, finish and diamond quantity.

Visit our store in Valletta or Sliema today!

a

ÓMake your wedding perfect with Gaba Décor’s exquisite brands of tableware, household items, glassware and crystal, with names such as Royal Doulton, Wedgwood, LSA International, Waterford and Carrs. At GABA one can also find a selection of wedding bands. In addition we offer an extensive selection of whiskeys and wines on the Décor Floor. Open daily from 9.30am to 7pm and Saturdays from 9.30am to 1pm.

E: decor@gaba.com.mt; www.gaba.com.mt

Alamango Bridal

ÓUndoubtedly your wedding dress will be the most admired and photographed item of clothing you’re ever likely to wear. Alamango Bridal stocks a wide range of spectacular wedding gowns, bridesmaid and flower girl dresses, and bridal accessories to complete your personal look on this truly unique day.

Alamango Bridal is the exclusive agent for international brands such as Mon Cheri, Sophia Tolli and David Tuttera.

Alamango Bridal, 95, Manoel De Vilhena Street, Gzira. T: 2131 4331/2133 6427/ 2133 5138; E: bridal@alamango.com.mt; www.alamango.com.mt

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Gaba Décor

Alamango Textiles

ÑOver the years Alamango has become a household name, and is today highly regarded by new and experienced dressmakers, as well as professional designers in Malta. We offer quality fashion and bridal fabrics, trims and exclusive ‘one piece only’ textiles, among others.

Whether it’s a dress for the mother of the bride or a gown for a special occasion, our in-house team is able to design, sew and finish your unique dream dress. We also guarantee 100 per cent colour matching fabrics. Alamango Bridal, 95, Manoel De Vilhena Street, Gzira.

T: 2131 4331/2133 6427/21335 138; E: textiles@alamango.com.mt; www.alamango.com.mt

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F

Fotogenic Studio

ÔWeddings are our specialisation at Fotogenic Studio. We cater for any wedding style and we adapt to our clients’ needs. Charles at Fotogenic Studio is the most qualified and awarded wedding photographer on the island. We accept one wedding a day, because we believe in quality and creativity. Fotogenic Studio, 34, Triq ilFerrovija, Hamrun. T: 2144 5647; M: 7945 1246; E: photos@fotogenicstudio.com

HOTEL PHOENICIA

ÓTradition, coupled with constant innovation, keeps the Hotel Phoenicia at the forefront of the Malta weddings scene. The hotel offers a variety of both indoor and outdoor venues, so whether you are planning an extravagant, large wedding or a small, intimate wedding, the right venue is chosen. At Hotel Phoenicia each wedding reception is specially put together to suit your individual preferences. Your dream wedding starts here! Hotel Phoenicia Malta, The Mall, Floriana. T: 2291 1061; E: weddings@phoeniciamalta.com

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KG Events

ÒOrganising a wedding or event can be demanding, and that can lead to oversights on the actual day. KG Events undertakes the whole project and takes the stress away. Promising commitment and an eye for detail, KG Events planners will give you the perfect day you deserve. From your chosen venue to your required transport, we will ensure that every detail is synchronised to perfection.

E: gattkatia@gmail.com; M: 7761 8905; www.kgeventsandco.com

64 bliss JUNE 2015 § Wedding Directory

SAMSONITE B-LITE 3 S

ÔGoing away on honeymoon? Samsonite® has reinvented the B-Lite™ collection – one of its best-selling luggage lines. A worldwide favourite, the collection has evolved yet retains the outstanding design features for an elegant and contemporary feel. The iconic collection, reimaged as the B-Lite 3™ range, is lighter than before but offers more protection and a range of enhanced features without compromising on comfort and style. The Samsonite Malta store is open every day from 8am to 8pm and is located at the Arrivals Hall of the Malta International Airport, Luqa. T: 2202 1400; E: samsonitemalta@vfgmalta.com

ONCE UPON A WEDDING O

ÓWe specialise in designing stylish weddings, with your personal vision and style in mind. We also offer rental of lanterns, vintage items, chandeliers, fairy lights, furniture, linen, candy tables and so much more, for a truly unique and bespoke wedding.

