Bliss June Issue 2013

Issue 21 | June 2013

WEDDINGS AND HOMES

Whirlwind romance

Or Long Engagement?

THREE COUPLES SHARE THEIR STORIES

FASHION

& beauty THIS SEASON’S MOST BEAUTIFUL BRIDAL GOWNS

THE LATEST WEDDING TRENDS

Real

weddings MEMORABLE CELEBRATIONS

HOMES

A BEAUTIFUL TOWER ROAD APARTMENT

your bathroom

PLANNING YOUR OASIS OF RELAXATION

contents 6

inside...

FASHION & BEAUTY 11 .... BEAUTIFUL BRIDAL GOWNS 37 .... STUNNING BRIDE 47 .... WEDDING HAIRSTYLE INSPIRATIONS Whirlwind Romance or Long Engagement?

PAGE 15

INTERVIEWS 15 .... WHIRLWIND ROMANCE OR LONG ENGAGEMENT? 66 .... FOR THE LOVE OF TELEVISION

WEDDINGS & HONEYMOONS 21 .... Wedding Trends 23 .... MY BEST FRIEND’S WEDDING 29 .... AN INTIMATE AFFAIR My Best Friend’s Wedding PAGE 23

48 .... “SLOVAKIA WAS THE HIGHLIGHT OF OUR HONEYMOON” 64 .... Wedding Directory

HOMES 53 .... TAKE IN THE VIEW 59 .... YOUR BATHROOM: ON TREND

Take in the View

On the cover

PAGE 53

Dress: Beaded low waist corset ball gown with rouging and Swarovski brooch detail, and a double tiered lace skirt, Ivory&Co. Jewellery: Pearl necklace and silver 925 pendant, earrings with zircons in silver 925 and bracelet with hand set zircons in silver 925, Gaba Gioielli.

Location: Phoenicia Hotel, Floriana Photographer: Valentina Lupo (www.facebook.com/ valentinalupophotography) Photo Shoot Coordinator: Chiara Bonello Hair: Marielle Calleja, Privé Make-up: Caroline Bond (née Camilleri) using Make Up Store (7906 1197) Model: Lucrezia at models.com.mt

welcome 8

Editor’s letter As you receive wedding invitations, it is inevitable that your thoughts turn to what the wedding will be like and how, particularly if you are a bride-to-be, you would plan your big day if you were in the couple’s shoes.

Getting married requires a certain amount of preparation, both in terms of practical plans as well as of nurturing the relationship between the two. Having said that each couple has to find what works best for them.

Whether you got married years ago, are waiting for him (or her!) to pop the question or simply daydreaming about your ideal big day, it is always fun to dream.

In our cover story we speak to three couples who share their story on how they met and married. In some cases it was a whirlwind romance, while another couple, who met back at Junior College, took their time and tied the knot almost a decade later. Read about their love stories on page 15.

This is where Bliss comes in. From helping to choose the right dress for you to presenting real wedding stories and current trends to incorporate into your big day, we provide you with inspiration and ideas to make your wedding stand out.

chiara bonello editor

JOIN US ON Visit BlissMagazineMalta

One of our ‘real wedding’ stories takes a somewhat different perspective this month, as Jo Caruana writes about her experience as a bridesmaid to her best friend Krista Paris. She also shares her top tips for organising a hens’ party to remember.

Lisa Marie Nixon and Phillip Robson Milnthorp, from Calgary, Canada, share their story on why they chose Malta as their wedding destination and their wonderful memories of their dream-weddingcome-true.

Wedding preparation often also comes with home preparation. And in this issue we focus on the allimportant bathroom. Unfortunately this room is often forgotten when it comes to planning our home, but with so much available to make it an oasis of calm and relaxation, it really is worth giving its design and interiors some thought.

In this issue we also take a peep into a wonderful Tower Road apartment, which was taken into the 21st century by Camilleri Burlo Architects and Designers, who created an atmosphere which evokes serenity and calmness, through the use of earth tones.

Happy reading!

Win with Bliss Participate in our competition and you may win a lovely gift set by Nina Ricci – Nina L’Eau Gift Set (EDT 50ml and Body Lotion 100ml) worth €51, 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 12 July 2013. One entry per person. Terms and conditions apply.

Last issue Pauline Dalli won a ‘Dita Von Teese’ perfume worth €50 (EDP 75ml), courtesy of Ta’ Xbiex Perfumery Ltd.

Issue 21 Saturday, June 15, 2013 Bliss is a weddings and homes magazine distributed with The Times.

It has a distribution of 25,000 copies – making it the largest weddings and homes magazine in Malta.

Editor: Chiara Bonello 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: Switch Design & Brand Strategy Tel: 2131 6770 www.switch.com.mt Printer: Progress Press Ltd. Contributors: Caroline Bond Marielle Calleja Jo Caruana Photography: Alan Carville Valentina Lupo Melvin Mifsud Rene Rossignaud Advertising: Content House Ltd Tel: 2132 0713 Advertising sales coordinator: Caroline Mallia 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.

bridal trends 11

beautiful bridal gowns words by: Chiara bonello | Catwalk shots courtesy of Barcelona Bridal Week

Midas Touch

Fantastical floral appliqués and gathered silhouettes resembling strewn petals were all over the runways during the recent Barcelona Bridal Week. If you don’t feel comfortable adopting the full-on trend, introduce a few strategically placed buds or wear a floralembellished veil.

Yolan Cris

Rosa Clara

Fabulous Florals

Metallic embellishments are in this season. Ideal for the bride who wants to make an impression and be remembered, embellishment comes in the form of beading, sequins and appliqués. Although some may say this trend can swamp the more petite figure, there are embellished dresses with just a touch of sparkle which are ideal for petite brides.

Miquel Suay

Jordi Dalmau

Hannibal Laguna

Carla Ruiz

Rosa Clara

Jordi Dalmau

Francis Montesinos

Be inspired by some of the beautiful bridal gowns showcased during the recent Barcelona Bridal Week. Here Bliss takes its pick of the wonderfully wide array hot off the runway.

Rosa Clara

Patricia Avenda

Miquel Suay

Miquel Suay

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Hannibal Laguna

Bridal Trends

Flirty Bows Adorning the back of the dress or sitting pretty at the front, bows are a fantastic addition to any bridal ensemble. Whether opting for a simple bow or a more flamboyant creation which draws attention to it, the choice is yours, as designers have come up with options to suit everyone’s tastes.

cover story

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Whirlwind Romance or

LONG ENGAGEMENT? A short or a long courtship prior to marriage? Or something in between? When it comes to marriage there are as many different recipes for success as there are wedding dresses on the market, but the trick is finding what works for you. Chiara Bonello speaks to three couples who did things their way and made it work.

Angela and Anthony D’Alfonso met when they were just 21 and 23 respectively, and were married within the year. Almost 37 years down the line they admit their relationship has barely changed from that of the young couple who could not wait to walk down the aisle.

He asked me out that evening, and made me the happiest girl,” Angela shares with a giggle.

“If it were up to Anthony we’d have gotten married immediately, and although I agreed, our engagement period was considered short for our time. We were so much in love that we simply couldn’t wait.

We started planning the wedding before I had even met his parents, who turned out to be the best in-laws a girl could wish for. Although my parents were slightly concerned at first, upon getting to know him they loved him too. Mind you we were running up huge phone bills spending hours on the phone,” she says with a smile, adding that things between them haven’t changed one bit today.

“Although my parents would have liked us to have a big wedding, this was not Anthony’s style, as he is quite reserved.

In the end we decided to organise the wedding at my parents’ house, and it was lovely.”

“We were giddy with happiness.”

"I was just 21 when I met Anthony, who was 23 at the time, at Chains, then a popular hangout for young people in St Julian’s. Although we knew each other by sight, we had never spoken properly but that day we got chatting and couldn’t stop.

Michigan, where we spent the next 10 years, although our son, Chris, was born on holiday in Malta. We moved back when Chris was three.”

“What we find important is love and understanding, two factors which have been a constant in our lives. At the time we had no material things, but the love we had was, as clichéd as it may sound, more than enough. We were each other’s main source of support, and we got through our struggles together.”

“We never hid anything from each other and were never afraid to seek advice.

We love each other as a whole. Our son was God’s gift to us. At the time of my pregnancy I remember we’d walk everywhere hand in hand, we were so happy. He was and remains our treasure, although today he is married and has children of his own. In fact he got married on the same day as us, 30 years later.”

“Planning the wedding, together with my parents and siblings, Mary, Nathalie and Alex, was so much fun,” Angela says, reminiscing about the perm she had before the wedding, “which made finding a hairpiece such a nightmare,” she chuckles.

“Throughout the mass we kept looking at each other and laughing; we were so giddy with happiness. It was a proper family wedding, followed by a party, and at a later date followed by a party for our friends.

“Six months after our big day we left for

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cover story

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Lisa and Francois Ganado met when they were 25 and 29 respectively, and married in just under two years. They’ve been married for almost nine years now, but remember their courtship as exciting, fun and intense.

“I remember it all started when we were working in the same company, and Francois would come to my office to pick up his printed material, as the printer was in my office,” Lisa recalls.

“The best way to describe our courtship would be very romantic. We got on like a house on fire from day one, and it was exciting, fun and intense. In fact less than two months into our relationship we started discussing marriage,” she recalls, adding that it was Francois who first brought up the subject.

“The most memorable moment of our whole relationship was definitely the day when Francois went down on one knee at my parents’ house and proposed to me,” Lisa admits. She remembers nostalgically how he took the traditional route, even following his proposal up with asking her father for her hand in marriage.

“I knew Francois was the one from our very first kiss. After two long relationships I knew for certain I had found my true love.”

“Nevertheless there were other memorable moments which are high on the list, and these include our first Christmas and New Year together, and the very first Valentine’s Day celebration,” she adds.

“We planned our wedding in a year and eight months, so I can certainly say that the best way to describe that period would be stressful but fun,” Lisa says.

“The day itself was emotional, exciting, happy and funny. It was so special. I remember bursting into laughter at the altar, but the highlight was when we exchanged our vows. Today our relationship is strong, healthy and loving.”

“We opted for a short courtship because we knew for certain that we wanted to be together, but couples who do the same have to understand what it involves and be prepared for setbacks. It has its ups and downs, but the ups definitely outweigh the downs.”

“Never take each other for granted and fight to strengthen the relationship every day. Always show respect and understanding to one another,” she concludes, adding that in 10 years time they imagine themselves poorer financially but richer emotionally. >

cover story

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“We were only 16 when we met on the basketball court at Junior College, but it was not until we finished our University studies that we first started discussing marriage,” Allison explains, adding that they bought their home a few months later.

“We were still young when we met, and even though we had already been together for over six years when we left University, we waited a couple more years before we actually started planning the wedding, and tied the knot in April 2010,” she says.

Allison and Roderick Buhagiar met on the basketball court at the age of 16; but as they say, when you know you’ve met the right person, you just do. Although it took them almost a decade to walk down the aisle, due to the fact that they met when they were so young, they have just celebrated their third anniversary.

Perhaps one of the advantages of a long courtship is the reduced stress during wedding preparations: “we really enjoyed planning our wedding day together... in fact I wouldn’t describe our wedding preparations as stressful at all… and our wedding day was definitely the best day of our lives so far.”

Now that they have been married for three years, they feel that the time they spent

together before getting married helped them to get to know each other really well.

“Our advice to couples would be to avoid being selfish, impatient and jealous, and to always love and respect one another. A true relationship is when you can tell each other anything and everything. No secrets and no lies. For us the best three words to sum up our relationship would be honesty, respect and love.

As to their future plans? “In 10 years’ time we hope to be bringing up our own family.” ∞

trends

Wedding Trends

loose loCks Subtly sexy yet classically elegant, loose wavy locks are all the rage for wedding hair in 2013. Framing your face or gathered into a loose up-do, opting for this hairstyle will give you a polished look which is not too perfect.

Bliss picks its favourites among the current trends in the wonderful world of weddings. Brides-to-be take note, as you can easily incorporate some in your big day.

vintage flora .org shionvip

one-shoulder wonders If you’ve been wondering what your bridesmaids can wear, problem solved. The asymmetrical trend is the latest craze for bridesmaids, and navy is THE colour for weddings at the moment.

Add Appliqués Brooches and sashes are some of the details brides have been using to add interest to their dresses through the years, but this year designers have taken the hint and gone creative, adding appliqués to many of their dresses.

sparkling wedding shoes Sparkly shoes are a wedding trend which is set to stay for a while; however the current trend sees the sparkle focused on the heel. Another popular emerging trend is an ankle strap that resembles a necklace. sharonpakir.c om

flowerdesignvintageweddings.com we dd ing be e.c om

ruffle it up Wedding cakes are taking a girly twist this season, with ruffles added in various shapes and forms, as well as in every imaginable colour. Ruffles give a softer and more romantic look to wedding cakes, and are the perfect addition to the vintage craze which is currently taking the world of weddings by storm. y-boise.co m

Yolan Cris

The 50s, 60s and 70s are making a reappearance when it comes to wedding invitations. From gingham prints to polka dots, these patterns are sure to give your invitations a pretty, playful feel.