Contact us on M: 9905 2164; E: marie@onceuponawedding.com.mt; www.onceuponawedding.com.mt; F: onceuponaweddingmalta

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SARTO

Ó On your big day you deserve the best, and style doesn’t mean compromising on comfort with Sergio Rossi. A Sergio Rossi shoe will be your second-best dancing partner for the day. Choose the signature Sergio Rossi laser-cut Mermaid for your wedding day, and beyond. Sergio Rossi is available exclusively at SARTO, 2, Ross Street, St Julian’s.

T: 2202 1601; www.sarto.com.mt; F: sarto.luxury

66 bliss JUNE 2015 § Vintage wedding

Love at first glance

The story of Walter and Patricia Cassar resembles something out of a romance novel. Martina Said meets the jovial couple to find out how they met and how they celebrated their big day 42 years ago.

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alter and Patricia’s relationship began with a chance encounter when they were 23 and 20, when their eyes met while in the company of friends one day in March 1969. Although nothing came of it that day, they were to meet again around a month later, when Walter was lying back on the sand with a friend at Golden Bay, recovering from a good night out.

“My friend spotted two girls not too far from us, one of whom he knew,” says Walter. “He went over to speak to her and I joined him a while later and thought I recognised Patricia. We started chatting and I suggested going for a drink somewhere, which we did.”

Walter recounts, “my friend had a Honda Sport, and my future wife was driving a Ford Anglia station wagon. We were driving towards St Paul’s Bay, showing off in our cool car, when she overtook us, and I remember telling my friend that the girl is either completely mad or a very good driver!” Walter went on to give Patricia his home address and telephone number, which came in handy when they planned to meet alone for the first time.

“I had told Pat we’ll meet at a landmark in Sliema. I had a car, but she wasn’t allowed to use her father’s car in the evenings. That day, there was a bus strike, petrol strike and bad weather. I waited a long time but she never turned up,” says Walter. “I went back to my flat and bumped into someone who lived in the same block, who told me that a girl named Pat had called me. Had I not bumped into that person, I would have thought she took me for a ride. It was destiny.”

Walter and Patricia got engaged after three years, and married a year later on 10th June 1973 at St Julian’s parish church with a reception at the Caprice Suite of the Corinthia Hotel in Attard. Over the course of their romantic relationship, they developed a business relation too, which strengthened their union as a couple and convinced them of a future together.

They planned their wedding in 10 months, opting for a morning wedding starting with mass at 11am. “The reception kept going until 4.30pm, which was late for that time, but

everyone was enjoying themselves and the day felt like one big party. We weren’t constantly the centre of attention, we were part of the party,” they say.

While Walter wasn’t nervous on the day, he was scared that his wife-to-be would be late because, “until today, she is still always late.” Patricia goes on to describe her timeless dress, made by an aunt using organza and appliqué on the bottom.

Her necklace, a beautiful statement piece, was ‘something borrowed’ from a relative.

Walter and Patricia have fond memories of the day, although Walter especially felt the absence of his father, who died shortly after meeting Patricia, before he got the chance to meet her parents. “However, I remember my father telling my mother after he met Pat: ‘Walter is going to marry that girl'’.”

The couple set off on a five-week overland holiday soon after.

“We had no hotel bookings, just drove through Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Monte Carlo and France before returning home, visiting friends along the way,” they explain. Walter and Patricia went on to have two daughters, Erika and Denise, who each have two daughters of their own, making them proud grandparents of four girls. Asked what advice they would give to young couples, they say it all boils down to patience. “There is a saying in Italian, L’amore non è bello se non è litigarello. There will always be ups and downs, but you’ve got to stick together.” n Photo by Alan Carville