The exquisite bouquet carried by Kate Middleton when she wed Prince William was typical of the Edwardian era – small, dainty and very chic. It set a trend which has been around ever since. To imitate this trend opt for a pretty, but neat, bouquet made of traditional English flowers. Some suggestions include roses, Lily of the Valley and Gypsophilia.

weddingpa rt

flickr.com

Cabotine

fa

a touch of retro

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Shades of Blue Shades of blue are again the most prominent hues when it comes to weddings, but for this season a particularly strong and bright shade of blue is in. So go on, add a touch of blue to create a contrast with your white dress.

real wedding

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Paris I Age: 25 Profession: Teacher/Make-up artist Name of Bride: Krista

Name of Groom: Ilai

Zammit Marmara Manager

Profession: Project

I Age: 30

Date of Wedding: 16

March 2013 Ceremony Location: Gharghur Parish Church Wedding Venue: Villa Arrigo

MY BEST FRIEND'S

wedding

From choosing dresses to planning hens’ parties, Jo Caruana celebrates her recent experience as bridesmaid at the memorable wedding of Krista Paris and Ilai Zammit Marmara.

I think my ears are still ringing from the moment I found out Ilai had proposed to Krista, who has been one of my best friends since we performed together in one show or another. It was the summer of 2011 and I was enjoying a quiet dinner when the phone rang – it was Krista, and all I could hear was screaming.

Thankfully that was a good thing, and with that call came the news that Ilai had popped the question (very romantically, on the rooftop terrace of the couple’s new home in Gharghur, and on Krista’s 24th birthday). Mid sobs (happy sobs, of course), Krista asked me to be her bridesmaid, along with our other close friend Francesca Aquilina, and Ilai’s little cousin Rebekah Zammit Marmara. I squealed ‘yes’, naturally, and from that day forward the four of us became a close-knit team of wedding planners, with just under two years to plot Krista and Ilai’s dream day.

Of course their relationship had started a long time before that, in 2007. The couple was introduced at a bar by a mutual friend and quickly hit it off. “I remember that we talked and talked about opera,” says Krista, who is also an accomplished singer.

“It’s not really Ilai’s thing though! He must have thought I was nuts, but it worked out all the same.”

Fast forward a few years and the couple were now planning the wedding they had long talked about. “I had so many ideas for

our big day,” grins Krista, who consulted both her and Ilai’s parents every step of the way. “We wanted to tie the knot at the Gharghur Parish Church as that's the village we now live in, and Villa Arrigo was our first choice for the venue. We were thrilled to secure both, and revolved most of our plans around them.”

As bridesmaid, one of my highlights came when I accompanied Krista to try on wedding dresses. It was our first appointment and I hardly thought she would be the kind of girl to find her dream dress on the first day, but she did – and it was perfect. It really was one of those ‘this is it!’ moments and I burst into tears at the sight of her. Ilai later told me he approved of her choice completely. “Watching her walk down the aisle in that beautiful gown

was incredible. She looked so beautiful,” he says with a smile.

We all looked forward to the morning of the wedding. The three bridesmaids headed over to Krista’s parents’ home, where we spent the day getting ready – and enjoying some bubbly! It was fun going through the various phases, such as having our hair done by Krista’s good friend Chris Galea from Michael & Guy, receiving the jewellery she had chosen to go with our bespoke dresses and, of course, helping the bride into her own gown.

The highlights continued, and included walking into the packed church, where the ceremony proved to be a delightful tribute to the couple. The reception was

>

real wedding

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also brilliant, with fantastic food by Osborne Caterers, music and dancing, topped only by a hilarious photo presentation that Krista had put together as a surprise for her new husband.

Looking back on the day, Krista says it feels like a complete blur. “Even though I can remember every moment, it all went by so quickly! That’s why I am so thrilled that we splashed out on a really good wedding video. We wanted something fresh and young, and we’re thrilled with the results; we even have a short ‘teaser’ video that’s only a few minutes long. It’s fantastic to know we can relive the wonderful memories again and again, and will cherish it for the rest of our lives.”

As for me? Well, video or no video, nothing can beat the memories of forming part of such a special day. There really is nothing as rewarding as watching your friend walk down the aisle towards her future, and knowing how happy she is. I wish them both every joy for many, many years to come.

The Hen Party

Tips for Organising a Hens’ Party

From the moment we found out we were going to be bridesmaids, Francesca and I were eager to plan Krista a hens’ party she would never forget.

Consult the bride. Yes you should have surprises on the day – and lots of them – but you want your bride to feel comfortable. Discuss the kind of event she would most like to have: a relaxing one with close friends, a day of lively activities (such as paintballing), a wild party with lots of alcohol, or a mix of the three.

After months of deliberation we settled on two main elements – an elegant tea party at a five-star hotel, followed by a lively evening event with lots of activities and games. “We themed everything,” says Francesca. “As turquoise is Krista’s favourite colour, we made that the theme for the tea party. We all sat at a long table and spent an afternoon playing games that lightly poked fun at our bride. In the evening we all got dressed up, in keeping with our Sex and The City theme, headed to a bar in Valletta and had a cocktail-making class. It was great fun. To complete the experience, a few of Krista’s closest friends, including us and her two sisters-in-law, spent the night at a lovely hotel, and enjoyed a slap-up breakfast in the morning!”

We also made her a special gift – a personalised recipe book with contributions from all her friends – and she loved it. It’s nice to know she will always have a tangible memory from her hens’.

Be organised. Planning an event of this kind can be stressful, so be on the ball.

Ask the bride for a guest list (as this should be in her hands, not yours) and contact everyone with a ‘save the date’ as soon as possible.

Think money. Events of this kind can cost a fortune and, as bridesmaids, you can be left out of pocket if you’re not careful. Be sure to cover costs upfront, asking guests to transfer funds or send cheques well before the date of the event.

Be creative. Take the time to research your choices online and to find something unique that will really impress your bride and those present. There are also loads of games that you can play, including Mr & Mrs and the Handbag Game. Guests love a challenge and games can be a brilliant ice-breaker ahead of an evening of fun.

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real wedding

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As a teacher at Chiswick House School and at the School of Performing Arts (SOPA), Krista is constantly surrounded by children – something she absolutely loves. As a result, she wanted the little ones in her life to play a role on the day, and they did. Her class students were invited to join the offertory procession, while the SOPA choir sang throughout mass. “In the run up to the wedding the children were so excited for me, and they made me even more enthusiastic about the whole process.

It was lovely to have them there with me and they made such an effort to dress up; they all looked fantastic!”

Touch of Turquoise Anyone who knows Krista knows that turquoise is her favourite colour, so it was no surprise that the hue underpinned many of the special touches on the day. From the bridesmaids’ dresses to the special cocktail created for the happy couple, it was the perfect thread throughout it all.

“While you don’t have to have a theme, we found that it helped everything to come together beautifully and it was fun picking out items to match – such as the ribbons around our souvenirs, the confetti and the table decorations.”

Design Element Another of the aspects that ran through the day was a particular design that Krista created herself. A series of pretty tear shapes, in colours including turquoise, teal and purple, were used to decorate the invitations, wedding cake and even the individual cakes that were given as souvenirs. “I was inspired by a similar design and wanted to create something colourful and fresh for us to use. It worked wonderfully,” Krista says. ∞

Photos By: MELVIN MIFSUD

lots of little ones

real wedding

Marie Nixon I Profession: Natural Gas Trader Name of Bride: Lisa

Name of Groom: Phillip

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Age: 45

Robson Milnthorp

Profession: Self-employed

I Age: 49

Date of Wedding: 25

June 2012 Ceremony Location: The Atrium, The Xara Palace, Mdina Wedding Venue: Razzett l-Abjad

an intimate

affair

The wedding of Lisa Marie Nixon and Phillip Robson Milnthorp was an intimate affair celebrated in Malta, a country which is now close to their hearts more than ever. The happy couple share their story with Chiara Bonello.

“Describing our big day in one sentence is the hardest thing, as it exceeded all our expectations. It was an intimate affair, surrounded by our closest family and friends, in a country that has won our hearts forever,” Lisa explains.

The Canadian couple made it a full threeday event, with guests arriving on Friday and the wedding celebrated on Monday.

“With only 29 guests, including a wedding party of ten (counting us), it was a very intimate group,” they explain.

It was work that brought Lisa and Rob together, but the two were friends for a long time before they started dating. Rob made the first step over lunch one day, "and here we are today," Lisa shares with a smile.

“We moved in together after dating for several years, but it was actually my mum who planted the first seed, as she thought we should get engaged before moving in together. In February 2011 I walked into Rob’s house one day after work, when he told me he was trying to make a large purchase but didn’t think he could do it without my input. I knew exactly what he was talking about and knew at that moment we would be getting married. Rob

showed me the ring he had picked and I was thrilled,” Lisa recalls.

The choice to marry in Malta was also partly down to Lisa’s mother, Helen, who is Maltese. They wanted a small destination wedding, and they ultimately settled on Malta as they wanted a meaningful destination.

Wedding planning started some 10 months before the big day, and a month later the couple visited Malta for the first time to look at venues. They both admit this ended up being a tight deadline, and recommend at least a year for wedding planning, although the fact that they married on a Monday freed up a lot of venues and vendors.

“My grandparents, Samuel Cassar and Grace Mallia, were born in Malta and migrated to Canada as young adults with their parents. They raised their family there, but visiting Malta had always been a dream of my mother’s,” Lisa explains.

The civil ceremony was held at the Atrium at the Xara Palace, followed by champagne and canapés on the De Mondion Upper Terrace, which enjoys an amazing view of Malta, and dinner at Razzett l-Abjad also catered for by Xara. >

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“Although we looked at many venues, until visiting Razzett l-Abjad we hadn’t found what we envisioned. We were immediately sold on seeing the drive-in, lined with beautifully aged palm trees, and once we saw the grapevines, which form a cover over the patio, we knew we had found our venue,” she shares. On the day, the venue, which was wonderfully done up by Synergix, looked stunning.

“Our whole wedding was a team effort; we wouldn’t have gotten through all the planning without each other’s constant support,” they affirm. However one aspect which was certainly not a team effort was Lisa’s dress(es), which Rob did not get to see before the big day.

“There is something so special about the look in the groom’s eyes as he sees you walk down the aisle. It was one of the most special moments for me,” Lisa admits.

Rob very much wanted Italian-made suits for the wedding, and had all suits for the bridal party made to measure by the Giorgo Armani label. Armani was kind enough to embroider the names inside, which added a personal touch.

The two agree that preparations got very stressful early on, as they had to have everything done far in advance. “Time management is key, as you need to give yourself lots of time. If you think it will take an hour, budget for two and help each other.”

The Big Day On the morning of the wedding both were very excited, but preparations went very smoothly. Lisa woke up early to meet her sisters, mother and maid of honour for hair and make-up, following trials earlier in the week. “Like all good brides I got a little behind schedule, even though we had planned for lots of extra time, but it’s fine

to let your groom wait a little and build some suspense.”

Both Lisa and Rob say that ‘Raise the Spirit’ (by Grant-Lee Phillips performed with ‘The Section Quartet) played by the Cordia String Quartet as Lisa walked down the aisle was a wedding highlight.

They both thought it would be the perfect wedding march, and Rob contacted Eric Gorfain from ‘The Section Quartet’ for permission to use the song for the wedding. He then contacted Grant, who was kind enough to give his permission to Eric to write the sheet music. As drinks, provided by Farsons Direct, flowed DJ Arthur Garrett got the party started.

“Getting married in Malta was a dream come true. It was like it was all meant to be, that there was a greater plan that brought us all to Malta to share this time together,” Lisa says nostalgically.

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real wedding

Fabulous Flowers The venues were brought to life with flowers and candles. The aisle looked beautiful with the two arrangements placed in podiums on either side. Once you’ve settled on a colour theme, it can help with the flower selection, Lisa says. The first step is to design the venue layout, then ask the florist for recommendations. I had brought purple and grey organza and satin tablecloths with me and the florist incorporated the fabrics to give everything a soft, romantic feel.

memories of malta

mini cakes Lisa was keen on having a mini cake tower and fortunately their florist put her in touch with Pat Micallef, who delivered some of the prettiest baking Lisa had ever seen. So pretty, that at the end of the night Lisa was mortified at the thought of cutting into those beautiful cakes, so she decided to serve them to each guest whole.

This was way too much cake for each person, but the mini cakes were saved.” ∞

Photos By: rene rossignaud | www.renerossignaud.com

“Our souvenirs were special because they were made in Malta, after Rob and I spotted two Mdina Glass vases we really liked on our first trip to Malta. Upon inquiry, Mdina Glass had enough of the same pattern left to make miniatures for our guests. We gave each family a vase and candleholder. They engraved the bottom for us and everyone was thrilled to take a little piece of Malta home with them,” Lisa shares.

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VENUE DÉCOR

white weddings by synergix that special touch on your wedding day...

Create an ambience that your family and guests will remember for years to come by making use of a wide range of light-up furniture for weddings from Synergix. Give your wedding an ultra-modern look and choose from a selection of light-up cubes acting as low tables, light-up bistro tables and our latest light-up bar which will give a colourful twist to your party.

Synergix also offers a range of chillout furniture. Add a cool degree of sophistication to your wedding day with White Zen – a variety of crisp white furniture to complement your venue. Our white lounge seating creates a sophisticated atmosphere that combines both casual chic and elegance. Our gazebos, with longlow-white covered tables and cushioned benches, deliver an upbeat flair, while our LED atmospheric lighting attached to the gazebos creates that magical effect.

If seating for your guests is a concern, choose from a variety of Rattan furniture items – have your pick from our White Harmonious Rattan sofas to our Chic and Elegant Dark Rattan, complemented with low tables, white rugs and candles.

Synergix can offer you a wide range of opportunities. From flooring and décor to ambience lighting and furniture, we at Synergix are sure to have the ideal solution for your dream wedding set-up. ∞

Synergix Ltd, Olaf Gollcher Street, Ta’ Paris, B’Kara.

T: 3138 0488; M: 7949 9432/7938 0486; E: info@synergixevents.com; W: www.synergixevents.com

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FASHION

stunning bride

Location: Phoenicia Hotel, Floriana Photographer: Valentina Lupo (www.facebook.com/ valentinalupophotography) Photo Shoot Coordinator: Chiara Bonello Hair: Marielle Calleja, PrivĂŠ Make-up: Caroline Bond (nĂŠe Camilleri) using Make Up Store (7906 1197) Model: Lucrezia at models.com.mt

Dress: A heart-shaped hand beaded designed Swarovski bodice with a flattering tulle skirt, Ivory & Co. JEWELLERY: Necklace in silver 925, earrings with zircons in silver 925, bracelets and ring with zircons all in silver 925, Gaba Gioielli.

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fashion

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DRESS: A stunning guipure lace dress with 3D details

by FaragĂŠ Paris, WEDDINGBELLS. JEWELLERY: South Sea pearl necklace and South Sea pearl earrings together with diamonds, Classic Jewellers.

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DRESS: Tulle wedding gown, with Chantilly and rebrode lace, with crystal gemstone embroidery. The gown is v-neck, with sheer layering on the shoulders and with a princess tulle skirt, featuring cascading appliquĂŠs and a grosgrain belt, with silver and white gemstone embroidery. By Lauris at Pronovias.

JEWELLERY: 18ct white gold necklace with diamonds and 18ct diamond earrings, designed exclusively for Classic Jewellers.

fashion

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>

Dress: Figure hugging dress with a guipure bodice and guipure motifs on skirt. A detachable train makes this beautiful dress both stylish and practical, Alamango.

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Dress: Dreamy and romantic, this Jenny Packham dress features a hand-beaded Swarovski bodice accompanied with flattering tulle straps. The multilayered fine tulle skirt is further lined with pure silk-satin to give the dress movement. The sash is embellished with silk flowers to accentuate a womanly figure and add the perfect finishing touch, Camilleri Paris Mode.

JEWELLERY: Fiorella fresh water pearl bangle, South Sea pearl with 1.57ct diamonds set on 18ct white gold ring, South Sea Baroque pearl with diamonds set on 18ct white gold pendant, South Sea pearl with diamonds set on 18ct white gold earrings, Vascas Jewellers.

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Dress: Beaded silk tulle short cocktail dress with an open cut on the back.

By Rexanne at Pronovias.

JEWELLERY: Unoaerre brass with gold-plated bracelet, SikĂŠ necklace with mother of pearl and agates, SikĂŠ earrings with mother of pearl and agates, mother of pearl set on 18ct gold ring, Vascas Jewellers.

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VENUES

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Magical wedding at the villa

You step out of the car and slowly make your way up the grand staircase which is beautifully decorated with candles and flowers. You are greeted with a glass of champagne and take a moment to toast to your future. Eventually you make your way onto the terrace overlooking the sparkling waters of Balluta Bay as the sun begins to set. The music is gentle in the background and the atmosphere is full of cheer and laughter. Your family and friends are sipping on your signature cocktail and trays of fresh, sumptuous canapés are keeping their appetites satisfied. As the sun goes down, the lights come on and the setting is magical. The day is perfect. This is your wedding. This is your wedding at the Villa.

The 19th-century Villa is centrally located in Balluta Bay. Tastefully renovated, the Villa is a spectacular building with period features such as the circular staircase and columned entrance. Secure parking at the rear of the venue ensures your guests’ comfort on arrival at your wedding.

We can cater for small, intimate events as well as larger, fuller scale weddings

due to the numerous flexible and defined spaces. There are three main outdoor terraces, one of which is covered by an umbrella, hence usable in the summer as well as in the colder months. During the day the terraces are bright spaces with established and well-groomed plants lining the perimeter. At night the Villa takes on a different look as the clever lighting creates a magical effect. Indoors are two large rooms, as well as a private dining room, both neutrally decorated allowing for any theme to come to life.

The Villa offers full bar services including cocktail, wine and champagne bars. When it comes to food, the Villa team are experts at creating interesting, delicious and innovative menus ranging from canapés to sit down meals as well as the unique ‘flying buffet’ option. We have a range of ready-made packages to suit every budget or dietary requirements, however we pride ourselves on being extremely flexible and can design a menu around your specific requests. Furthermore we can offer themed food stations such as sushi, Mediterranean or Lebanese to name but a few.

Weddings at the Villa are unique as every detail can be tailored to your wishes. We believe that every wedding should be different and should reflect the personality and dreams of the couple. To ensure that your day turns out exactly as you want it, we can work with you throughout the planning process to help you bring out the elements that matter to you. Whatever your budget, we invite you to make the Villa yours to enjoy for your special day. ∞

T: 2311 2273 E: info@thevillamalta.com W: www.thevillamalta.com

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A diAmond is forever

so is our promise

Your investment is protected by the following ~ All diAmonds Are flAwless ~ top wesselton white in colour grAde ~ giA, hrd or igi certified

115 yeArs of heritAge over two floors of exhibition spAce mAke the victor AzzopArdi jewellers flAgship store in pietà the perfect choice for your wedding list. with An unmAtched selection of brAnded silverwAre, full leAd crystAl, dinner sets & cutlery, fine porcelAin And bone chinA, your speciAl dAy will be mAtched by the perfect gifts.

free wedding rings to stArt your celebrAtions in style, we’re offering free 18ct gold wedding rings when you plAce your wedding list with us.

178, Marina street, pietà seafront st anne street, fLoriana i teL: 2010 3715, 2010 2949 i www.victorazzopardi.coM

trends

wedding HAIRSTYLE

inspirations

One dilemma no bride-to-be can escape is that of the choice of hairstyle for the big day, a dilemma which is made harder because of the countless options available, from loose locks to complicated up-dos. Marielle Calleja from Privé Hairdressing gives some expert advice on what’s in and how to wear it best.

wonderful vintage

nicely natural

This style is ideal for the bride in love with the vintage style which is all the rage at the moment! It works well with a vintage-styled lace dress, and paired with classic red lipstick and kohled eyes. Pin-up loosely waved hair to one side, and for that extra touch add a net or flowered hairpiece.

For brides who prefer a polished yet natural look, this style is ideal. The hair looks soft, but is all pulled off the face and makes it possible to play around with the fringe. Again it can be dressed up with a pretty or sparkly headpiece.

ballerina bun A twist on the classic ballerina bun, this style is extremely popular right now. Stylish, chic and classic the bun comes in various shapes and sizes, but the bigger and the more voluminous it is the better.

It’s perfect for summer weddings, when all you want is to have your hair off your neck and shoulders, while showing off the beautiful detail at the back of your dress.

Luxuriously Loose Ideal for the modern, elegant bride, loose waves are the most versatile of styles. Extremely natural and suitable for everyone, you can pin back sections or wear a sparkly clip for added glamour.

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honeymoon

"

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slovenia was the highlight of our honeymoon "

Three weeks travelling through Italy, Slovenia and Vienna were a long-awaited break for AnnMarie and Matthew Cassar, after a hectic time planning their big day. They share their honeymoon highlights with Chiara Bonello.

Just five days after their big day Ann-Marie and Matthew Cassar set off on a threeweek honeymoon, travelling through scenic Italy, Slovenia and Vienna, with Slovenia being the definite highlight.

The couple first met when Ann-Marie, then still a pharmacy student, had a placement in the same ward where Matthew, a surgical trainee, was undergoing training, however it was not until they met again six months later that they started dating. In December 2007 Matthew proposed, and their big day was set for November 2009.

“We did not choose to book our honeymoon through an agent,” Ann-Marie says, explaining that they preferred to plan it all

Pisa

themselves. “We tailored our honeymoon to our wishes, which does require more research and planning, but is well worth it,” they agree.

At first we weren’t so sure about the destination, but we were more than certain that we wanted a three-week long honeymoon, to give us enough time to relax and enjoy each other’s company and some quality time after the hectic run-up to the wedding, Matthew shares.

Being wintertime we were somewhat limited, as there were no cruises to destinations we were interested in. What we knew for certain is that we wanted to go to Italy – we loved the wonderful food, people

and weather – and that Pisa is easy to get to and a good place to travel around from, Ann Marie explains, adding that Matthew wanted to drive abroad, so before long the decision was made. “The question was where we would go from there, as we wanted to visit more than one country,” she says.

Their first stop was Pisa, where they spent a couple of days. “Pisa is truly a wonderful place,” they agree. Ann-Marie recalls nostalgically how they would take walks along the River Arno, and visit various sights such as the Battistero, the Leaning Tower, the Duomo and Camposanto.

They then headed further into the Tus-

San Gimignano

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Postojna Caves

Scenic Slovenia

can region and stayed just outside San Gimignano, which served as a convenient base. They took a number of day trips to the towns and villages in the area, such as Siena, Montepulciano, Chianti and Volterra, which were magical as they were being set up for the Christmas festivities.

The area of San Gimignano is very charming and quiet, perhaps due to the fact that it was not peak season, Matthew says, adding that having a car to get around in is very convenient. Next up was Florence, which was somewhat chaotic when com-

pared to the serenity of San Gimignano, but the couple spent some enjoyable days there before moving on to Bologna, Trieste and then to Slovenia.

Upon arrival in Slovenia they headed out to the Triple bridge area, also known as Tromostovje, which, Ann-Marie says, was ‘magically lit’. They enjoyed food and mulled wine from stalls in the area, complemented with live music, until the early hours of the morning. In Slovenia they also visited the Postojna Caves and walked along Lake Bled. It was snowing heavily

and the staff at the caves was preparing for a Christmas Eve concert, all of which contributed to the magical atmosphere.

“We considered Slovenia as a destination after seeing it advertised at the Amitex Fair and felt that it was the best option, which it did indeed turn out to be,” she says. “In Slovenia everyone was so helpful, and most people spoke English, which was an added bonus.”

One of Ann-Marie’s fondest memories is dancing with Matthew on the Tromo-

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honeymoon

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Romantic Vienna

Top Tips If you are travelling in winter, plan well and acknowledge that it is impossible to see and do everything as there are weather constraints. stovje bridge area in Slovenia. He needed some encouragement, she shares, but the memory of that moment will remain imprinted on her mind.

– a pretty unique experience – but the day itself was extremely quiet as most people were at home with their families,” AnnMarie explains.

After Slovenia the couple travelled by train to Vienna, which they both agree was beautiful but extremely cold. “We attended Christmas mass at St Stephen’s Cathedral

“More than moments, what was special for us about our honeymoon is that it marked the beginning of our lifetime together. It was truly an unforgettable experience.” ∞

Nevertheless, it is still worth travelling at different times of the year in order to appreciate unique aspects of the country. The added bonus is that you avoid the crowds.

We definitely recommend visiting Slovenia as it truly is an amazing destination.

Learn to Love Yourself

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Any man can be a father. It takes someone special to be a dad.

Husband, son, brother, friend above all he is a Dad. .��...��..��.��..���. ���..�����..�����...��..�.. �.�..�. ��.��......�.

Dur 120 min 100

HOME

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White matt lacquer frame door with insert handle in contrasting tobacco veneer

Grey glossy anthracite/white glass

"Irresistible has a new meaning… discover the endless possibilities at Brands International."

Glossy tortora lacquer AND tortora coloured micro-cement finish

IF YOU ARE SEARCHING FOR A KITCHEN THAT IS IRRESISTIBLE TO LOOK AT, BUT IS ALSO TAILORED PERFECTLY TO YOUR NEEDS, THEN LOOK NO FURTHER… Brands International Ltd, renowned for its wide range of quality indoor and outdoor furnishing products and flooring, has just added to its portfolio a new brand of quality Italian kitchens – Aster Cucine, in line with its objective to offer a complete home finishing solution.

No matter what style of kitchen you are after, within the Aster modern, traditional or transitional collections, you can find the perfect kitchen suited for your needs.

Quality and innovation, together with the highest choice of customisation, is what makes Aster a cut above the rest. Cabinetry can be customised in terms of sizes and heights, allowing for higher than usual base cabinets as well as American size appliances. Some innovative features include rotating tables and extractable islands, walk-in corner and sliding larders, various hinge systems including shift-side opening, as well as practi-

white matt lacquer combined with transparent glass top cabinets

cal lighting and accessory options. Customisation cannot be complete without a full choice of door front material options and inside cabinetry finishes. Apart from a wide range of glass, solid and veneered wood, as well as laminate door fronts, some unique materials and finishes include embossed lacquer, cement, stone and hammered stainless steel.

Buying an Aster kitchen goes beyond its mere commercial value – it will stand out as truly memorable! Not only is an Aster kitchen beautiful to look at, but the endless possibilities that come with it ensure that various budgets can be met, whilst allowing for the most practical and comfortable solution for your own requirements and tastes.

Aster Cucine is represented exclusively by Brands International Ltd. Fantastic introductory offers are now on! ∞

Brands International Ltd, Triq tal-Balal, San Gwann. T: 2144 4110; 2744 4110; E: aster@brands.com.mt; W: www.brands.com.mt

home life

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take in

Photos By: ALAN CARVILLE

the view

The stunning views from this apartment on Tower Road, Sliema, are definitely one of its main assets, although thanks to the recent revamp, its interior can now be described as equally stunning. Chiara Bonello speaks to the designers behind the project, Trinity and Kurt Camilleri Burlo.

“We wanted to create a place that evokes serenity and calmness, and our main source of inspiration was nature, which explains the use of earth tones throughout the apartment,” according to architects and designers Trinity and Kurt Camilleri Burlo, from Camilleri Burlo Architects and Designers, who worked on renovating this space.

The entrance to the spacious apartment, which is one of the older ones along Tower Road in Sliema, is through a wide, spacious hallway, which was demarcated through the use of a different

flooring material to that in the adjacent space. “Walnut parquet was used for the entrance hall, whilst all other rooms were tiled with very large beige gres tiles (1.2m by 0.6m),” Trinity explains.

Additionally, structural alternations were made to accommodate the sleek, white kitchen. “We opened up the walls so as to create a more open feeling and to allow more light to flood into the space,” she says. The modern kitchen stands opposite a large open-plan dining and living room, with a balcony enjoying unobstructed sea views.

Here again it made perfect sense to open up the walls, knocking two rooms into one, in order to achieve a beautiful larger room and to provide us with a better canvas to work on, Kurt says. This arrangement gave the owners the added bonus of creating the entertainment area they wanted, with a view.

The apartment also features three double bedrooms, one with an en suite bathroom, as well as a main bathroom and a study.

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home life

54

around with accent colours, in order to give the place a bit more energy.”

Storage comes in the form of large shelving units with adjustable shelving in the study and in the living room.

The laundry room is cleverly hidden. “We designed bespoke timber wall panelling to hide a recess where we neatly placed the laundry room,” Trinity explains.

“Since the apartment was designed with the aim of renting it out, we did not have such a free hand when it came to its decor, which was why we decided to go for neutral earth colours for broad appeal.

Neutral colours then allow you to play

The general decor of the place is very subtle, with a palette based on natural tones and colours we believe one could never tire of, she continues. These are colours, she says, which evoke class and calmness at the same time.

“In terms of natural wood we used walnut; in fact all the custom-made doors and wood panels are in walnut. This material has lovely natural wood veins and a medium brown colour, which blends nicely with the cream and beige hues of the floor and other furniture,” Kurt says.

This palette of earth colours such as beige, off white and brown is continued throughout the apartment, including the

bathrooms, bedrooms, furniture and soft furnishings, with the introduction of accents in the form of cushions and bed linen. The splashes of purple in the living room in fact complement the lovely sea views one can enjoy from the balcony.

He explains that the advantage of having a natural palette is that one can change the look of the home by changing the soft furnishings every so often.

“Wallpaper is to a room what a great accessory is to a dress,” Trinity continues as she talks me through the transition to the use of wallpaper in the corridor and the living room. “We chose a foliage patterned wallpaper for the living room, and a more textured one for the corridor,” she explains.

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Trinity & KURT’s Top Tips Create emphasis through the use of different materials. In this case we accentuated the entrance hall through the use of walnut parquet flooring, whilst the rest of the apartment was tiled in very large beige gres tiles. We also complemented wallpaper with wood panelling.

Hidden compartments – Create cleverly hidden storage space for anything from clothing to washing machines, through the use of bespoke furniture or structures.

A suspended ceiling has multiple advantages, as it is ideal for hiding signs of structural alternations and any wires needed for home services. Furthermore it can help to distribute the light points as required.

The entire apartment has a suspended ceiling, the advantages of which are multiple, she asserts. Firstly a suspended ceiling makes it possible to hide the metal beams used in the structural alterations, and secondly it allows one to pass all the services required for air-conditioning, sound systems and electricity between the concrete slab and the soffit. Furthermore it has the advantage of distributing the light points as per the clients’ needs and design requirements – highlighting walls or giving evenly distributed general lighting in a kitchen, for example.

All in all, this stunning apartment is ideal for several purposes; it offers the perfect location for a quiet afternoon or to while away a weekend, but also for having people over for dinner with a view or hosting a party for a group of friends. ∞

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home life

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Your bathroom:

On Trend

While having a ‘trendy bathroom’ may not be top of your interior design list, perfecting it can add style and value to your home. Jo Caruana chats to designer Henry Borg Barthet to find out more.

free standing bath mixer Image supplied by Alfred Hili

starck 1 edition by duravit ag Image supplied by Creations

Gone are the days when a bathroom was just a bathroom – the place where you went to do your business and that was that. These days, a bathroom is as much a part of your home as the living room or bedroom, and the related interior design trends reflect that to a tee.

Over the past few years, the bathroom has evolved into a ‘retreat’ – an oasis you can escape to when you hope to lock out the rest of the world. As a result, trends

are leaning firmly towards more luxury choices – under-floor heating, sumptuous colour choices, plush towels and mats, bold accessories and top quality fixtures.

Of course, careful planning is the first step to getting your bathroom just right, and you need to think about the way you will be using it.

“It is no use planning a truly opulent space if this is going to be a busy family

"Careful planning is the first step to getting your bathroom just right, and you need to think about the way you will be using it." >

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"When it comes to your shower, ‘luxury’ continues to be seen as one of the most important aspects."

nature texture ceramics Image supplied by Vella Falzon Bathrooms

bathroom with children rushing in and out every day,” advises interior designer and project manager Henry Borg Barthet.

“Similarly, it’s no point keeping things simple if you know that you plan to enjoy your time in your bathroom. Before you get started on the design, sit down and explore your needs – then map your layout options, or consult a designer. This will help you to make the most of every bit of space you have available.”

your bathroom, then you need adequate lighting; but you also need the right light to relax under. Sconces around the mirror light up the face, while a statement central light, or a selection of dimmable spotlights, should do for the rest.”

Finally, splurge on a few great accessories that will add to the individuality

MONTESA collection Image supplied by Vella Falzon Bathrooms

of your bathroom. “Bold, print items are very popular right now, mirroring a trend across the house. While you can go all out and paint or wallpaper a wall, you can also keep things more low key with a printed shower curtain, vibrant towels or prettily packaged toiletries. The effect will reflect your style and complete your space,” Henry adds. >

When it comes to your shower, ‘luxury’ continues to be seen as one of the most important aspects. “Marble showers have become very popular, whether that’s slabs or mosaics,” continues Henry. “It can feel quite classic, but it is a staple trend that comes back year after year and can easily be given a modern twist. I also always suggest including a bath if you have space for it, as this adds comfort and value. Of course, if not, then a large walk-in shower is a great alternative.”

Under-floor heating has been a budding trend for a while, both from a comfort perspective and because it saves money on other forms of heating – when your feet are warm the rest of your body follows suit, it seems.

As for lighting, Henry suggests a mix between practical and attractive, ensuring you have enough of both. “If you’re going to be applying your make-up or shaving in

the ultimate solution for your shower by grohe Image supplied by Alfred Hili

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the top trends Although practicality should be the driving force behind any bathroom design, there are current trends to follow that could make it extra special. This is our pick:

Eco Chic. Green thinking now underpins so many of the decisions we make in our home, and that’s no less true for our bathrooms. Whether it’s by using fixtures that waste less water, or opting for natural and organic fabrics for your towels and mats, this is a trend that’s here to stay. Consumers have made it clear that they want to maintain high environmental standards while saving money, and the industry has listened.

An Unexpected Colour Palette. For years the bathroom was all about ‘blues’ and ‘neutrals’, but 2013 has changed all of that. Bright pinks, deep reds, burnt oranges and lime greens are all colours that can make your bathroom stand out a little. Even if you don’t want to commit to a dramatic feature wall, try to add a vibrant hue through your accessories, towels and mats.

Spa Retreat. More and more of us think of our bathroom as an escape from the outside world and, admittedly, it is lovely to lock the door and sink into a hot bath.

To facilitate that, the ‘spa’ trend is ongoing at the moment, embracing dark or stone floors, fully mirrored walls, glass enclosures and mood lighting.

50 Shades of Grey. Nope, not the book, but the colour. If the bright colours mentioned above aren’t your thing but you don’t want to go for white either, grey can provide a fantastic middle ground and look very cutting-edge. For a really modern look, team with black fixtures and red accessories. Ideal for a couple’s retreat or a bachelor pad.

Top To Bottom. According to the American Kitchen and Bath Association, undermounted sinks (which are attached from

COSTELLO & WELCH

underneath as opposed to on top) are also popular this year. These are best suited to solid surface countertops in materials like granite, soapstone, marble and concrete, and also help you to reclaim counter space.

The Freestanding Bath. Your bath is likely to be the focus of your bathroom whatever you do, so why not add a touch of glamour to it? Classic styles are still popular – often standing on legs – but they aren’t your only option. More modern choices are smooth and white, with sleek stainless steel fittings. ∞

Directory

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weddingdirectory G

G

GABA GIOIELLI

Pearls of Natural Radiance! Preview our unique selection of Freshwater, Akoya, Tahiti and South Sea pearl jewellery on the second floor of our boutique at GABA Gioielli, Naxxar Road, Iklin. Now also featuring a dazzling display from new brand Utopia.

For more information call on 2210 5201.

I

G.B. Jewellery

G.B. Jewellery is renowned for its great collection and exceptional prices. Make G.B. Jewellery your destination to select the perfect engagement ring or wedding rings to mark that special day. We host a collection so vast you will surely find the perfect ring. Also view the extensive collection of jewellery suitable for the bride and the mother of the bride and groom – jewellery which stands out in class and elegance.

451, Fleur-De-Lys Road, Birkirkara.

T: 2149 9679; 156A, The Strand, Gzira.

T: 2132 2889; E: kegb@vol.net.mt; W: gbjewelleryshop.com; F: www.facebook.com/gbjewellery

At Inviti by Jorge, our mission is to provide you, our clients, with the best service in creating and designing stationery for your occasion that will impress your guests and express your individuality. Together we can design personalised invitations to suit your tastes and make your wedding a memorable one.

T: 2145 1857; M: 7979 7878; E: idezine. ideas@gmail.com

K

King Shoe Shop

King Shoe Shop introduce the LOTUS Summer 2013 Collection, one of their latest brands having an outstanding reputation for offering women a variety of essential footwear styles that are of exceptional quality and fit. Attention to detail is lavished on every pair; distinctive finishing touches and exquisite upper fabrics all assist in creating irresistible footwear. In addition, styles from the Lotus footwear collection effortlessly harmonise with a number of co-ordinating bag designs.

Visit www.kingshoeshop.net to view the full collection.

M

Middlesea Insurance - Insure your big day

Middlesea Insurance has designed a Wedding Insurance Policy to protect the arrangements of your big day – with five levels of cover, starting from just €75 to suit every budget. At Middlesea, protecting your wedding is affordable and easy so you can relax and enjoy your special day, knowing that you have invested in the best level of protection.

Middlesea Insurance p.l.c. (C-5553) is authorised by the MFSA. T: 2124 6262; E: middlesea@middlesea.com; W: middlesea.com

Inviti by Jorge

Provocative Pronovias

P 2014 Cocktail Collection

Flowing elegant gowns featuring classic neck-lines and short flirty, but classy dresses make up Pronovias’ 2014 Cocktail Collection. A wide collection of styles and cuts are available, all designed to flatter and bring out the female figure in the best ways.

With a variety of summer colours from pink, turquoise and blue, Pronovias cocktail dresses offer detail and quality design that will guarantee you a unique look for your special event. Visit the Pronovias outlet at The Strand, Gzira for a glimpse of the 2014 Cocktail Collection. W: www.pronovias.com Opening Hours: Mon–Fri: 10am –7pm; Sat: 10am –1pm

interview 66

For the love of television Their faces are familiar to most of us, but back in the 1980s it was backstage during a musical production that the paths of Denise and Paul crossed for the first time, although they knew each other by sight. They kept meeting by chance and dating occasionally before they started working on the popular TV series Ahna Ahna Jew M'ahniex in 1987, when their relationship turned serious. Paul proposed shortly after, and they tied the knot in 1989. Both have continued to explore their passion for the world of theatre and TV, and today they are both involved in the Sunday morning programme Malta u Lil Hinn Minnha. Chiara Bonello speaks to Denise about their wonderful wedding memories and future aspirations.

Names: Denise

and Paul Mintoff

AGE: 47

and 54 WEDDING DATE: 28 October 1989 KIDS: Paula

What is your clearest, and perhaps most cherished, memory of your wedding day?

My most treasured memory is definitely the church ceremony. I remember feeling a great sense of joy and having the feeling that I was marrying someone very special and therefore doing the right thing. It just felt so right.

Would you say that getting married changed your life? How? I would say 'motherhood' changed my life.

When you become a mother, your priorities change drastically. What was important to you before is suddenly not so important. It doesn't happen overnight. I would say, in my case, it was more of a process. Your child just takes over. Everything revolves around the life of your child. You learn what 'love' really is and it makes you change as a person in a beautiful way.

We find that in a marriage it is important to...

Spend loads of time enjoying each other's company and have a lot of respect for one another.

What would you list as your greatest achievement in your personal life?

My family is my pride and joy. I am so proud of my husband and daughter. I am proud to have been by their side throughout the joys, sorrows, difficulties and important decisions, and to perhaps have been of some kind of support in one moment or other in their lives. This gives me great satisfaction. I treasure every moment we spend together.

In a busy week, we enjoy relaxing by...

The sea or in the countryside, depending on the season, or enjoying a lovely dinner and a good bottle of wine at home.

Something we cannot live without is...

Each other.

In 20 years we imagine ourselves...

Still together, and hopefully with many grandchildren. ∞

Issue 21 | June 2013

WEDDINGS AND HOMES

Whirlwind romance

Or Long Engagement?

THREE COUPLES SHARE THEIR STORIES

FASHION

& beauty THIS SEASON’S MOST BEAUTIFUL BRIDAL GOWNS

THE LATEST WEDDING TRENDS

Real

weddings MEMORABLE CELEBRATIONS

HOMES

A BEAUTIFUL TOWER ROAD APARTMENT

your bathroom

PLANNING YOUR OASIS OF RELAXATION